As per the data of IRCC, Canada welcomes a record number of foreign students in 2022. A total of 551,405 international students from 184 countries entered Canada. The number of international students with valid study visas will also hit an all-time high of 807,750 by December 31, 2022.
Increasing numbers of research permits have been issued in recent years. A decrease due to the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020 resulted in a decrease in 2021, from 444,260 to 444,260 study permits. The result was the addition of 107,145 study permits from 2021 to 2022.
According to Statistics Canada, in 2022, the following countries would be the top 10 sources of new international students:
- A total of 226,450 students from India.
- There are 52,165 students from China.
- 23,380 students from the Philippines.
- A Total number of students from France is 16,725.
- The number of Nigerian students was 16,195.
- The total number of students from Iran is 13,525.
- In total, 11,535 Korean students are enrolled.
- There are 10,955 Japanese students.
- A total of 10,405 students are from Mexico.
- Brazilian students numbered around 10,405 in total.
In addition, the following nations accounted for the top 10 source nations of foreign students studying in Canada as of December 31st, 2022:
- 319,130 Indian students.
- The total number of students from the People’s Republic of China total 100 075.
- students from the Philippines total of 32,455.
- There were 27,135 students from France.
- There were 21,660 students from Nigeria.
- 16,505 Korean students are enrolled.
- There were 16,140 students from Vietnam.
- There were 14,930 students from Mexico.
- From the United States, 14,485 students came.
Students studying in Canada’s designated learning institutions in 2022 were from the following provinces:
- There are 411,000 students in Ontario.
- British Columbia has a student population of 164,000.
- Quebec has 93,000 students enrolled.
- Alberta has 43,000 students pursuing education.
- Manitoba has 22,000 students studying.
- Nova Scotia has 20,850 students attending.
- Saskatchewan has 13,135 students pursuing education.
- New Brunswick has 11,140 students studying.
- Newfoundland and Labrador have 6,175 students enrolled.
- Prince Edward Island has 4,485 students pursuing education.
Reasons for Canada’s Popularity Among International Students
It is easy to see why Canada remains a popular choice for international students, owing to its high standard of education, affordable living expenses, a wide range of employment prospects, and immigration opportunities after graduation.
Canadian universities are by far the most popular choice among foreign students, according to a recent study by IDP, an organization that places international students around the world.
Canada’s education quality
Also contributing to this good position is the high quality of education offered in Canada. In terms of specific programs and faculties, many Canadian institutions are among the world’s most reputable universities. Consequently, foreign students are drawn to Canadian educational institutions because of their reputation throughout the world.
Cost
As a result of its favorable exchange rate, the Canadian dollar converts more quickly than its competitors. Thus, international students are able to attend postsecondary institutions for less money than students from many other countries with similar standards of education. It usually costs between $20,000 and $40,000 CAD for an undergraduate degree in Canada, depending on the region and the school. Several financial aid options are also available to international students in Canada, reducing financial strains.
Work opportunities in Canada
Because foreign students can work in Canada after graduation, Canada has become more popular among foreign students. Post Graduate Work Permits (PGWPs) allow international students to work full-time, reside in the country, and apply for a work visa upon completion of their studies. This is a significant advantage for international graduates as it is a crucial step in the immigration process. With an average employment rate of 73% across all educational levels, graduates in Canada likewise have a high employment rate. In the previous year, the PGWP program helped 132,650 full-time students transition into the workforce. A record number of foreign PGWP students are welcomed in Canada every year.
International students may work an unrestricted number of hours per semester up until the end of 2023 if they have a valid study permit. While students are still in school, this policy move allows them to establish themselves in the Canadian labor market and provides them with more flexibility than is customary in other nations.
Immigration possibilities for post-graduation students
It is possible for international students in Canada to prosper greatly in the realms of employment and education. Consequently, they have several options for relocating to the country. It is therefore common for Canadians to immigrate after obtaining a Canadian degree.
The PGWP – (Post Graduate Work Permit) not only allows foreign students to work in Canada after graduation but also serves as a stepping stone for their journey toward becoming permanent residents. The PGWP allows them to gain a minimum of one year of work experience on a full-time basis, making them eligible to apply for permanent residency through the CEC program. The CEC is an immigration pathway that allows individuals with Canadian work experience to transition to permanent residence. With the work experience gained through the PGWP, international graduates are well-positioned to meet the eligibility criteria for the CEC. This provides a clear path for international graduates to stay and contribute to the Canadian economy and society in the long term.
Canada provides numerous opportunities for international students who wish to pursue an education and later acquire permanent residency. In 2022 alone, 53,725 students transitioned from the PGWP to permanent residence. This demonstrates that Canada’s policies are supportive of international graduates and their desire to remain in the country after completing their studies. By offering international students the chance to gain work experience through the PGWP, Canada enables them to contribute to the country’s workforce and society in the long run. This is a significant advantage for students who seek to make Canada their home.
