Holland College Enrolment Decline Signals Major Shift for International Education in Canada

A major update in Prince Edward Island’s education and workforce landscape has gained attention this season. Holland College has reported a considerable reduction in its international student enrolment for the 2025 academic year. This change is closely linked to recent federal immigration policy updates, particularly those affecting Post-Graduate Work Permit eligibility for students in college-level programs.

For many years, Holland College has welcomed students from around the world who wished to study, work, and eventually contribute to Canadian communities. This year’s change highlights how immigration rules directly influence not only colleges, but also local economies, job markets, and long-term community growth. The shift tells a larger story about education, opportunity, and Canada’s commitment to building strong communities.

Holland College Enrolment Decline and Key Factors Driving the Shift

The total number of international students at Holland College has fallen from 848 in 2024 to 446 in 2025. This represents a 47 percent decrease in just one academic cycle. Projections suggest that the decline will continue into the 2026 and 2027 academic years, resulting in a potential loss of over 700 international students in total.

The primary factor contributing to this reduction is the recent federal decision that restricts Post-Graduate Work Permit eligibility for many college students. Work permit eligibility has always been a deciding factor for international applicants who aim to gain Canadian work experience after graduation and pursue permanent residence.

This change influenced both new student applications and renewal decisions among current students. As a result, the college expects tuition revenue to fall by more than four million dollars in the current year.

Campus Programs and Workforce Impacts

The decrease in international student enrolment has also led to shifts in available academic programs. At the Tourism and Culinary campus, four programs were suspended earlier in the year. Across the entire college, eight programs have been suspended for the Fall 2025 intake. Additionally, two programs have been restructured to adapt to new class size realities.

Because of reduced enrolment, 35 faculty and staff positions have been discontinued. This is one of the largest organizational adjustments in the institution’s history.

These changes extend beyond the classroom. Many students who graduate from Holland College choose to stay in Prince Edward Island. Records show that approximately 87 percent of graduates remain in the province after completing their studies. This means fewer international students will lead to fewer skilled workers entering local job markets at a time when many industries need labour support.

Local Enrolment Growth Offers Some Relief

In response to the change, Holland College has invested more effort in local and regional recruitment. This approach has brought positive results. The number of students from Prince Edward Island has increased from 1,303 last year to 1,423 this year. This 11 percent growth demonstrates the strong value of the college within its home community.

The president of Holland College emphasized that this increase reflects the quality of learning, industry-focused training, and student support available within the institution. However, he also noted concerns that continued restrictions on post-graduation work pathways may limit economic growth in the province.

Enrolment Numbers at a Glance

This table reflects the Fall 2025 intake only.

The Holland College enrolment decline highlights how closely immigration pathways and education outcomes are connected in Canada. As policy changes shape the future of international student selection, colleges, communities, and local industries continue to adapt. Prince Edward Island remains committed to welcoming talent and supporting growth, but sustaining a strong student-to-workforce pipeline will depend on balanced and forward-focused immigration planning.