Canada student visa rules tighten amid high rejections
Canada has drastically tightened its student visa regulations, resulting in a sharp rise in rejections for Indian applicants. According to recent immigration data, nearly three out of every four applications from India were rejected in August 2025, marking one of the highest refusal rates in years.
The rejection rate surged to 74%, compared to around 32% during the same period in 2024. The number of Indian applications also dropped significantly—from over 20,900 in 2023 to just 4,515 in 2025. In contrast, the overall global student visa rejection rate stood at about 40%, while applications from China saw only 24% refusals.
Officials attribute this spike to Canada’s crackdown on fraudulent student visa submissions, many of which involved fake college acceptance letters and misrepresented financial documents. The government has enhanced verification measures and introduced Bill C-12, granting immigration officers broader powers to cancel or review groups of temporary visas linked to suspected fraud.
Several Canadian universities, including the University of Waterloo, have already reported a notable decline in Indian student enrolments. Experts say the tougher rules aim to restore credibility in the system but could also impact Canada’s reputation as a leading study destination for Indian students.
Applicants are now being urged to submit genuine admission offers, proof of funds, and clear study plans to avoid rejection. With longer processing times and tighter checks, education consultants recommend that students apply early and stay updated on the latest Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) guidelines.