Algonquin College closing Perth, Ont. campus as it deals with 'challenging fiscal times'

Algonquin College plans to close its campus in Perth, Ont. next year, as it deals with a multi-million deficit due to the new federal cap on international students and provincial funding shortfalls.

Algonquin College plans to close its campus in Perth, Ont. next year, as it deals with a multi-million deficit due to the new federal cap on international students and provincial funding shortfalls, according to the president.

In a letter to employees and students, Algonquin College president Claude Brulé says a recommendation will be presented to the Algonquin Board of Governors in February to close the Perth Campus by the end of August 2026.

"This is an extremely difficult decision that is not taken lightly and is the direct result of the financial challenges we are facing," Brulé said, calling the revenue shortfalls the "most challenging fiscal times in the college's history."

"Programs at the Perth Campus will remain active until the end of the 2026 Spring Term, at which point they will be transferred to the Ottawa Campus. The College is planning to complete this transition and cease operations at the Perth Campus by the end of August 2026. Every effort will be made to mitigate impacts on employees and learners during this transition."

In November, Brulé said Algonquin College was projecting a $32 million decrease in revenues this year due to the new federal cap on international students, changes to the eligibility for post-graduate work permits and "sustained financial challenges" due to the ongoing freeze on domestic student tuition.

Brulé say following a review of operations by the college's Executive and Leadership Teams, it has "become clear" that Algonquin College is projecting a $32 million loss in revenue for the 2024-25 school year.

"Without mitigation measures to change course – on a cash flow basis – the college anticipates a deficit of $60 million for 2025-26, increasing to $96 million for 2026-27."