Canada breaks record by welcoming over 550,000 new international students in 2022
Canada has welcomed more than 550,000 international students from 184 countries in 2022, breaking its own record. The number of study permits issued has increased in recent years, with 444,260 new permits taking effect in 2021, an increase from the 400,600 in 2019, and another 107,145 more study permits taking effect in 2022 compared with 2021. This has led to a noticeable increase in the number of international students in Canada, from 637,860 in 2019 to 617,315 in 2021, and up to 807,750 international students holding valid study permits by December 31st, 2022. The top 10 source countries of new international students entering Canada in 2022 were India, China, Philippines, France, Nigeria, Iran, Republic of Korea, Japan, Mexico, and Brazil.
Why is Canada So Popular Among International Students?
Canada is a popular destination for international students due to its excellent quality of education, lower costs, obtaining work, and immigration opportunities post-graduation. Canadian institutions are highly respected globally, and many rank among the most prestigious schools internationally. The more favorable exchange rate of the Canadian dollar and multiple financial aid programs also make it more affordable for international students to obtain post-secondary schooling. Work opportunities have also increased in Canada, with international graduates being eligible to receive a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) upon completion of their studies. International graduates in Canada also have a high employment rate, averaging 73% among graduates at all levels of education. Additionally, Canada offers immigration opportunities to international students after graduation, which is one of the reasons it remains a top destination for international students globally.
International Students in Canada
International students in Canada attend designated learning institutions in various provinces, with the highest number in Ontario (411,000 students), followed by British Columbia (164,000 students), Quebec (93,000 students), Alberta (43,000 students), Manitoba (22,000 students), Nova Scotia (20,850 students), Saskatchewan (13,135 students), New Brunswick (11,140 students), Newfoundland and Labrador (6,175 students), and Prince Edward Island (4,485 students).
The Top Ten Source Countries of International Students in Canada
| Rank | Country | Percentage of new international students |
| 1 | India | 31.8% |
| 2 | China | 23.7% |
| 3 | South Korea | 5.2% |
| 4 | France | 3.3% |
| 5 | United States | 3.2% |
| 6 | Nigeria | 3.1% |
| 7 | Philippines | 2.7% |
| 8 | Vietnam | 2.5% |
| 9 | Iran | 2.4% |
| 10 | Brazil | 1.9% |
Note: These rankings and percentages are based on data from 2022 and may change in future years.
The Benefits of Studying in Canada
Studying in Canada offers numerous benefits to international students. Not only is Canada a safe and welcoming country, but it also provides high-quality education and diverse cultural experiences. Canada’s universities and colleges offer a wide range of programs and courses, providing international students with a broad range of academic opportunities. Additionally, Canada’s institutions have a long history of accommodating international students, and they provide support services that help them adjust to the country’s academic and social environment. Canada’s reputation as a safe and tolerant country also makes it an attractive destination for international students.
Post-Graduation Immigration Possibilities
Canada’s student-friendly policies continue beyond graduation, with numerous programs dedicated to helping international graduates transition to permanent residency. The Canadian government has recognized the value of international students to the country’s economy and has prioritized programs that make it easier for them to stay and contribute to the country’s workforce.
One such program is the Express Entry system, which was introduced in 2015 to manage economic immigration applications for permanent residency. The program ranks candidates based on a point system that takes into account factors such as age, education, language proficiency, and work experience. International graduates who have completed a Canadian post-secondary program are given additional points, which can significantly increase their chances of being invited to apply for permanent residency.
Another program that benefits international graduates is the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), which allows provinces and territories to nominate individuals who have the skills and experience required to fill specific labour market needs. Many provinces have created streams within the PNP specifically for international graduates, making it easier for them to obtain permanent residency and remain in the province where they have studied and established roots.
The popularity of these programs among international students is reflected in the numbers. In 2022, over 53,000 international graduates transitioned to permanent residency through the Canadian Experience Class program, with many more using other immigration programs. These numbers demonstrate the appeal of Canada’s immigration policies and the opportunities available to international students who choose to study in the country.
Impact on Canadian economy
The growing number of international students in Canada has not only had a positive impact on the education sector but also on the country’s economy as a whole. International students contribute significantly to the Canadian economy, both through their tuition fees and their spending on living expenses.
According to a report by Global Affairs Canada, international students contributed over $22 billion to the Canadian economy in 2019, making them the fourth-largest source of export revenue for the country. This economic impact has only grown in recent years, with the increasing number of international students choosing Canada as their study destination.
In addition to their direct economic contributions, international students also bring diversity and cultural enrichment to Canadian communities. They help to create a more vibrant and globally connected society, which benefits all Canadians.
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