The Manitoba government is highlighting the consequences of the federal government's decision to drastically reduce international student allocations, a move that continues to place Manitoba's post-secondary institutions in a challenging position, Advanced Education and Training Minister Renée Cable announced on January 9.
"Since the federal government announced cuts in 2024, we have heard from institutions that the changes have led to a steep decline in international student enrolment, which has resulted in a substantial decrease in revenue for our public universities and colleges," said Cable. "These reductions make it difficult for institutions to plan for the long term as they rely on stable student numbers to deliver high-quality education. The federal government made its decision without consultation and without consideration for the real-world impacts on provinces like Manitoba."
The federal policy saw Manitoba's international student allocations decline to 11,196 in 2026 from 18,591 in 2025, a reduction of 40 per cent.
"Our universities and colleges depend on international students not only for financial strength, but for the diversity, innovation and the global perspectives they bring to our campuses and society," said Cable. "These massive cuts have created unnecessary hardship for the education system."
The minister added that while the federal government's actions have created significant challenges, the Manitoba government remains committed to supporting students and protecting the strength and integrity of its post-secondary system.
The Manitoba government will continue to engage with post-secondary leaders and federal officials to address the impacts of the cuts and to pursue solutions that safeguard the future of Manitoba's education system.
