I am a study permit applicant and I am with Canada in keeping borders closed until a vaccine is available to protect their people from COVID. They just did the right thing. No questions about that. Prevention is the best course to take in this global health crisis.
HOWEVER, I am also extremely disappointed with their new process, and here’s why:
1. If they’re saying that they couldn’t process applications on time due to heavy backlogs and reduced staff, they should’ve paused accepting new applications. This would result in them being able to finish applications submitted Q1-Q2 this year. This could’ve SAVED thousands of international study applicants from stress and disappointments.
But of course, they didn’t do that. They need the fees we pay and GICs to continue
2. If it’s true that they genuinely care about International students, too, then it would’ve been much better if they’ve been direct from the start with their intention to not let anyone in until 2023. Believe me, we will understand. This could’ve SAVED us all money and effort. It’s not easy to just withdraw our applications, choose another country, and move on with our lives just like what other commenters here say.
But of course, IRCC will never announce that or else applications will drop, and their colleges/universities will suffer.
3. 2-stage processing is a complete BS. And no, it’s not proof that CA is doing their best to support international students. Like, really? We’d rather have our applications canceled and fees refunded in these weird times. NO ONE PAID A RIDICULOUS AMOUNT FOR DISTANCE LEARNING.
But of course, they need that 2-stage process to hold students from withdrawing their applications and secure money invested in CA.
4. IF their grand plan all this time was to extend travel restrictions and push remote classes in the next two years then at least have the colleges and universities lower the tuition fees! Make it the same rate as the locals. This MAY be acceptable enough for some. No one will pay for $37,000 (with misc fees, student fees, library fees, health insurance) for distance learning.
But of course, they won’t do this.
You see, I am all for keeping Canada safe and its citizens protected from COVID. I never complained about the delays. But truly they have deliberately neglected a lot of things:
1. Money, effort, sacrifices of study permit applicants.
2. Our access to high-quality education.
We simply want to GET WHAT WE PAID FOR. We can only move on if they let us!
