International learners hoping to study in Canada recently received surprising news – Canada has significantly increased the mandated financial requirements for incoming student visas. Applicants must now demonstrate $20,635 CAD readily available for their first year, more than double the previous $10,000 CAD amount. This abrupt change understandably sparked heavy debate and worry from applicants. However, with proper preparation, students can overcome the challenge.
The new rule undoubtedly poses barriers, especially for students from developing regions or less affluent backgrounds. However, quality candidates determined to study in Canada have options to adapt. While surprising, this policy aims to uphold values of integrity and self-reliance – reasonable aims for a nation built by immigrants.
The key adjustment means education agencies can no longer approve student visas unless applicants prove at least $20,635 CAD in personal savings. This expanded requirement intends to curb visa fraud by ensuring applicants’ means to support studies abroad. Previously, the rule stood at just $10,000 CAD for first-year costs – already straining for some. Additionally, students must also pay funds for the first academic year as well as bear travel costs.
Additionally, Miller shared updates on three temporary rules pertaining to foreign students. Students can now work more than 20 hours per week while classes are in session thanks to an extension of the 20-hour per week cap waiver that was previously in place for off-campus employment through April 30, 2024.
Critics argue limiting opportunity by wealth conflicts with education’s purpose. Immigration Minister Mark Miller focused on the need for this new financial regulation, saying that the policy ensures that international students are prepared for unforeseen circumstances that protect them in vulnerable situations.
Bridging the increased gap requires effort but need not end dreams of a Canadian degree. Applicants have 1-2 months before the next admission deadline to strengthen funding sources. Savings alone rarely suffice anyway – pursuing education abroad always represented a financial leap of faith. This new policy merely raises the high jump bar higher.
Luckily, many options exist to ethically prove sufficient means:
– Appeal to family assets like property
– Apply for student loans
– Explore education finance companies
– Apply for scholarships so as to ease the financial burden
This new regulation asks for a fresh change in the mindset of potential students as well as the two governments. Canada understandably prioritizes self-reliance and the well-being of all students. This policy change forces many individuals to make informed decisions in regards to moving to Canada for education purposes, aligning with immigration’s purpose.
Despite the raised requirements, Canadian education remains accessible for those creatively leveraging ethical options. This new policy ensures a safe and secure future for potential as well as existing students, eliminating many fraud applications.
These revised financial requirements are also applicable to the Student Direct Stream, a special application procedure for study permits mandated for citizens of fourteen different nations. This stream guarantees priority processing by requiring applicants to provide more information upfront.
The increased financial requirements may prove to be difficult for students, especially for those from third-world countries who wish to look for quality education that is also affordable. However, there are many options available for students in the form of student loans and scholarships. If you find yourself stranded in a long and tedious application process, contact one of Admissify’s top education counsellors today and book a free counselling session.
In closing, while this new policy has stirred controversy, students must not lose hope. With a strong and resilient mindset, the new policy need not destroy your dreams of studying at one of Canada’s top universities.
Gaurav Kandari is a seasoned study abroad consultant with over 5 years of experience, specializing in guiding students to the UK, USA, Canada, and Australia. An avid traveler, he draws on his global adventures to enrich his consulting, providing invaluable insights to aspiring scholars.
