📌 Quick Summary : Canada Study Scam
- Canada Study Scam exposed in Chandigarh
- Student allegedly lost ₹12.35 lakh after receiving fake admission documents
- Consumer Commission orders refund with 9% annual interest
- Immigration consultant and representative directed to compensate the student
- Experts advise students to verify college admissions directly before paying any fees
Canada Study Scam: Student Allegedly Cheated of ₹12.35 Lakh Through Fake Admission
A major Canada Study Scam has come to light after the Chandigarh District Consumer Commission directed an immigration consultant and its former representative to refund ₹12.35 lakh, along with 9% annual interest, to a student who was allegedly misled with fake admission documents for a Canadian college.
The case highlights the growing risk of Canada Study Scam incidents targeting Indian students planning higher education abroad.
How the Canada Study Scam Unfolded
According to the complaint, Aastha Saini, a 21-year-old student, came across a Facebook advertisement from an immigration and student visa consultancy named BB Council.
The consultancy allegedly claimed it could secure admission to Canadian colleges and assist students with study visas.
Between April and August 2022, the student reportedly paid ₹12.35 lakh in multiple instalments.
According to the complaint:
- ₹35,000 was transferred through a bank account.
- ₹12 lakh was allegedly paid in cash.
- The student received an Offer Letter and an Acceptance Letter showing admission to a Canadian institution.
The Canada Study Scam was discovered only after the student directly contacted the college.
Fake Admission Documents Exposed
When admission processing appeared delayed, the student contacted Academy of Learning (AOL College) in Canada directly.
The institution reportedly informed her that:
- No admission record existed in her name.
- The admission documents provided were not genuine.
Following this revelation, the student sought a refund from the consultancy.
According to the complaint, the consultancy allegedly refused to return the full amount, claiming it had received only ₹35,000.
The student then approached the District Consumer Commission, bringing the Canada Study Scam before the legal authorities.
Consumer Commission Orders Refund
During the proceedings, the immigration consultant and its representative reportedly did not appear before the Commission despite receiving notices.
The Commission relied on documentary evidence, including an email from the Canadian institution confirming that the admission documents were fake.
The Consumer Commission ordered:
- Refund of ₹12,35,000
- 9% annual interest from the date of each payment
- ₹20,000 compensation towards harassment and litigation expenses
- Payment within 45 days
The ruling marks a significant decision in the Canada Study Scam case.
Expert Tips: How to Avoid a Canada Study Scam
Experts advise students planning to study abroad to take the following precautions:
✅ Verify admission directly with the college
Always email or call the institution to confirm your admission before paying tuition or consultancy fees.
✅ Confirm the institution is officially recognized
Ensure the college appears on Canada’s list of designated learning institutions (DLIs).
✅ Never rely only on consultancy documents
Cross-check Offer Letters and Acceptance Letters directly with the educational institution.
✅ Make payments through traceable banking channels
Avoid making large cash payments. Always keep official receipts.
✅ Check consultant credentials
Verify whether the immigration or education consultant is properly registered and has a credible track record.
Following these steps can significantly reduce the risk of becoming a victim of a Canada Study Scam.
Why Canada Study Scams Are Increasing
With thousands of Indian students applying to Canadian colleges every year, fraudulent consultancies often exploit applicants by:
- Issuing fake admission letters
- Promising guaranteed visas
- Using forged college documents
- Collecting large upfront payments
- Delaying communication until victims discover the fraud
Education experts say students should independently verify every stage of the admission process.
FAQs : Canada Study Scam
1. What is the Canada Study Scam in this case?
The Canada Study Scam involves allegations that a student paid ₹12.35 lakh after being provided fake admission documents for a Canadian college.
2. How was the fraud discovered?
The student contacted the Canadian institution directly and was informed that no admission record existed in her name.
3. What did the Consumer Commission order?
The Commission directed the consultant and representative to refund ₹12.35 lakh, pay 9% annual interest, and provide ₹20,000 compensation.
4. How can students avoid a Canada Study Scam?
Students should always verify admission directly with the college, confirm institutional recognition, avoid cash payments, and verify the credentials of education consultants.
5. Is it safe to rely only on consultancy documents?
No. Experts recommend independently confirming all admission and visa-related documents directly with the educational institution.
Final Thoughts On Canada Study Scam
This Canada Study Scam serves as a strong reminder that students should never rely solely on documents provided by an education consultant. Verifying admission directly with the institution before making payments can prevent significant financial losses and protect students from fraudulent overseas education schemes.
Source : Nav Bharat Times
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