For the past decade, India has stood out for being one of the most significant contributors of international students to Canada. In 2022, this number saw a staggering increase of 47 percent, reaching almost 320,000 students. Indian students make up around 35 percent of the total international student body in Canada, according to the figures reported by the Canadian Bureau for International Education. The government organisation extends holistic support towards Canadian as well as international students, thus facilitating an academic model that is both affordable and quality.
Given the diverse values of the country, Canada is home to one of the largest Sikh populations in the world. This growth can be attributed to a substantial influx of Sikhs from India who come to Canada in pursuit of higher education and employment opportunities. According to various sources, Indian students alone help Canada generate at least $7 billion each year, thus allowing Canada to flourish and thrive as an economic power. However, the recent incident surrounding the killing of Hardeep Singh Nijjar has left many Indians stranded in the otherwise welcoming country. Things escalated when Canadian authorities alleged that India had a role to play in the killing of the Khalistani leader.
The Indian government has since stopped issuing visas to Canadian nationals, shutting off all operations in the embassy. Subsequently, many Indians are now subject to anxiety about their future prospects in the country. Numerous parents whose children are pursuing their academic endeavours in Canada are now victims of uncertainty, given the various security concerns that have since popped up. Furthermore, potential students who are aiming for the winter and fall intake respectively feel overwhelmed, with doubts regarding visa and university acceptance rate. Many representatives from various Canadian universities have brought up the point of delayed visas which would inevitably disrupt the beginning of the academic semester.
Amidst all these speculations, there is also a ray of hope, as many experts reflect that these tensions will have no impact on the acceptance rate of visas as well as universities. However, it is always advisable to look for other lucrative opportunities and keep moving ahead. We at Admissify believe that students have the potential to achieve their dreams no matter the obstacles, and we have quite a few options for you that are just as good as Canada’s when it comes to studying abroad and immigration.
Best Alternatives for Studying Canada
Below, We have mentioned the best alternative options for studying Canada
Australia
For starters, Australia offers an excellent education system that goes hand-in-hand with possible immigration. The country offers three year bachelor programs and two year masters programs post which a student is eligible for post-study work rights that lasts upto four years; that’s a major difference when compared to Canada’s post-study work permit that lasts three years. What’s more, Australia is home to a number of prestigious universities like the University of Adelaide, Deakins University, and University of Melbourne that have consistently matched the world standard of quality education.
New Zealand
Another option that you can definitely consider after halting your plans to move to Canada is New Zealand. Apply for permanent residency is a comparatively easy process, as the country allows you to avail PR if you spent at least two years in the country. The eligibility for the same is fairly conventional as well, with the requirements coming down to no criminal history, proof of financial stability, and a valid reason to move to New Zealand.
United Kingdom
Last but not least, students also have the option of moving to the United Kingdom, a country known for fostering excellent universities like Oxford and Cambridge. The UK is home to excellent infrastructure, a diverse population, and strong cultural ties with India. Moreover, it helps our case that the country’s prime minister and first lady, both, are of Indian descent! The UK provides excellent stay-back options, where students get a post-study work permit that lasts upto two years. Moreover, the process of applying for Indefinite Leave to Remain, the UK’S equivalent of PR, is relatively easy.
Conclusion
All in all, if you are an ambitious student who has had to stall their plans for Canada given the degree of uncertainty, Admissify will help you broaden your horizons and help you unleash your potential. Our professional team of counselors will help you shortlist universities that match your profile and help you discover excellent academic scholarships that will be of significant help.
Avinash Singh is a study abroad consultant with over 10 years of experience helping students achieve their academic goals. He is an expert in the US, Australian, German, and Canadian education systems and has helped hundreds of students secure admission to top universities around the world. In his spare time, Avinash enjoys traveling, hiking, and spending time with his family. He is also an avid reader and loves to learn new things.
