Canada has emerged as a highly sought-after destination for international students, with its diverse education system and welcoming environment attracting students from around the world. Recent statistics reveal significant growth in the number of international students in Canada, highlighting the country’s increasing popularity in the global education landscape.
At the end of 2021, there were approximately 807,750 international students studying in Canada across all levels of education. This reflects a notable increase from previous years, showcasing Canada’s ability to attract and accommodate students from various backgrounds and academic pursuits. This data was published by Canadian Bureau for International Education.
Where do inbound students come from? The breakdown of the top countries of origin for international students in Canada is as follows:
- India: 40%
- China: 12%
- Philippines: 4%
- Vietnam: 2%
- USA: 2%
- France: 3%
- Iran: 3%
- Nigeria: 3%
- Brazil: 2%
- Japan: 2%
- Mexico and Colombia: 2%
The growth in international student enrollment in Canada is impressive. From 2021 to 2022, there was a remarkable 31% increase in the number of international students studying in the country. Such growth demonstrates Canada’s ability to consistently attract and retain a diverse range of students from around the world.
Over the past five years, Canada has experienced a remarkable 43% growth in international student enrollment. Looking back over the last decade, the growth rate is even more astonishing, standing at nearly 170%. This sustained upward trend showcases Canada’s reputation as a leading destination for international education.
Several countries have demonstrated notable growth in terms of sending students to Canada:
- Philippines: +112% (32,455 students)
- Hong Kong: +73% (13,100 students)
- Nigeria: +60% (21,660 students)
- Colombia: +54% (12,440 students)
- India: +47% (319,130 students)
Furthermore, other countries have also experienced significant growth in sending students to Canada:
- Ukraine: +269% (7,150 students)
- Nepal: +258% (7,745 students)
- Peru: +115% (4,025 students)
- Sri Lanka: +94% (5,205 students)
- Cameroon: +59% (4,075 students)
- Algeria: +44% (7,510 students)
The reasons international students choose Canada as their educational destination vary, but some prominent factors include:
- Canada’s reputation as a safe and stable country.
- The renowned quality and reputation of the Canadian education system.
- The inclusive and tolerant society that Canada generally offers, fostering a welcoming environment for students from diverse backgrounds.
The impact of international students extends beyond their time in Canada. A significant proportion of international students plan to further their connections with the country. Approximately 72.5% of international students intend to apply for a post-graduate work permit, which allows them to gain valuable work experience in Canada. Additionally, 60% of international students plan to apply for permanent residency in Canada, highlighting their desire to contribute to the country’s economic and social fabric.
The influx of international students in Canada has a profound impact on both the education sector and the broader society. It enriches cultural diversity, fosters cross-cultural exchange, and bolsters the economy by attracting global talent. Canada’s commitment to providing a supportive and high-quality education experience positions it as a top destination for international students, reinforcing its reputation as a global education hub.
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