Universities in Canada are currently considering the introduction of mandatory vaccinations for international students in the autumn.
Several universities, including Western University and Trent University are requiring domestic and international students to have received at least their first dose of the Covid-19 vaccine before being admitted.
The Vice-Provost of students at the University of Toronto said in a statement that the rule had been implemented for safety on campus.
“This requirement, which is endorsed by our local public health authorities, will enable us to give our students the residence experience that they expect - and that is so important to their growth and development - without compromising on their health and safety.”
Over 70% of the population of Canada above the age of 12 have received at least one dose of the Covid-19 vaccine, and the handful of universities requiring vaccinations is stark in contrast to over the border in the United States.
In the US, over 500 colleges and universities have a must-vaccinate requirement, with the vast majority of American schools requiring at least one dose to be on-campus, not just live in halls of residence.
With many countries behind the rate of vaccination in Canada, it is thought that some international parents are considering sending their child to Canada due to the opportunity to access vaccinations.
Jennifer Wilson, of the Canada Homestay Network, said that “We’re hopeful that many of our students will take advantage of their eligibility as soon as they arrive.”
