In a recent article, Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan) President Pari Johnston emphasizes the immediate effects of the federal cap on international student study permit applications. While the policy has effectively reduced permit applications and approvals, Johnston warns that it is also creating significant challenges for the postsecondary sector. To avoid budgetary deficits, she explains that some institutions are cutting programs, limiting intakes, and reducing hiring, which undermines their ability to train essential workforces for national and global needs. Johnston urges the Government of Canada to “pause and reassess” these policy changes, urging “smart, deliberate, and predictable solutions” to sustain the sector.
