International Students’ Struggles and Barriers Arising from Policy Changes in Canadian Higher Education

Abstract

Over recent years, the Canadian government has frequently revised policies affecting international students, creating challenges in navigating study permits, work permits, permanent residency, and citizenship pathways. This thematic review, based on 26 empirical studies, examines struggles faced by international students aged 18 to 35, who occupy a key position in Canada’s global education market and experience financial pressure, mental health concerns, and academic stress. Additional barriers include navigating academic honesty across cultures, cultural adaptation, culture shock, and instances of discrimination or exploitation, all of which affect their well-being, financial stability, and long-term settlement prospects. Using Nodding’s’ Ethics of Care and Ball’s Critical Policy Analysis, three recommendations emerge: (1) embed an ethic of care in policy decisions, (2) increase transparency and accountability through critical review, and (3) develop inclusive supports grounded in care and justice. Meaningful reform requires structural change that challenges institutional norms and systemic biases shaping international student experiences.