Understanding IRCC’s vision for the proposed ‘trusted institution’s framework’ in 2024. Media reveals more details for Canadian colleges and universities.
The IRCC is considering a dual-level system for study permit issuance to bolster Canada’s international student program’s credibility. This information is based on reports from ICEF.
Under this proposed system, students from abroad who are accepted into Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) that meet the criteria of IRCC’s Trusted Institutions Framework would enjoy expedited processing of their study permit applications. Moreover, DLIs refer to colleges, universities, and other educational institutions authorized by provincial and territorial governments to enroll foreign students in Canada.
IRCC’s vision for trusted institution’s – Structure of Canada’s trusted institutions framework
Not much information is available regarding the confidential discussions held by the IRCC about the plan. The primary objective of the framework is to evaluate DLIs. It is based on established criteria to ensure they are reliable collaborators in terms of sustained enrollment, authentic student identification, and monitoring compliance. Also, it offers a secure and enriching environment for international students. IRCC requires specific details from DLIs to be recognized as Trusted Institutions. The plan focuses on improving the credibility and quality of Canada’s international education sector, although the specific details of the plan remain undisclosed.
Below is a list of proposed indicators that will be held by the DLI:
Retention Rates: Based on this metric, foreign students who enroll in multi-year study programs in Canada are more likely to stick with their original course of studies after their first year in the country.
On-Time Program Completion Rate: Concerning the advertised length of study, this indicator measures the proportion of overseas students who complete their educational program within the allotted time. For instance, this might entail finishing a bachelor’s degree, which usually takes four years.
Percentage of Revenue from International Tuition: This metric examines the portion of a Designated Learning Institution’s (DLI) total tuition income derived from international student tuition fees.
Scholarships for Students from Less Developed Countries: This criterion evaluates the monetary value and percentage of the overall scholarships and grants awarded to international students originating from nations listed as “Least Developed Countries” by the United Nations.
Funding for International Student Supports: This measure quantifies the financial resources allocated per international student for specialized support services. Also, it is expressed as a percentage of the average international student tuition fee. This includes mental health assistance, career counseling, and immigration guidance.
Availability of DLI-Administered Housing: This parameter takes into account the total count of international students residing in accommodations managed by their educational institution. It also assesses the percentage of students choosing this option.
Teacher-Student Ratio: The teacher-to-student ratio in the ten courses with the most international students provides valuable insights. It indicates the degree of attention and support available to international students.
Data sources and timeline for trusted institution’s framework
Canadian government data will also be used for information about study permit approval rates, country of origin, and postgraduate student outcomes, such as switching to a different visa or getting a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). Furthermore, IRCC intends to initiate the collection and analysis of data from all DLIs in the coming months. They aim to compile the inaugural list of Trusted Institutions by spring 2024.
Canada is set to welcome approximately 900,000 international students this year
Canada continues to be a favored destination for international students. This is thanks to its exceptional education, affordability, work opportunities while studying, and the chance for immigration after graduation. Also, the number of international students in Canada has seen a noticeable rise, with the IRCC reporting a remarkable milestone in 2022. A record-breaking total of 551,405 students from 184 diverse nations were welcomed by Canada. Furthermore, as of December 31, 2022, there were an unprecedented 807,750 international students enrolled in Canada, all holding valid study visas.
According to Statistics Canada, 637,860 international students studied in Canada in 2019, and 400,600 additional study permits were obtained. By 2022, nearly 170,000 more foreign students will be studying in Canada than they were in 2019. As well as the continuous rise in foreign student enrollment underscores Canada’s enduring attractiveness as a hub for global education. Additionally, it serves as a beacon of learning and aspiration for students from across the world.
Globally, Canada’s top 10 source countries for international students in 2022 were:
- Brazil
- Nigeria
- Republic of Korea
- France
- Iran
- People’s Republic of China
- Philippines
- Japan
- Mexico
- India
Additional reforms are being considered to enhance Canada’s international student program’s integrity
Marc Miller, the immigration minister, has stated that Canada is expected to receive more than 900,000 international students this year. This aligns with the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corp.’s projection. They anticipate a requirement of 5.8 million new homes. As well as it includes two million rental units, by 2023 to address the housing affordability crisis.
To alleviate the strain on the housing market, the federal government is contemplating implementing a restriction on the number of international students allowed to enter Canada for studies. Apart from the suggested cap, the federal government is also examining a range of reforms aimed at bolstering the benefits of Canada’s international student program. These include initiatives like the Trusted Institution Framework.
