International students enter a new culture with its own customs, laws and norms to discover. For most, this is an exciting opportunity, but it can also be isolating, according to a spokesperson from the University of Victoria.
From January 1, 2024, the cost of living requirements for international students in Canada will double according to an announcement from the federal government.
The financial requirement will shift from $10,000 a year to $20,635 a year and will reflect the current minimum amount of funds required to live and survive in Canada.
“It is essential that prospective international students have a realistic idea of the cost of living in Canada before they arrive. The new financial requirement for study permit applications, $20,635, is a realistic estimate of what students will need for one year of living expenses,” said the UVic spokesperson.
The increase will be the first of its kind since the early 2000s and has not kept pace, resulting in many international students arriving in Canada only to find their available funds inadequate to be able to survive.
International students add nearly $22 billion to the Canadian economy, more than exporting auto parts, lumber or aircraft, and support over 200,000 jobs in Canada.
These changes will help prevent student exploitation and help those vulnerable due to the lack of funds.
Studying internationally is an incredible experience that helps students become engaged global citizens and community leaders, according to the UVic spokesperson.
“The immigration process can be daunting for some students. Immigration document processing delays can make pre-arrival and travel stressful,” said the spokesperson.
The federal government has said it is willing to limit the number of student visas to ensure that designated learning institutions provide sufficient support to students as part of the learning experience.
Designated learning institutions can accept and enroll international students, with each province and territory having its criteria.
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