Update on the Economic Impact of International Education in British Columbia

In December 2015, the BC Council for International Education (BCCIE) commissioned Economist Dr. Roslyn Kunin of Roslyn Kunin and Associates, Inc. (RKA, Inc.) to undertake a report titled "An Update on The Economic Impact of International Education in British Columbia" for the 2013/14 academic year.

This report builds on the economic studies Dr. Kunin prepared for BCCIE for 2011/2012 and 2009/2010. It examines the growth in international student spending and student numbers within the K-12, post-secondary and language sectors across the province. The purpose of this research is to quantify the many economic benefits of student mobility for BC.

"The 2013/14 data tell us that International Education continues to be a success story for British Columbia," says BCCIE Executive Director Randall Martin. There are now 114,600 international students in our province, contributing to approximately 27,500 jobs. International Education is a key sector of the BC jobs plan and an important driver of a strong economy.

"In addition to these economic benefits, international students also bring social and cultural benefits. Now more than ever it is important to have a globally focused education system with an open flow of people, ideas, and research from around the world. International students help us achieve this. The deep-routed relationships they form within BC communities and schools are long-lasting, whether they return home or stay in their adopted country.”

View the infographics below to learn more: