Latest News to Students and Partners shared from the Study Travel Network.... USA claims 300 student visas revoked, visa applicant screening stepped up The USA Secretary of State Marco Rubio has claimed that more than 300 student visas have been revoked in recent weeks following investigations into pro-Palestine protests on college campuses, while embassies have reportedly been instructed by the Secretary to screen applicants’ social media profiles. Following an executive order entitled ‘Additional Measures to Combat Anti-Semitism’ issued on January 29th, there have been reports in the media of several arrests and visa revocations of international students who were engaged in pro-Palestine protests at university campuses. Secretary of State Marco Rubio claimed in a press conference in Guyana last week than more than 300 student visas have now been revoked. “It might be more than 300 at this point. We do it every day. Every time I find one of these lunatics, I take away their visa,” he said, when asked to confirm the total of revocations. A transcript of the press conference is available on the Department of State website. The Secretary was responding to a question about a Turkish PhD student at Tufts University who was reportedly arrested after writing an opinion piece on the war. A video of the arrest has been shared by news outlets and on social media. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. Source - US Department of State, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons Explaining the revocation of the student’s visa, he said, “Let me be abundantly clear, okay. If you go apply for a visa right now anywhere in the world – let me just send this message out – if you apply for a visa to enter the United States and be a student and you tell us that the reason why you’re coming to the United States is not just because you want to write op-eds, but because you want to participate in movements that are involved in doing things like vandalizing universities, harassing students, taking over buildings, creating a ruckus, we’re not going to give you a visa. If you lie to us and get a visa and then enter the United States and with that visa participate in that sort of activity, we’re going to take away your visa.” In a statement sent to StudyTravel Magazine, the Presidents’ Alliance on Higher Education and Immigration, which represents more than 570 college and university leaders in the USA, condemned the detention of international students, faculty and staff, and called on the government to respect constitutional rights, including protection of speech and the guarantee of due process. “Recent immigration enforcement operations - including apprehending and detaining international students and revoking student visas - appear to lack clear cause or be based on political speech or association and raise serious concerns about fairness, due process, freedom from arbitrary or discriminatory enforcement, and other constitutional protections. The government’s actions and rhetoric create an atmosphere of fear, threaten academic freedom, chill free expression, and jeopardize the well-being of non-citizen members of our campus communities.” The association added that it strongly supports the right of local and international students to engage in peaceful expression. “Upholding these principles strengthens - not undermines - our ability to foster the secure, inclusive, and vibrant academic communities that have made our nation a global leader,” the association said. NAFSA Association of International Educators has published a page listing some of the high-profile arrests and subsequent legal challenges that have taken place in light of the Executive Order. Fanta Aw, NAFSA's Executive Director and CEO, said in a statement that the USA could lose out in the global competition for international talent as a result of the current situation. “International students and their families seek predictability, security, and a welcoming environment when choosing where to study," she said. "The U.S. government’s recent actions have created an atmosphere of fear and confusion that has students, scholars, and their families understandably concerned about their safety and future in the United States. These actions also undermine what makes U.S. higher education so special: well-resourced, cutting-edge research opportunities; academic freedom; and free speech." The Academic Freedom Alliance in the USA also criticised the latest measures, which it said could have a "chilling effect" on free speech and academic freedom. "It is imperative that the permission of foreign students and scholars to enter or remain in the country be revoked only for the proper reasons, which do not include the mere expression of controversial scholarly, political, or social views," the group said in a press release. Social media screening: Meanwhile, The Guardian newspaper and other media outlets claim to have obtained a State Department cable from 25th March with a directive that states “evidence that an applicant advocates for terrorist activity, or otherwise demonstrates a degree of public approval or public advocacy for terrorist activity or a terrorist organization” can be grounds for visa rejection. According to the outlet, the cable specifically targets new and renewing applications for F, M and J student visas, and requires officers to conduct mandatory social media reviews. “Evidence that an applicant advocates for terrorist activity or otherwise demonstrates a degree of public approval or public advocacy for terrorist activity or a terrorist organization may be indicative of ineligibility,” the memo, sent by Secretary Rubio reportedly states. “This may be evident in conduct that bears a hostile attitude towards US citizens or US culture, including government institutions or founding principles.” The Department of State has instructed screening of students' social media accounts. The memo also calls for the social media vetting of any students who were in the USA as of 7th October 2023. The Axios news outlet, meanwhile, claims that it has been told by Justice Department and State Department officials that the government is discussing plans from to ban certain colleges from enrolling international students if it finds that too many students are ‘Pro-Hamas’. Columbia University recently had US$400 million in federal contracts withheld until it agreed to demands to combat antisemitism and limit protests, and letters have been sent by the Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights to 60 higher education institutions who are “presently under investigation for Title VI violations relating to antisemitic harassment and discrimination”, according to a Department press release.

