International student enrollment down 45 per cent, Universities Canada

 

Universities Canada says international student enrollment has fallen far short of the federal government's goal of reducing the number of international students. The organization warns that the impact could be huge. Universities Canada president Gabrielle Miller told the media that the number of international students admitted to universities and colleges will drop by as much as 45 per cent. Schools are reporting up to a 45 percent reduction when they officially count how many students have arrived and enrolled. The final figure will be reported in October.

Universities Canada points to a 45 per cent decline, while Institutes Canada, which represents the country's colleges and institutes, said it expects a 54 per cent decline. The federal government's new policy has created uncertainty among international students. Institutes Canada says students are choosing other countries to attend universities and colleges when they don't get clarity from Canada.

Miller says Universities Canada is concerned about the impact on future endowments. International students are a great asset to schools, he said.