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India.com
3 hours ago
- Business
- India.com
Canada Wins The Race: Why Indian Students Are Turning Away From The US In 2025
New Delhi: India's students are recalibrating their global education plans. Rising costs, tougher visa rules and political uncertainties in the United States are prompting a growing number of families to look north. Long seen as a welcoming alternative, Canada is now emerging as the preferred destination for Indian students. The trend is reflected in official figures. By the end of 2024, Canada hosted 427,000 Indian students, compared with 337,630 in the United States, according to the Ministry of External Affairs. A 2025 survey by ApplyBoard shows that 94% of Indian study-abroad aspirants rank Canada as their top choice. Affordability, safety and immigration-friendly policies are cited as decisive factors. At institutions such as the University of British Columbia, international student enrolments have risen by 27%, reflecting the turbulence south of the border. Huron University in Ontario, for example, sees the shift as both opportunity and responsibility. A Roller Coaster In Student Mobility Dr. Barry Craig, president and vice-chancellor of Huron University, calls the past five years 'nothing short of turbulent'. 'We began with COVID, which created so many obstacles to student mobility, almost a complete halt. As we emerged, momentum returned, but then geopolitical turbulence and diplomatic tensions caused another downturn in Canada. Now, we are seeing a re-emergence of interest, and I believe it is directly linked to the situation in the United States,' he said. Huron's enrolments reflect this volatility. Indian student numbers fell drastically after a 2024 diplomatic row, going from 'dozens' in 2021 to just three last fall. Momentum is now returning. 'We are already receiving nearly three times as many enquiries and applications for this fall compared to the past two years. Our main recruitment season begins in September, and interest is at least doubling, if not tripling,' he said. Affordability Edge For many families, cost is the decisive factor. 'One of my daughters did her undergraduate degree in Canada, and the other in the United States. The tuition in Canada was about 25% of what we paid in the United States. For an international student, the cost at Huron is probably half of what it would be at a comparable American institution,' said Dr. Barry. Canadian universities prioritise academics while avoiding inflated administrative or extracurricular expenses. 'We do not cut corners on academics, but we do not waste money on things that are not core to education. That is how we keep prices affordable while maintaining world-class standards,' he explained. Work Pathways Beyond Graduation Canada's policies on employability offer a strong incentive. 'Canada is already attractive because we offer a three-year Post-Graduation Work Permit. At Huron, we go further. 100% of our students receive a paid internship while studying. As a result, 92% are employed within six months of graduation, and importantly, in the field of their choice,' he claimed. Students enter the workforce with practical experience and connections to leading firms, avoiding the uncertainty many face abroad. Safe, Welcoming Environment Safety and social climate also shape decisions. 'Growing up in Canada, I used to think it was boring – clean air, clean water, no wars and very little violence. Now I think, thank God it is so nice to be boring. Parents want to know: will my child be safe? Compared to many countries, Canada has very low crime and none of the gun violence of the United States,' Dr. Barry highlighted. Campus culture reflects this welcoming atmosphere. 'We believe in free speech and debate, but debate that is respectful. Canada is a very welcoming country for outsiders,' he said. Attracting Talent, Building Partnerships Canada is also drawing researchers. The University of Toronto recently recruited three top researchers from Ivy League institutions seeking freedom from political restrictions. Across Canada, university leaders are lobbying the government to capitalise on this opportunity. The Huron University is building stronger ties with India through its India Advisory Committee, which includes leaders from business, diplomacy, policy and education. Its members include Paul Abraham (Hinduja Foundation), Renu Basu (IHCL), Ajay Bisaria (former Indian High Commissioner to Canada) and Dr. Barry Craig. 'They will advise us on engaging with India and reassure Indian parents and students that Huron is serious about opening real doors in corporate, entrepreneurial and public service careers,' Dr. Barry said. He said Canada is open for Indian students. 'Canada is open for business again, and we are actively welcoming Indian students. Our campus community has been immeasurably enriched by their presence. It is good for India, it is good for Canada and it is fantastic for our universities,' Dr. Barry said.