When applying to study abroad, many international students make the error of only focussing on tuition amounts. While tuition is indeed your highest cost however; making the assumption that it is the only cost you should consider could lead to a tragic error. I have seen many students sucessfully apply to come to Canada only to find that a few months down the road that they can no longer afford to be here. Some end up having to cancel their programs and return to their home country. The Canadian government wants to avoid such student experiences, so as part of the application processes they are closley focussing on student financial ablilty and supports. Studying abroad can be an expensive prospect so students need to take all expenses into consideration. You should also examine what countries can provide you with the best options in terms of tuition and other expenses. You may also ponder wheather it might be more cost effective to stay in your home country to attend a school. You should also look into gaining financial support of family and friends, developing pre-study savings, discussing with your bank about student loans and exploring possible scholarships or bursury avenues. If you are looking at Canada as a destination country you will also need to consider that Immigration Refugee & Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will request that you demonstrate proof that you have at least $20,635CDN in your bank account before they will consider issuing a Student VISA. They will want to see your bank statements. When applying to study in Canada as an international student, there are several key budget items you should consider to ensure you're financially prepared. Here’s a breakdown: 1. Tuition Fees Tuition fees can vary significantly depending on the program and the institution. On average, undergraduate programs range from CAD 7,000 to CAD 29,000 per year, while graduate programs can cost between CAD 8,000 and CAD 22,000 per year. Some professional programs (like medicine, law, or MBA) can be much higher. 2. Student Visa and Permit To study in Canada, you’ll need a study permit. The application fee is CAD 150. If you need to apply for a visa (depending on your country of origin), there might be additional costs. 3. Health Insurance Some provinces provide provincial health coverage for international students, but in other provinces, you may need to buy private health insurance. The cost can vary, but on average, it might range from CAD 600 to CAD 900 per year. 4. Living Expenses Accommodation: Rent varies depending on location. On average, monthly rent can be around CAD 400–1,500 for shared accommodations or an apartment. Larger cities like Toronto and Vancouver tend to have higher rent prices. Utilities: If not included in rent, expect to pay about CAD 100–200 per month for utilities (water, electricity, heating, and internet). Food: Grocery costs can range between CAD 200–400 per month, depending on your eating habits. Eating out or buying takeaway will increase this cost. Transportation: Public transportation is common in Canadian cities. Monthly transit passes range from CAD 70–150, depending on the city. If you're living in a city with a good public transit system, it can be an affordable way to get around. 5. Books and Supplies Textbooks and course materials can be expensive. On average, students spend around CAD 500–1,000 per year on books and supplies. Used textbooks or digital versions can help reduce costs. 6. Personal Expenses This includes things like mobile phone plans, entertainment, clothing, and personal items. These expenses vary widely, but budgeting around CAD 100–300 per month is a good idea. 7. Travel Costs Depending on where you're coming from, you’ll need to budget for flights to Canada. Also, if you plan to travel around Canada or return home during breaks, those additional travel costs should be factored in. 8. Miscellaneous Fees Some universities may charge additional fees like orientation fees, student activity fees, or lab fees. These can range from CAD 100 to CAD 500 or more, depending on the institution. 9. Emergency Fund It’s always good to have a buffer for unexpected expenses like medical emergencies, repairs, or urgent travel. A recommended amount is around CAD 1,000–2,000. Additional Considerations: Work Opportunities: As an international student, you are typically allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during breaks. This can help offset living expenses, but it's important to check with your institution or study permit conditions to see how this can be managed. Scholarships and Financial Aid: Look into scholarships, grants, and bursaries available for international students. Some Canadian universities offer financial aid packages specifically for international students. If you’re creating a budget, it’s always better to overestimate to ensure you’re prepared for any unexpected costs! Would you like more specific advice for budgeting in a particular city or university? Consultation: Don't forget as certifide agents, Independent Student Support Agents-Canada are always willing provide you with free consultation and advice. REMEMBER IF YOU ARE SUCESSFUL SO ARE WE!!!

Canadian Immigration Minister Marc Miller announced several new measures affecting international students today. The new settings include an extension of the current cap on foreign enrolment through 2025 and 2026. The cap for each of those two years will be set at 10% less than the 2024 level. The cap now captures master’s and doctoral students for 2025 and beyond, whereas students in advanced degrees were previously exempt from cap limits. University degree graduates will remain eligible for a Post Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) of up to three years. Graduates from public college programmes will no longer be eligible for a three-year PGWP unless their programme is linked to an area of high labour market demand. Spousal work permit eligibility will be further limited as well. Later this year, only spouses of master’s degree students whose programme is at least 16 months in duration will be eligible for a spousal permit. As part of changes to the PGWP programme, all applicants will be required to demonstrate a minimum language proficiency in French or English, beginning 1 November 2024. Need advice on Studying Abroad in Canada or any other country for 2025/2026 contact us for a free consult.😊

