Why Canada Is Still the Best Choice for International Students in 2025

Canada has remained a top destination for international students for many years, offering not only world-class education but also a diverse, multicultural society, excellent post-graduation work opportunities, and pathways to permanent residency. As we approach 2025, Canada continues to attract students from around the globe, providing opportunities for personal and academic growth. Despite recent changes to the International Student Program (ISP), Canada remains a leading choice for students seeking a safe and enriching environment to pursue higher education. This blog explores the key updates to the ISP, the implications for international students, and why Canada remains the ideal destination for students in 2025.

Recent Changes to the International Student Program

On November 15, 2024, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced significant updates to the International Student Program (ISP) designed to enhance the integrity of the system, protect students, and ensure that the program remains sustainable. These changes aim to provide more opportunities while protecting students from exploitation. Let's dive into the recent updates:

1. Increased Work Hours for Students

One of the most notable changes is the increase in the number of work hours allowed for eligible international students. Students can now work up to 24 hours per week off-campus while their classes are in session. This increase benefits students who need to manage their living expenses while also gaining valuable work experience in the Canadian job market.

Previous Limit: Students were allowed to work 20 hours per week during regular semesters.

New Limit: The updated work hour limit allows students to work 24 hours per week during the school term. This change helps students find a better balance between academic responsibilities and work while also enhancing their financial stability.

This adjustment is particularly beneficial for students pursuing programs in areas such as healthcare, technology, and business, where gaining hands-on experience is critical for both academic success and career development. Additionally, this extended work privilege provides students with the opportunity to earn more during their studies, especially in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal, where living costs are high.

2. Stricter Regulations on School Transfers

Under the new regulations, international students must now apply for and receive approval for a new study permit before transferring to a different educational institution. This change ensures that students remain enrolled in accredited institutions that are recognized by the government and helps maintain the integrity of Canada’s immigration system.

Previously, students could change schools without additional documentation, leading to potential misuse of the system. Now, before transferring, students will need to apply for a new study permit and provide supporting documents confirming their admission to the new institution.

This regulation aims to prevent students from attending unaccredited institutions or attempting to circumvent the immigration system by moving to schools that do not meet required standards. While it may cause some initial delays for students transferring schools, this measure will improve the overall quality of education that international students receive in Canada.

3. Enhanced Oversight of Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs)

The IRCC has increased scrutiny on Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs), which are institutions approved to host international students. To ensure compliance with the new regulations, DLIs will be required to submit compliance reports twice a year. These reports will confirm that students holding study permits remain enrolled and continue to meet the requirements set out by Canadian immigration authorities.

Non-compliant institutions will face penalties, including a possible suspension from enrolling new international students for up to one year. This stricter oversight ensures that international students are attending institutions that maintain the standards expected of higher education establishments in Canada. By holding institutions accountable, the IRCC aims to prevent exploitation and ensure that students receive the quality education they are promised.

4. Focus on Fraud Prevention

The Canadian government has also ramped up efforts to combat fraud within the International Student Program. Between December 2023 and October 2024, over 529,000 Letters of Acceptance (LOAs) were verified, with nearly 492,000 confirmed as valid. This effort is designed to weed out fraudulent institutions and offer greater protection to international students by ensuring that only legitimate educational institutions participate in the program.

Fraud prevention measures are critical in maintaining the integrity of the ISP and ensuring that international students are not misled by unethical practices. The verification of LOAs also protects students from financial exploitation and ensures that they are attending institutions that are properly accredited.

The Future for International Students in Canada

Despite these regulatory changes, Canada continues to offer a welcoming environment for international students. These updates aim to improve the quality of education for students while safeguarding their rights and protecting them from exploitation. The increase in allowable work hours provides students with greater financial flexibility and the opportunity to gain practical experience in Canada’s dynamic labor market.

For students interested in pursuing permanent residency in Canada, the changes also offer a pathway to achieving this goal. Canada has several immigration programs that allow international students to stay and work in the country after graduation, including the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Express Entry. These programs are designed to help students transition smoothly from education to employment, ultimately leading to permanent residency.

Why Canada is Still the Best Choice for International Students in 2025

Canada remains the best choice for international students due to several key factors:

1. World-Class Education – Canadian universities and colleges are known for their high academic standards and offer programs that are globally recognized.
2. Post-Graduation Work Opportunities – Graduates from Canadian institutions have access to work permits that allow them to stay and work in Canada after their studies.
3. Pathways to Permanent Residency – With immigration pathways like Express Entry, the Canadian Experience Class, and the Provincial Nominee Program, international students can transition from temporary residence to permanent residency in Canada.
4. Cultural Diversity and Safety – Canada is one of the most multicultural countries in the world, and its cities are among the safest globally for international students.
5. Employment Opportunities – Canada’s growing job market, particularly in fields like technology, healthcare, and engineering, offers excellent career prospects for graduates.

How Pelican Migration Consultants Can Help You Study in Canada

Canada continues to be one of the top choices for international students seeking quality education and career opportunities. However, navigating the immigration process can be overwhelming due to the various requirements and regulations. Pelican Migration Consultants specialize in guiding prospective students through every step of their journey to study in Canada, ensuring a smooth and successful application process.

5 Ways Pelican Migration Consultants Can Assist You in Studying in Canada

1. Expert Guidance on Study Permits
   Pelican Migration Consultants provide expert assistance in applying for your study permit, helping you understand the necessary documents and regulations. They ensure that your application is accurate and timely, increasing your chances of approval.
2. Choosing the Right Program and Institution
   With vast knowledge of Canadian institutions, Pelican Migration Consultants help you select the right program and Designated Learning Institution (DLI) that fits your career goals and academic interests, ensuring the best educational experience.
3. Personalized Consultation and Application Support
   Pelican Migration offers personalized consultations to understand your unique needs, helping you prepare and submit all required documents for study permits and other applications. Their team guides you every step of the way.
4. Assistance with Visa Extensions and Work Permits
   After securing your study permit, Pelican Migration Consultants also assist with visa extensions, ensuring you stay in compliance with Canadian immigration laws. Additionally, they help you apply for work permits to gain valuable Canadian work experience during your studies.
5. Post-Graduation Pathways to Permanent Residency
   Once you complete your studies, Pelican Migration Consultants offer continued support in navigating Canada’s immigration pathways, such as the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), and assist you with applications for permanent residency programs like Express Entry.

Pelican Migration Consultants streamline the process of studying in Canada, providing you with the support and expertise needed to make your academic journey successful and stress-free.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I work while studying in Canada as an international student? Yes, international students are allowed to work up to 24 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during scheduled breaks.
2. Do I need a new study permit to transfer schools? Yes, students must apply for a new study permit if transferring to a different Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
3. How can I find a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada? You can find a list of DLIs on the official Canadian government website, which ensures that the institution meets Canadian standards for hosting international students.
4. What is the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)? The PGWP allows international students who have completed their studies in Canada to stay and work in the country for up to three years.
5. How can I apply for permanent residency after studying in Canada? After graduation, international students can apply for permanent residency through various immigration programs, such as Express Entry and the Canadian Experience Class.

Conclusion

In 2025, Canada remains the premier destination for international students, offering high-quality education, job opportunities, and pathways to permanent residency. Despite recent changes to the International Student Program, Canada continues to uphold its reputation as an educational leader, providing students with the tools and support they need to succeed. Whether you’re looking to study, work, or eventually settle in Canada, the opportunities are vast, and the changes to the ISP only enhance Canada’s commitment to supporting international students.