Press Release: Canada Sector Survey Results

Canadian international education professionals are seeking greater collaboration with government as latest policies impact operations, new research reveals

A new survey by IDP Education reveals Canadian international education professionals face significant challenges due to the country’s new policies, with almost 9 in 10 respondents citing that policies are negatively affecting their international programs and operations.

The study, created in collaboration with leading Canadian sector organizations, provides a voice to the international education industry at a pivotal time following major policy announcements, including a cap on new study permits and limitations to post-graduation work permits.

While most respondents (67 percent) felt that government intervention was necessary to manage the rapid increase in international enrolments, 68 percent disapprove of the suite of policies that was implemented.

Majority of respondents rated the government’s engagement with international education stakeholders as poor (27 percent) or very poor (54 percent) and would have liked more collaboration while policies were being drafted.

Simon Emmett, Chief Partner Officer and Chief Executive Officer UK, IDP Education, said the results point to an urgent need for the Canadian government and sector stakeholders to work together to shape policies.

“Canadian institutions clearly recognize policy changes are necessary to improve quality standards in international education, but what is needed now is clarity from the government so institutions can focus on providing the best student experience,” said Emmett.

“Collaboration between government and institutions is essential to avoid long-term damage to the sector. IDP will continue to share its leading student data and insights to support these conversations and lead best practice.”

Ajay Patel, President and Chief Executive Officer of Vancouver Community College and an IDP Strategic Advisory Board member said the survey has uncovered some practical ways forward for the sector. “

The IDP survey reaffirms what we already know - that there is an opportunity to rewrite the narrative on international students by telling their inspiring stories to the people of Canada,” said Patel.

“As well as improving our sector’s social license, the study highlights the critical importance of student support. There is more we can do to ensure international students have a healthy and positive experience in Canada.”

In response to calls for a national marketing campaign, IDP has launched a sector-wide video campaign titled “There’s a future in Canada for you” featuring current international students and alumni from 30+ institutions sharing their positive experiences in Canada.

Christine Wach, Senior Vice President for Partnerships and Stakeholder Engagement at IDP North America, said keeping students at the heart of the industry is critical to the sector's work.

“We have listened to our students and the sector, and we are actively working with institutions on a nation-wide campaign that will showcase the excellent study opportunities”, said Wach.

“IDP is committed to sharing the voices of students and the sector and amplifying the exceptional study opportunities that Canada offers. We will continue to support our partners through this new policy landscape and ensure that Canada remains a top destination for international students.”

To download the survey report, click here.

About the IDP Canadian Sector Survey on International Education

The Canadian Sector Survey on International Education provides a voice to the international education industry at a pivotal time following major policy announcements, including a cap on new study permits and limitations to post-graduation work permits.

The survey was developed 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, and Universities Canada.

Of the 212 professionals surveyed, the majority were in management (41 percent) or senior management roles (25 percent) at organizations including universities (37 percent), colleges (26 percent), English or French language schools (10 percent), technical institutes (7 percent), sector associations or membership organizations (5 percent) secondary schools (2 percent), and more.

About IDP Education

IDP is a global leader in international student placement and a proud co-owner of the world’s most popular high-stakes English language test (IELTS).

IDP is listed on the Australian securities exchange (ASX:IEL) and has 6,500 employees across more than 60 countries. Our websites attract 100 million visits a year.

We specialize in combining human expertise with digital technology to help people get accepted into their ideal course, take an English language test or learn English in their schools. Our teams work side-by-side with our customers, at every step from course search through to starting their dream course or career.

We partner with more than 800 quality institutions across Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States. Our data insights are relied upon by organizations around the world to help ensure policies are informed by the diverse needs, challenges and motivations of students.

Most of all, we are proud of our people, who are trusted by our customers to help them realize their global study or career goals.

Media contacts:

Annie Collison – Porter Novelli

acollison@porternovelli.com.au

+61 406 080 356