Frequently Asked Questions for International Delegates

CBIE is the voice of Canada’s international education sector, supporting member institutions through advocacy, capacity building, and partnerships to advance sustainable internationalization and global engagement. Its institutional membership is comprised of 160+ colleges, universities, polytechnics, CEGEPs, language schools and school boards from across Canada.

From its earliest foundations to today’s complex and competitive global landscape, international education has played a defining role in connecting people, ideas, and opportunity across borders and shaping generations of globally engaged leaders. For six decades, CBIE has advanced this work, bringing the sector together, informing policy and practice, and positioning international education as a strategic instrument of Canada’s global engagement.

The CBIE annual conference is Canada’s leading international education conference, bringing together professionals, institutions, government representatives, and partners from post-secondary institutions across Canada as well as delegates from around the world. The conference focuses on international education trends, partnerships, student mobility, research, and innovation in international education.

CBIE is privileged to welcome over 1,000 delegates each year, including international delegates from approximately 35 countries comprising 13% of our attendees.

CBIE has an extensive membership base with representation from each of Canada’s 10 provinces. The annual conference is open to anyone who wishes to attend, regardless of membership status. For a full list of our member institutions, please view the CBIE membership directory.

For more information on who attends the CBIE conference, please visit our Infographics page.

International delegates attend the CBIE Conference for:

Unparalleled networking opportunities: CBIE2026 will convene over 1,000 attendees, offering a unique platform to build meaningful connections with representatives from diverse educational institutions, government bodies, and international organizations.

Partnership development with Canadian institutions: CBIE2026 attracts representatives from post-secondary institutions across Canada, making it an ideal forum to connect with the full spectrum of Canada’s international education sector.

Engagement with policymakers and sector leaders: Connect directly with key decision-makers shaping international education in Canada.

Insights into Canada’s international education landscape: Gain valuable perspectives on policies, trends, and opportunities for collaboration.

More reasons to attend CBIE2026.

Yes. The conference features a wide range of networking opportunities, including receptions and events throughout the program. Some key opportunities are:

International Partnerships Day: This full-day pre-conference event taking place on Sunday, November 22 is specifically designed to facilitate structured business-to-business networking sessions. Access to this event is included with the International Delegation – Full-Conference Pass ticket type ($1,345 CAD per person). If you are purchasing a day-pass or only wish to attend the International Partnerships Day (and not the rest of the conference), tickets to the event can be purchased for $350 CAD per person.

For more information on the International Partnerships Day, please visit the International Partnerships Programming page.

Opening Reception: Join us on Sunday, November 22 for an evening of light refreshments, live entertainment, and networking opportunities during the opening reception. Tickets to this reception are included with the International Delegation – Full-Conference Pass ticket type. If you are purchasing a day pass, or are only attending the International Partnerships Day, tickets to the opening reception can be purchased for $75 CAD.

CBIE 60^th Anniversary Reception: Join us onsite on Tuesday evening, following the Excellence Awards Ceremony, as we take the time to reflect and reminisce on CBIE’s six decades of impact on Canada’s international education sector.

Yes. Many delegates arrange meetings both before and during the conference. All registered attendees will receive access to the delegate list several weeks in advance.

The meeting booking function and the delegate list will be housed in our event app.

Delegates are encouraged to subscribe to CBIE’s mailing list for updates on programming, speakers, registration deadlines, and special events.

Delegates are encouraged to:

• Confirm travel and visa requirements early. Learn more
• Book accommodations in advance. Book now
• Prepare institutional materials and business cards.
• Schedule meetings ahead of time using the conference app.
• Review the conference agenda and identify priority sessions. View program