Stay in Canada for 18 months, or leave for 1 year to complete a Master's and possibly return?
I'm looking for opinions from people following the recent immigration discussions and Express Entry changes.
I'm currently in Canada on a PGWP and my long-term goal is Canadian PR. I have a 3years Higher Diploma equivalent to Bachelor they said at the time of admission but later realized it's not even accredited by WES or any ECA. So did 2years PG from Seneca. This way have very limited options for Master's. Only 2 as of now.
CRS Score: 466 (ielts writing 6.5) need 7 then score 498.
I have Canadian work experience (3yrs full time TEER 2 in Hospitality), 1 year foreign work experience, references, and an established professional network. My concern isn't starting over from scratch.
I have two options.
Option 1: University of Niagra ( Private One)
Stay in Canada
Start a Master's in January 2027 - 18 months
18-month program
More expensive (36k cad)
Remain physically in Canada
Option 2: RGU
Complete a Master's in Scotland/UK
Roughly 1 year - because of Seneca Credit Transfer
Much cheaper (20k)
Finish the degree faster
Leave Canada for about a year and return afterward
Student Visa Risk
Normally, I probably wouldn't be as worried about leaving for a year.
What is making me hesitate is the recent immigration discussions and consultations around Express Entry. There has been a lot of talk about streamlining programs, prioritizing in-demand occupations, focusing more on labour market needs, and making broader system changes in the coming years.
Because of that, I'm wondering if leaving Canada right now is a bigger risk than it would have been a few years ago.
My concern is whether being outside Canada during a period of immigration reform could put me at a disadvantage compared with staying here.
If you were in my position, would you:
Stay in Canada even if it costs significantly more and takes longer?
Or leave for a year and so, complete the degree, and return?