According to Maple News, Canada has solidified its reputation as one of the safest and most stable countries for international students, while also ranking among the most welcoming. New insights from two global surveys conducted by Navitas Insights reveal that Canada is setting itself apart both for its approach to health crises and its openness to international learners.
The surveys, conducted in May and September of 2020, highlight a shift in global student sentiment during the pandemic. Initially competing closely with Australia and New Zealand, by September 2020, Canada had improved its standing and was contending with the United Kingdom for the top spot. What makes Canada stand out isn’t just its stability, but also its proactive and inclusive policies for international students.
Unlike some countries that are viewed as either safe or welcoming—but not both—Canada is recognized as balancing both qualities effectively. Education policy experts attribute this reputation to Canada’s thoughtful pandemic response and its clear communication with prospective students during a time of global uncertainty.
To accommodate international students during COVID-19, Canadian immigration authorities introduced new travel rules. Students from any country can enter Canada, as long as they’re attending a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) with an approved COVID-19 readiness plan—which must be officially sanctioned by the provincial government in that region.
For those considering higher education in Canada, the first step is selecting a DLI and applying to a program. Once accepted, students can apply to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for a study permit. Importantly, international students are permitted to include family members in their applications. Spouses, for example, may qualify for open work permits, allowing them to work in any job while accompanying the student in Canada.
As global interest in studying abroad rebounds post-pandemic, Canada’s blend of safety, opportunity, and inclusive immigration policy cements its position as a top education hub for students worldwide.