Diversity in Canada
Ethnic and Racial Diversity
Canada is known for being a diverse and multicultural country, with a population of approximately 39.4 million people as of 2025
According to the most recent Census data from 2021, 23.0% of the Canadian population identified as a visible minority, up from 22.3% in the 2016 Census2. The three largest visible minority groups in Canada are South Asian (7.1% of the total population), Chinese (4.7%), and Black (4.3%)2. The Indigenous population in Canada is also diverse, with over 630 First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities across the country.
Language Diversity
Canada is officially bilingual in English and French, but many other languages are also spoken across the country. According to the 2021 Census, 10.7 million people in Canada, or 30% of the population, could speak a non-official language. The most commonly spoken non-official languages in Canada are Spanish, Mandarin, and Punjabi.
Population Growth
Canada’s population growth is significantly influenced by immigration. The country values diversity and inclusivity and is committed to ongoing efforts to promote and celebrate diversity in all its forms. As of 2025, the population of Canada is approximately 39.4 million.
Population data for Canada from 2015 to 2025:
Year | Population |
2015 | 35,732,126 |
2016 | 36,113,532 |
2017 | 36,554,348 |
2018 | 37,035,254 |
2019 | 37,522,584 |
2020 | 37,888,705 |
2021 | 38,155,012 |
2022 | 38,454,327 |
2023 | 38,781,291 |
2024 | 39,107,046 |
2025 | 39,431,447 |
Religious Diversity
Canada is a diverse country in terms of religion, with Christianity being the most commonly practiced religion, followed by Islam, Hinduism, and Sikhism, among others. According to the 2021 Census, 53.3% of Canadians identified as Christians, while 34.6% reported having no religious affiliation.
The proportion of people following Islam, Hinduism, and Sikhism has more than doubled over the past 20 years.
Student Population Diversity
Canada remains a popular destination for international students, thanks to its world-class education system, welcoming and inclusive society, and opportunities for career and personal growth. According to Statistics Canada, in 2020, there were approximately 2.2 million full-time students enrolled in Canadian universities, colleges, and polytechnic institutions
As of 2023, Canada hosted more than 1 million international students.
The top five source countries for international students in Canada are India, China, Nigeria, the Philippines, and Nepal
International students are distributed throughout Canada, with Ontario and British Columbia being the most popular provinces for study6. The economic impact of international students in Canada is significant. In 2018, they contributed over CAD $21 billion to the Canadian economy and supported over 170,000 jobs.
Canada is known for its cultural diversity, and this is reflected in its student population as well. Here are some examples of diversity among students in Canada:
- Cultural Diversity: Canada is home to people from various cultures, and this diversity is reflected in the student population. Students in Canada come from various ethnic backgrounds such as Indigenous, Chinese, Indian, Pakistani, Filipino, Korean, African, and many more.
- Language Diversity: Canada has two official languages, English and French, and students from different linguistic backgrounds are represented in the student population. Additionally, many universities offer courses in other languages, such as Spanish, German, Italian, and Chinese, to name a few.
- International Students: Canada is a popular destination for international students, and they make up a significant portion of the student population. International students come from various countries, including China, India, Nigeria, South Korea, and many others.
- Diversity in Abilities: Students with disabilities are also represented in the student population in Canada. Many universities have programs and facilities to support students with disabilities, such as accessible buildings, assistive technologies, and academic accommodations.
- Age Diversity: The student population in Canada is diverse in terms of age as well. While the majority of students are in their late teens and early twenties, there are also mature students who are pursuing higher education later in life.
Overall, Canada’s student population is incredibly diverse, creating a rich learning environment and fostering a sense of understanding and inclusivity among students.
International Students in Canada by Country
According to the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE), in the academic year 2023-2024, Canada hosted a total of 1,040,985 international students
The top ten countries of origin for international students in Canada were:
- India – 433,477 students
- China – 55,301 students
- Philippines – 50,879 students
- Nigeria – 46,604 students
- Nepal – 23,366 students
- France – 21,761 students
- Iran – 17,401 students
- Japan – 17,032 students
- Colombia – 16,861 students
- Brazil – 16,013 students