CREDIT -ICEF Monitor The following is a guest post from Nannette Ripmeester. Nannette is the Director at Expertise in Labour Mobility (ELM) and founder of CareerProfessor.works. She serves as Director Performance Benchmarking, leading the International Student Barometer (ISB) for Etio in Europe and North America. The simple answer to the question raised in the title is yes. Whether it is from the perspective of the student, the higher education institution, or society at large, employability matters. In fact, it matters big time. But what we mean with employability might sometimes be less clear. To me personally, it means maximizing the talents of every individual who studies at our institutions – does that sound impossible? No, I believe it is attainable provided we offer what we promise, and we are transparent about what we can and cannot do. Managing expectations is key, even if it means telling students that simply studying abroad is not going to do the trick. The International Student Barometer (ISB) data for 2023/24 shows that for the past five years “Future career impact” has topped the list at 96% as the primary reason why international students choose a higher education institution (HEI). Study choice is not driven by country reputation (although important, it only scored #7) or institution reputation (#3) but by the impact it will have on a graduate’s career. Given that this latest ISB is based on 192,581 student responses, including 122,975 international students studying at 155 institutions in 24 countries, it seems safe to say employability is the key driver of choice for a vast majority of students. This is underlined by the fact that ‘Earning potential’ is in 5th place (out of 20 answer options). Although over a longer period, the importance of earnings has increased, in comparison with last year’s ISB data it has declined slightly in importance. It is too early yet to see a clear trend in that respect, but important enough to note if we think about what we are trying to market to the next generations of students. Employability is not only a driving force behind study choice but also key for recommendation of the study experience (together with course organization (!) and quality of lectures). Hence, it is evident that from the start of the student journey that higher education institutions need to work on graduate career outcomes, an area where institutions in Europe lag by 9% compared to the global benchmark. Nevertheless, the European higher education sector has the Erasmus+ programme, and the benefits of study abroad with respect to graduate employability seem obvious as indicated by two Erasmus Impact Studies (2014 and 2019). But life is not that simple, study abroad is not creating employability on its own. Students need to be provided with the support to help them “unpack” what they have gained while being abroad. For higher education to make study abroad work in building graduate employability it is essential to understand the competencies that are gained on mobility and how these contribute to career prospects of mobile students. However, when we asked employers if they recruit students simply because they have studied abroad, the picture becomes slightly more mixed. There is no guarantee that study abroad in itself makes someone employable – there is more needed to make that happen. For starters, a graduate should be able to explain what they have gained while being abroad and how these skills can support them in their new role. When graduates can unpack what they have gained abroad, employers become keener in hiring that person. But when that graduate can ‘repackage’ their skills in the language of a hiring manager (word of warning: there is no one-size-fits-all approach - this may differ per sector and per country), an employer is more likely to be interested in that graduate. After all, study abroad provides, by its very nature, situations where people develop the skills sought after by the future world of work. Now graduate outcomes are not the sole reason for either providing higher education or for offering study abroad, but if our students can use the experiences, we provide them with to become more employable, we have done an important part of our job: creating talents for the future. What can institutions and providers do to support this quest for employability? Take employability skills seriously. Globalize your curricula, build in global orientation, and skills training because that career workshop at the end of a study programme will not be enough to create employable graduates. And please realize that not all international students will stay in their host country. Many will return to their home countries or might consider another country for a while. Maybe it all starts with the understanding that for recruitment of new students, you need to start at the end of the student journey by taking steps to ensure better graduate outcomes for your students.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced that international students will no longer be able to leave and apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit at the border on immediate re-entry, a practice known as ‘flagpoling’. IRCC said that flagpoling occurs when temporary residents in Canada bypass the normal waiting times involved in applying for a work or study permit online by leaving the country and then immediately re-entering to receive same-day immigration services. With immediate effect, this service is no longer available for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), following an announcement by Marc Miller, the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship. IRCC said that between March 1st 2023 and February 29th 2024, PGWP applicants represented around one fifth of the foreign nationals who attempted the same-day service. Minister Miller said, “While we continue to support and recognize the contributions of international graduates to Canada’s labour market, ‘flagpoling’ is unnecessary. The time and effort required to process applications from ‘flagpolers’ takes officers on both sides of the border away from their crucial role in protecting the safety, security and prosperity of Canadians and Americans. This measure will help prevent this practice, while maintaining the integrity of our immigration system.” IRCC said it was taking measures to encourage applicants to apply in Canada rather than flagpole, including improving processing times. The organisation said that when eligible graduating students apply online for a PGWP before their study permit expires, they can work full time while awaiting approval and receive an automated letter that can be shown to employers. Article By Study Travel Network

Looking for a warm caring host family within easy commute of the Crowfoot YMCA or Altadore neighborhoods of Calgary. I have a female high school student from Madrid Spain starting school in Sept at the Edge Athletic School. 24/7 local support provided and monthly stipend paid to offset meals. This student is greatly interested in being connected to the local soccer community. Let 2024 be your time for a cross cultural gift. Message me for details if you would like a wonderful student exchange experience. 😊 #calgary #accomodation #Hosting #soccer #EdgeSchool #altadore #melcorymca #robertthirsk #arbourlake #bownesspark #ranchlands #senicacres #tuscany

