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U.S. Student Applications to Canadian Universities Surge Amid Policy Shifts

Canadian universities, including UBC, are adapting to a sharp rise in U.S. applications linked to Trump administration policies, even as Canada enforces strict international student caps.

A view shows the Environmental Science and Chemistry building at the University of Toronto's Scarborough Campus in Toronto, Ontario, Canada August 6, 2024. REUTERS/Arlyn McAdorey/File Photo
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A worker at The Pier, in Point Robert, Washington, readjusts Canadian and American flags hanging outside the business, Monday, March 17, 2025.

Overview

  • The University of British Columbia (UBC) reported a 27% increase in U.S. graduate applications compared to 2024, with other institutions like the University of Toronto and University of Waterloo also noting significant interest.
  • UBC Vancouver reopened admissions for select graduate programs to accommodate U.S. applicants and is fast-tracking their applications for the upcoming academic year.
  • The rise in U.S. applications is attributed to Trump administration policies, including visa revocations, funding freezes for universities, and increased scrutiny of foreign students' activities.
  • Canada's immigration limits on international student admissions remain in place, posing challenges for institutions to manage the influx of U.S. applicants.
  • Increased U.S. engagement is also reflected in higher campus visits and web traffic at Canadian universities, with Waterloo reporting a 15% rise in U.S.-based online interest since late 2024.