Why Fewer International Students Are Choosing Canada in 2025
Canada is a top destination for international students for a long time seeking high-quality education, cultural diversity, and the promise of a better future. However, a significant shift is occurring—fewer international students are choosing Canada for their higher education in 2025. What’s behind this change? Let’s review the reasons and what it impact for future applicants.
Rising Costs of Tuition and Living
One of the biggest concerns among international students now is affordability. Tuition fees for international students in Canada which has been significantly rise over the past years and are now among the highest in the world for some programs. In addition to tuition, students face soaring living costs, especially in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.
For instance, for Indian students, the financial pressure has intensified. Recent changes now require proof of around ₹14 lakh (about CAD 23,000) in financial support to secure a study permit—up from the earlier requirement of CAD 10,000. This recent significant increase (more than two hundred percent) alone has made Canada financially out of reach for many students across the globe.
Housing Crisis and Cost of Living
Housing shortages have become a major issue in Canada. Students struggle to find safe, affordable accommodation near their campuses. Even shared rooms come at a premium, and the lack of student-friendly rental options only adds to the burden.
Moreover, rising costs which majorly includes transportation, groceries, and health insurance contribute to the perception that Canada is no longer an economically viable option for many international learners.
Immigration and Visa Uncertainty
Recent policy changes have also led to uncertainty about post-graduation work opportunities (with and without scholarship) and permanent residency dream. Tighter visa regulations, longer processing times, and limited post-graduate work permits are causing frustration among prospective students.
We see that Canada’s international student strategy has shifted towards more restrictive immigration targets, aiming to balance the domestic labor market. Unfortunately, this govt changes impacts many students unsure about their long-term goals.
Limited Job Opportunities for Graduates
Many international students come to Canada not just for education, but for career development and a chance at permanent residency. As per the surveys, recent graduates facing difficulty in finding relevant jobs smoothly, particularly in smaller cities or non-STEM fields.
With this limited entry-level roles, students feel uncertain about their future and further stay and PR opportunity. This impacts a question mark for future applicants from taking the same risk.
Global Competition Is Heating Up
There are countries other than Canada, which are offering top-tier education. Nations like Australia, the United Kingdom, Germany, and even the United States are enhancing their international student policies by offering:
Faster visa processing
More generous post-study work rights
Better support for student housing
Clearer immigration pathways
These improvements make them more appealing alternatives compared to Canada, which seems to be going in the opposite direction.
Declining Perception of Value
Previously, Canada stood out for its balance of quality education and affordability. In 2025, this balance seems to have tilted. Students now feel they are paying more but receiving less—less job security, less certainty in immigration pathways, and less overall support.
This decline in perceived value is a key reason why many students are now considering other destinations.
What Should Prospective Students Do?
If you’re planning to study abroad in 2025 or 2026, here’s what to consider:
Do thorough financial planning: Understand the full cost of education, including living expenses.
Explore other countries: Compare tuition fees, post-study work rights, and immigration pathways in countries like Germany, the U.K., Australia, and the U.S.
Apply early: As visa and housing shortages worsen, securing your place early is essential.
Follow updates: Stay informed through official immigration and university websites.
Conclusion
Canada remains a desirable destination for many international students —but for how long? The combination of high costs, policy shifts, and global competition has impacted its appeal. For international students seeking value, stability, and long-term prospects, it’s crucial to weigh all options before committing. Canada must rethink its strategy if it wants to retain its place as a global leader in education.
Source: University Magazine – Why International Students Are Not Choosing Canada
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