In a recent article for University Affairs, Association of Atlantic Universities Executive Director Peter Halpin discusses Atlantic Canada’s reliance on international students. Halpin writes that Atlantic Canada has historically been attractive to international students because of factors such as cost of living, tuition fees, and academic reputation, but federal policy changes have negatively impacted Canada’s international reputation and have affected student choices. Halpin states that Atlantic universities are more dependent on international students than institutions located elsewhere in Canada, with international enrolment at 30% in the region. He warns that the decline in international students will negatively impact the region’s revenue, population growth, and community organizations. Halpin calls on the federal government to “urgently rebuild Canada’s hard-earned reputation as a welcoming country for international students” to support Atlantic Canada’s continued growth and prosperity.
