Influence of COVID-19 on university admissions in Canada

Canada is a host to over 180000 international students in a year. Through the years the number of international students deciding to study in Canada is increasing. Students have various choices of over 96 Universities and 175 community colleges offering a broad range of courses. The country is an international leader in computers, Java, networking and wireless communication. It has also made a prominent place in a varied number of areas such as aerospace, engineering, biotechnology, telecommunications, transportation, environmental studies and much more. Few of the world’s most recognized companies such as BlackBerry, IMAX, Corel, Cineplex Cinema, BATA, McCain food and many more have originated from Canada. The country provides a peaceful, diverse and safe environment to pupils for learning as well as working.
These are unprecedented and tough times for all of us, however, it is important that we all remember that this situation is temporary and we all need to stay positive of its outcome. Don’t let your hope sink in and expect things to go back to normal in the near future. At such a time, it is natural to have a ton of doubts in your minds to the thousand questions that are bothering you as well.
This article, looks to answer some of the doubts you have regarding your study in Canada due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Summer Courses
Those courses in Canada that are starting in summer, that is the May’20 intake has two sets of students. One comprises of those who have received their visa approval and the other who are awaiting a response. It should be noted, that it is noteworthy that the Canadian government has awarded the highest priority to the above-mentioned issue. Edwise, is in constant touch with the university, which allows us to inform you of the current happenings of the situation in Canada. The IRCC has recently announced that those students who are planning to study in Canada for the May/June intake, can begin attending online courses from their home country. Those students, who have a study permit for the May/June intake but cannot travel due to the travel restrictions imposed can commence their classes from outside Canada and complete 50% of their course from their home country, without having a negative impact on their visa status.

International Students
International students should also note that even though they will have to attend online classes for the time being, they will still remain eligible for the Canadian Post Graduation Work Permit. The Post-Graduation Work Permit ensures that those students who have completed programs that are more than 8 months in duration can stay and work in Canada for up to 3 years. This also comes in handy when making an application for permanent residency.

Online Classes
Online classes are heavily advocated by universities and colleges in Canada, the major advantage students receive from attending these courses is that they can begin their classes on time, and that to from the comfort of their homes. Online classes will also have no effect on the Post Study Work right of students. Once things go back to normal, they can also attend the next semester in Canada itself and still be eligible for the Post Study Work Right.

Deferring Courses
Students also have at their disposal the option of deferring their courses to September. This option is best for those, who don’t wish to travel and are reluctant to undertake classes online. A majority of universities and colleges in Canada are offering this option.

Withdrawing Application
If in the extreme case you decide to withdraw your application and ask for a refund, it is important to note that you are refuting all the hard work you made into making that application. In most cases, people are of the opinion that considering the present situation, undertaking online classes is the best solution. It is a win-win situation because students save the living and travel expenses of studying in Canada, whilst at the same time retain their Post Study Work.

May Intake Students
Students who are looking to study in Canada for the May intake should contact the college to understand the start date. Those who will travel by air will have to undergo the necessary medical testing before and after boarding the plane. After which, students are also required to self-isolate themselves for a period of 14 days. However, students who don’t have a place to self-isolate will not be permitted to enter Canada.

September Intake Students
Students looking to study in Canada for the September intake are recommended to remain optimistic and remember that the situation is temporary and continue with their plans.

Points to Consider
Some universities and colleges in Canada are accepting applications without the IELTS scorecard and final year marksheet. Duolingo is a platform that is increasingly being used by universities to conduct English proficiency tests. Staff working at universities are also working from home and assessing applications and issuing offer letters. Payment delays are also accepted and thus students should consider all these points before deciding whether or not to study in Canada.

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