Nearly one-quarter of the University of Windsor’s students come from outside Canada, many introduced to the country for the first time when they arrive in Windsor, according to a study by financial services firm KPMG.

The Economic Impact Assessment says their spending outside of tuition and related fees — on such things as food and accommodation, transportation, and entertainment — supports local businesses and contributes to the vibrancy and vitality of Windsor-Essex.

Read the full KPMG report here.

Vincent Georgie, UWindsor associate vice president external, says the contributions of students from abroad extend beyond the commercial.

“The University of Windsor is elevated in our pursuit of intellectual inquiry and learning by attracting future Lancers from around the world to join us,” he says. “These students, studying in a wide variety of our undergraduate and graduate programs, positively and tangibly impact our regions including local businesses they patronize and community organizations they volunteer for.

“A University is stronger because it assembles thinkers and learners from around the world to come together on one campus to engage and grow.”

An online event especially aimed at prospective students worldwide will offer a travel-free way for them to visit the campus today — Friday, June 4. International Open Day is set to run from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. Windsor time.