Webinar—Exploring the Factors Behind Study Permit Refusals: Lessons from Recent Case Law
In 2025, Canada’s international student program experienced a major shift toward stricter enforcement, more rigorous measures, and reduced intake. The federal government tightened immigration to ease pressure on housing, healthcare, and public services and to align with the goal of reducing the temporary resident population to less than 5% of the total population by 2027. Data from the first half of 2025 shows that the study permit approval rate dropped significantly, from 52% in 2024 to 33% by April 2025, with college-level approvals plummeting to roughly 28%.
This session aims to analyze the main reasons for study permit refusals, drawing on insights from recent case laws on study permit refusals in 2025. Developing a deeper understanding of the factors that influence study permit decisions can help us support prospective students in preparing strong applications and increase approval rates. Upon conclusion of this session, attendees will have a clear understanding of the common reasons for study permit refusals in 2025 and actionable recommendations to help students prepare strong applications, mitigate the risk of refusals, and address refusals effectively.
Please note this webinar will not be recorded and the use of AI Notetakers is strictly prohibited. BCCIE reserves the right to remove AI Notetakers during this session. If you need to bring one for language or other assistive purposes, please email events@bccie.bc.ca
Learning Outcomes:
- Understand the main factors that influence the outcome of study permit applications.
- Develop strategies to support students with their initial study permit applications.
- Develop strong support systems to improve student recruitment and enrollment.
Speakers:
- Zahid Sheikh, International Student Advisor, Thompson Rivers University, RCIC
- Jitender Sharma, International Student Advisor, Immigration Specialist, Simon Fraser University, RCIC