International Recruitment in Canadian Higher Education: Factors Influencing Students’ Perceptions and Experiences with Education Agents

Abstract

Education agents, also known as college counsellors or third-party recruiters, have been used extensively by Canadian higher education institutions (HEIs) to recruit international students. Unfortunately, little research to date has focused on international students in Canadian HEIs regarding agent practices. This study investigated Canada-bound international students’ perceptions of and experiences with education agents. A survey consisting of two scales was used to gather data. A total of 385 participants representing 59 countries responded to the survey. Findings revealed that nearly half of the participants used education agents during their application, but their general perceptions of and specific experiences with agents were less than satisfactory. This study also identified a few characteristics of international students that might help Canadian HEIs improve the efficiency of their recruitment practices and policies.