More international students than ever are choosing British Columbia as a study destination, with latest figures showing a 20% increase in international students and a 28% increase in direct spending by international students.

“British Columbia is a world-class destination for tens of thousands of international students who bring economic, cultural and social benefits,” said Advanced Education Minister Amrik Virk. “This growth in international students is exciting for the education sector and the province. Our government is on target to meet its ambitious commitment to increase the number of international students by 50% by 2016.”

In 2012-13, 112,800 international students attended public and private post-secondary institutions, elementary and secondary schools, and private language training schools in B.C., up from 94,000 in 2009-10.

International students spent $2.3 billion in B.C. on tuition, accommodation and other living expenses, arts and culture, and recreation, which supported almost 25,500 jobs and created a positive economic effect on communities throughout British Columbia.

“Thompson Rivers University and Kamloops truly recognize the value of international education – TRU is home to 1,725 international students from 85 countries,” said Mike Henniger, international marketing and interim managing director, TRU World Global Operations. "The connections our students from B.C. and across Canada make with their international counterparts start a lifetime of relationships that will lead to economic development and further global cultural understanding.”

There have been notable increases in the number of students coming to B.C. from India (188%) and China (68%) over the three-year period. B.C. also continues to welcome students from other emerging markets, including Latin American countries such as Brazil, which increased by 65% since 2009-10.

In May 2012, government officially launched British Columbia’s International Education Strategy, which promotes the global two-way flow of students, educators and ideas between countries. The strategy was built from the input of students, educators, institutions, communities and other partners who understand that British Columbians benefit from embracing new ways of learning and inviting other cultures and ideas into B.C.’s cities, towns and classrooms.

Government is on track to meet its commitment to increase the number of international students coming to B.C. by 50% by 2016.

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