Canada’s international student intake does not align with labour market needs, with most focusing on business-related programs. Only a small percentage pursue health sciences, medicine, or trade and vocational programs. This mismatch is blamed on a lack of oversight and contributes to negative economic outcomes. Experts argue that immigration policies focus more on immigrant outcomes and long-term market needs. The Federal Government aims to reduce the number of new study permits, considering only a specific number of study permit applications in 2024 due to concerns about the integrity of the international student system.
