Then and now: Participation rates in college and university studies of 18- to 24-year-olds
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Description: Then and now: Participation rates in college and university studies of 18- to 24-year-olds
Then and now: Participation rates in college and university studies of 18- to 24-year-olds
Participation in college and university studies among young adults aged 18 to 24 years increased by 29% in Canada between 2000/2001 and 2018/2019.
| Geography | Proportion of 18- to 24-years-olds in college or university in 2018/2019 | Percent change from 2000/2001 to 2018/2019 |
|---|---|---|
| Canada | 44% | +29% |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | 48% | +22% |
| Prince Edward Island | 37% | Table 1 Note † |
| Nova Scotia | 39% | Table 1 Note † |
| New Brunswick | 34% | Table 1 Note † |
| Quebec | 50% | +34% |
| Ontario | 47% | +34% |
| Manitoba | 37% | +19% |
| Saskatchewan | 37% | +20% |
| Alberta | 34% | +17% |
| British Columbia | 43% | +27% |
|
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The rise in participation in higher education among Canada’s 18- to 24-year-olds between 2000/2001 and 2018/2019 was due mainly to a 56 % increase in the popularity of university studies.
The rate of participation in college programs in Canada was unchanged over the same period.
The university participation rate increased in 8 out of 10 provinces. The largest increases were:
- British Columbia (+84%)
- Alberta (+69%)
- Ontario (+58%)
University participation rates remained relatively stable in Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia
College participation rates changed in only three provinces.
- Alberta (-35%)
- British Columbia (-26%)
- Quebec (+17%)
Notes:
- Labour Force Survey (LFS) estimates for Canada are derived using results from the provinces. LFS results for the territories are not included in national estimates.
- Captures public and private educational establishments.
- The elimination of Grade 13 (Ontario Academic Credits [OAC]) in Ontario after 2002/2003 may have affected participation rates.
- The participation rates in education reflect the total enrolment in college or university as a percentage of the total population. It includes full- and part-time students who were taking a "credit course"; i.e., a course or program of instruction that could be counted towards a degree, certificate or diploma. The number of students is based on a monthly average from September to April.
Source: Statistics Canada, Labour Force Survey
Table 37-10-0103
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