Recent reports indicate a dramatic decline in the approval rates for Canadian study permits, with expectations of a 39% drop in new permits processed in 2024 compared to the previous year. This significant reduction is reshaping the landscape for international students, particularly those from India, who have traditionally been a substantial part of Canada’s international student body.


Overview of the Decline

According to data released by ApplyBoard, the second quarter of 2024 (April to June) saw a sharp 54% decrease in new study permits processed by Canada’s Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Specifically, 127,700 new permits were issued during this period, a stark contrast to nearly 238,800 permits processed in the same quarter of 2023. This decline is part of a broader trend, with overall new study permit approvals expected to drop by 39% by the end of 2024.

The data also reveals that from January to June 2024, just under 114,000 study permits were approved for post-secondary education, a significant 48% decrease from the approximately 220,000 permits issued during the first half of 2023. If the current trend continues and the approval rate stays around 51%, it is projected that around 231,000 permits will be approved for the entire year, representing a 47% decrease from the 436,600 permits approved in 2023.

Regional Impact

The decline in study permits is not uniform across Canada. Ontario and British Columbia, which host the largest populations of international students, are experiencing the most severe impacts. Ontario has seen a staggering 70% reduction in post-secondary study permit applications, while British Columbia has faced a 49% drop. This decline in these key regions underscores the shifting dynamics in Canada’s appeal as an international study destination.

Other provinces have shown varied effects. Quebec’s permit numbers have remained relatively stable, while the Maritimes (including Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island) have experienced a smaller influx of international students. This regional disparity highlights the uneven impact of the declining permit approvals across the country.

Impact on Indian Students

Indian students have been a crucial part of Canada’s international student community, accounting for nearly 50% of the post-secondary international student body in 2023. Despite the overall decline in study permit approvals, Indian students maintain a high approval rate of 85% for the first half of 2024. However, there has been a noticeable decrease in the volume of their study permit applications.

This shift suggests a growing trend among Indian students to consider other destinations for their higher education. The decrease in the volume of Indian study permit applications indicates a potential shift in interest away from Canada, possibly driven by the tightening of permit policies and increased competition from other countries.

Broader Implications

The overall decline in study permit approvals reflects a broader trend of reduced interest in studying in Canada. The decrease in searches for “study in Canada” by nearly 20% compared to 2023 further supports the notion that students are exploring alternative international education options. This trend could have long-term implications for Canada’s global reputation as a study destination, impacting its educational institutions and the international student market.

Experts suggest that the combination of stricter immigration policies, capped permit numbers, and growing interest in other countries could be contributing factors to the decline. As Canada reassesses its immigration strategies, stakeholders, including educational institutions and prospective students, will need to navigate these changing dynamics.

Conclusion

The anticipated 39% drop in new study permit approvals for 2024 marks a significant shift in the landscape for international education in Canada. While Indian students continue to receive a high approval rate, the overall decrease in applications highlights a broader trend of declining interest. As Canada adapts to these changes, it will be crucial for prospective students and educational institutions to stay informed and adjust their strategies accordingly.