Strict Laws on Study Permits Lead to Surge in Admissions at Indian Universities and Colleges

The recent enforcement of stringent laws and increased fee structures by Canadian and Australian universities and colleges has led to a resurgence in admissions to Indian universities and colleges. Over the past two decades, Indian students have been eager to study abroad, often with the ultimate goal of securing permanent residency and, eventually, citizenship. This desire was fueled by the availability of a points-based entry system for permanent residency. Anyone meeting the criteria as per the established rules and regulations was granted PR on merit.

The trend of Indians moving abroad is not new. Indian soldiers played a significant role during World War II, and after India gained independence in 1947, many began migrating to the United Kingdom. Until the 1980s, Canada had a relatively open immigration policy, allowing people to obtain PR upon arrival without a visa system. From 1997 onwards, countries like New Zealand, Australia, and Canada opened their doors to international students through educational admissions, providing a pathway to permanent residency and, ultimately, citizenship. This spurred high hopes among Indian students for a brighter future through legal education channels abroad.

The boom in the number of students going abroad led to the rapid growth of IELTS centers and travel agencies in India, specifically catering to students. Consequently, the number of students enrolling in Indian universities and colleges declined, creating an atmosphere of uncertainty, particularly in institutions offering technical courses. After completing their 10+2 education, many students viewed studying abroad as their best option. However, the rising cost of living and declining job opportunities in foreign cities are creating significant challenges for these students, making survival abroad increasingly difficult due to high rents and fewer job prospects.

Recently, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced a 35% reduction in international study permits for 2024, with a further 10% cut planned for 2025, bringing the total reduction to 45% by the next year. Study permits have historically been beneficial for the Canadian economy, as international students contribute significantly to the education sector and the broader economy. However, Trudeau also announced a reduction in the working hours allowed under post-graduation work permits. Additionally, the required financial reserves for students have been increased to over CAD 20,600 for those applying under international study permits, reflecting the rising cost of living in Canada.

From July 2024, Australia has also raised visa fees for international students from AUD 710 to AUD 1,600 per year. The required financial threshold has been increased to over AUD 27,700 for one year, with additional costs for partners (over AUD 19,300) and children (over AUD 4,440 per child). These changes have been implemented in response to the increasing cost of living.

New Zealand has similarly tightened its requirements, necessitating a minimum of approximately NZD 20,000 for annual student expenses.

While the influx of international students has historically boosted the economies of these countries, the current scenario of limited resources and job opportunities has led to a decline in the issuance of study permits. As a result, the reduced number of students going abroad due to these stringent regulations is likely to encourage more young people to pursue higher education in Indian universities and colleges in the coming years.

Authored by:
Rajat Kumar Mohindru  
Journalist,  
Jalandhar City.