International student enrolments in Canada grew rapidly following the COVID-19 pandemic. The accelerated growth raised concerns around capacity limits for some institutions, especially relating to housing and other key student services. In January 2024, the federal government imposed a two-year cap on new study permits for international students as well as several associated policies to tighten up the flow of students into Canada. Due to these policy changes, the appeal of Canada as a study destination weakened among prospective international students, as evidenced in IDP’s student surveys. On September 18, 2024, the government announced additional restrictive measures, which could further impact demand and perceptions of Canada.

The Canada Sector Survey on International Education will provide a voice to professionals in the sector who are impacted by the new policy environment and identify key challenges, issues, and opportunities going forward.

Survey development

This survey has been created in consultation with the following Canadian higher education organizations: Alberta Bureau for International Education, BC Council For International, Education, Canadian Bureau for International Education, Colleges and Institutes Canada, EduNova, ICEF, Languages Canada, Manitoba Council for International Education, Government of Saskatchewan, and Universities Canada. 

As with other IDP thought leadership initiatives, this survey has been developed by IDP at no cost, and the results of the survey will be shared with the public at no cost.

Purpose

The Canada Sector Survey on International Education is intended to capture the voice of Canadian international education professionals at a pivotal time following major policy announcements and changes. Following the success of the U.S. Sector Survey, “Survey on a National Strategy for International Education in the U.S.,” IDP is well positioned to manage and execute this research in collaboration with key Canadian organizations. The survey results will be shared with the sector to help identify top challenges and collective opportunities for Canada moving forward.

Audience

This is a cross-sector survey, open to all professionals in Canadian international education. This includes but is not limited to: higher education institutions, language school providers, policy-advising and membership organizations, K-12 schools, private sector organizations, government, and more.

Find out more and fill out the survey here.