Canadian post-secondary institutions are boasting about the number of international students coming through their doors, and some are even calling for more.
International students help Canadian universities and colleges expand their programs, and supplement their revenues. They also help to promote diversity on campuses, enriching the post-secondary experience for all students.
Canada’s international student population has doubled since 2012 to over 570,000 students in 2018.
This significant growth means there are more settlement and integration needs to be met. International students may face loneliness, financial hardship, or difficulty finding work in Canada.
“It’s really important for the future of Canada that we continue to increase the number of international students and that they have positive experiences and contribute to the Canadian economy and Canadian society,” Paul Davidson, president of Universities Canada, told the Windsor Star.
Many international students seek permanent residence after completing their education in Canada.
In 2018, 25 per cent of those who received ITAs were former international students.
The Canadian government reports that international students who become permanent residents have strong employment and wage outcomes.
