How international students became big business for schools

In this episode of The Decibel, host Mainika Raman-Wilms interviews Joe Friesen, The Globe's post-secondary education reporter, about the dramatic increase in international students in Canada. They discuss how international students are seen as ideal candidates for permanent residency, contributing significantly to the Canadian economy, particularly in Ontario's college system. The conversation covers the reasons for the surge in international student enrollment, including stagnating provincial funding for post-secondary institutions and policy changes that made it easier for students to obtain study permits. Joe shares insights from his conversations with international students at Conestoga College, highlighting the financial pressures and living conditions they face. The episode also explores the potential impacts of the federal government's consideration of capping international student permits on schools and the responsibilities of post-secondary institutions towards these students.