By Shruti Menon Seeboo
As part of the upcoming Annual Study Fair hosted by Campus Abroad Mauritius on November 23 and 24, students from Mauritius will have the chance to explore study opportunities in Canada.
Canada, with its rich cultural diversity, vibrant academic communities, and robust job market, has become one of the top destinations for international students, including those from Mauritius. The High Commission of Canada has shared valuable insights on why Canadian education is an ideal choice for students from Mauritius, and how the Canadian government supports international students, ensuring a high-quality, enriching study experience.
A welcoming country for international students
Canada is a country known for its welcoming attitude towards international students. It has two official languages—English and French—making it a unique and attractive destination for students who want to experience both languages and cultures. The country’s commitment to diversity is one of its defining features, and international students play a crucial role in enriching Canada’s social, cultural, and economic landscape. For Mauritian students, Canada offers a global stage where they can thrive academically, socially, and professionally.
The High Commission of Canada emphasised that while there are some caps on international student permit applications, Canada is still open to genuine students. The government ensures that students have access to the resources they need for a fulfilling study experience. This includes access to some of the world’s most renowned universities and colleges, alongside a multicultural environment that encourages cross-cultural interactions.
Canada’s reputation as a global education hub is well-deserved. The country’s universities and colleges are recognised internationally, offering high-quality education that is in demand worldwide. Furthermore, tuition fees in Canada are among the lowest in industrialised countries, making it an affordable choice for Mauritian students looking for value in higher education.
Investing in your future: The Canadian advantage
The High Commission pointed out that a Canadian education is not just about obtaining a degree. It’s about investing in one’s future. Canadian universities offer a wide range of programs and degrees, many of which open doors to career opportunities in various fields, including business, engineering, healthcare, technology, and the arts. Moreover, Canadian qualifications are globally recognised, meaning that graduates are highly sought after by employers around the world.
Canadian education also offers vibrant research opportunities. The country is known for its dynamic research community, with institutions at the forefront of innovation and scientific discovery. For Mauritian students, the chance to participate in groundbreaking research projects and engage with top-tier academics and professionals is an invaluable experience that can shape their careers for years to come.
Additionally, students studying in Canada enjoy all the freedoms and protections afforded to Canadian citizens, including respect for human rights, equality, and access to a stable and peaceful society. This is an attractive aspect for students from Mauritius, as it ensures a safe and supportive environment for academic and personal growth.
Opportunities for French-speaking students
Canada’s commitment to bilingualism is also an advantage for Mauritian students. French-speaking students, in particular, can benefit from programs offered in both English and French. The High Commission highlighted the recent launch of the Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot (FMCSP), which aims to retain French-speaking international students in communities outside of Quebec. Through this initiative, students will have access to settlement services and a clear pathway to permanent residence after completing their studies. Mauritius, as an eligible country for this program, provides a great opportunity for French-speaking Mauritian students to benefit from this pilot and integrate into Canadian communities.
The FMCSP is designed to create a welcoming environment for international students and their families. The pilot program provides not only educational opportunities but also offers a route for students to transition into Canadian life permanently, through access to settlement services and a streamlined process for obtaining permanent residence after graduation.
Pathways to permanent residency and employment
One of the most compelling reasons for Mauritian students to choose Canada is the potential for post-graduation work opportunities and pathways to permanent residency. The High Commission explained that the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a significant advantage for international students. Upon graduation, students can apply for a work permit, allowing them to gain valuable Canadian work experience.
The length of the PGWP depends on the length of the study program. For example, students who graduate from a master’s degree program are eligible for a three-year PGWP, regardless of the program’s length. The PGWP allows graduates to work in Canada and gain hands-on experience that can enhance their employability. This work experience can also be used as a stepping stone to apply for permanent residency.
Research has shown that international students who work during their studies or after graduation have a higher chance of becoming permanent residents in Canada. Studies conducted by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) have found that more than 60% of international students who worked during their studies or after graduation transitioned to permanent residency within 10 years. This provides an attractive long-term incentive for Mauritian students who want to settle in Canada after their studies.
Spouses and families can benefit too
Another important factor for Mauritian students considering studying in Canada is the opportunity for their spouses to join them during their studies. The High Commission stated that spouses of graduate students (those pursuing master’s or doctoral degrees) are eligible for open work permits. This allows spouses to work in Canada while supporting their partner’s studies. Additionally, the new Francophone Minority Communities Student Pilot also extends the benefits of work permits to spouses of students, enhancing the overall experience for international students and their families.
The ability for students’ families to accompany them to Canada and for spouses to work is a significant benefit. It provides families with the chance to settle into Canadian life together, making the transition smoother for everyone involved. The option for spouses to work also helps alleviate financial pressures on students, as it provides additional income while the student focuses on their academic work.
How Canada supports its international students
Canada not only offers a high-quality education but also ensures that international students are well-supported throughout their time in the country. From academic resources to social integration programs, students are provided with the tools they need to succeed. The government of Canada, as well as Canadian universities, offer a wide range of services designed to help international students integrate into their new environment and feel at home. These services include academic support, language assistance, social events, and career counselling, which are all integral in helping students thrive.
Moreover, students can work limited hours while studying, which allows them to gain valuable workplace experience and develop a network of contacts. This work experience can significantly improve a student’s chances of securing a job after graduation and transitioning into permanent residency. Additionally, many students find that their part-time work helps them offset some of the costs of living in Canada, making it more affordable to study and live in the country.
Canada: A bright future for Mauritian students
As Mauritian students look to the future and consider their study options, Canada offers a multitude of opportunities that combine world-class education, global career prospects, and the possibility of permanent residency. Whether it’s the chance to study in a bilingual environment, engage in groundbreaking research, or gain Canadian work experience that leads to permanent residency, Canada remains a top choice for students from Mauritius.
With the support of initiatives like the FMCSP, the Post-Graduation Work Permit, and open work permits for spouses, Canada continues to demonstrate its commitment to attracting and retaining international talent. For Mauritian students looking to explore new horizons, Canada is more than just an educational destination—it’s a land of endless possibilities, a place where dreams can become reality, and where students can build a successful future for themselves and their families.
