The future of education in Canada 🤔

Summary

This video addresses recent changes to Canada's immigration policies for international students, including increased financial requirements, a student cap, and shifting eligibility for post-graduation work permits (PGWP). It offers guidance on choosing study programs that align with Canada's labor shortages, such as STEM, healthcare, and trades. The host discusses how students can navigate these changes, emphasizing the importance of selecting the right program and meeting eligibility requirements. Additionally, the video highlights scholarship opportunities and the free guidance provided by help, a platform designed to assist students in their journey to study in Canada.

Takeaways

• 😀 IRCC has increased the financial requirements for international students, making studying in Canada more expensive.
• 😀 There is now a student cap and provincial letters for international students, resulting in fewer students able to study in Canada each year.
• 😀 Despite the cap, there are still plenty of spots available at institutions for 2024 and 2025, with some schools not filling all their spots.
• 😀 Certain programs like Health Care, STEM, trades, and agriculture are in high demand and may have a higher acceptance rate.
• 😀 Programs not aligned with labor shortages (like business and marketing) are less likely to be eligible for PGWP (Post-Graduation Work Permit).
• 😀 It's important to only apply for programs you're eligible for to avoid rejection due to mismatched qualifications.
• 😀 Students may not be impacted by new IRCC changes if they applied before November 1st or are already enrolled in a program.
• 😀 Switching programs after applying can be risky as it may raise a red flag with IRCC, especially if it deviates from the original study plan.
• 😀 It’s crucial to align your chosen program with your long-term goals, whether it’s permanent residency or gaining international work experience.
• 😀 Halp is a free service that provides students with personalized advice, helps them apply to colleges in Canada, and offers discounts and scholarships.
• 😀 Some institutions, like St. Lawrence College and Niagara University, offer scholarships and application fee waivers for international students.

Q & A

What recent changes have been made by IRCC regarding international students?

IRCC has increased financial requirements, introduced a student cap, excluded some programs from PGWP eligibility, and now requires international students to take an English test after completing their studies.

How does the introduction of a student cap affect international students applying to study in Canada?

The student cap limits the number of international students who can come to Canada, leading to more anxiety among students. However, there are still plenty of spots available at many institutions due to the cap's implementation.

Will some programs have higher acceptance rates than others due to the new IRCC policies?

Yes, programs aligned with labor shortages, like healthcare, STEM, and agriculture, may see higher popularity, but this could also lead to higher rejection rates due to increased demand.

What kind of programs are more likely to have higher acceptance rates under the new IRCC rules?

Programs related to healthcare, STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics), trades, and agriculture are in higher demand and may have better acceptance rates due to their alignment with labor shortages.

Should students apply for programs they are not eligible for under the new rules?

No, students should only apply for programs that they meet or exceed the eligibility requirements for. Applying for ineligible programs could result in higher rejection rates.

What should students do if they are considering switching programs?

Switching programs is not always recommended as it can raise concerns with IRCC. If a switch is necessary, it's best to ensure it aligns with your overall educational pathway and goals.

Is it advisable to switch to a program aligned with labor shortages if the original program isn’t in demand?

It might be advisable if your goal is to increase your chances of permanent residency in Canada. However, switching programs should only be done if it aligns with your long-term educational and career objectives.

Are there any exemptions to the PGWP eligibility requirements for certain students?

Yes, students pursuing bachelor’s or master’s degrees are exempt from the new PGWP eligibility restrictions. These students will not be affected by the changes as long as they meet other requirements.

What financial aid or scholarships are available for international students in Canada?

Several scholarships and financial aid opportunities are available, such as the $2,000 scholarship at St. Lawrence College, along with application fee waivers at certain institutions like Yorkville University. Additionally, there are discounts and other special offers provided by partners of Halp.

How can Halp assist international students in applying to Canadian colleges and universities?

Halp is a free platform that helps students with every step of the application process, from choosing programs and institutions to applying and obtaining scholarships. They also provide support in navigating visa requirements and financial aid opportunities.