Ontario Universities Propose a Fair Allocation of International Student Cap

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Ontario Universities Propose a Fair Allocation of International Student Cap

TORONTO, February 15, 2024 – “Ontario’s universities have a long history of welcoming and supporting international students. These students play a vital role within the social and economic fabric of the province.

It is why, as responsible players in the postsecondary landscape, universities are steadfast in their commitment to support these students when they arrive on our campuses. The sector has made significant investments and provides wraparound supports to ensure students have the resources they need to succeed, including mental health supports, career counselling and housing services.

With more than half a million students enrolled at Ontario universities – representing approximately two-thirds of total enrolment in publicly assisted colleges and universities – we remain committed to providing the supports and resources they need to graduate job-ready and resilient.

In light of the recent federal announcement capping international study permit applications, Ontario’s universities are putting forward a proposal asking that the federal and provincial governments work together to take a more focused and targeted approach.

Our proposal calls for the fair allocation of the international student cap. We recommend the province allocate 35 per cent of Ontario’s 235,000 eligible applications to publicly assisted universities. This will ensure we can continue to recruit the best and the brightest talent from across the globe.

In addition, we urgently call on the province to implement the Blue-Ribbon Panel recommendations that would inject $1.9 billion in much-needed revenue into Ontario universities over three years.

The immediate implementation of the Blue-Ribbon Panel’s recommendations will help ensure the financial sustainability of universities and their ability to support student success.

Read the full proposal for more details: Ontario Universities’ Proposal for a Fair Allocation of the International Student Cap

– Steve Orsini, President and CEO, Council of Ontario Universities

Tags: Blue-Ribbon Panelinternational student capontario's universities