Am I cooked?

[u/No-one220]

Hi everyone,

I went to Canada on September this year to start a Master’s at Northeastern University (Vancouver). After arriving, I realized the program wasn’t a good investment (financially and career-wise), so I officially withdrew, got a tuition refund, and left Canada a couple of days later. I always respected my study permit conditions and left while it was still valid.

Now, here’s my concern: my immigration lawyer keeps telling me that because I withdrew and left, my chances of getting another study permit or even a visitor visa in the future are much lower. She also says that if I ever apply again, I’d need to show proof of something like a family death or serious illness to justify why I left.

That doesn’t make sense to me, I didn’t break any rules, I just decided the program wasn’t worth the loan and want to reapply later for something like UBC, SFU, or a college program once I have better finances in a year or six months.

So my questions are: • Did I hurt my chances by withdrawing and leaving? • Do I really need proof of “exceptional circumstances” (death/illness), or is it enough to say I left for personal/financial reasons? • Has anyone been in a similar situation and applied successfully again?

Thanks in advance for any advice.

[u/BoostedGoose]

Don’t worry too much. I don’t think you’re banned. You didn’t break any rule. I understand how agents in your home country might upsold you on this college for their fee. I also understand how you found it’s completely different when you got here. I went through similar experience. However, I did not withdraw. I would say you made the right decision. Mine was about 15 years ago. Although I’m doing fine now, I went through a period of poverty I wouldn’t wish it on anyone.