ABOUT CANADA:

Canada attracts a significant number of international students at all levels, and as of 2019, it is the fourth most popular country for enrollment. Although Canada attracts students at all levels of education, the majority of these belong to post secondary section (University).

 

The number of enrolled students has been increasing steadily in all levels since 2015. The International Education Strategy of Canada now includes a commitment to diversify inbound students and distribute them more equally across the country rather than having a strong concentration in a few cities. Many Canadian universities are now working to attract international students by providing English as a second language programs and reserving specific scholarships for international students of high caliber.

 

A survey conducted by the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CIBE) found that 96% of the international students endorsed Canada as a study destination, due to its quality education and its reputation as a safe and tolerant country that encourages multiculturalism and diversity.

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The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) reports that as of December 2019, there were a total of 642,480 international students in Canada at all levels, representing a 13% increase from the previous year. The most recent statistic released by the GAC is for 2018, reporting 721,000 students. In addition to post-secondary education, Canadian high schools and primary schools also attract increasing numbers of international students.

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The provinces with the highest international student populations are Ontario and British Columbia. In 2016, Ontario had the greatest number of international students, with 233,226 short- and long-term students representing 44.5% of all international students in the country. British Columbia had 145,691 students, representing 27.8% of the international student population. Quebec, Alberta, and Nova Scotia had the next three largest populations of international students.

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International students attending Canadian institutions are primarily coming from Asia. IRCC statistics for 2018 show that over 50% of all international students come from just two countries - India, with 172,625, represents about 30% of enrollments, and China, with 142,895, represents about 25%.

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Five Quick Points About Canada

• Huge area, relatively small population, beautiful natural environment

• One of world’s wealthiest nations

• Multicultural society with many immigrants 

• Well-respected and sophisticated education system, and one of the top destinations for international study

• Safe and interesting place to study – students should begin planning early since admissions can be competitive