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    As tensions rise, Canadian universities caution Indian students about delayed intakes, disrupted sessions

    Synopsis

    Universities are contemplating waiting for an additional week before making admission decisions for either the spring or fall of 2024. Despite lower turnout at the fair, Canadian universities emphasize that political issues should not deter students from pursuing their academic aspirations in the long term.

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    Representatives from Canadian universities have raised concerns about potential visa delays for Indian students amid ongoing political tensions between the two nations. These delays could disrupt the upcoming spring academic session, scheduled to commence in January.

    In light of the uncertainty surrounding visa processing times, these representatives, currently attending an education fair in Hyderabad, have advised Indian students interested in pursuing higher education in Canada to consider planning their academic session for the fall/autumn term, starting in August 2024.

    Expressing their apprehension, one representative told TOI, "With just three months left for students to travel for the spring batch, there is apprehension that visa processing times may pose challenges."

    Many universities are contemplating waiting for an additional week to assess the situation before making decisions regarding admission letters for either the spring or fall of 2024. They are actively counseling students not to rush their plans to travel to Canada, emphasizing potential delays in securing study permits.

    An Ontario university representative highlighted their intention to wait another week before finalizing admission plans. Depending on the evolving situation, they will determine whether to issue admission letters for January, May, or fall 2024. Their goal is to ensure that students do not need to defer admissions due to visa-related issues.
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    Some participants at the education fair have observed a lower turnout compared to previous years, which they interpret as a possible consequence of the ongoing bilateral tensions. Nonetheless, they underscore that Canada remains an excellent destination for higher education, and they encourage students to remember that political issues should not deter them from pursuing their academic aspirations in the long term.

    Tensions between India and Canada have escalated as the week has gone by- worrying parents and families of Indian nationals in Canada as much as the country’s lawmakers. This caution from Canadian universities aims to keep Indian students informed and prepared during these uncertain times, ensuring that their educational journey remains as smooth as possible.

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