Overview
The CBIE International Student Survey (ISS) is a unique national dataset that offers comprehensive insights into the experiences of international students at Canadian post-secondary institutions, spanning their journey from pre-arrival planning to their studies and post-graduation outcomes. Since its launch, the survey has experienced significant growth in both respondent participation and the breadth of insights it provides, generating valuable evidence on emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities across the international student experience in Canada.
The CBIE International Alumni Survey (IAS), officially launched in 2025, explores the post-graduation experiences of international students who studied in Canada. The survey examines their transition into the workforce, the challenges and opportunities they encounter, the factors influencing their decision to remain in or leave Canada, and their reflections on the value of their Canadian educational experience.
Participation in the IAS is offered as an optional enhancement for institutions taking part in the International Student Survey (ISS).
National results, research briefs, and reports from previous survey cycles are available in our Reports & Publications.
Participating Institutions
All Canadian post-secondary institutions are welcome to join this national research initiative. Participating institutions receive their respective institutional report and data as well as a standard benchmarking report. The deadline to submit the Participation Agreement to join the International Student and Alumni Surveys is September 8, 2027.
Participation Fee
The cost to participate in the International Student and Alumni Surveys is included in the annual CBIE membership fee. Institutions that are not members of CBIE are also welcome to participate in the surveys. The fee for non-member institutions to join the survey is $5,500.
Survey Timeline
Institutions should start their ethics review process as soon as possible to ensure the survey(s) can be launched on October 13, 2027, using the link provided by CBIE. The survey will close on November 24, 2027.