A coalition representing nearly 100 Canadian universities has issued a warning about the federal government’s cap on international students, asserting that the actual impact will exceed initial projections. Gabriel Miller, President of Universities Canada, indicated to Global News that the final enrollment figures, expected to be released in October, could reveal at least a 45 percent decline in international students. He cautioned that the situation might be even more severe than anticipated.
The federal cap, introduced in January by Immigration Minister Marc Miller, aimed to reduce international student intake by 35 percent over two years, with the measures described as temporary. The cap was implemented to address the growing pressures on housing, healthcare, and other public services. At that time, it was estimated that around 364,000 study permits would be approved for 2024. However, this number has since been revised to approximately 292,000 approved permits.
Miller expressed concerns that the cap could have long-term repercussions on future enrollment, highlighting the significant role international students play in enriching the educational environment, contributing financially to academic institutions, and supporting the broader economy. He warned that the cap could undermine Canada’s ability to attract and retain top international talent.
In response to these concerns, the Minister’s office noted that while there has been a reduction in intake and approvals compared to 2023, the full impact of the cap will not be clear until the total number of studies permits issued for the fall 2024 and winter 2024 semesters is available, as well as when students begin to arrive.
Several universities, particularly in Atlantic Canada, have already reported a decline in international student enrollment since the cap’s announcement. For instance, Nova Scotia has accepted fewer than 4,000 international students for the upcoming academic year, a sharp decrease from the 19,900 enrolled in 2023. The University of Manitoba has projected a potential seven percent decrease in overall enrollment, which could result in a budget shortfall of $7 to $8 million due to reduced tuition revenue.
Universities Canada has urged Ottawa to refrain from imposing additional restrictions on international students, including further limitations on work permits. The organization is also advocating for an immediate global marketing campaign to restore Canada’s reputation as a premier destination for international students. “We must act promptly to address this issue,” Miller stated. “The situation is urgent, and the time to act is now.”
