As part of our Data Dive series, we bring forward data-driven patterns and perspectives on international student recruitment. This article explores Nepali student visa trends to Canada, offering a detailed analysis of approval rates and mobility patterns from 2017 to 2023. We examine why Canada has emerged as a top destination for Nepali students and how evolving policies and educational opportunities have shaped this trend.
Why Nepal?
Nepal is a small country with a population of less than 31 million but with its burgeoning youth population and increasing demand for quality international education, it sees a significant number of students seeking opportunities abroad. Also, Canada’s multicultural society, reputable institutions, and favourable post-study work opportunities make it a preferred destination for Nepali students. Furthermore, Canada’s immigration policies and part-time work options are important factors that attract Nepali students.
Nepalese Student Mobility Trends
The mobility of Nepali students is influenced by global educational trends, economic factors, and policy changes in host countries. Over the years, there has been a noticeable increase in the number of Nepali students preferring Canada due to its relatively straightforward visa process and high standard of education. There has been a growing recognition among Nepali families and education agents of the long-term benefits of studying in Canada, such as permanent residency opportunities and a high quality of life.
Challenges
Historically, Australia held sway as the preferred destination for Nepali students. Yet, recent headwinds in visa application processes have redirected the growth trajectory firmly towards Canada. In fact, Signals from the Nepali government suggest a possible inclination to curb studies abroad amidst domestic institutions’ struggles to retain students. Furthermore, there’s been a surge in foreign money transfer tax, adding another layer of complexity for prospective students. https://monitor.icef.com/2023/07/government-of-nepal-increases-taxes-for-nepali-students-studying-abroad/
Canada and Nepal
The period between 2017 and 2023 marked a meteoric rise in student visa approvals from Nepal, soaring from 254 to an impressive 15,799. Also, equally remarkable is the ascension of the visa approval rate, climbing from a modest 24% to a robust 62% in 2023, in line with Canada’s global visa approval rate.
Top Institutions by Visa Approvals for 2023
(Institutions, Visa approvals and visa approval rate)
- Niagara College at TSM: 1,502 visa approvals (68% approval rate)
- Seneca College: 1,254 visa approvals (69% approval rate)
- Fanshawe College: 1,173 visa approvals (58% approval rate)
- Lambton College: 1,121 visa approvals (80% approval rate)
- Centennial College: 975 visa approvals (59% approval rate)
- University Canada West: 795 visa approvals (69% approval rate)
- Fanshawe at ILAC: 697 visa approvals (58% approval rate)
- Fleming at Trebas: 697 visa approvals (65% approval rate)
- Georgian College: 608 visa approvals (71% approval rate)
- Cambrian College: 461 visa approvals (58% approval rate)
Observations:
- The top 10 institutions account for 59% of total visa approvals in 2023
- Niagara at TSM dominates the visa approvals for 2023 at an above-average approval rate of 68%
- Seneca has 1254 visa approvals with a stellar 69% approval rate.
- Lambton College not only maintains a high volume of approvals but also the highest approval rate among the top institutions.
- Fanshawe and Fanshawe at ILAC collectively hold a significant portion of the approvals (collectively being #1 in terms of institutions), indicating a prominent presence among Nepali students in Canada.
- Georgian and Georgian at ILAC also stand out, along with a high approval rate, suggesting a favourable reception from Nepali students.
- The lower approval rate of Toronto Film School might suggest a niche appeal or a more rigorous visa approval process (being a private institution).
- It’s evident that colleges, in general, have a strong draw for Nepali students.
Top Institutions by Visa Approvals Rate for 2023 (for institutions with more than 100 approvals)
(Institutions, Visa approvals and visa approval rate)
Based on the visual provided, here is the list of the Top 10 Institutions by Visa Approval Rate for 2023:
- Lambton College: 1,121 visa approvals (80% approval rate)
- Georgian at ILAC: 305 visa approvals (76% approval rate)
- Sheridan : 224 visa approvals (75% approval rate)
- Algoma University: 412 visa approvals (74% approval rate)
- Sault at Trios: 199 visa approvals (72% approval rate)
- Georgian College: 608 visa approvals (71% approval rate)
- University Canada West: 795 visa approvals (69% approval rate)
- Seneca College: 1,254 visa approvals (69% approval rate)
- Durham College: 298 visa approvals (68% approval rate)
- Niagara at TSM: 1,502 visa approvals (68% approval rate)
Observations:
- Lambton College leads with the highest approval rate at 80%, which is significantly above the average.
- Private Institutions including PPPs have significant presence in the top institutions by visa approval. 4 out of 10 institutions are either private institutions or PPPs.
- The presence of institutions like Seneca College and Niagara at TSM is notable, with both high numbers of approvals and solid approval rates.
Impact on recruitment
In the pursuit of diversification, some Canadian institutions are turning to Nepal, a burgeoning market with its unique educational landscape. However, distinguishing Nepal from the Indian market is critical; as an example, the former exhibits a distinct preference for two-year undergraduate programs over one-year graduate offerings.
As Canadian institutions navigate the diversification of their international student populations, Nepal stands out as a market rich with opportunity. Also, the country’s strong visa approval rates and the presence of a Canadian educational ecosystem in the vicinity – i.e presence in India, trade offices’ involvement and most agents being focused on Canada- bodes well for Canada. Should this trend hold steady, Nepal is poised to become a cornerstone market, particularly relevant for colleges and universities offering programs aligned with Nepali students’ preferences
