The Growing Attraction of Canadian Education: Canada’s Ongoing International Student Boom
Canada has long been recognized as a premier destination for international students seeking quality education and a welcoming environment. In recent years, this reputation has only grown stronger, as Canada’s international student population has been on a remarkable upward trajectory. According to Immigration Minister Marc Miller, Canada is poised to host approximately 900,000 international students in 2023. However, recent revelations from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) suggest that this estimate may be conservative, with forecasts indicating even more substantial growth in the coming years.
An internal policy document obtained by the Globe and Mail reveals the stunning projections for Canada’s international student population. IRCC foresees a staggering 1.4 million international student applications by 2027, signaling an unprecedented surge in interest in Canadian education. The document highlights that from 2019 to 2022, study permit applications for international students surged by nearly 300,000 annually, showcasing the immense appeal of Canadian universities and colleges on the global stage.
The IRCC paper further forecasts that the number of international students will continue to rise in the coming years, reaching approximately 949,000 in 2023, over a million in 2024, 1.1 million in 2025, 1.28 million in 2026, and a staggering 1.4 million in 2027. These projections underscore Canada’s growing stature as an educational powerhouse, drawing students from across the world.
Recent data from IRCC, as summarized by ApplyBoard, corroborates this trend. From January to June 2023, the Canadian government issued more than 280,000 new study permits, reflecting a remarkable 77% increase compared to the same period in 2022. Furthermore, during the same timeframe, over 435,000 study permit applications were processed in the first half of the year, representing a significant 49% surge from 2022. These figures indicate that Canada’s appeal to international students is stronger than ever.
In 2022, Canada set a record by welcoming 551,405 international students from 184 countries, and by the end of that year, there were 807,750 international students holding valid Canadian study permits—a historic high. However, with the pace at which study permits are currently being processed and issued, it is highly likely that Canada will surpass its own records, with an estimated 600,000 permits set to be issued in 2023.
Traditionally, Ontario, British Columbia, and Quebec have been the most sought-after destinations for international students. However, concerns related to housing and affordability have prompted more students to consider studying in provinces with lower tuition fees and a lower cost of living. Between January and June 2023, the number of new study permits issued in provinces such as Alberta and Saskatchewan saw extraordinary growth, with increases of 139% and 116%, respectively, compared to the same period in 2022. This diversification of student destinations indicates that Canada’s appeal extends beyond its major urban centers.
Notably, the demographic of international students in Canada is evolving. The number of students from countries such as Nigeria, Nepal, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, and Guinea has witnessed significant growth in 2023, with each of these nations either matching or surpassing their 2022 figures. If this momentum continues, Nigeria is poised to become Canada’s second-largest source country for international students, with an estimated 40,000 study permits expected to be issued to Nigerian students in 2023.
In conclusion, Canada’s international student numbers and the issuance of study permits are on an upward trajectory that shows no signs of slowing down. The country’s institutions are experiencing a more diverse student body, and a broader range of provinces are becoming popular destinations for international students. With these trends in play, 2023 is poised to be a record-breaking year for international students in Canada, cementing the country’s status as a global education leader and a welcoming home for students from around the world.
For more in-depth understanding contact us:
WHY CHOOSE INTELLIGENT OVERSEAS EDUCATION?
Our counsellors are well trained and highly qualified. We deal considering the students’ uniqueness with different qualities, interests, and abilities. We acknowledge the pitfalls and challenges which may arise at various stages of student’s application. We take the time to get to know about the student, their current circumstances, and ultimately their goals, to direct them towards the most viable option. We believe our comprehensive service and reliable guidance will help students to fulfill their dream.
We collaborate with you to make your goal of studying in Australia a launchpad for both career and personal development. IOE uses technology and experience to help you make the best decision possible.