India Today
13 hours ago
- Business
- India Today
Why more Indian students are choosing Canada over the US in 2025
The global map of higher education is shifting once again. While the United States has traditionally remained the most popular destination for Indian students, recent challenges from rising tuition fees and mounting student debt to tightening visa norms and political polarisation are reshaping mobility trends. Canada, long seen as a safe and welcoming alternative, is re-emerging as the country of choice for international students, particularly from to the Ministry of External Affairs, by the end of 2024 there were 427,000 Indian students in Canada compared with 337,630 in the US. A 2025 survey by ApplyBoard underscored this preference: 94% of study-abroad aspirants ranked Canada as their top destination, citing affordability, safety, and immigration-friendly policies as decisive factors.(Figures differ across sources depending on whether they measure visas, permits, or active enrolments.) At universities such as the University of British Columbia, international enrolments have already risen by 27%--a trend driven in part by the turbulence south of the border. For institutions like Huron University in Ontario, this shift signals both opportunities and responsibilities.(As per university announcements, since it's institution-specific, not sector-wide.)A ROLLER COASTER IN STUDENT MOBILITYReflecting on the past five years, Dr. Barry Craig, President and Vice-Chancellor, Huron University, described the experience as nothing short of turbulent.'We began with COVID, which created so many obstacles to student mobility to almost a complete halt. As we emerged, momentum returned, but then geopolitical turbulence and diplomatic tensions caused another downturn in Canada. Now, we're seeing a re-emergence of interest, and I believe it's directly linked to the situation in the United States.'This pattern has been mirrored in enrolments at Huron. Indian numbers collapsed after the diplomatic row in 2024, with the university going from 'dozens' of Indian students in 2021 to just three last fall. But momentum is returning.'We're already receiving nearly three times as many enquiries and applications for this fall compared to the past two years. Our main recruitment season begins in September, and interest is at least doubling, if not tripling.'AFFORDABILITY EDGEFor many families, affordability remains the biggest differentiator between Canada and the US.'One of my daughters did her undergraduate degree in Canada, and the other in the US. The tuition in Canada was about 25% of what we paid in the US. For an international student, the cost at Huron is probably half of what it would be at a comparable American institution,' Dr Barry US campuses where costs are inflated by massive administrative spending or athletics, Canadian universities channel resources directly into teaching and academic don't cut corners on academics, but we don't waste money on things that aren't core to education. That's how we keep prices affordable while maintaining world-class standards.'BEYOND GRADUATION: WORK PATHWAYSIn today's competitive market, employability often outweighs the pursuit of pure academics. Dr Barry believes Canada's policies offer a decisive edge.'Canada is already attractive because we offer a three-year Post-Graduation Work Permit. At Huron, we go further,100% of our students receive a paid internship while studying. As a result, 92% are employed within six months of graduation, and importantly, in the field of their choice.'This exposure means graduates are not left adrift in a foreign country but enter the workforce already connected to leading firms and AND WELCOMING CLIMATEThe perception of Canada as safer and less polarised than the US,also weighs heavily on student and parental decision-making.'Growing up in Canada, I used to think it was boring -clean air, clean water, no wars, very little violence. Now I think, thank God it's so nice to be boring. Parents want to know: will my child be safe? And compared to many countries, Canada has very low crime and none of the gun violence of the US.'advertisementDr Barry highlights how this extends to campus culture.'We believe in free speech and debate, but debate that's respectful. I've seen the difference between Canada and the US, and Canada is a very welcoming country for outsiders.'ATTRACTING TALENT, BUILDING PARTNERSHIPSThe Canadian advantage isn't limited to students, it's drawing researchers too.'Recently, the University of Toronto attracted three leading researchers from Ivy League universities who wanted a place where their research wouldn't be restricted by political pressure. Across the country, all 97 university presidents are lobbying the government because we see this as a once-in-a-generation opportunity to bring top