To: Canadian Government, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)

We, the undersigned, call upon the Canadian government and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to revise the immigration policy concerning English language proficiency testing for international students seeking permanent residency (PR) after graduating from a Canadian university or college.

Background:
MPOWER Financing, which provides no-cosigner loans to international students, estimates that international students contributed C$36 billion to the Canadian economy in 2022 and are projected to contribute C$42 billion in 2024.
International students make significant contributions to Canada's economy, culture, and academic landscape. They enrich our universities and colleges with diverse perspectives and talents, and many aspire to contribute to Canadian society by staying and building their futures here.
However, the current immigration policy places an unnecessary burden on these students. Despite demonstrating proficiency in English through academic English proficiency tests prior to applying for a study permit and through academic studies, many are required to undergo additional English language proficiency tests, such as the General IELTS, when applying for PR. This requirement is both unjust and redundant for students who have already proven their English proficiency by achieving required scores (6 bands or more) in academic English language proficiency tests like the IELTS.

Our Argument:

1. Degradation of English Proficiency: International students who successfully complete their degrees from Canadian universities or colleges do so through rigorous academic programs conducted entirely in English. These programs demand a high level of English proficiency to excel. However, requiring these students to undergo additional English language proficiency tests implies a lack of trust in Canada's education system. It undermines the value of their academic achievements and ignores the practical demonstration of their language skills throughout their studies.
2. Financial Burden: English language proficiency tests like the General IELTS are stressful and have a considerable financial cost. International students already bear the brunt of high tuition fees, often paying three times more than domestic students. Forcing them to spend additional funds on unnecessary tests adds an unfair financial burden, further exacerbating their financial strain.
3. Discouragement of Talent: This policy creates barriers for talented individuals who wish to contribute to Canada's workforce and society. Many skilled and educated international graduates, deterred by the prospect of undergoing redundant English language testing, may choose to take their talents elsewhere, depriving Canada of valuable human capital.
4. Inefficiency and Redundancy: Requiring additional English language proficiency testing for international graduates is redundant and inefficient. It duplicates assessment measures already undertaken during and before their academic studies in Canada. It wastes valuable resources, both for the students and the immigration system, without providing any meaningful benefits in terms of assessing language proficiency.

Conclusion:
We urge the IRCC to recognize the English language proficiency of international students graduating from Canadian universities and colleges and waive the requirement for additional English language proficiency tests, such as the General IELTS, for PR applications. This change would not only alleviate financial burdens and stress on international graduates but also affirm Canada's commitment to attracting and retaining top talent from around the world.

Let's make Canada's immigration policies fairer and more welcoming to international graduates who have already demonstrated their English proficiency through their academic achievements. Sign this petition to support this crucial change in policy.