Seneca Polytechnic to Temporarily Close Markham Campus Due to Decline in International Student Permits

Seneca Polytechnic has announced it will temporarily close its Markham campus at the end of the Fall 2024 term. This decision is driven by recent federal reductions in international student permits, which are expected to lead to a notable decline in enrollment.

Reasons Behind the Closure: Policy Adjustments by Federal Government
In early 2024, the Canadian government enacted a 35% cut to international study permits, capping them at around 360,000 annually. This was followed by an additional 10% reduction announced in September, bringing the cap down to 437,000 permits for 2025 and 2026. These policies aim to address pressure on housing, healthcare, and other critical services across Canada.

Anticipated Drop in Enrollment

Seneca expects these changes to result in a significant decline in international student enrollment at its Markham campus, making it financially unfeasible to maintain operations under reduced student numbers.

Transition Plans for Students:

Program Relocation

To minimize disruption, programs initially set for Markham will move to Seneca’s Newnham and York campuses in Toronto beginning in Winter 2025. This transition aims to ensure students retain access to the academic and community resources needed for their studies despite the campus closure.

Student Concerns and Impact

The impending closure has raised concerns among Markham students, especially around employment and housing. Some students worry about the impact on job opportunities tied to the Markham area, while others have expressed concerns about finding affordable housing in North York amidst a tight rental market.

Broader Implications for Canadian Institutions

Seneca’s closure reflects a broader trend impacting post-secondary institutions across Canada. Many colleges and universities rely on international students for revenue, and the recent cuts to permits are projected to cost Ontario universities alone close to $1 billion over the next two years. Critics argue these policies not only threaten the financial health of educational institutions but may also harm Canada’s reputation as an attractive destination for international students. There is concern that a reduced number of international graduates could lead to skill shortages in various sectors.

In summary, Seneca Polytechnic’s decision to temporarily close its Markham campus highlights the challenges Canadian educational institutions face amid federal policy shifts. This development underscores the need for a balanced approach to support international education while addressing domestic priorities.