Independen Student Support Agents-Canada (ISSA-Canada) is closing our acceptance of student application for Sept 2024. While some schools may still be accepting students it is very important for students to give themselves enough time to gain their Letters of Acceptance (LOA) and to apply for your Study Permit and process with Immigration, Refugee, & Citizenship Canada (IRCC). To get a head start on the next intake period of Feb 2025 you can begin reviewing secondary and post secondary options in our partner database at ApplyBoard https://www.applyboard.com/partners/579110/intake-form We are still open to assist students in creating "Safe Landing" Experiences and assisting you in finding accomodations to meet your needs and budget for Sept 2024. Please be aware that finding and screening proper accomodations for you can take well over 60 days from application so now is the time to be applying for accomodations if you are arriving in September. To Apply for accomodations touch base with one of our advisors at neilhosler07@gmail.com or WhatsApp Business at +1-780-718-6414. We look forward to meeting all your study Canada needs. If we can't then we will refer you to one of our many partners that can. #studycanada #homestay #accomodations #applyboard #internationalstudy #secondaryeducation #postsecondary

Coming to study in Canada for Sept 2024 or Feb 2025? Don't leave your accomodation options till the last minute! ISSA-Canada can explore all options available to you near your chosen school. Hopefully your school already has on campus accomodations, but if that is not an option we have contract staff and contacts in the commuity to help you find accomodation to best fit your initial needs and realistic buget. Let us help you explore homestay, shared accomodations, room rentals, apartments etc. We also offer in person accomodation screening services to help you avoid fraudulent landlords and to negotiate rental agreements on your behalf. Drop us a note if you need assistance.😊 #studycanada #homestay #explorecanada #accomodations Consultation and ideas are always free😊

Latest news from the Study Travel Network.... Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has published a full list of provincial international study permit application allocations, following a statement from Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship. The list of allocations, which can be viewed here, highlights the number of study permit applications that will be allocated to each region, along with the percentage change in the number of applications allocated compared to approved applications in 2023.According to the IRCC, the national cap of study permit applications is based on the amount of expiring study permits this year. This means that the number of international students coming to Canada in 2024 should be the same as the number of students whose permits expire this year. In addition, the provincial allocations have been assigned based on the population share of each province and territory.Under the new caps, the country is set to see a 42 per cent decrease in study permits, nationwide. The region that will see the biggest decrease in study permits under the new caps will be Ontario, which will see a 62 per cent decrease in applications this year compared to 2023. After approving 239,753 study permits in 2023 (excluding K-12 and graduate level), only 152,394 permit applications have been allocated to Ontario for 2024, 91,436 of which the IRCC projects will be approved. As previously reported, it has also been announced that 96 per cent of permit applications will be allocated to publicly assisted colleges and universities in Ontario. British Columbia will also be heavily impacted, with a projected 47 per cent decrease in the number of study permit applications allowed in 2024 (53,638).On the other hand, some provinces are set to see an increase in study permits. For example, Alberta has been forecast a 23 per cent increase in approved applications in 2024 compared to 2023, and Newfoundland and Labrador will have a predicted increase of 147 per cent. The biggest increase will be seen in Nunavut, which has been allocated 393 study permit applications under new regulations and is predicted to see 236 approved permits. This is a 7,753 per cent increase from 2023, which saw only five approved permits in total last year.Discussing the caps, Minister Miller said that the IRCC will, “continue to work collaboratively with provinces and territories to strengthen the International Student Program and to provide international students with the support they need to succeed in Canada.”Click here to view the full list of allocations and read the IRCC’s statement.By Delilah Kealy-RobertsStaff Journalist-Study Travel Network

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from all of us at Independent Student Support Agents-Canada (ISSA-Canada) We look forward to working with all of our Secondary and Post Secondary partners, homstay families, agents for sucessful placement, suport and resources for all of our students from Spain, West Africa and Japan. We hope to introduce more students to our exciting summer ESL experiences both in Canada and for Canadian students wishing to travel abroad! We are excited to offer more students the resources of our Canadian Concierge Services...our next level in ensuring "Safe Landings" through connections with accomodation resources such as screening and placement services and many other resources

