In recent months, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada has initiated reforms within the International Student Program to safeguard its integrity and shield students from fraud and financial vulnerability. Minister Marc Miller announced the cessation of the temporary policy permitting students to work over 20 hours per week off-campus, effective April 30, 2024. Instead, a revised policy allowing up to 24 hours per week will be implemented in the fall, emphasizing that students primarily come to Canada to study.
The decision to permit students to work up to 24 hours weekly aims to strike a balance, ensuring they focus on academics while having the option to work when necessary. During scheduled academic breaks, students can work unlimited hours. The change reflects considerations of student needs, international policies, and research indicating academic performance decline with increased work hours. These adjustments seek to provide students with work options without compromising their educational outcomes.
Simultaneously, efforts are underway to enhance the Recognized Institutions Framework, aiming to commend post-secondary institutions maintaining high standards in selecting, supporting, and retaining international students. The commitment extends to safeguarding students from financial insecurity and preserving the International Student Program’s integrity. Minister Miller emphasized the program’s role in helping students gain work experience and offset expenses, while prioritizing academic pursuits over work commitments.
Recent studies in the US and Canada reveal a decline in academic performance for students working beyond 28 hours per week, underscoring the need for balanced work-study arrangements. Many countries with international student populations impose limits on work hours during study periods. Canada’s adjustments align with international standards while emphasizing academic focus. Additionally, recent measures, such as raising the cost-of-living threshold and implementing a new letter of acceptance verification process, aim to ensure students’ financial preparedness and program integrity.
Source: IRCC News