New report from CSA Group and the Dais provides recommendations for rebuilding a sustainable system.
Canada has long been a leader in international education, attracting students from around the world. In response to various pressures, including concerns by some interested parties about recent expansion of international student permits in Canada, the federal government reduced study permits by 35% for Fall 2024, and at the same time tightened requirements for post-graduation work permits (PGWP). The near-term impacts of these decisions have been palpable, sending shockwaves through both Canadian academic institutions and abroad. Looking to the future, it has become clear that Canada's reputation as a global leader in international education is now at risk, and there is an urgent need to develop a renewed approach to international education that is student-centred, yet sustainable.
In response, CSA Group has collaborated with the Dais to publish Where to From Here?Towards a New Vision and Policy Framework for International Higher Education in Canada. The new report stresses the need for collaboration between federal, provincial, municipal governments and academic institutions who must come together to reimagine the system, demonstrating a joint commitment to transparent, inclusive immigration and recruitment processes, high academic standards and a world-class student experience.
The findings and recommendations that emerged from the report fall under six key themes:
- Renewing Canada's international education goals and strategy
- Clarifying immigration and career pathways for graduates
- Ensuring integrity and consumer protection in recruitment
- Enhancing oversight and quality assurance of designated learning institutions (DLIs)
- Improving academic supports and student services
- Repairing "Brand Canada"
"The unsustainable growth in the number of international students undermined the integrity and public trust in the system, prompting the federal government to pull the emergency brake through some wrenching reforms," said André Côté, Director of Policy and Research at the Dais at Toronto Metropolitan University. "This report outlines actionable steps for governments, universities and colleges to repair the international education program and restore Canada as a destination for students."
"Canada needs a coordinated, whole-of-government approach to address international education challenges," said Sunil Johal, Vice President, CSA Public Policy Centre. "We hope that this report provides government decision makers with policy pathways to actionable strategies for reimagining Canada's international education system - one that is globally competitive, while meeting the evolving needs of students and Canadian communities."
To learn more and download the report, visit CSA Group's website.
