British Columbia (B.C.) has already in completion of requiring a new provincial attestation letter system to comply with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) regulations for international student applications. With new regulations from IRCC, obtaining attestation letter for everyone before applying for a study permit has become necessary.
Implementation of Provincial Attestation Letter System in British Columbia
Effective March 4, 2024, B.C. will issue provincial attestation letters to eligible post-secondary institutions that will require all international students except from the exemption list to require an attestation letter.
This is mainly done in the need for swift action to mitigate negative impacts on institutions and international students.
Purpose and Process of Attestation Letters
These letters serve as verification for international applicants, confirming their inclusion within federal application limits. Institutions will request these letters from the Province for their applicants to submit along with their study permit applications.
Allocation Overview
In 2024, British Columbia has allowed for 83,000 undergraduate students to apply for study permits. This has been decreased when compare with 97,000 applications received in 2023. Based on past approval rates and new allocation system, the government expects around 50,000 permits to be approved in 2024, compared to about 60,000 that were approved in 2023.
Regarding the distribution of provincial attestation letters, 53% will go to public post-secondary institutions, while 47% will go to private institutions. This distribution aims to support public institutions in maintaining their international student programs while managing growth.
British Columbia (B.C.) aims to support stable international enrollment in public institutions and make it more engagiging while managing excessive growth in private ones.
Impact on Private Institutions
Private institutions will have the maximum impact of reduced allocation more strongly, with a 27% decrease in study permit applications compared to 2023. These measures are mainly done to improve the quality and sustainability of international student programs.
Exemptions from Requirement
Certain categories of international students, like those in primary and secondary schools or pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees, do not need to obtain attestation letters as outlined by the Province.
Ongoing Support for International Students
B.C. has been actively in support of assisting international students and commits to aligning programs with job market demands while strengthening student protections.
Further steps are in place to enhance educational quality and enhance B.C.’s reputation as a preferred destination for international students.
Alberta Attestation Letter
Alberta has also announced that they will be processing an attestation letter by the end of march from 31st, march, 2024. The have not released any specific date yet but they have followed by for attestation letter before any other province.
In Conclusion
B.C.’s adhering to federal rules underscores its dedication to preserving the excellence and standards of international student programs.
The introduction of attestation letters signifies collaborative efforts to meet the needs of institutions and international students