Advice to Landlords and students...Renting an apartment to an international student in Canada involves specific considerations for landlords. Keep in mind that regulations and requirements may vary by province or territory, so it's essential to check the local laws. However, here are some general guidelines that landlords in Canada might consider when renting to international students: Letter of Introducation: It is nice to reassure prospective landlord if you prepare a letter of introduction for them explaining your goals of coming to Canada and telling them a little about yourselves. It is also a good idea to get letters of reference for people you have rented from in the past or even better to provide letters of refernce from Canadian citizens that your landlord could contact that will give them a quality reference Proof of Enrollment and Study Permit: Ask for proof of enrollment from a recognized educational institution in Canada. Verify that the student has a valid study permit. Students should inquire with their post secondary institution if they can aquire a letter explaining their status as a student and the dates of their program If a students is renting with a partner or a spouse while studying in Canada do they have a work permit? You landlord will want to know if you have some sort of means to support yourself during you time in Canada. Does your post secondary program allow you to work part-time? Co-Signer or Guarantor: Some landlords may require an international student to have a co-signer or guarantor. This person is typically a Canadian citizen or permanent resident who agrees to take responsibility for the lease if the student fails to meet their obligations. Do you have any friends or relatives that live in Canada that can guarentee to a landlord payment should you have financial stuggles? Students should get a letter and contact information for their guarantor Rental Application: Have the student complete a comprehensive rental application, including personal and financial information, references, and any relevant documentation. Landlords should request financial information from students i.e. bank statements or pay stubs as proof of financial stability for your study term in Canada Security Deposit: Request a security deposit, as permitted by local laws, to cover potential damages or unpaid rent. Students are often surprised at this request but many landlords will request first and last months rent as a deposit for your accomodation. Though this can be a significant amount for a student, it is proof to the landlord that you are serious about aquiring your accomodation and being a good tenant. For landlords international students are sometimes considered higher risk for defaulting on rentals as compared to local renters. Communication and Language: Ensure effective communication, as language differences might exist. Have clear written agreements and be willing to clarify any terms verbally if needed. Lease Agreement: Provide a clear and detailed lease agreement outlining all terms and conditions, including rent amount, due dates, rules, and regulations. International students are typically required to sign 5 to 10 month lease agreements. Many of these agreemants require written 30 day notice be given to the landlord if you are planning on moving out. Students should be aware if they break their lease that the landlord may retain a portion or all of your security deposit. Bank Statements or Financial Guarantees: Some landlords may request bank statements or a financial guarantee to ensure that the international student has the financial means to pay rent. Rent Payment: Determine the preferred method of rent payment. Some landlords may require post-dated checks or electronic transfers. DO NOT Transfer money without guarenteeing the accomodation is reputable and real! Understanding Local Laws: Be aware of local tenancy laws and regulations to ensure compliance and fairness in the leasing process. Tenant Insurance: Encourage or require tenants to obtain tenant insurance to protect their belongings. It's essential to approach each situation individually, taking into account the specific circumstances of the international student. Landlords should always adhere to anti-discrimination laws and treat all tenants fairly. Additionally, consulting with legal professionals or local housing authorities can provide more specific guidance based on the location of the rental property. Be aware of fraud: Rental fraud is very common in Canada especially between international students and people pretending to be landlords. Internatioanal students are sometimes niave and too trusting. They are at a disadvantage of distance so they don't have means of advance viewing of rental accomodations. There have been many students that have arrived in Canada thinking they have secured accomodation only to find out that the accomodation doesn't actually exist and the fraudsters have made off with their security deposit. Independant Student Support Agents Canada (ISSA-Canada) always advises students to be wary of false promises. Sometimes if a rental accomodation looks too good to be true or the accomodation is unusually cheap often it could be a fraudulent situation. It is always best practice to have have someone inspect their future accomodation to ensure it exists, that the landlord is legitimate, ensure that the accomodation is livable (Meets Provincial Fire Code Etc.) and is what the landlord is promising the prospective renters is real (Sometimes internet pictures are fake) A in country person (Family, friend or Professional) can identify any issues in advance and also gather any documents the landlord might require. Independant Student Support Agents Canada can provide accomodation screening support for $260.00 CDN. For more information email us at neilhosler07@gmail.com (mailto:neilhosler07@gmail.com)or 1-780-718-6414. A little money invested up front can save you a great deal of misery later and it is reassuring to know your accomodation is secure and authentic before you come to Canada! Duly note is best to give yourself at least 90 days to find and source accomodation prior to your arrival in Canada. Leaving things to the last minute can be very stressful and can also cause students to end up finding temporary accomodations such as hotels and or Airbnb's which can be expensive if you have not given adequet time to source accomodation.

Exciting news article from Study Travel News.... Canada has announced a new Tech Talent Strategy and measures that will allow foreign workers to study for longer periods in the country. Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, confirmed a three-year temporary measure that removed the limit on the length of study programmes that temporary foreign workers can enrol in without a study permit. Previously, workers could only study on programmes of six months or less and had to apply for a separate study permit for longer courses. Minister Fraser said, “Temporary foreign workers are incredibly important for the Canadian economy, and many have aspirations that go far beyond the work that initially brings them to Canada. With this policy in place, we hope to empower foreign nationals to improve their skills in order to meet their career goals and achieve their dreams, while providing a future potential source of talent for our labour market.” Canada is looking to attract more tech talent. The Minister has also announced Canada’s first-ever Tech Talent Strategy to attract and retain international talent in high-growth industries. Measures in the strategy include an open work permit stream from July 16th for H-1B speciality occupation visa holders in the USA to apply for a Canadian work permit, and study or work permit options for their family members. The H-1B visa is used by some international graduates in the USA. Canada will also implement an Innovation Stream under the International Mobility Program, which will include: employer-specific work permits for companies contributing to the government’s innovation goals; open work permits for up to five years for highly skilled workers in select in-demand occupations; and improvements to the Start-Up Visa programme with increased places and longer permits. Minister Fraser said, “We’re enthusiastic about the ambitious goals we have set in immigration, because they aren’t just about numbers - they are strategic. With Canada’s first-ever immigration Tech Talent Strategy, we’re targeting newcomers that can help enshrine Canada as a world leader in a variety of emerging technologies. I’m grateful for the collaboration of the tech, start-up and business communities, who have provided valuable insight to develop this strategy. Having a fast and flexible approach, one that is broadly supported by Canadians, is truly Canada’s immigration advantage.” In September last year, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship (IRCC) released a strategy to expand routes to residency for international students and temporary workers. By Matthew Knott News Editor