talent here.'Huron is also investing in partnerships with India through the India Advisory Committee, composed of leading voices from business, diplomacy, policy and education. The inaugural committee brings together eminent leaders from diverse fields, including Paul Abraham (Hinduja Foundation), Renu Basu (IHCL), Ajay Bisaria (former Indian High Commissioner to Canada), Ipsita Dasgupta (HP), Anita Marangoly George (ProsperETE), Sumit Maheshwari (Fairbridge Capital), Hari Marar (Bangalore International Airport), Madhavan Menon (Thomas Cook India), Bobby Parikh (Bobby Parikh Associates), and Dr. Barry Craig (Huron University).advertisement'They will advise us on engaging with India and, equally importantly, reassure Indian parents and students that Huron is serious about opening real doors in corporate, entrepreneurial, and public service careers.''Canada Is Open for Business Again'For Dr Barry, the message to Indian families is clear.'Canada is open for business again, and we are actively welcoming Indian students. Our campus community has been immeasurably enriched by their presence. It's good for India, it's good for Canada, and it's fantastic for our universities.'As global student flows shift, Canada's mix of affordability, employability, and stability appears poised to redefine its role as the top choice for Indian students abroad.- EndsMust Watch
Business Standard
a day ago
- Business
- Business Standard
Huron University strengthens Canada-India ties with launch of India Advisory Committee
VMPL New Delhi [India]/ Ottawa [Canada], August 19: Reinforcing its valued relationship with India and its vibrant student community, Huron University, one of Canada's oldest and most respected liberal arts institutions, has announced the formation of its India Advisory Committee, composed of leading voices from business, diplomacy, policy and education. This panel of thought leaders will play a key role in shaping Huron's India strategy, offering guidance on student recruitment, partnerships, and corporate collaborations to strengthen the University's presence and engagement in the Indian market. The inaugural committee includes industry stalwarts such as: * Paul Abraham, President, Hinduja Foundation * Ms. Renu Basu, Advisor, Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) * Ajay Bisaria, former Indian High Commissioner to Canada and Strategic Advisor * Ms. Ipsita Dasgupta, Managing Director & SVP, HP * Ms. Anita Marangoly George, CEO & Co-Founder, ProsperETE * Sumit Maheshwari, Managing Director, Fairbridge Capital * Hari Marar, Managing Director & CEO, Bangalore International Airport Ltd * Madhavan Menon, Non Executive Chairman, Thomas Cook (India) Ltd * Bobby Parikh, Founder, Bobby Parikh Associates * Dr. Barry Craig, President and Vice-Chancellor, Huron University Huron University, renowned for its Ivy-league style liberal arts education, small class sizes, and its emphasis on values-driven leadership, is well positioned to meet the aspirations of Indian students and families seeking globally recognised academic pathways that blend academic excellence with leadership development, with a focus on meaningful one-on-one support for students. "This Advisory Committee is not a conventional governing body but a dynamic forum for strategic insight and collaboration," said Dr. Barry Craig, President and Vice- Chancellor, Huron University. "With India playing a pivotal role in our global outlook, we are fortunate to work alongside these visionary leaders to deepen our presence, foster cross-border partnerships, and create greater opportunities for Indian students." Through strategic collaboration, the Committee will provide trusted guidance to Huron regarding India-relevant offerings, unlock internships and placement pathways via corporate networks, and support regulatory engagement. Their insights will shape the University's evolving approach to global education in one of the world's fastest- growing student markets. Indian students can expect programs tailored to their ambitions, access to internships and leadership opportunities, and a supportive environment built on mentorship, ethics, and global exposure. This initiative reflects Huron's deeper mission of developing "Leaders with Heart", offering Indian students not just academic excellence, but fostering a value-based educational philosophy that asks students to lead with empathy, knowledge, and integrity. About Huron University Established in 1863, Huron University is the founding institution of Western University, located in London, Ontario, Canada. Huron has a proud history of academic excellence and is renowned for the personalised experience it creates for students. With 2,000 students enrolled in business, the arts, and social sciences, Huron offers small class sizes and a setting where globally engaged students thrive.
