Faith and Finance: Canadian University’s Expansion Plans Foiled by New Regulations

Providence University College and Theological Seminary’s ambitious plans to expand its international student program were abruptly derailed by the Canadian government’s unexpected decision to impose new restrictions on undergraduate international students. The private evangelical school had been thriving, attracting several hundred students and generating significant revenue, which helped further its mission of spreading the gospel globally. However, the new rules, set to take effect this fall, will reduce the total number of international students by about 35 percent, leaving Providence facing a devastating loss of millions of dollars in revenue and forcing them to drastically scale back their expectations, from greeting hundreds of new students to just 20, a crippling blow to the institution’s financial stability and its ability to fulfill its mission.

The Canadian government has sounded the alarm on the surge of international students at its colleges and universities, citing concerns over the erosion of educational quality and the strain on the country’s already beleaguered housing market. With lax admissions standards potentially compromising the integrity of the International Student Program, officials are seeking to reduce the number of foreign students to ensure their success and protect the reputation of Canadian education. Meanwhile, the influx of international students has exacerbated the housing crisis, with skyrocketing costs and a staggering shortage of affordable homes – estimated to be 5.8 million by 2030. By curbing the number of international students, the government aims to strike a balance between welcoming global talent and preserving the quality of education and affordability of housing for all Canadians.