In several parts of Eastern Canada, postsecondary institutions are raising the alarm about low international student applications and the resulting impact on innovation and the economy in their provinces. CBC reports that universities in Québec have seen a 46% decline in applications from international students between 2024 and 2025. Université de Montréal spokesperson Geneviève O’Meara and Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières President Christian Blanchette asserted that the loss of international students will be felt in terms of innovation, economic development, and competitiveness. Speaking to CTV News, Association of Atlantic Universities Director Peter Halpin echoed these comments: “They’re our future professionals, business leaders, community leaders, health-care professionals. They’re just so important to the development of our region.”
