February 26, 2013

Canada welcomed over 100,000 international student in 2012

In 2012 Canada welcomed a record number of over 100,000 international students, Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Minister Jason Kenney announced today.   This was an increase of 60 % from 2004.

A 2011 report by the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade (DFAIT) entitled International Education: A Key Driver of Canada’s Future Prosperity stated that each year international students contribute over $8 billion to Canada’s economy as well as provide our society with new ideas and unique perspectives.

Well prepared to enter our country’s economy after studying here, international students may be eligible upon graduation for permanent residency through immigration programs such as the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) which was introduced in 2008.

Recently proposed changes to the International Student Program aim to facilitate access to work permits for international students attending designated institutions, and give the authority to certain study permit holders to work part-time off-campus.  These changes would aid to ensure those benefiting from the program would be genuine students.

Click here for information on study permits