Canada’s 2022 record shows that more than 550,000 international students arrived in Canada. IRCC’s data reflects a record-high figure of 551,405 international students from at least 184 countries. Additionally, as of December 31, 2022, at least 807,750 international students with valid study permits exist in this country.
Canada’s 2022 record data
Over the past few years, this figure of study permits has increased quite drastically. In 2021, 444,260 new study permits also came into existence. Earlier, the study permits were around 400,600 in 2019. However, only in 2020 was there a decline in the number due to Covid-19. Consequently, 107,145 study permits existed in 2022 compared to 2021.
Consequently, the number of Canadian students increased quite considerably. In 2019, there were approximately 637,860 international students in this country. Further, this number declined due to the pandemic. However, in 2021, the figure resumed its growth with around 617,315 international students in Canada. Last year, everything continued to its usual standard; Canada had about 170,000 more international students toward the latter part of 2022 compared to 2022.
Canada’s 2022 record- diversity of international students
International students who arrived in Canada in 2022 belonged to the following ten countries:
- 226,450 students from India.
- 52,165 students from China.
- 23,380 students from the Philippines.
- 16,725 students from France.
- 16,195 students from Nigeria.
- 13,525 students from Iran.
- 11,535 students from Korea.
- 10,955 students from Japan.
- 10,405 students from Mexico.
- Around 10,405 students came from Brazil.
Now, look at the top ten countries from which international students arrived in Canada and are presently living and pursuing their Canadian studies as of December 31, 2022. They’re as follows:
- 319,130 students from India.
- 100,075 students from the People’s Republic of China.
- 32,455 students from the Philippines.
- 27,135 students were from France.
- 21,660 students came from Nigeria.
- 16,505 students from the Republic of Korea.
- 16,140 students came from Vietnam.
- 14,930 students were from Mexico.
- 14,485 students came from the United States.
Additionally, international students in Canada were registered under the Designated Learning Institutes in the following provinces last year.
- 411,000 students- in Ontario
- 43,000 students- Alberta
- 20,850 students- Nova Scotia
- Saskatchewan- 13,135 students
- New Brunswick- 11,140 students
- Prince Edward Island- 4,485 students
- Newfoundland and Labrador- 6,175 students
- Manitoba- 22,000 students
- 93,000 students- Quebec
- 164,000 students- British Columbia
Canada’s prominence among international students
Canada’s prominence among international students results from various factors, such as quality education, reduced tuition costs, work opportunities, and a chance to immigrate.
IDP, an international education agency, recently revealed that Canada makes for a global choice for international students. This agency is well-reputed for its ability to forge student placements worldwide.
Education Quality
Numerous institutions in Canada are among the top reputed international schools across the globe. They are well-known for their facilities, infrastructure, and specific unique programs. Moreover, Canadian institutions have now received global recognition, which is the chief factor in inviting international students.
Reduced cost
Canadian dollar works with a favorable exchange rate and produces an excellent conversion through international currency compared to other countries. Consequently, international students can acquire post-secondary education at a reduced cost compared to other countries. Also, the U.S. and the U.K. have similar levels of education. On average, undergraduate Canadian education costs between $20,000 and $40,000 CAD. However, this will depend mainly on the study program type, province, and institution. Additionally, Canada will provide a plethora of financial aid programs for international students. As a result, financial stress will also further reduce.
Canada’s 2022 record- several work options
The potential to work within Canada for international students is also one of the primary reasons behind this country’s reputation. Canada’s foreign graduates can gain eligibility to access PGWP after graduation. Post-Graduation Work Permit enables students to work and live in Canada after graduation. Moreover, this is a critical factor in ensuring that international students can continue to stay in Canada and eventually settle here.
Canadian international students usually have a higher level of employment. On average, 73 percent of graduates have a higher employment level across all education levels. In 2022, as many as 132,650 full-time students shifted to full-time work with the help of PGWP. Additionally, a steady rise could be seen in the number of PGWP holders who joined the labor force in 2022.
Besides this, international students can now work more hours (no limitations) during their academic sessions. This applies to the latter part of 2023.
The policy change enables students to become self-reliant. Furthermore, it also offers them the freedom to establish themselves in the Canadian labor market while acquiring an education.
Post-Graduation- immigration opportunities
International students in Canada can flourish significantly in Canada in terms of work and education. As a result, they have abundant opportunities to settle in the country. Hence, acquiring Canadian education is one of the most prominent methods leading to Canadian immigration.
PGWP is a stepping stone for a student’s journey of becoming an immigrant. This way, they can also attain a minimum of one year of work experience on a full-time basis. Next, they can proceed toward the path of Canadian Permanent Residency. Such individuals have the best alternative to do so through the Canadian Experience Class.
In 2022 itself, 53,725 students shifted to Permanent Residence from PGWP. Hence, Canada does offer various opportunities to international students who would like to acquire an education and eventually shift to Canadian PR.
