Savanna Hoffman
Canada is a popular destination for international students, with over a million reported at the end of 2023—a figure that may be as high as two million. International students in Canada are present at all levels of education, from primary to post-secondary. To study in Canada, international students need a visa and a study permit, which allows them to bring their families and work after graduation. Each province and territory in Canada designates schools that can enrol international students, known as designated learning institutions (DLIs). International students must gain acceptance to a DLI and meet the necessary admission and English proficiency requirements.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Number of international students | 1,040,985 at the end of 2023, a 29% increase over 2022 |
| Percentage of international students in the total population | More than 2% |
| International student enrollment levels | Present in all levels of education, including primary, secondary, trades, college, and post-secondary education |
| Highest level of international student enrollment | Post-secondary level |
| International student enrollment trends | Steady increase from 2015 to 2018, with the greatest rise in college attendance |
| Education brand | EduCanada |
| Study permits | Required for international students; allows them to bring their families and work after graduation |
| Work permits | Extended post-Master's work permits are available |
| Visa requirements | International students require a visa |
| Financial assistance | Cannot receive financial assistance from the Canadian government; need to prove financial self-sufficiency |
| Scholarship opportunities | Available through EduCanada and the Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials |
| Admission requirements | Meet college admission and English proficiency requirements; priority given to permanent residents for highly competitive programs |
| Designated learning institutions (DLI) | Each province and territory designates schools that can enroll international students; includes universities, colleges, CEGEPs, vocational schools, private career colleges, and language schools |
| Application process | Apply to the chosen school, college, or university; each school has its own rules and requirements |
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What You'll Learn
International students in Canada: benefits and challenges
Canada has become an increasingly popular destination for international students, rising to the third most popular destination globally in 2022. The country offers numerous benefits for international students, but also presents several challenges.
Benefits
Canada's welcoming nature and multiculturalism make it an attractive choice for international students. The country also offers the opportunity to obtain a study permit, which allows students to bring their families and work under extended post-Master's work permits. International students can be found at all levels of education, from primary to post-secondary, with the largest number enrolled at the post-secondary level. The provision of international student education is also considered to have non-monetary benefits, such as reducing xenophobia and cultural stereotyping, nurturing international goodwill, and fostering intercultural connections.
Challenges
One of the main challenges faced by international students in Canada is the language barrier. While most universities offer language classes, students may still struggle with lectures and class discussions, as the colloquial language differs from the classroom setting. Culture shock is another significant challenge, with students needing to adapt to new social norms, customs, and ways of interacting. The cost of living in Canada can be high, and international students often face higher tuition fees.
Finding suitable housing can also be difficult, with limited on-campus options and hesitant landlords for off-campus accommodations. International students may struggle to integrate into Canadian society, feeling isolated and overwhelmed by cultural differences. There is also a risk of academic pressure, with different academic standards and workloads that can be challenging.
Additionally, there are concerns about the quality of education provided to international students, with some institutions prioritising profits over substantial changes. The notable growth in international students from specific countries, such as India, has also led to tensions with existing ethnic communities in Canada.
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Study permits and visas
To study in Canada as an international student, you must apply for and obtain a study permit, which is a document that allows foreign nationals to study at designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada. Most foreign nationals need a study permit to study in Canada. It is important to note that a study permit is not a travel document and does not authorise entry or re-entry into Canada on its own.
The application process for a study permit varies depending on whether you are applying from outside Canada or are already in Canada. If you are applying from outside Canada, it is recommended that you wait until your application is approved before travelling to Canada. Even if you have a visa or travel authorisation that allows you to enter Canada, you are generally not eligible to begin studying until your study permit has been issued.
The outside Canada application process is the one that most newly admitted students must follow. To apply, you will need to submit various documents, including a provincial attestation letter (PAL) or territorial attestation letter (TAL) from the province or territory where you plan to study. In Quebec, this is called a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ). Additionally, if you are not a citizen of the country from which you are submitting your application, you may need to provide proof of your current immigration status and your biometrics.
If you are already in Canada and have a valid study permit, you can apply to extend your permit or change your designated learning institution (DLI) by notifying Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) through their website. However, starting November 8, 2024, you will no longer be able to change schools on the same study permit; you will need to obtain a new one.
In addition to a study permit, you may also need a visa, depending on your plans to study in Canada. If your stay in Canada will be less than six months, you will need a travel visa in your passport, unless you are from a visa-exempt country. Additionally, you may need a work visa if you plan to work during your studies.
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Pathways to permanent residency
International students in Canada can apply for permanent resident status while studying or after completing their studies, provided they meet the eligibility criteria. The Federal and Provincial Governments in Canada have developed various pathways for international students to become permanent residents as a first step towards gaining Canadian citizenship.
One pathway is the Express Entry (EE) system, an online platform used to manage permanent residency applications for eligible skilled workers. The EE system ranks candidates using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS), which assesses skills, education, language ability, work experience, and other factors. The Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSW) is a merit-based program that uses the CRS and only invites the most competitive candidates to apply for permanent residence. The FSW requires a minimum of 12 months of full-time, continuous, skilled work experience, which may not be an option for students who have never worked.
