Source: OUSA News Release via Academica | May 6, 2014
The Ontario University Students Association has published a new policy paper that addresses international student enrolment. OUSA expresses its support for increased internationalization, but suggests that if a goal of doubling Canada’s international student enrolment by 2022 is to be achieved, issues including international student tuition and student support networks must first be addressed. The report issues a series of recommendations; several focus around tuition fees, including suggestions that international student tuition should not exceed the real cost of education and that needs-based financial assistance be considered. Moreover, the report calls for international student tuition to be better regulated within the provincial framework. The report also suggests exploring strategies to increase the number of Canadian students who are able to pursue study abroad opportunities, calling for comprehensive support for inbound and outbound students.
TCS Insights: The OUSA recognizes the importance of international students in Canada but states that various tuition reforms must take place so that the number of these students continues to rise. Their policy paper also says that support systems for students entering the country for the first time need to be improved to aid the academic experience as well.