Eight programs suspended at P.E.I. college over drop in international students

A P.E.I. college says it is suspending some programs for the upcoming school year due to the federal government's cap on international student study permits.

A post-secondary institution on Prince Edward Island is suspending eight programs for the upcoming school year citing a drop in the number of international students.

Holland College said international student enrolment will decrease from a high of 799 in 2024 to approximately 140 in 2026 due to “recent changes in Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada policies.” Last January, the Liberal government announced a two-year cap on the number of international student applications it would approve and imposed limits on post-graduate work permits.

The college said it is also working with the province to address “ongoing financial challenges.” It said the decrease in enrolment will result in $7 million in lost tuition and fees annually.

“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,” said Holland College president and CEO Sandy MacDonald in a news release Friday.

The eight programs being suspended for the 2025/26 academic year include:

• Project Management Post Graduate Certificate
• Hotel and Restaurant Operations Management
• Tourism, Travel, and Event Management
• Marketing and Advertising Management
• Electronics Engineering Technology
• Energy Systems Engineering Technology
• Architectural Technology
• Legal Administration

Holland College said students currently enrolled in these programs will be able to complete the second year of their studies if they have met all the necessary academic requirements.

Three other programs will be downsized due to reduced enrolment. The college said the changes will impact 35 staff members.

“These measures include a reduction in program staffing and administrative positions and attrition through retirements and vacant positions,” read a statement from the college.

“We are also engaged in energy-saving measures across our campuses to reduce utilities expenses, vendor contract negotiations to secure better rates and terms, and streamlining administrative processes to improve efficiency and reduce redundancy.”

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