As the world begins to open to travel, the IDP Connect Crossroads V survey shows Canada’s International Education sector is well positioned for recovery. Globally, student interest in international education remains high. International students’ perceptions of Canada and its handling of the pandemic continues to be positive and ahead of Australia, New Zealand, the United Kingdom (UK), and the United States of America (USA).

Canada led the pack with positive student perceptions in all categories, including welfare of international students, economic stability of the nation, policies for international students, post-study work visa policies, safety of citizens and visitors, and response to the coronavirus. Loyalty to Canada remained high with 49% of students who chose Canada as their destination country of choice indicating they were unlikely to switch even if an opportunity to study face-to-face became available in a different country. In addition, for students whose first choice was Australia, the UK, or the USA, Canada remained the most popular alternate destination of choice.

Globally, students were optimistic about international education. 79% of respondents expected to start their studies as planned and 45% of students willing to start online. While 28% of students preferred to defer their studies until face-to-face study was possible, 90% of students were willing to consider hybrid (online/in-person) study format in their destination country. A further 60% were willing to consider starting with full online study in their home country if they had access to Post-Study Work rights upon completion.

The IDP Connect Crossroad IV study surveyed over 4,000 students, who aspired to study at, received offers from, or were already studying at one of 435 higher education institution in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, UK, and USA. The study looked at student perceptions of destination countries’ handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and vaccination requirements and attitudes towards pursuing international education.

Read the full IDP Connect Crossroad V Survey.