This study examines the experiences and needs of South Asian international students in Ontarian universities and colleges, in light of the rapid increase in their numbers. Conducted in collaboration with the Councils of Agencies Serving South Asians (CASSA) and through direct engagement with South Asian students, the research investigates how the internationalization process within these institutions affects students’ socio-cultural and academic integration and success in Canada. The study seeks to understand students’ perspectives on internationalization, exploring whether it promotes inclusivity or exacerbates exploitation and marginalization. Using a case study approach, the research involves in-depth, semi-structured interviews with South Asian international students and key institutional personnel from two universities and two colleges in Ontario.
This qualitative study contributes valuable insights into the experiences of South Asian students in Canadian higher education, offering recommendations for future policies and interventions aimed at improving their academic and socio-cultural integration.
Research Questions
- In what ways do the internationalization policies and practices in universities and colleges in Ontario respond to the requirements for creating an equitable, inclusive, and diverse educational environment for international students?
- How do South Asian international students perceive and experience the internationalization policies at their institutions? Which specific policies and practices do these students believe require modification to better meet their needs?
- How do colleges and universities in Ontario differ in their approaches to internationalization, and how do these differences impact the experiences of international students within these institutions?
Methodology
This community-based participatory research project is a collaborative effort between researchers from the University of Toronto and the Council for Agencies Serving South Asians (CASSA), funded by MITACS and CASSA. The project is designed to actively engage community members, ensuring their participation through CASSA’s networks. The research will recruit 30 South Asian international students currently enrolled in various Ontarian higher education institutions, or those who have completed their studies within the past three months. In addition, 10 administrative staff or faculty members from different institutions will be interviewed.
The research process begins with participants completing a survey that collects personal and demographic information, including details about their cultural background, ethnicity, academic history, and current living conditions. Following the survey, participants take part in a semi-structured interview, which will last approximately one hour or longer, depending on the conversation. These interviews are being conducted either in person at participants’ chosen location or virtually via Zoom.
Before the interview, participants review and discuss the Letter of Information to ensure they fully understand the research process. A brief meeting is scheduled with the researcher to address any questions or concerns. Participants then provide informed consent to participate, either by signing a Consent Form or providing verbal consent, which is usually recorded.
The interviews are being audio recorded if participants consent to this, and a written transcript will be produced. If participants prefer not to be recorded, the researcher takes detailed notes during the interview. At any point during the interview, participants may ask questions, take breaks, or request to reschedule if needed.
We are currently recruiting participants
Any South Asian international student who is 16 years or older and currently enrolled in a post-secondary educational institution in Ontario is eligible to participate in this research. To date, we have successfully conducted interviews with 15 students from a diverse range of institutions, and we are looking forward to recruiting 15 more participants by February. If you’re interested in sharing your experiences and contributing to this important research, we invite you to reach out!
How to Participate
If you would like to participate or learn more about the project, please contact us at tanzinatahereen@cassa.ca. The recruitment poster for the project is attached below for your reference.
Community Partners & Institutional Staff Interviews
In addition to engaging students, we are also conducting interviews with community partners and staff members at institutions who work closely with international students. This will provide us with valuable, diverse perspectives on the challenges faced by South Asian international students. These insights will be used to inform our research and create broader awareness around the issues at hand.
Upcoming Events
- Upcoming Session on Mental Health of International Students
- As part of our ongoing efforts to raise awareness, the research team is developing a Mental Health Crisis Module specifically focused on the unique challenges faced by international students. This will be followed by an awareness information session workshop scheduled for January 27th 2024, where we will delve deeper into the topic and discuss solutions. Please find the details below:
- Date: 27th January 2025, Time: 10 am – 12 pm.
Session 1
- Time: 10 am – 11 pm
- Speaker: Sandeep Marwaha
- Topic: Mental Health & Wellbeing, An Asian Perspective
Session 2
- Time: 11 am- 12 am
- Speaker: Tanzina Tahereen
- Topic: Mental Health Awareness Session for International Students
Get Involved
If you are a South Asian international student who would like to participate in the research or have any questions about the project, please reach out to tanzinatahereen@cassa.ca. We look forward to hearing from you and working together to create positive change for South Asian international students in Ontario!
Past Activities of the Project
Launching an Awareness Campaign on International Students Series
As international students begin their educational journeys in a foreign country, they encounter a range of challenges that often remain unaddressed. In recognition of these struggles, CASSA is launching an awareness campaign titled “Facing Reality: The International Students Awareness Campaign” during the week of International Students Day (Nov 17th, 2024). This campaign seeks to highlight the key issues faced by international students, as well as offer policy recommendations for change. The series will address seven critical issues that reflect the struggles and exploitation faced by international students in Canada, shedding light on their experiences and advocating for greater support and reform.
The series include the following posts:
Launching Event of Sunoh curated by Kahani pictures
CASSA, in collaboration with three other organizations—Sunoh, Soch, and Ladliyaan—organized the launch of a short film titled “Listen: The Struggles of South Asian International Students” created by Kahani Pictures. The event took place on June 5th at 6:30 pm at the Atrium, Cester College.
The evening featured a panel discussion followed by the screening of the film, The film aimed to shed light on the challenges faced by Female South Asian international students.
Organized a Panel Discussion on Anti International Students Hatred
CASSA hosted a panel discussion on Exploitation and Hate for International Students during its Annual General Meeting on Wednesday, October 16th, 2024. The panel addressed critical issues such as exploitation, discrimination, and the specific challenges faced by South Asian students. The discussion also examined the role of educational institutions, the impact of Canadian immigration policies, and the effectiveness of existing support systems for international students.
