Country reports for Canada

 

International Students in Higher Education: A comparative analysis of trends, challenges and policy responses in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom

International Students in Higher Education: A comparative analysis of trends, challenges and policy responses in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom

Australia, Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom have been among the OECD countries with the strongest growth in international student enrolment over the last decade. International students have significantly contributed to enrolment growth, shaped campus life and, in some countries, institutional finances. This report examines the journey and challenges of international students, from choosing where and what to study and obtaining a study visa/permit, to adapting academically, finding housing, integrating into local communities, progressing in their studies and navigating post-graduation pathways. After strong growth through the 2010s and a rebound after the COVID-19 pandemic, international student mobility is entering a more uncertain phase, with some countries tightening policies while others continue to expand international enrolment. By comparing six major OECD study destinations, the report highlights both shared challenges and emerging policy responses. It provides timely evidence on trends, challenges and policy responses related to international student enrolment at a time of growing public and policy attention. It is relevant for policymakers, higher education institutions and other stakeholders.

Publication date:  29 April 2026
✓ Read the publication:  International Students in Higher Education: A comparative analysis of trends, challenges and policy responses in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom
✓ Further information:  Higher Education Policy
✓ See also:  OECD's iLibrary

+Results from TALIS Starting Strong 2024: Canada (New Brunswick and Quebec) - Country Note

+Teaching and Learning International Survey (TALIS) 2024 Results: Alberta (Canada) - Country Note

+Education at a Glance 2025: Canada - Country Note

+Survey of Adult Skills (PIAAC) Results: Canada - Country Note

+Country Digital Education Ecosystems and Governance: A Companion to Digital Education Outlook 2023 (Canada)

+Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) 2022 Results: Canada - Country Note

+Starting Strong VII: Empowering Young Children in the Digital Age - Data Country Note: Canada

+Starting Strong VI: Supporting Meaningful Interactions in Early Childhood Education and Care - Data Country Note: Canada

+Teaching and Learning International Survey (TALIS) 2018 Results (Volume II): Alberta (Canada) - Country Note

+Teaching and Learning International Survey (TALIS) 2018 Results (Volume I): Alberta (Canada) - Country Note

+A Skills beyond School Review Commentary on Canada

+Education Policy Outook Country Policy Profile: Canada

+Measuring Innovation in Education: Country Note on Ontario

+Measuring Innovation in Education: Country Note on Quebec

+Case study: Encouraging The Use of Summantive Data for Formative Purposes in Canada

+Country Background Report: Attracting, Developing and Retaining Effective Teachers: Canada (Québec)

+Thematic Review on Adult Learning: Canada