Published Apr 11, 2025 • 2 minute readHolland College says it is suspending eight programs in response to a drop in international student enrolment. Photo by Logan MacLean /The GuardianHolland College is suspending eight programs and downsizing three more in what it says is a response to a decrease in international student enrolment.In a news release, president Sandy MacDonald said Holland College has always been committed to providing high-quality education and opportunities for both domestic and international students.“While we regret having to take this unprecedented step, we must respond to these new realities to maintain the integrity and viability of our programs and ensure our long-term financial sustainability,” MacDonald said.THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY.Subscribe now to access this story and more:Unlimited access to the website and appExclusive access to premium content, newsletters and podcastsFull access to the e-Edition app, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment onEnjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalistsSupport local journalists and the next generation of journalistsSUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES.Subscribe or sign in to your account to continue your reading experience.Unlimited access to the website and appExclusive access to premium content, newsletters and podcastsFull access to the e-Edition app, an electronic replica of the print edition that you can share, download and comment onEnjoy insights and behind-the-scenes analysis from our award-winning journalistsSupport local journalists and the next generation of journalistsRegister to unlock more articles.Create an account or sign in to continue your reading experience.Access additional stories every monthShare your thoughts and join the conversation in our commenting communityGet email updates from your favourite authorsSign In or Create an AccountorArticle contentThe college said in its news release that it is more difficult for foreign students attending the school to obtain a study permit and post-graduation work permit after they graduate.International student enrolment at the college will decrease from a high of 799 in 2024 to about 140 in 2026, the school said.Holland College said students enrolled in the affected programs will be provided with guidance and support to complete their studies.It also said the college is working with stakeholders to assess long-term solutions and potential adjustments to future program offerings.Further information on the college’s website said that one of the reasons the number of international students has decreased is related to eligibility for post-graduation work permits.In order to be eligible, they must have graduated from a program that has been deemed to be in a field where there is a labour force shortage.Holland College said fewer than half of the school’s programs have been deemed to be an acceptable field of study by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.Article contentPrograms that aren’t approved are less attractive to international students, Holland College said.It also said the number of study permits that can be issued has been capped.The college said it is projecting $7 million in lost tuition and fees annually because of the decrease in international students.It did not specify which programs are being downsized.Program changesFollowing are the programs not accepting students starting in the fall:Project Management Post Graduate CertificateHotel and Restaurant Operations ManagementTourism, Travel, and Event ManagementMarketing and Advertising ManagementElectronics Engineering TechnologyEnergy Systems Engineering TechnologyArchitectural TechnologyLegal AdministrationArticle content
Holland College suspending eight programs because of international student enrolment drop
