Vancouver, Canada – In a bid to address ongoing issues within the international education system, the Canadian province of British Columbia has implemented a two-year ban on new post-secondary institutions applying to enroll international students. Post-Secondary Education Minister Selina Robinson made the announcement last Monday, citing the need to rectify exploitative practices that have adversely affected the province’s education system.
Minister Robinson highlighted concerns such as poor-quality education, a shortage of instructors, and instances where students were deterred from filing formal complaints by certain private institutions. The comprehensive review of the international education system began in March last year and revealed shortcomings that necessitated immediate action.
Of the 175,000 international post-secondary students in British Columbia, representing over 150 countries, approximately 54% are enrolled in private institutions. The province is home to 280 private schools, with 80% of them located in the Lower Mainland.
To further safeguard the quality of education for international students, Minister Robinson also announced the implementation of minimum language requirements at private institutions. This measure aims to better prepare students before their arrival in British Columbia. Detailed information on the language requirements is expected to be released in March, as the province continues its efforts to enhance the international student experience.
In addition to the ban and language requirements, British Columbia plans to intensify inspections of private schools to ensure compliance with established standards. Minister Robinson emphasized the importance of addressing exploitative practices, revealing that many students are reluctant to complain due to fears of jeopardizing their student visas.