Economic Impact of International Education in Canada reaches $15.5B annually – 2017 Update

Executive summary

Produced for Global Affairs Canada by Roslyn Kunin & Associates, Inc. – December 2017

This study, commissioned by Global Affairs Canada, assesses the economic impact of international students studying in Canada in 2015 and 2016. The current study updates a similar study, prepared for Global Affairs Canada in 2016, with more recent data and an improved estimation approach. It is estimated that spending associated with international students studying in Canada amounted to $15.5 billion in 2016. This spending translated into a $12.8 billion contribution to Canada’s GDP in 2016 and supported 168,860 jobs. By way of comparison, this $15.5 billion in education service exports in 2016 was greater than Canada’s exports of auto parts, lumber or aircraft. View full report.

International education professionals in Canada: sign up to the Trade Commissioner Service website and choose “I represent a Canadian educational Institution or association.” This will give you access to education sector market intelligence and other key documents. You will also find upcoming international education events, and contact information for education trade commissioners in Canada and abroad.