British Columbia (B.C.) is setting higher standards and strengthening protections for international students in the province, which hosts approximately 553,000 post-secondary students. Among these, more than 217,600 are international students from over 150 countries. These students are distributed between public and private institutions, with about 111,900 at public post-secondary institutions and around 105,700 at private post-secondary institutions.
To ensure these students receive the highest quality education and support, B.C. is implementing new protections through higher standards and more rigorous requirements for institutions enrolling international students. A new Education Quality Assurance (EQA) code of practice is being introduced, requiring institutions to meet enhanced standards to support and protect students effectively.
Strengthened Standards and Requirements
The new measures include:
- Clear and Accurate Marketing and Promotional Information: Institutions must provide transparent and truthful information about their programs and services.
- Accountability for Education Agents: Agents must adhere to ethical standards and practices to ensure the best interests of students are prioritized.
- Tuition Transparency: Institutions must provide clear information about tuition fees to prevent unexpected increases for international students.
- Comprehensive Student Support Information: Enhanced support for academic needs, housing, well-being, and health services.
Ravi Parmar, Parliamentary Secretary for International Credentials, emphasizes the commitment to maintaining the integrity of B.C.’s education sector and protecting international students, ensuring they feel supported and secure.
Guidelines for Public and Private Institutions
For public institutions, the new guidelines include:
- Limiting International Enrolment: Capping international student enrolment at 30% of an institution’s total enrolment.
- Tuition-Fee Transparency: Ensuring international students are informed about tuition fees to avoid unexpected costs.
- Strategic Plans and Improved Student Services: Developing new international education strategic plans, enhancing student services, and providing housing supports. Standards must also ensure that Indigenous and domestic students are not displaced by the influx of international students.
Private institutions, similarly, must adhere to the EQA designation, which certifies that they meet or exceed the quality assurance standards set by the Province.
Prince Solanki, an international student from Camosun College, highlights the importance of these measures, noting that access to comprehensive services and supports is critical for the success and well-being of international students.
Second Phase of the International Education Framework
Building on measures introduced in January 2024, the second phase of the International Education Framework continues to enhance oversight and support. This includes:
- Pausing Growth of Institutions Offering International Education: Temporarily halting the expansion of these institutions to manage quality effectively.
- Strengthening Oversight of Private Training Institutions: Increasing inspections, publishing compliance and enforcement actions, and setting higher standards for distance education delivery.
These measures ensure that international students receive a quality education and comprehensive support, enabling them to thrive during their studies and beyond.
With these strengthened standards and protections, B.C. is committed to providing international students with an exceptional educational experience. However, navigating these new regulations can be challenging. If you are an international student or considering studying in B.C., our immigration consulting services are here to help. We offer expert advice and representation to ensure your immigration application is successful and stress-free.