Global Students, Canadian Success: How Kitchener’s ApplyBoard is Shaping the Next Generation of Talent

In an era where global competition for talent is fierce, Canada’s universities must work smarter to attract and retain the best and brightest students. International students are a key driver of economic growth, contributing billions to Canada’s economy while filling critical workforce gaps. But navigating the complexities of student recruitment, visa processing, and application management can be a daunting challenge—especially in a landscape of shifting government policies.

That’s where ApplyBoard, a Kitchener-based education technology company, is making a difference. Founded in 2015 by former international students, ApplyBoard has built a world-leading AI-powered platform that connects students from over 150 countries with top institutions across Canada and beyond. More than just a recruitment tool, ApplyBoard helps universities streamline their application processes, increase study permit approval rates, and ensure that the students they admit are well-matched to succeed.

For Algoma University, ApplyBoard has been a game-changer. The Ontario-based institution, which has campuses in Sault Ste. Marie and Brampton, has a unique academic and cultural offering rooted in cross-cultural learning and reconciliation. But like many smaller universities, it faced challenges in scaling its international recruitment efforts.

Since 2017, ApplyBoard has worked closely with Algoma University to improve student application quality, increase visa approval rates, and enhance the overall enrolment process. One of the biggest wins has been the use of ApplyProof, ApplyBoard’s secure document verification tool, which ensures that student application materials—such as offer letters, financial proof, and language test results—are instantly verifiable by immigration officials. This reduces processing delays and builds confidence in student applications, a key factor in securing study permits.

The impact has been remarkable. Algoma University’s study permit approval rates jumped from 54% in 2019 to 67% in 2023, surpassing the national average of 58%. For ApplyBoard applicants specifically, undergraduate study permit approvals reached an impressive 85% in 2023.

“Having the right technology in place has made all the difference,” says Meti Basiri, CEO of ApplyBoard.“Our goal is to support institutions like Algoma in expanding their reach and enhancing the student application journey—making the process more seamless, transparent, and efficient for everyone involved.”

Beyond improving approvals, ApplyBoard has automated offer letter processing, implemented smart evaluation tools, and provided data-driven insights that allow Algoma to refine its recruitment strategies. It has also worked with the university to improve scholarship and bursary programs, ensuring students have the resources they need to thrive.

At a time when international student enrolment caps and visa policy shifts make planning uncertain, Canadian universities need cutting-edge tools to stay ahead. The success of ApplyBoard’s work with Algoma University is a testament to how homegrown innovation can strengthen Canada’s education sector and cement the country’s position as a top global study destination.

For Canadian edtech companies like ApplyBoard, the mission is clear: when we make it easier for top global talent to study here, we strengthen the future of Canada’s economy, workforce, and innovation ecosystem.

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This article is part of CCI’s new “By Canadian Innovators” series, which showcases how members of the Council of Canadian Innovators work with homegrown companies to fuel their growth and make Canada more prosperous. Each story in this series highlights the unique contributions of these companies to building a more prosperous, innovation-driven economy. To learn more about the companies CCI works with to build a more prosperous Canada, visit our member directory.