Over 43% Decline in International Student Forces Centennial College to Cut 49 Programs
The Canadian government's visa caps could cost Ontario colleges $3.1 billion in two years.
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Toronto's Centennial College is facing federal government pressure to enforce stricter caps on international study permits. In return, it is suspending 49 programs, reducing its offerings by about 28%.
Among the suspended programs are fields like fashion business, tourism, and journalism. Current students in these programs will still have the opportunity to complete their studies. This decision is both a cause and effect of declining enrolment numbers, according to CBC.
College President Craig Stephenson wrote to staff that the school expects a 43% drop in new international student enrolment for this cycle, amounting to nearly 5,000 fewer students. This drops on top of existing financial difficulties in the education sector, and it is already proving difficult to maintain all programs, even as domestic student interest remains strong. He said that due to these changes, staff cuts would be inevitable.
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Toronto To Reduce International Students
In 2024, CIC News reported that the Canadian government announced a limited target of 485,000 permits for international students, which will drop further to 437,000 by 2025 and 2026. This aims to address housing shortages linked to high immigration numbers.
The Ontario government has allocated the reduced permits, with colleges experiencing the largest cuts. This policy change is expected to cost Ontario colleges $3.1 billion in revenue over two years.
Despite the program suspensions, Stephenson emphasized that these are temporary measures, not permanent closures. Programs may be reintroduced or modified depending on future student demand and changes in government policy. However, some programs may face permanent closure if enrolment challenges persist.
Centennial College is not alone in dealing with financial strain due to the international student cap. Other post-secondary institutions across Canada are voicing concerns that the policy could harm their budgets and damage Canada's reputation as a global leader in education.