Are you an international student interested in studying at a post secondary institution here in Canada? As a student progresses through high school and gears up for post secondary study, I would encourage all students to build their academic English language skills. (AES) Even if your education has been in a country where English was your primary language of education, you may find your academic English skills (AES) to not be on par with the future post secondary course of your dreams. As an international agent here in Canada, I am finding that quite a few universities and colleges are now requiring an English language test score as part of their application process. While sometimes Post Secondary Institutions will exempt certain nations from this requirement, I am finding more and more Designated Learning Institutions are adding blanket English language requirements to all international students no matter what country or educational system you hail from. It is prudent that students can demonstrate a solid English language test score as part of your application profile. Especially if you are seeking out high level post secondary Bachelor or Masters programs in fields that require a high level of academic English i.e. Engineering What is Academic English Skill (AES)? Academic English Skills (AES) is a qualification that provides you with the thorough training in language and academic skills needed to achieve your academic potential at the university of your choice. Key skills that AES will develop include: Reading effectively and critically Making notes in lectures and presentations Delivering presentations and participating in academic seminars Researching, planning and writing academic essays Developing the accuracy and range in written and spoken language required to express yourself appropriately, with clarity and confidence How can I get an impression about where my AES skills are at??? Take a free English language test. The three key English language exams use for post secondary admission are... TOEFL iBT - take a free practice test at https://www.ets.org/s/toefl/free-practice/start.html IELTS - take a free practice test at https://www.ielts.org/usa/ielts-practice-test Duolingo English - take a free practice test https://englishtest.duolingo.com/readiness As an international student agent over the last 20 plus years, I have actually taken some of these practice exams just to see where my AES skills are at and to be able to get a feeling of what my students needs are. As a person whom grew up in an English language educational system, I found the practice exams to be quite humbling. I found myself having to look up many of the words and definitions in order to fully understand them myself. I strongly recommend pursuing an English language program before you apply to study in Canada. The time and expense you take in advance will be of benefit as you will not likely have to take an English as a Second Language program prior to your program of study. Taking AES programs in advance will also help prepare you for the academic language that will regularly be used in your program of choice. Long and short it...it will be easier to participate and get solid grades in your program. NEVER STOP LEARNING!!! It is a recipe for life success😊

Sharing the latest news from the Study Travel Network.... Canada is leading in international students’ perceptions of being an attractive destination and preferences, according to the latest survey conducted by global higher education placement agency IDP Education. The Emerging Futures report was based on the responses of 10,149 IDP Education clients from 93 countries, and compared perceptions of the five major English-speaking higher education destinations as well as reasons for studying abroad and choice of destination. Students rated Canada as clearly the highest on perceptions of graduate employment opportunities, post-study work policies and welfare, and slightly ahead of rival destinations for value for money. Graphic source - IDP Connect The USA and the UK were perceived as offering the highest-quality education. Canada was also the first-choice destination for 27 per cent of the students surveyed, followed by the USA (20), the UK and Australia (both 19). New Zealand’s prolonged border closure would appear to have impacted on its perception among students – the destination ranked lowest on four of the categories, and was first-choice destination for only four per cent of students surveyed. When asked why they had chosen their first-choice destination (with multiple answers possible), high quality of education was cited by 63 per cent, followed by opportunities after graduation (52), supports international students (48), and part-time work opportunities (44). More than 30 per cent of the students for each of the major destinations said that they intended to work in that country after graduation. However, Canada’s migration pathways appeared to be an attraction for international students – 30 per cent of those who chose Canada as first-choice said that they intended to apply for permanent residency. The next highest was those who chose New Zealand (23), followed by Australia (19). Simon Emmett, CEO of IDP Connect, said that the results highlighted the increasingly competitive nature of the global sector and the importance of return on investment for students. “The results of this comprehensive research are clear. For competing destinations to remain competitive, they must deliver a positive experience and positive outcomes for students, whilst improving the ways in which they communicate this with future students,” he said. Canada ranked first for students on several factors in the IDP report. “Tomorrow’s international students are motivated by the return on investment of their education, the countries in which institutions, governments and, most importantly, employers can work together to develop the right offer to students and best practice in post-study employment, will benefit the most from the next generation of skilled and highly educated students, in turn fulfilling their labour market needs and the needs of their economies.” Article Credit Matthew Knott-News Editor Study Travel Network

