A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Waterloo’s Faculty of Environment has debunked the widespread belief that international students are responsible for Canada’s housing crisis. The study highlights that international students are actually among the most vulnerable groups affected by the current housing challenges.
The research team, led by Alkim Karaagac, found that international students face significant difficulties in securing affordable and suitable housing, similar to other disadvantaged groups, including newcomers and low-income families in Canada. Karaagac emphasized that these students are often unfairly blamed for the housing crisis, when in reality, they experience severe hardships, including discrimination and fraud.
The study identifies several systemic issues contributing to the housing pressures faced by international students. These include a lack of building programs at the federal level, frozen funding for higher education institutions at the provincial level, and insufficient family or student housing options.
The situation has led to a growing number of international students reaching out for assistance. Khalsa Aid Canada, a charity that supports students in need, reported an increase in calls from international students seeking help with food, clothing, and shelter. Jindi Singh, the charity’s director, criticized post-secondary institutions for profiting from international students while failing to provide adequate support services.
The study also includes personal stories illustrating the housing struggles faced by international students. One family from the Bahamas was forced to live in an Airbnb for eight months because their rental applications were repeatedly rejected. Another family from Bangladesh discovered that the apartment they believed they had rented was already occupied, leaving them to live in a basement for the duration of their education.
To address these issues, Karaagac recommends that universities and cities provide international students with comprehensive guidance and up-to-date information before they arrive in Canada. This includes details about the housing market, cost of living, and available services, so students can make informed decisions.
Karaagac also suggests guaranteeing subsidized housing for all full-time international students, a practice already in place in countries like the U.K. and U.S. Additionally, she calls for stronger bylaws to protect newcomers from illegal practices, such as rental scams, improper fees, and discrimination.
“It is not all sunshine and roses,” Karaagac said, stressing the importance of transparency and support for international students to prevent them from becoming vulnerable in the housing market. Source CBC