B.C. post-secondary institutions deal with loss of revenue amid cuts to international student permits [Video]

Schools and colleges in B.C. continue to deal with the fallout of the federal government’s move to issue fewer international student permits.

In January 2024, the federal government announced a two-year cap on the number of international students that colleges and universities in Canada are able to accept each school year.

More than a year later, educators say the impacts of the change are being felt at post-secondary institutions across the province.

Selkirk College in B.C.’s West Kootenay region says it is closing learning centres in the communities of Kaslo and Nakusp as it addresses financial challenges related to federal restrictions on international student recruitment. 

Selkirk College president Maggie Matear says the college anticipates a loss of $9 million in revenue. 

“While this decision wasn’t made lightly, it’s part of a larger plan to ensure Selkirk College remains financially sustainable and continues to serve our region for generations to come,” Matear said.

LISTEN | Selkirk College closing learning centres in Nakusp and Kaslo:President Maggie Matear …