The government of Canada has announced a new scholarship for international and domestic students to remember the victims of the Ukraine International Airlines Flight PS752 crash. Two years since the downing of the flight from Iran to Ukraine, which led to the deaths of 176 people including a number of international students enrolled in Canada, the government said it was proceeding with a scholarship scheme based on consultations with family members of the victims. The programme is expected to disburse 176 scholarships averaging CAN$25,000 for each beneficiary, which the government said with “strengthen the bonds between people through international academic exchanges”. The scholarship will be open to both international and Canadian students and the first call for applications is expected to launch in the fall of 2023. Scholarships will be available to international and domestic students. The Canadian government is also developing a pathway to permanent residency for certain family members of the victims and is launching a public consultation on a remembrance memorial. In coming weeks, the government will also consult on a similar scholarship to honour those lost in the Ethiopian Airlines Flight ET302 air disaster, which killed 157 people when it crashed in 2019. Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs, said, “Too many Canadians’ lives were forever changed by the loss of a loved one in an air disaster. Most recently, Canadians were amongst the victims of the downing of Ukraine International Airlines Flight 752 and the Ethiopian Airlines Flight 302 crash. We will continue to stand by the families of victims, and through the scholarship programme and commemoration tribute, we will continue to remember and honour their legacies.” Click here to read the Canadian government statement about the memorial scholarships. By Matthew Knott News Editor-Study Travel Network

Welcome to 2022 Everyone!😊 Are you dreaming of making 2022 your year to study abroad in Canada? Let us help you make your dreams become reality!!! A couple of short tips from all of us at Independent Student Support Agents-Canada (ISSA-Canada) on the current climate of international study in Canada right now and moving forward into 2022. Be advised that all Canadian Secondary and Post Secondary Institutions are actively accepting student applications for September 2022 entry and even January 2023 entry in most cases. They have been accepting student for over 2 months now! It is very important that if you wish to make your 2022 dreams of studying abroad possible, that your recognize the need for prompt applications and to do so as soon as possible! Ensure that your passports are up to date, you are getting required vaccinations in advance and keeping them up with required boosters. Ensure that you are gathering all the necessary educational documents together for us to help you apply. If you have any questions in terms of what you need to apply to Canadian institutions please don't hesitate to ask. Here at ISSA-Canada we are more than happy to help with free advice😊 Please also be aware that Immigration and Refugee Canada is continuing to experience backlogs in application processing. Typical application times for Study Permits and Visa's are still upwards 3-4 months to process. It is best not to delay your applications to Canadian educational institutions as your Letter of Acceptance (LOA) is one of your first required documents the IRC will require. If you have any questions about how to obtain a Study Permit or a Visa please let us help by connecting you with one of our certified Immigration and Refugee Canada Consultants at Canada Immigration and Beyond. They would be happy to help. Do you need accommodation for your Canadian study term? Let us help you by screening an excellent host family to welcome you into their family. Your host family are your very first friends here in Canada. Having a host family as your primary resource is an excellent way of totally immersing in Canadian language and culture😊 Independent Student Support Agents-Canada has access to over 600 screened and certified homestays across Canada. Let us be your homestay provider for your Canadian experience! The world is slowly reopening...Travel restrictions are getting more flexible so long as you are meeting your home countries and Canada's travel requirements. All secondary and post secondary intuitions are looking forward to continuing to welcome you into their in person programs for 2022! We look forward to seeing you soon!!! To begin your application to study abroad in Canada start here... http://www.applyboard.com/partners/Independent_Student_Support_Agents-Canada A advisor from Independent Student Support Agents-Canada (ISSA-Canada) will contact you right away once you application is received!

