International Students Face Housing and Cost Challenges in Canada

By Visa Jobs CanadaJune 28, 2025International Students & GraduatesCanadian immigration, housing shortages, international students, visa sponsorship, work permits

Facing Challenges as an International Student in Canada

As global housing shortages and shifts in immigration policy redefine the experience for international students, many are reconsidering their choice to study in Canada. Let’s explore some of these challenges and what they mean for those considering a new life north of the border.

Living the Canadian Dream: Expectations vs. Reality

Wilson Emmanuel, who moved from Nigeria to pursue a degree in Information Systems Management, arrived in Canada with great hopes. However, he quickly found himself grappling with the stark realities of life here: high housing costs, multiple job rejections, and a tight budget. Sharing a cramped apartment with his wife, Wilson faced landlords asking for six months’ rent upfront due to his lack of a Canadian credit history. “Everything is so expensive,” he says, reflecting on whether he made the right choice.

Finding part-time work can also be a struggle for international students. Most have to adapt to a different job market than they expected. Wilson eventually found a cashier position at Home Depot by connecting with local community and cultural networks, illustrating the importance of community support in finding work.

The Housing Crisis and Mental Health

Arathi Suresh Kumar, an Indian student at Sault College, has faced her own battles with housing. Despite living in Toronto, she shares a two-bedroom basement with six others, making life stressful and intrusive. With her job at Tim Hortons barely covering expenses, she expressed concerns about her health and living conditions, highlighting how poor housing affects mental well-being.

A recent report shows that Arathi’s experience is not unique. Many students encounter the same challenges: a competitive housing market leaves them with limited options, often resulting in overcrowded living situations that contribute to stress and anxiety.

Financial Strains: Tuition and Support

For international students, the cost of education can be steep, often ranging from $30,000 to $40,000 annually—far more than their domestic peers pay. Unfortunately, they often lack access to government financial aid, making them vulnerable to increasing costs. Recent changes made by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) have more than doubled financial requirements for study permits, limiting opportunities for those from lower-income backgrounds.

Compounding this issue are new restrictions surrounding Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP). Many programs, particularly those from private colleges or diploma-level courses, now fall outside eligibility for the PGWP, which may hinder the immigration pathways for many students.

Why Canada Still Attracts Students

Despite these challenges, Canada remains a prime destination for international education, having welcomed over one million students in 2023. Compared to countries like Australia and the UK, Canada offers affordable tuition, a diverse culture, and substantial work opportunities during studies. These factors make it appealing for newcomers seeking permanent residency through various pathways. However, experts warn that Canada’s reputation is at risk due to recent policy changes and funding shortfalls in post-secondary education. The drop in study permits—from over 681,000 in 2023 to around 516,000 in 2024—signals that the students are feeling the strain.

As the landscape continues to evolve, it’s crucial for prospective students to stay informed about these changes and support systems available to them.