Ontario Needs 1 Million University Graduates by 2035

Ontario will need about 1,004,000 university-educated workers between 2026 and 2035 to meet future labour market demand, according to a new report by the Council of Ontario Universities.

For immigrants, international students, and skilled workers, this report offers an early look at where Ontario expects the strongest demand for talent over the next decade.

Where Will the Demand Be?

The report reveals that the demand will be distributed among different sectors other than technology and engineering, including STEM jobs, business, education, social services, and healthcare.

Job Category	Total Demand (2026-2035)	Share of Total Demand
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math)	212,980	21.2%
Health Sciences (Physicians, Nurses, Other Health Professions)	148,999	14.8%
Education, Law, Social, Community and Public Services	163,377	16.3%
Business, Finance and Administration	195,316	19.4%
Legislative and Senior Management	61,025	6.1%
Art, Culture, Recreation and Sport	24,213	2.4%
Other Management Occupations	72,045	7.2%
Other Occupations	126,909	12.6%
Total Demand	1,004,864	100%

While STEM occupations account for the largest share of projected demand, the report suggests Ontario's future workforce needs will extend far beyond technology.

Significant demand is also expected in business, education, social services, and health care.

Why Does Ontario Need So Many Workers?

Most of this demand is expected to come from worker retirements, as many experienced employees will reach the end of their careers over the next decade.

At the same time, Ontario is also investing in fast-growing industries such as artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, health care, and clean technology, creating a need for more skilled workers.

The report warns that if Ontario does not produce enough graduates, employers may struggle to fill important jobs needed to support the province's economy and future growth.

To help address the challenge, Ontario recently announced a $1.7 billion investment to support 70,000 additional post-secondary seats, including 40,000 new spaces in high-demand programs such as STEM, health care, education, and skilled trades.

What This Means for Immigrants?

Although the report is not an immigration plan, it highlights sectors that may continue to need skilled talent from Canada and abroad.

For international students, the expansion of seats in high-demand programs may create additional study opportunities in fields facing labour shortages.

It also stated that university graduates aged 25 and older had an average unemployment rate of 4.7%, compared with 6.9% for those with only a high school diploma.

The figures highlight the continued value of post-secondary education in Ontario's labour market.

Students considering provincial pathways may also want to explore the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) for future opportunities.

What Immigrants Should Know

The report does not guarantee future immigration draws or permanent residence opportunities.

However, it provides insight into the types of skills Ontario expects to need most over the next decade.

From health care and education to finance and technology, employers across the economy are expected to compete for skilled talent over the next decade.

Not sure which immigration pathway aligns with your education and work experience? Try the UmberApp PNP Finder for a quick eligibility check.