Latin America Agents Report Decline in English Language Learning in the U.S.

The PIE News reports that interest among Latin American students to study in the United States will stagnate with students seeking other English Language destinations. Agents at the International Association of Language Centers workshop in Boston said that the White House’s anti-immigration rhetoric has given rise to concern among families of Latin American students being unsafe and unwelcome in the United States.This is not to say that interest in learning English through study abroad has decreased, just that more students will go to other countries, such as Canada. Canada has reported a spike in interest from Latin American students while 40 percent of U.S. institutions have seen a drop in application numbers. Comparatively lower study costs, work rights, and a welcoming approach have contributed to the diversion of students from the U.S. to Canada. Isabel Matos, director of ICCE, an international student recruitment agency, stated that Canada had already replaced the United States as the most popular destination for Brazilians to learn English.While the U.S. visa system has been engulfed in turmoil, on December 1, 2016, Canada lifted its visa restriction for Mexican students attending language programs lasting less than six months. Michael Bailey, a Canadian embassy officer in Mexico, said that the government expects to see an increase in bilateral government-to-government programs, scholarship programs and exchange opportunities in the next six to 12 months.