Today, the College Student Alliance (CSA) is releasing an original research report, delving into the perspectives of Ontario's international college students regarding the revisions made by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on December 7, 2023. These revisions, notably the substantial increase in the minimum financial requirement for study permit applicants, bear significant implications for international students nationwide.
During the survey conducted from January 9 to February 11, 2024, CSA sought to collect the international student perspective in regards to these changes. While opinions naturally diverged, the majority expressed optimism about the changes. Proponents perceived the increased financial requirement as a positive step towards better preparing international students for the financial challenges of living in Canada. Conversely, opponents were concerned that simply raising the financial threshold may not be enough to safeguard international students, while further limiting opportunities for hopeful international students who now cannot afford to study in Canada.
CSA's key conclusions emphasize the importance of developing infrastructure that can better support international students, beyond merely increasing the minimum financial requirement. Infrastructure will involve collaboration between all levels of government, service organziations and institutions, creating support specifically available to students regarding topics such as settlement and employment.
Ultimately, CSA’s is dedicated to amplifying the voices of international students and shedding light on their diverse perspectives through policy analysis, recommendations and advocacy. Moreover, CSA is committed to sharing its findings and recommendations with stakeholders and policymakers, fostering open dialogue and collaboration to create a fair and supportive educational environment.
While recognizing that this survey may not solve all the challenges faced by international students, CSA hopes it can serve as a modest beacon of empowerment, providing valuable insights into the experiences and aspirations of international students in Ontario. As we continue forward, let us uphold our commitment to inclusivity and diversity, forging a path towards a more equitable and supportive educational landscape.
If you have any questions, please reach out to Policy and Advocacy Lead, Delaney Groves, at research@collegestudentalliance.ca
