London's Student Numbers Tell a Story About to Change

How will new federal policies affect a city where international students have become part of daily life?

Step onto any London Transit bus heading to Fanshawe College or downtown, and you'll see London's present - and future - taking shape. Among the morning commuters are dozens of international students who fill our coffee shops, work in local businesses, and significantly contribute to London's growing role as a global education centre, boosting our economy and cultural diversity.

New research from the London & Middlesex Local Immigration Partnership (LMLIP) shows just how much international students have become part of London's community. According to the latest Matter of Facts report from LMLIP's Fact Sharing Work Group, London now ranks third in Ontario for international student numbers outside Toronto, with 37,745 students choosing our city for their education.

The numbers paint a clear picture: London's international student population has nearly tripled since 2015. College programs lead this growth, with 55% of international students enrolled in college courses, 23% studying at universities, and the rest split between secondary education and other programs.

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 students come from around the world, bringing with them a wealth of diverse cultures and perspectives. India leads with 34% of students, while significant numbers arrive from China, the Philippines, Nigeria, and Nepal, creating a rich mix of cultures and perspectives in our classrooms and communities.

But this picture is about to change. The federal government recently announced plans to reduce new study permits by 35% in 2024 and another 10% in 2025. For London, where international students make up a significant part of our community, these changes will affect more than just our classrooms.

The changes coming in 2024 and 2025 will reshape how our city looks and feels. International students don't just study here - they work in our businesses, rent apartments, shop in our stores, and help build London's future.