I’m writing this after another study permit refusal of one of my college students who was beyond confident that they had a strong case. Applied on their own. Got refused.
Every time period has its own “favorite” psychological theory. Nowadays, we are in the realm of “positive psychology”: see magic in every moment, be an optimist! However, the idea of “a silver lining in every cloud” can lead to illusions, distorted reality.
The “positive” approach to your application for a Canadian study, work permit or a visitor visa may lead to serious consequences.
“I got admitted into the college, I worked really hard to have more than enough $$$ to support myself in Canada and I’ve travelled 14 countries. I’m very motivated to study, a great candidate for Canada and am ready to pack my bags!” says A. A. is missing a complex, well-rounded view of their immigration case, assuming that they will get approved simply on the grounds of motivation and finances. As the result, A.’s application has a whole range of “blind” spots, doesn’t address a bunch of reasonable questions (e.g. career prospects in the home country not supported by any documentation, existence of similar programs of study at home) and may be refused.
In the meantime, positively-charged ghost consultants happily claim that “everything is possible” and don’t hesitate to offer you a discounted ticket to the bliss of Canada. With those “you-can-do-it” claims, ghost consultants create false hope and lead to errors, misrepresentation, and extra attention that a visa officer will be paying at your next application after your first refusal.
A default optimism that your application is strong may lead to missing potential questions a visa officer may have. Only a wholesome, somewhat skeptical, scrupulous view of your application may help identify weak spots, which can be fixed BEFORE the submission. Applications can be weak and IT IS OK! Some applications require months of preparation by both client and the immigration consultant, and result in a positive decision. Be skeptical, be different and good luck with your application to study, work and immigrate to Canada!