Supporting International Students

International students play a vital role within the social and cultural fabric of Ontario. Their unique perspectives and insights from around the world help strengthen Ontario’s diversity and help enrich university campuses and our local communities.

Universities across the province offer a wide-range of key supports tailored to international students. Some of the services offered include, but are not limited to:

• Creating an enriching student experience by offering wraparound supports, such as helping students find housing, providing immigration advice and increasing access to mental health and wellness resources. Creating inclusive learning and social environments within the campus community where all students feel welcome and engaged.

• Providing students with tailored career supports and guidance to set them up for job-readiness and career success.

• Ensuring students receive a high-quality education and an internationally-recognized university credential that provides them with a competitive edge on the global labour market through a robust and comprehensive quality assurance system.

• Supporting the transition to studying and living in Ontario through orientation, peer support and access to student life and wellness resources.

• Providing access to financial supports through scholarships and awards.

• Aiding students with maintaining Canadian government immigration documents (Study Permit, Temporary Residence Visa).

• Offering information on applying to work in Canada including co-op work permits, social insurance numbers, and income tax, etc.

• Helping students explore post-graduation opportunities, including employment options.

• Supporting students in developing positive mental health practices and maintain their overall mental health and well-being.

• Organizing cultural and social programming that provides meaningful opportunities for connection with other students and with the surrounding community.

Additionally, universities are helping international and domestic students find housing on campus and in their local community.

• In a 2022 survey of 16 Ontario universities conducted by the Council of Senior Administrative Officers, universities have added over 6,400 new residence spaces over the past five years. As of 2022-23, there are over 62,000 on-campus residence spaces at Ontario universities, plus more than 10,000 off-campus spaces. It is projected over 10,800 new spaces on campus will be added over the next five to six years, with several universities developing plans for expansion beyond 2028.

Learn more about how Ontario’s universities are supporting international student success: