Indian Envoy Advises Caution on Studying in Canada Amid Rising Challenges for Students

Indian students aspiring to study in Canada may want to reconsider, as reports indicate that many are facing serious challenges, including enrollment in substandard colleges and minimal job prospects, according to Sanjay Verma, India’s former high commissioner to Canada. Verma highlighted that some students, facing bleak circumstances, are dealing with mental health issues, with cases of depression and suicides on the rise. In an interview, Verma emphasized, “At one point, at least two bodies of students were being sent to India per week in body bags.”

Reflecting on his tenure, Verma shared that the issue is partly rooted in students being misled into enrolling in low-quality institutions that offer few classes and limited academic development. Often housed in overcrowded dormitories, students face inadequate facilities while paying four times the tuition fees that Canadian students pay, with their families back home making significant financial sacrifices to support their education.

Unscrupulous agents play a major role in leading students to these lesser-known institutions, Verma noted, which frequently offer only one class per week. This lack of comprehensive instruction leaves students ill-prepared for employment, with many ending up in low-skilled jobs such as driving cabs or working in shops. The situation is particularly concerning given the financial strain on families, who often take loans or sell property to finance their children’s overseas education.

Canada and the United States remain popular destinations for Indian students, with approximately 427,000 Indian students currently studying in Canada. Despite some attending top universities, a majority enroll in lesser-known institutions, creating potential future uncertainties. The Canadian government has recently introduced measures to cap temporary resident arrivals, impacting international students’ prospects further.

The diplomat urged parents to thoroughly research prospective colleges and programs, underscoring the need for realistic expectations about life in Canada and employment opportunities upon graduation. He also highlighted ongoing efforts to make student testimonials available on platforms like YouTube, providing firsthand insights into the challenges Indian students are experiencing abroad.