Canada is taking significant strides to refine its approach to international student immigration, as revealed in the latest plans by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). As a leading Canada immigration consultancy firm, we are committed to keeping you informed about these crucial developments that could impact your educational and immigration journey.
This fall, the federal government will launch the "Trusted Institution Framework," an initiative aimed at evaluating and certifying Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs). This framework is designed to ensure these institutions adhere to quality standards and support sustainable student intake, thus enhancing the study permit processing for "trusted" schools.
The proposed plan outlines seven indicators to assess DLIs:
-> Percentage of students who remain in the original program after their first year in Canada;
-> Percentage of students who complete their program within the expected length of study;
-> Percentage of total revenue that's derived from international enrolment;
-> Dollar value and percentage of total scholarships and grants to students from less developed countries;
-> Dollar value in mental health support as well as career and immigration counselling per international student versus the average tuition they pay;
-> Total number and percentage of international students living in housing they administered; and
-> Average teacher-student ratio for the 10 courses with the highest international enrolment.
The rapid growth in international student intake has presented challenges, including prolonged processing times and concerns about institutions over-relying on international tuition fees. There have been instances where the quality of education and student experience has not met expectations, potentially affecting Canada's reputation as a prime educational destination.
In response to these challenges, Immigration Minister Marc Miller has implemented several measures:
-> A two-year cap on new study permits, reducing the number issued by 35% from 2023's level, to 364,000 for 2024.
-> Doubling the cost-of-living financial requirement for incoming students.
-> A new verification system for college admission letters.
-> These measures aim to ensure that only "genuine" learners are recruited and that high-quality education is maintained.
The "Trusted Institution Framework" is set to revolutionize the way Canada manages international student intake. While the implementation timeline and effectiveness remain subjects of discussion, the framework is a step towards ensuring that Canada continues to attract and support international students effectively.
As experts in Canada immigration consultancy, we are here to guide you through these changes and help you navigate your educational and immigration pathway in Canada. For more insights and personalized advice, contact us.