Full Breakdown
Sharp Drop in International Students at Memorial University Triggers Provincial Concern
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Decline in Enrolment and Federal Permit Cap
Memorial University’s international student body fell 45 % over the past three years, dropping from 4,889 in 2023 to 4,179 in 2024, then to 3,199 in 2025 and projected at 2,682 for 2026. The downturn follows the federal government’s 2024 cap on study permits, a measure aimed at easing a housing crunch and curbing private-college exploitation of foreign students. The Auditor General notes the policy produced a “sharper decline” than anticipated and hit smaller provinces harder; Newfoundland and Labrador, which was expected to see more approved permits, instead recorded a reduction.
Regional Impact and Official Reactions
Ava Czapalay, chief executive of the Association of Atlantic Universities, says visa officers are rejecting a higher share of applications from Atlantic Canada than from provinces such as Ontario, prompting the association to raise the issue with Ottawa. Premier Tony Wakeham, in his State of the Province address, urged the federal government to lift the restrictions, arguing that the province needs more foreign students to fill upcoming labour gaps. AnnMarie Boudreau, CEO of the St. John’s Board of Trade, echoed the concern, warning that business leaders fear a shortage of workers for provincial projects if enrolments continue to fall.
University Response and Recruitment Drive
Interim registrar Angie Clarke described the situation as a “stark decrease in previous enrolments.” She added that Memorial University is “aggressively recruiting and reducing barriers” in admissions. Clarke highlighted a 14 % rise in new international students this September compared with the prior year, suggesting a modest rebound. The university stresses that attracting students remains a top priority, independent of financial considerations.
Federal Outlook on Skilled Talent
The federal immigration department stated its goal of attracting skilled international talent while maintaining a sustainable overall immigration pace. It reported that 21 % of new study permits this year were for master’s and doctoral programs, up from 12 % the previous year, indicating a shift toward graduate-level enrolment.
Verbatim Quotes
- “There certainly was a stark decrease in previous enrolments,” — Angie Clarke — Angie Clarke, interim registrar, Memorial University.