The Canadian Press reports that the “dramatic decline” in international study permits poses an “existential threat” to Canada’s postsecondary sector. The article includes discussions from postsecondary leaders on the impacts of the Government of Canada’s 2024 and 2025 study permit allocations. Universities Canada President Gabriel Miller linked the drop in international students to “an earthquake hitting an education system that’s already structurally weakened by years of underinvestment.” Colleges and Institutes Canada President Pari Johnston added that “Canadian student access to high-demand programs, the training and talent pipeline employers depend on, and local research and innovation capacity are all at risk.” In response to dropping study permit approvals, many institutions are bracing for fallout while urging greater public investment in postsecondary education.
