In a significant shift, Canada has announced the suspension of its popular direct visa scheme for international students, sparking concerns among prospective students, particularly from India. This move follows a broader trend where Canada, the UK, and Australia are losing their appeal as top educational destinations, while other countries are gaining traction.
According to a recent survey by the International Development Programme (IDP) Education, conducted between August and September this year, countries like the United States and New Zealand have emerged as the new front-runners for students seeking higher education abroad. The survey, which garnered responses from over 6,000 students across 114 countries, revealed a notable decline in the number of students selecting Canada, with only 16% of participants expressing interest in studying there. This represents a 9% drop from the previous year.
The IDP survey highlights the shifting dynamics in the international student market, with India contributing the largest number of respondents (1,346), followed by China (1,042), and smaller groups from countries such as the Philippines, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nigeria, and Nepal.
One of the key factors driving this shift is the tightening of visa regulations and unpredictable policies. As Canada’s visa rules become more stringent, students are increasingly considering more stable and predictable options. The declining diplomatic relations between Canada and several countries have also contributed to the fall in student interest.
A significant portion of the survey respondents (66%) reported considering multiple destinations for their education, with a growing interest in the US and New Zealand. The United States saw a 4% increase in student interest, now attracting 23% of the respondents, while New Zealand, although a smaller rise, has gained a 5% share of the survey participants.
An IDP official emphasized that students are looking for stability in their educational journey. “Unpredictable visa policies add a lot of pressure, and it’s becoming a key factor in decision-making,” said the official.
While Canada’s decision to suspend its direct visa scheme is seen as a setback for students wishing to study there, alternatives such as the US and New Zealand are now being viewed as viable options for international students. As students continue to prioritize stable and predictable visa systems, these countries are expected to remain popular educational destinations moving forward.
Sources By Agencies