CBC
23-05-2025
- Health
- CBC
Western faculty unions call on school to do more to alleviate London's doctor shortage
Social Sharing Faculty unions at Western University and its affiliated colleges are continuing to push back on the school's decision to restrict access to its employee and family health clinic, saying it should be expanding access, not exacerbating London's doctor shortage. Earlier this year, CBC News reported the university was bumping patients from the clinic's roster who weren't full-time main campus employees, citing limited treatment capacity and a growing waitlist. Full-time faculty at Huron and King's university colleges, part-time and contract Western employees, and full-time Western employees with fixed-term contracts can no longer use the clinic as of mid-August, along with full-time employees who retired after February 2025. The new rules also limit eligibility to full-time main campus employees and immediate family who don't have a family doctor within 30 kilometres of London. The faculty unions claim those impacted weren't consulted about the change, and say Western hasn't "adequately considered the role it can play in working towards a solution." "With a leading medical school, Western should be expanding access by leveraging its teaching clinics and civic footprint to ease the city's burden, not intensify it," the unions say in an online campaign form, using McMaster University's Family Health Team as an example. In January, one local official involved in recruiting doctors estimated that at least 100,000 Londoners don't have a primary care physician. The waitlist for Western's own clinic demonstrates the need, the unions say. It numbers around 250 employees and their dependents. Roughly 2,700 patients were on the clinic roster in March, Western says. "De-rostering a lot of patients from the Western clinic is actually going to cause more problems in the community," said Johanna Weststar, president of the University of Ontario Faculty Association (UWOFA). "Given Western has a medical school, and has this clinic set up already, there are likely some creative solutions to be had there (to increase capacity) in consultation with all three universities, perhaps in consultation with the City of London," she said. UWOFA alone has roughly 100 full-time members on fixed-term contracts, and about 300 on part-time contracts, she said. The larger group of concern is future retirees, who now have to find a doctor at a later stage of their lives. In a statement, a Western spokesperson said the school had run and subsidized the clinic for over 20 years to serve full-time employees and their families, while reducing pressure on the surrounding region. The clinic had made efforts to support as many additional patients as possible over the years, but without access to "any of the primary care funding models available in community practice … we must prioritize those it was originally meant to serve," it adds. While some Huron and King's staff may have accessed the clinic, they aren't employed by Western, and there's no longer capacity to continue the service, the statement said. More than 800 people were contacted by the clinic about losing access, Western told CBC News in March. At least 600 had not accessed the service in the last two years. "Our faculty, students and alumni ... are integrated with local hospitals and clinics, actively working to improve the health and wellbeing of thousands in our community – not to mention a number of university-operated clinics serving the London community." The faculty unions allege patients were removed "unilaterally and without any direct interaction or communication," in violation of regulator policy around ending physician-patient relationships. "Western has a lot of money, a lot of resources. I think they're always going to be judged by a high standard in terms of looking at a situation like this," said Lad Kucis, a partner at Toronto-based Gardiner Roberts LLP specializing in health law. "If they want to downsize, I can see there may be some rationale for it, but they still have an obligation to deal with their existing patients that were there in the past." While Western is making the decisions, any regulatory complaint would fall on the clinic's physicians, he said. At the same time, it's incumbent on the physicians to ensure Western is compliant. Some negative optics may stem from Western's major healthcare presence, with its medical school and hospital connections, making it important that it do everything it can to assist impacted patients. "The clinic has communicated directly with patients and all communications have adhered to the appropriate regulations," Western said in a statement Thursday. The school adds it's offered ineligible patients six months' notice to remain in the clinic's care, and is "working diligently to provide space for all eligible employees while also providing support to ineligible patients in finding alternative care."
