Study in Canada
Why Supporting International Students Matters for Canada’s Future
Canada has long been a top destination for international students. World-class education, a safe environment, and a welcoming culture have attracted thousands every year. But things are shifting in 2025. With recent changes to immigration policies, many universities, including the University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI), are facing steep enrolment drops, especially among international students.
This decline has triggered significant tuition hike proposals and tough financial choices for institutions. While UPEI is just one example, it reflects a broader issue affecting higher education across the country. Behind the numbers are real people, students striving to build better lives, universities trying to stay afloat, and communities feeling the ripple effects.
Here, we explore how these changes impact the system and why international students are vital to Canada’s success.
Canadian Universities Feel the Pressure
At UPEI, international student enrolment in first-year programs dropped by around 50%. The school now expects a $6 million gap over two years. To respond, it has proposed a 7.5% tuition increase for international students and 6.5% for domestic ones.
This is not just about numbers. For many institutions, tuition fees, especially from international students, make up a large portion of the budget. In UPEI’s case, international students represent just one-third of the student body but bring in more than half of the tuition revenue.
Main Causes of Financial Strain:
- Reduction in federal study permits for international students
- Fewer new enrolments due to tighter immigration caps
- Operating costs increase with limited alternative funding
Here’s a quick view of UPEI’s situation:
| Factor | Details |
| Tuition hike proposed | 7.5% for international students |
| International enrolment drop | About 50% in first-year students |
| Revenue dependency | 56% of tuition comes from internationals |
| Budget shortfall | Projected $6 million over two years |
Why International Students Are Crucial
International students do more than fill classrooms. They contribute to Canada’s economy, enrich its campuses, and often go on to become permanent residents, workers, and entrepreneurs. When their numbers fall, the impact is felt across multiple sectors.
They contribute by:
- Paying higher tuition fees, which help fund education for all
- Renting homes, using services, and supporting local economies
- Sharing global perspectives that enhance learning for everyone
- Filling gaps in Canada’s workforce after graduation
Limiting their access through strict visa rules creates long-term challenges not just for universities, but for Canadian society at large.
UPEI’s Response: A Mixed Approach
UPEI isn’t sitting idle. The university has proposed a $202.9 million budget with several strategies to balance finances while offering support. Among them:
- A new bursary for international students affected by tuition hikes
- Focused investments in cleantech and mental health services
- Vacancy management and program review to cut costs
- Strengthened recruitment and retention efforts
Still, tough choices remain. Without steady enrolment, some programs may be paused, and staff positions reduced. This shows how closely tied education is to immigration policy.
The Future of Canadian Education Needs International Students
The situation at UPEI in 2025 serves as a wake-up call. Canada’s strength in education, innovation, and global influence depends heavily on international learners. They bring talent, ambition, and energy, exactly what the country needs to grow.
As tuition hikes loom and enrolment declines, it’s time to rethink how we support these students. Long-term solutions are needed not only from schools but also from national policies that view international education as an essential part of Canada’s future.
Supporting international students is not just about university budgets. It’s about keeping Canadian education vibrant, diverse, and strong. Let’s keep the doors open and make sure that Canada remains a top choice for students from around the world.
