CPF Toronto 2026: how the largest education conference opens the path to Canada
We're sharing our experience participating in CPF Toronto 2026 and explaining why immigration through studying in Canada actually works.
At the end of April 2026, we returned from Toronto, where the annual international education conference CPF Toronto 2026 (Canada Partnership Forum) took place. Our immigration company was represented by Alex Pavlenko (CEO) and Ivanna Pavlenko — a Canadian licensed immigration consultant and co-owner of the company. We participated not only in the main conference but also in Pre-CPF — a closed event for key partners only.
Over several packed days, we met with old partners, found new ones, discussed key industry trends, and once again confirmed that immigrating to Canada through education remains an excellent pathway that works for people with just a high school diploma as well as those who already have a university degree.
What is CPF and why it matters
Canada Partnership Forum is Canada's largest international education event, organized annually by the language school ILAC (International Language Academy of Canada). In 2026, the conference was held in Toronto from April 24 to 26, with a preliminary Pre-CPF program for key partners on April 23.
The event brought together over 350 delegates — international education agents, representatives from more than 30 Canadian colleges and universities, and education service providers. This year's official partner was TOEFL — the international academic English language exam.
Conference program
The conference was packed and well-organized down to the smallest detail. April 24 started with participant registration, followed by a fair for ILAC students, campus tours, and a welcome reception. April 25 featured the official program: the opening ceremony, educational sessions with leading Canadian institutions, and an evening networking event. April 26 included leadership sessions, partner meetings, and familiarization tours.
Our company also participated in Pre-CPF — a closed event before the main conference, open only to key partners. The Pre-CPF program included guest speakers, panel discussions, market-specific meetings, and a business dinner. The intimate format allowed us to discuss strategic industry issues and strengthen partnerships in a more personal setting.
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The conference confirmed several important trends that we regularly share with our readers. Canada continues to be one of the most attractive countries for education and subsequent immigration. Canadian colleges and universities are actively expanding programs for international students, and despite tightening some immigration rules, the government still views international graduates as an important source of skilled workers.
There was particular interest in preparatory language programs, which allow students without sufficient English proficiency to start studying in Canada and gradually reach the level needed for college or university admission. These programs make Canadian education accessible to a wider range of people.
Why immigration through education is a proven path
Attending conferences like this allows us to get firsthand information about which institutions offer the best conditions, which programs provide eligibility for post-graduation work permits, and which provinces are most open to immigrant graduates.
The education pathway to immigration works for a wide range of people. For those with only a high school diploma, a Canadian college offers the chance to get a marketable qualification and start a career in Canada. For those who already have a degree, a Canadian diploma helps adapt their qualifications to the local job market, gain Canadian work experience, and significantly improve their chances of getting permanent residence through programs like Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs.
After completing a program of 8 months or longer, graduates are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit, which allows them to stay in Canada and gain valuable Canadian work experience. This experience, in turn, provides additional points when applying for permanent residence.
Our impressions and new partnerships
For our company, participating in CPF Toronto 2026 was an important step in strengthening existing partnerships and building new ones. We met with representatives from Canadian colleges and universities, discussed admission conditions for our clients, and learned about new educational programs that will be especially interesting for Russian-speaking immigrants.
The event format — with informal networking events, shared meals, and evening receptions — allows us to build truly trusting relationships with partners, which directly impacts the quality of services we provide to our clients.
Want to learn more about studying and immigrating to Canada?
If you're considering moving to Canada through education, we'd be happy to help you explore your options. Our licensed immigration consultant Ivanna Pavlenko will provide an individual assessment of your situation and recommend the best educational pathway based on your experience, goals, and budget. Book a consultation about studying in Canada to take the first step toward a new life.
