(Credit: Fanshawe College website picture)
Fanshawe College is suspending 18 programs following the drop in international students’ enrollment, a move officials say is necessary.
The college confirmed on Monday that the affected programs will be suspended over the 2026 winter term. This announcement comes as colleges and Universities across Canada face program and staffing cuts in response to the federal’s decision last year to cap international student permits which has led to a major drop in applicants.
Peter Devlin, Fanshawe’s president says, “I appreciate the international department team, with fewer international students, we must reassess how we allocate resources to ensure the sustainability of programs.”
“I can confirm that we are forecasting deficits of $35 million in the coming year, and $60 million in the following years.” he added.
International students have long played a key role in Ontario’s post-secondary sector, with a large portion of tuition revenue. The drop in enrollment has forced institutions like Fanshawe, Centinnial, and other schools to reconsider program offerings and staffing levels.
The students are sad with these changes, those hoping to take a second program are scared and clueless on what second program to take because most of their dream courses are not eligble for Post graduate work permit.
A number of students expressed their disappointment over the decision. “I feel blindsided by this decision, as I have invested time and money in my program.” says Michelle Lopez, a first-year hospitality student. “Many of us came here expecting to finish our programs, and now we have to rethink our plans.” she added.
Venis, a supply chain student says, “I am looking forward to taking business marketing for my second program, it’s on the school website that its open to apply for, but it is not on the PGWP aligned programs for Fanshawe.” It’s confusing, we don’t know what to do.’ She added.
“You just wake up one morning, and decide to break people’s heart, that’s very unfair and I understand that it is not the school’s fault.” “It’s the government cancelling, and changing rules every time, which is heartbreaking and depressing.” says Cassandra Lewis from the Philippines. She also says, “Do they think about international student’s mental health when they keep changing these things, I don’t even listen to the news anymore.”
The policies are changing every day, and the students are worried about what would be done or said the next time they hear from the school. Although, the school has not announced the programs that would be suspended, they hope the school makes a better decision for them.
