Ontario’s Strategic Allocation of International Student Applications to Drive Economic Growth
- By cverseimmigration
- Immigration, International Students, Ontario, PGWP, Study Permit, Updates
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Date: March 27, 2024
In response to the federal government’s recent cap on international student study permit applications, Ontario is taking proactive measures to channel international graduates into high-demand sectors that align with the province’s labor market requirements, thus fostering economic growth.
Jill Dunlop, Minister of Colleges and Universities, emphasized the significance of attracting top-tier international students to Ontario, focusing on critical areas essential to the economy. Collaboration with postsecondary institutions ensures enrollment in programs that generate graduates for in-demand positions.
Ontario will allocate 96% of permit applications to publicly assisted colleges and universities, with the remaining 4% designated for language schools, private universities, and other institutions. Career colleges will not receive any applications.
Allocation criteria include prioritizing programs in high-demand sectors such as skilled trades, health human resources, STEM, hospitality, and child care, while adhering to institution-specific 2023 permit levels. Moreover, French-language enrollment will receive priority to meet the rising demand for French-speaking professionals.
To streamline the process, international students must provide a provincial letter of attestation with their study permit application, ensuring compliance with federal allocation limits. The government mandates publicly assisted colleges and universities to guarantee housing options for incoming international students.
Recognizing the importance of mental health support, Ontario has invested over $32 million in 2023-24 to assist all postsecondary students. Additionally, the Strengthening Accountability and Student Supports Act, 2024 aims to enhance student experiences by bolstering mental health services and fostering inclusive campuses.
Upon graduation from eligible designated learning institutions (DLIs), international students may apply for a post-graduation work permit. However, starting May 15, 2024, students enrolled in programs delivered through private partners at publicly assisted colleges will not be eligible for this permit.
In January 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced changes to the International Student Program, including a cap on study permits issued to international students, excluding specific categories.
Despite these changes, the majority of universities and colleges in Ontario will maintain application levels from 2023, except for Algoma University and certain colleges with public-private partnerships, indicating a strategic approach to international student admissions.
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- Immigration, International Students, Ontario, PGWP, Study Permit, Updates