London's Education Boom: How Our Colleges Became Global Magnets

New research shows London's college international student enrollment has grown six-fold since 2015, bringing energy and economic benefits to our community

Step onto any London Transit bus heading to Fanshawe College or downtown, and you'll see London's future taking shape. Among the morning commuters are dozens of international students - part of a dramatic transformation revealed in new research from the London & Middlesex Local Immigration Partnership (LMLIP).

These students, who fill coffee shops, work in local businesses, and contribute to London's growing reputation as a global education destination, are not just part of a statistic. They're our neighbours, coworkers, and future professionals who are helping build London's economy. Their presence is a testament to the global appeal of our city and the opportunities it offers.

Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada: Study Permit Holders by Province and Census Metropolitan Area of Destination, Country of Citizenship, and Year in which Permit(s) became effective, 2015 – 2023

According to the latest Matter of Facts report from the LMLIP's Fact Sharing Work Group, the number of international students choosing London has soared from 5,670 in 2015 to 18,310 in 2023. The most surprising finding is that London's colleges, not universities, lead this growth.

College international student numbers have grown dramatically from 1,835 in 2015 to 10,935 in 2023, while university numbers have grown more modestly from 2,180 to 3,150. This shift shows how London's colleges have become powerhouses in international education, preparing students for careers in healthcare, technology, and other high-demand fields.

The data also reveals the increasingly global nature of London's student community. While India leads with 34% of students, London welcomes significant numbers from China, the Philippines, Nigeria, and Nepal, creating a rich learning environment that benefits all students. This diversity fosters cultural exchange, broadens perspectives, and prepares students for the globalized workforce.

Source: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada: Study Permit Holders by Province and Census Metropolitan Area of Destination, Country of Citizenship, and Year in which Permit(s) became effective, 2015 – 2023

These numbers tell an important story about London's growing role in global education. When international students choose London, they bring new perspectives, skills, and energy to our community. Some will become permanent residents, starting businesses, raising families, and contributing to London's future growth.

The research comes at a time when communities across Canada are discussing immigration and housing. While some blame international students for housing pressures, a University of Waterloo study points to systemic challenges in our housing system. The study found that better pre-arrival information about housing markets and living costs could help students make more informed decisions before choosing where to study in Canada. Currently, many need help navigating local rental markets from abroad, making them vulnerable to misinformation and rental scams before they even arrive. This situation highlights the broader need for clear, accessible information about Canadian housing markets for all newcomers to our community.

The growing international student presence in London points to our city's evolution as a global education hub. While international students bring vibrancy to our campuses and communities during their studies, those who later become permanent residents add long-term value to London's social and economic fabric.

The LMLIP works closely with permanent residents, including former international students who choose to make London their permanent home. Through our network of settlement agencies and community partners, we help these new Londoners build careers, connect with their communities, and contribute their skills to our growing city.

As we continue studying these trends, the LMLIP remains committed to supporting immigrants who enrich our community with all their diverse perspectives, skills, and contributions.

The complete Matter of Facts report is available here.

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