The 'Canada Queue' Phenomenon: Why Indian Students Aren't Exploring Other Options
The pursuit of higher education in Canada has long been a dream for thousands of Indian students. However, recent diplomatic tensions between the two nations have cast a shadow of uncertainty over this aspiration. The dispute was triggered by allegations from Ottawa, accusing New Delhi of involvement in the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India vehemently denied these allegations, leading to a tit-for-tat expulsion of diplomats and the suspension of visa services.
The pursuit of higher education in Canada has long been a dream for thousands of Indian students. However, recent diplomatic tensions between the two nations have cast a shadow of uncertainty over this aspiration. The dispute was triggered by allegations from Ottawa, accusing New Delhi of involvement in the murder of Khalistani terrorist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India vehemently denied these allegations, leading to a tit-for-tat expulsion of diplomats and the suspension of visa services.
Despite this diplomatic turmoil, most Indian students remain resolute in their choice of studying in Canada, adopting a "wait-and-watch" approach. This blog explores the impact of strained Canada-India relations on Indian students' pursuit of education in Canada, shedding light on their challenges and resilience.
September Rush: Peak Admission Season
September marks the peak admission season for Canadian universities and colleges, with thousands of students eagerly awaiting their visas. However, this year, students have found themselves caught in the crossfire of diplomatic tensions. As the month draws to a close, these students face uncertainty and anxiety.
The Three Categories of Affected Students
Indian students seeking Canadian education can be divided into three categories, each facing distinct challenges:
-
Students Already in Canada: Those who are currently pursuing their studies in Canada and are concerned about their safety and the evolving situation.
-
Students Awaiting Visas: Those who have paid their application fees and are anxiously awaiting their visas. This group is particularly hard-hit, as their fees, ranging from Rs 1.5 lakh to 2 lakh, have been paid, but they await clarity on fee refunds and whether they can apply to institutions in other countries or defer to the next intake.
-
Future Intake (January-February): Students planning to embark on their Canadian education journey in the upcoming intake, who now face uncertainty about their plans.
Financial Concerns and Hopeful Hearts
The second category, students awaiting visas, is grappling with financial concerns. Many of these students come from middle-income backgrounds, making the application fee a significant consideration. Despite the challenges, they are hesitant to change their study destination and remain hopeful that a resolution will emerge soon.
Consulting Firms' Response
Consulting firms that assist students with overseas education plans have adapted to the situation. Leverage Edu, one of India's largest study-abroad consulting firms, has ceased accepting applications for Canadian institutions. Instead, they advise students to explore options in the UK and the US. However, many students opt to wait for a few more months, hoping for a political de-escalation.
Post-Pandemic Trends
Consultants note a substantial surge in student applications for Canada post-pandemic. Canadian colleges offer affordability and favorable work permit policies. Notably, the UK has also witnessed a surge in applications after introducing post-study work visa rules, allowing international students to work for two years upon graduation.
The Travel Advisory and Its Rejection
The Indian government issued a travel advisory on September 20, deeming travel to Canada as "unsafe" amid "anti-India activities." However, the Justin Trudeau government in Canada rejected this advisory, asserting that Canada remains "calm" and "safe" for all.
The Way Forward
While India has suspended visa issuance for Canadian nationals, there have been no changes in visa rules for Indian students applying to Canadian institutions. As the diplomatic standoff continues, Indian students, like Tushar Sharma, an electrical engineer from Gujarat, remain resilient. Despite delays, they hold on to their Canadian education dreams, with the hope of receiving offer letters and clarity on their academic journeys in the near future.