Another pathway is the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) program, which requires 12 months of continuous full-time work in a skilled occupation in Canada. Other eligibility criteria for the CEC include age, language skills, and education level. International students can obtain the necessary work experience by applying for a Canadian Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows them to work for up to three years after graduation. The PGWP is an open work permit that enables graduates to work for any employer in any location in Canada.
Additionally, each of Canada's provinces and territories operates its own Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), which are popular Canadian immigration options. PNPs are a way for international students to gain permanent residency through employer-driven programs or by having ties to a specific province. For example, the Alberta Opportunity Stream (AOS) requires applicants to have a job offer from an Alberta employer. International students can include their spouse, common-law partner, dependent children, and dependent children of their dependent children in their permanent residency application.
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Designated learning institutions
An international student in Canada is someone who isn't a Canadian citizen and is studying in the country on a valid study permit. To obtain this permit, the student must be accepted into a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
DLIs are schools, colleges, and universities that are approved by the Canadian government to host international students. These institutions are required to meet certain criteria and maintain high standards to retain their status as a DLI. The government publishes an up-to-date list of DLIs, which includes most post-secondary schools in Canada, such as universities, colleges, and CEGEPs (a unique type of college in Quebec). There are also several designated secondary or high schools, and some other institutions, such as private career colleges, vocational schools, and language schools.
DLIs are held to high standards by the Canadian government to ensure international students receive a quality education. These institutions must provide a robust learning environment, with adequate resources and support services to help international students succeed. This includes academic, financial, and personal counselling, as well as assistance with immigration-related matters.
To maintain their status, DLIs must also meet specific requirements for program length and content. Post-secondary programs must be at least 6 months in duration and lead to a degree, diploma, or certificate. The institution must also ensure that international students maintain full-time student status, which generally means taking a minimum number of courses or credit hours each term.
International students benefit from studying at a DLI as it allows them to work during their studies and after graduation. With a valid study permit, students can work on-campus and off-campus for up to 20 hours per week during the academic session and full-time during scheduled breaks. Upon graduation, they may be eligible for a post-graduation work permit, allowing them to gain valuable Canadian work experience and potentially apply for permanent residency.
In summary, DLIs play a crucial role in Canada's international student program by providing a pathway for foreign students to study and work in the country. By maintaining high standards and offering quality education, these institutions contribute to Canada's reputation as a leading destination for international students seeking world-class education and opportunities for personal and professional growth.
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International student numbers and trends
Canada witnessed a record-high population growth in 2023, with the number of Canadian residents estimated at 40.5 million, representing an annual growth rate of 3.2%. This expansion was driven by non-permanent residents, including international students and foreign workers. International students accounted for more than 2% of the country's population, with their numbers reaching up to 1,040,985 at the end of 2023, a 29% increase from 2022. Ontario, being the most populous province, has consistently hosted the largest volume of international students, with its share growing from 49% in 2021 to 51% in 2023.
The presence of international students in Canada is not limited to the post-secondary level; they are present at all levels of education, including primary, secondary, trades, and college. The number of enrolled international students has been steadily increasing across all levels from 2015 to 2018, with the most significant rise observed in college attendance. This trend highlights the growing appeal of Canadian colleges among international students, contributing to the overall growth in international student numbers.
The economic impact of international students in Canada is substantial. Between 2014 and 2022, the combined direct and indirect GDP impact of their spending increased by 232%, resulting in a significant boost to the Canadian economy. International student spending supported 361,000 jobs in 2022, almost tripling the number from 2014. Additionally, government tax revenue from international student spending witnessed a remarkable increase of 253% during the same period.
However, it is important to note that the COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted student numbers in 2020 and 2021, with travel restrictions causing a dip in long-term international students. Despite this setback, the total number of international students in Canada demonstrated impressive growth, increasing by 61.2% from 2016 to 2022, with an average annual growth rate of 8.3%.
In 2022, Canada became the third most popular destination for international students, surpassing its previous position as the fourth most popular destination in 2019. This rise in popularity can be partly attributed to the increasing influence of Indian students, who actively pursued their individual, economic, and political goals through activism. However, concerns have been raised about the ethics of delivering education to international students, as some institutions prioritise appearances over substantial changes.
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Frequently asked questions
An international student in Canada is someone who is not a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or refugee and is enrolled in a Canadian educational program.
International students must meet the admission and English proficiency requirements of their chosen educational institution. They also need to obtain a study permit and, for those from certain countries, a visa.
International students in Canada have the opportunity to bring their families and work under extended post-graduate work permits. They can also access scholarships and awards, and benefit from the country's diverse and inclusive educational environment.
You should first choose a designated learning institution and ensure that it is approved to enrol international students. Then, review the admission requirements and application process for your chosen institution, and gather the necessary documents. Finally, submit your application and wait for a response.
International students in Canada may face challenges such as limited capacity at certain institutions, high competition for popular programs, and the need to demonstrate sufficient funds for their stay. There may also be concerns about the quality of educational programs and the potential for institutions to prioritise financial gains over substantial changes.
