Number of international students studying in B.C. up 20 per cent

The number of international students in B.C. is up 20 per cent, according to new figures released by the provincial government.

The province recently announced they plan to increase the number of international students studying in B.C. by 50 per cent by 2016.

In 2012-2013, 112,800 international students studied in B.C. — up from 94,000 in 2009-2010.

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They spent $2.3 billion on tuition, accommodation and other living expenses, according to the province. The spending created 25,000 jobs.

“British Columbia is a world-class destination for tens of thousands of international students who bring economic, cultural and social benefits,” said Advanced Education Minister Amrik Virk. “This growth in international students is exciting for the education sector and the province.”

Countries sending more international students to Canada include India (up 188%), China (up 68%), and Brazil (up 65%).