Improving PSE Access and Experience for Refugees in Ontario

Context and Literature Review According to the 1951 UN Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees, a refugee is: A person who owing to a well-founded fear of being persecuted for reasons of race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion is outside the country of his [their] nationality and is unable or, owing to such fear, is unwilling to avail [themse. [...] A ‘Person in Need of Protection’ is someone who cannot return to their country of origin due to the risk of imminent danger, such as torture, death, and cruel and unusual punishment (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, 2020). [...] Research Questions and Methodology This report explores the experiences of refugee students and recent graduates in Ontario PSE and offers evidence on access and success. [...] Specifically, they described having to catch up to their peers’ level of knowledge of Ontario PSE opportunities and entrance requirements; understanding of Canadian culture and academic expectations; and skills and experiences (such as extracurriculars and work) that would prepare them to be competitive applicants for employment. [...] By improving the availability and accessibility of information about PSE pathways, and ensuring refugees feel supported and included in PSE communities from the start, both the Ontario government and postsecondary institutions can contribute to a better settlement experience.