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Topic

Exploring the Impact of Recent Immigration Policy Changes on International Students

School of Public Administration

Date & location

• Tuesday, August 5, 2025
• 10:00 A.M.
• Human & Social Development Building, Room A302

Examining Committee

Supervisory Committee

• Dr. Astrid Pérez Piñán, School of Public Administration, ßÉßɱ¬ÁÏ (Supervisor)
• Prof. Robbert Lapper, School of Public Administration, UVic (Member)

External Examiner

• Prof. Victor V. Ramraj, Faculty of Law, ßÉßɱ¬ÁÏ

Chair of Oral Examination

• Dr. Nigel Mantou Lou, Department of Psychology, UVic

Abstract

This study explores the lived experiences of international students at the ßÉßɱ¬ÁÏ following the changes in immigration policies starting in December 2023. Using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis and semi-structured interviews with 14 undergraduate and graduate international students, this study reveals how these policy shifts have shaped their academic journeys. Several key themes emerged during the interviews, including: uncertainty about permanent residency pathways and future plans in Canada, increased frustration with the new language proficiency requirement, barriers to both on-and off-campus employment, and a reluctance to access university support services. Additional themes revealed stressful transitions to university caused by study permit delays and inadequate housing support during the initial phase of their experience. Building on these insights, a revised conceptual framework was developed to capture international students’ experiences across three phases: transition to university, experience during university, and transition beyond university. These findings highlight the complex and multifaceted impacts of immigration policies on international students, emphasizing the importance of culturally responsive support services and timely, transparent, and accessible communication about policy changes to support them in making informed decisions about their futures.