The geopolitical environment and international relations play a crucial role when it comes to choosing study destinations abroad. Disruptions in diplomatic relationships between countries can have a direct impact on the opportunities available to students. Recently, the deepening tension between India and Canada has raised concerns among Indian students who aspire to study in Canada.
Canada has become one of the most sought-after study destinations for Indian students. In recent years, the number of Indian students in Canada has experienced a significant rise. By 2018, there were 171,505 Indian students in the country, and by December 2022, the number had reached nearly 320,000, accounting for about 40% of international students in Canada.
However, following the strain in ties between India and Canada, Indian students planning to study in Canada have been urged to exercise caution. This situation has caused anxiety and uncertainty among students, especially those who have recently secured admissions to Canadian educational institutions. Despite the warnings, Canadian colleges and universities have reassured students that they are still safe and welcome.
Indian students, particularly those pursuing master’s and research degree programs, are attracted to study destinations that offer fee waivers, scholarships, and stipends. In addition to paying tuition fees, international students contribute significantly to the host country’s economy. In 2020, international students contributed over 22.3 billion CAD to the Canadian economy and supported more than 218,000 jobs. This economic impact has made attracting international students a top priority for many countries, including Canada.
Studying in Canada also offers the potential for settling abroad and accessing better career and income opportunities. A survey conducted by the Canadian Bureau for International Education in 2021 found that only 7.4% of international students intended to return to their home countries after completing their studies, while 72.6% planned to stay in Canada, and 20% were undecided. The pathway to Canadian citizenship is known to be comparatively cheaper and faster than in other Western countries, which adds to the allure of studying in Canada. Emigration agents and consultants often present studying in Canada as an accessible and promising route to fulfill these aspirations.
However, the study route to settling in Canada is not always as lucrative as it seems. A recent report by Senators Ratna Omidvar, Hassan Yussuff, and Yuen Pau Woo revealed that since 2000, only 30% of international students have been able to obtain permanent residence within a decade of their arrival. While studying in Canada may enhance career prospects and income potential, it does not guarantee a seamless transition from being an international student to becoming an immigrant.
There are also increasing indications that international students, including Indian students, are facing difficulties in finding jobs in Canada. Social media sites have shown long queues of Indian students searching for part-time employment, pointing to a moderate to severe job crisis. These challenges have led potential students to explore alternative study destinations.
Additionally, the continuous influx of immigrants and international students has put considerable pressure on the housing sector in Canada, leading to skyrocketing rental prices. The Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation estimates that the nation needs to build 5.8 million new homes by 2030 in order to restore affordability. Housing shortages have even triggered discussions about restricting university admissions to ease the pressure on housing rentals.
Despite the challenges and uncertainties, the charm of Canada as a study destination for international students, including Indians, remains strong. Personal experiences shared by friends and relatives who have studied in Canada often hold more weight than statistical data. Students worldwide strive for quality higher education that may not be readily available in their home countries. The promise of better career prospects and income opportunities compels them to travel afar, crossing the seven seas to realize their dreams.
Indian students are no exception. In fact, they may be particularly passionate about their aspirations. Unfortunately, those who wish to go to Canada are now confronted with clouds of uncertainty that come with navigating the tensions between the two countries.