NOTE TO USE THE APPLYBOARD PLATFORM AND GET ASSISTANCE FROM INDEPENDANT STUDENT SUPPORT AGENTS-CANADA SIMPLY GO TO ... http://www.applyboard.com/partners/Independent_Student_Support_Agents-Canada and begin your application. ApplyBoard is excited to announce new Canadian scholarships offered by Braemar College, Niagara College at Toronto School of Management (TSoM), and Trebas Institute available for international students for the 2021 and 2022/2023 academic year. Below you will find details about each of the exclusive scholarships, including scholarship amounts and eligibility requirements. Braemar College Founded in 1995, Braemar College is a private secondary school located in the heart of Toronto, Ontario. Braemar offers grades 9 to 12, the college is also a postsecondary pathway provider that prepares students from around the world to enter Canada’s top colleges and universities. With over forty countries represented, Braemar offers summer, pathway, and Top Canadian University Pathway (TCUP) programs, depending on student needs and interest. Eligibility Requirements Braemar College is offering a Renaissance scholarship for all intakes in the 2022/23 academic year. This scholarship is available for students, excluding applicants from China. Students will automatically receive the Renaissance scholarship in the amount shown below based on geographical location: Asia: C$1,600 Americas/Europe: C$4,200 All other geographical locations: C$3,200 Please note that the full scholarship amount will be available to students enrolled in the September 2021 intake. Partial scholarships are available for 2022-23 intakes past September. For more information about scholarships from Braemar College, please check out the institution’s website as well as our Braemar College – Scholarships article. Niagara College at Toronto School of Management (TSoM) Through the Niagara College and Toronto School of Management partnership, Niagara College at Toronto School of Management (TSoM) delivers Niagara College programs and services at the Toronto campus. With campuses located in one of Canada’s largest cities, students will benefit from small class sizes, personalized instruction, career support, and incredible employment opportunities. Students that study at the Toronto campus will receive a Niagara College credential upon graduation. Niagara College at Toronto School of Management (TSoM) is offering a variety of entrance scholarships for international students which can be found below. African Continent Scholarship International students who are a resident of any nation in Africa and have been admitted to a Niagara College – Toronto academic program are eligible for this C$2,000 scholarship. Caribbean Scholarship International students who are a resident of any of the Caribbean countries and have been admitted to a Niagara College – Toronto academic program are eligible for this C$2,000 scholarship. Latin America & Brazil Scholarship International students who are a resident of Latin America or Brazil and have been admitted to a Niagara College – Toronto academic program are eligible for this C$2,000 scholarship. South East Asia (SEA 1) Scholarship International students who are a resident of Brunei, Burma (Myanmar), Cambodia, Timor-Leste, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand and have been admitted to a Niagara College – Toronto academic program are eligible for this C$2,000 scholarship. South East Asia (SEA 2) Scholarship International students who are residents of the Philippines, Vietnam, Korea, and Japan and have been admitted to a Niagara College – Toronto academic program are eligible for this C$1,000–C$2,000 scholarship. Please note: For the scholarships above, a scholarship of C$1,000 to be awarded in the first semester. Eligible applicants may qualify for an additional C$1,000 in the second semester; conditions apply. It cannot be transferred or combined with any other entrance scholarship. GUS CANADA Special GUS CANADA Special is a C$1,000 limited promotion offered to international students who are a resident of Latin America, Brazil, and Turkey and is enrolled into a Niagara College – Toronto undergraduate diploma program in 2022. This scholarship is only applicable to students that have received this offer. For more information about these scholarships and more, please check out our Niagara College – Scholarships article. Trebas Institute Located in Montreal, Quebec, Trebas Institute offers students programs and skills in Audio, Film and Television, Business and Technology, and Music, Event and Entertainment Management. Trebas offers small class sizes and practical lessons which allow students a personalized and supportive experience. With a campus located in downtown Montreal, students are able to access vibrant culture and extensive business links while studying. Trebas Institute offers several scholarships for international students which can be found below. Nurturing Talent Scholarship International students who are studying in a 2021, 2022, or January 2023 intake and are enrolled in one of the following French or English programs are eligible for a C$4,000 tuition credit: College Diploma – Film and Television Production College Diploma – Sound Design College Diploma – Music Business Administration International Tech Grant Students from the Caribbean, North America, Central America, South America, French Speaking Countries, Overseas France, and SouthEast Asia are eligible for a C$10,000 tuition credit (C$5,000 per study year). Students who apply at least 30 calendar days prior to the start of the term, study in a 2021, 2022, or January 2023 intake, and are enrolled in one of the following programs offered in French or English are eligible: College Diploma – Big Data Analytics and Business Intelligence College Diploma – Computer Security Analyst Diversity Grant International students who study in a 2021, 2022, or January 2023 intake are eligible for a C$4,000 or C$7,200 tuition grant for the following programs offered in French or English: College Diploma – Audio and Video Post-Production College Diploma – E-Commerce and Online Business Management College Diploma – Big Data Analytics and Business Intelligence College Diploma – Computer Security Analyst Canadian Diversity Grant A C$1,500 grant is available for students who have a valid study permit and have landed in Canada for a 2021, 2022, or January 2023 intake in one of the following programs offered in French or English: College Diploma – Audio and Video Post-Production College Diploma – E-Commerce and Online Business Management College Diploma – Big Data Analytics and Business Intelligence College Diploma – Computer Security Analyst L'Heritage Grant A C$10,000 tuition credit (C$5,000 per study year) is available for new students from French Speaking Countries, and Overseas France who are studying in a 2021, 2022, or January 2023 intake for the following English or French programs: College Diploma – Audio and Video Post-Production College Diploma – E-Commerce and Online Business Management The Americas Grant A C$10,000 tuition credit (C$5,000 per study year) is available for new students from the Caribbean, North America, Central America, and South America who are studying in a 2021, 2022, or January 2023 intake for the following English or French programs: College Diploma – Audio and Video Post-Production College Diploma – E-Commerce and Online Business Management The SEA Regional Grant A C$10,000 tuition credit (C$5,000 per study year) is available for new students from Korea, Brunei, Burma (Myanmar), Cambodia, Timor-Leste, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam who are studying in a 2021, 2022, or January 2023 intake for the following English or French programs: College Diploma – Audio and Video Post-Production College Diploma – E-Commerce and Online Business Management For more information about scholarships from Trebas Institute, please check out the institution’s website as well as our Trebas Institute – Scholarships article.