Particle.news

Download on the App Store

KPU Plans Further Layoffs as International Enrolment Falls About 60%

KPU blames federal permit caps plus visa processing hurdles for the enrolment slide that opened a budget gap.

Image
Kwantlen Polytechnic University in Surrey, B.C.
Kwantlen Polytechnic University has announced plans for another round of staffing cuts.

Overview

  • Kwantlen Polytechnic University expects about 2,360 international students this fall, roughly 60% fewer than in Fall 2023, with overall enrollment down about 25%.
  • A staff memo projects a $5–10 million revenue shortfall in the 2025–26 budget, triggering another round of reductions equal to roughly 40–45 full-time positions.
  • Eight instructors in the Melville School of Business have received layoff notices with end dates in January 2026 unless mitigation agreements reduce the number.
  • KPU cites lengthy IRCC study-permit processing times and higher denial rates as the main barrier for international applicants, following national cuts to permit volumes and narrowed PGWP eligibility.
  • The Kwantlen Faculty Association warns the combined effect of layoffs, retirements, and lost contract work could shrink the faculty by 10–20% and is urging federal and provincial intervention, as other B.C. schools report similar pressures.