New IELTS/CLB conditions for PGWP application in Canada:  Why do students feel jittery about obtaining the required IELTS band?

“If a student’s study permit extends beyond the completion of their course, they have 180 days after graduation to apply for a PGWP. If your study permit expires, you have 90 days to apply for a PGWP and restore your status as a student,” said expert Gurpreet Singh. “When applying for a study permit, the academic IELTS test was required. In the past, Canada even admitted students who scored less than 6 band in any IELTS module but had an overall score of 6.”

After admission, students do not focus on improving their English further, assuming a work permit is guaranteed after studying in Canada. But now, they are anxious that they will have to pass an exam.

Some students are worried because their academic history is not up to par, and their courses are not on Canada’s required courses list. Thus, even if they clear the IELTS, they may not get a PGWP.

Even those who secured high IELTS scores when applying for admission to Canadian colleges or universities are now under pressure, as Canada will consider top scorers in the general IELTS exam, along with the listed courses.

How are students dealing with the new IELTS requirements?

Several colleges have responded to the new requirement by offering IELTS preparation courses on campus, only adding to their financial burden. Besides tuition fees, accommodation costs, and living expenses, students are now investing in additional test preparation classes. Some students are making multiple attempts to clear the exam, thus straining their financial condition and valuable time that could have, otherwise, been spent on preparing for their careers or searching for employment.

An IELTS attempt can be expensive, with test fees ranging from $200 ( around Rs 1,2178) to $300 (around Rs 18,267). For many international students, this cost is a significant financial burden, especially if they attempt the test several times. Besides, the added cost of test preparation courses and practice materials only compound the financial burden. This situation leaves several students feeling financially drained after years of studying abroad.

What are the emotional and mental health impacting the system has on students?

“The pressure to meet the new IELTS requirement can take a toll on students and their parents’ mental health. They feel anxious, frustrated and stressed as they face the challenge of obtaining a PGWP. The uncertainty of whether they will be able to meet the requirement or secure a PGWP makes them jittery about their future in Canada,” said expert Tirath Singh, adding students are reaching out to them seeking guidance.

Is the new rule unfair to the students?

There are mixed responses to the new requirement. Critics term it “redundant and unfair” to students considering they are being educated in an English-speaking environment. The expectation that all students, regardless of their performance during studies, must take the exam to qualify for the PGWP is an unnecessary obstacle. Many feel their academic performance should serve as proof of their language skills, and thus, the additional requirement only adds an unfair burden to their post-graduation plans. However, some argue that since students have already cleared the IELTS for their admission and studied in an English environment for 2-3 years, they should not be afraid of taking the exam.

What should students do to cope with the added pressure?

“Those studying in Canada for the past 2-3 years never anticipated this, but students who have just enrolled must take the new rules seriously from day one. They should work to improve their English skills and consider taking additional courses to add value to their studies. Students are encouraged to start preparing for the IELTS exam early to avoid last-minute stress. They should consider enrolling in preparation courses to refine their skills and familiarise themselves with the test format. Taking mock exams can also help them understand their strengths and weaknesses. Additionally, seeking support from peers or mentors who have already gone through the process can provide valuable insights,” said Tirath Singh.

Experts advise students to be positive and follow the new rules if they are serious about staying in Canada, rather than clinging to old expectations.