Sault College Targets Michigan Students with Competitive Programs

Sault College has launched recruitment efforts aimed at attracting students from Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, promoting its proximity and competitive tuition rates compared to institutions within the state. The post-secondary institution is emphasizing that studying in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, provides a more accessible option than schools located two to three hours away from home communities in Michigan.

The recruitment initiative has included participation in fairs held in Sault Ste. Marie and Alpena, with plans to reach as far south as Gaylord, approximately 200 kilometers from its Northern Avenue campus. Interim President Sherri Smith articulated the appeal, stating, “Why not one hour north with better tuition rates?” This effort is supported by a dedicated recruitment team from various departments, including student services and registration.

While Sault College has not set a specific target for Michigan students for the fall 2026 academic year, Smith expressed interest in enrolling five to ten students from the state. The college plans to assist these students with obtaining passports and learning visas, enhancing the feasibility of cross-border education.

For over two years, a recruiter has focused on attracting students from southwestern Ontario, particularly to programs like fish and wildlife technician and adventure recreation and parks technician. Smith noted that options for such programs are limited within the province, making Sault College an appealing choice. The recruitment strategy also includes visits to high schools and direct engagement with guidance counsellors in the region.

Recent statistics reveal a positive trend in domestic enrolment at Sault College, with a total of 901 new students this fall, up from 798 in fall 2024. Overall domestic enrolment rose to 1,573, compared to 1,473 the previous year. The Sault campus alone has recorded 1,499 domestic students, which marks an increase of 72 from last year.

Despite these gains in domestic enrolment, the college has faced a significant decline in international student numbers, dropping from 3,267 across all campuses in fall 2024 to 1,275 this year. The number of new international students fell from 472 to 199, and students from abroad studying in Sault Ste. Marie decreased from 926 to 574. Katie Paquette, the interim registrar, attributed this decline to federal government restrictions on eligible programs and post-graduate work permits.

This academic year marks the end of Sault College’s partnership with triOS career colleges in Brampton and Toronto, with around 650 students expected to complete their studies by December. Paquette indicated that the college achieved 105 percent of its domestic recruitment goal but only managed to recruit 83 percent of its target for international students.

“There’s been a big change” in how international students view Canada as a viable study option, Paquette stated. Many applicants struggle to meet government requirements and thus face challenges in their applications. She emphasized that domestic enrolment presents a significant opportunity for growth in the future, stating, “International is no longer something that we can really feel like we can depend on.”

The college has also implemented cuts to a handful of full-time support positions due to a financial deficit linked to the federal cap on international enrolment. Interim President Smith confirmed that no further cuts are anticipated at this time.

Meanwhile, President David Orazietti remains on leave, having stepped away from his position in July. No details regarding his return have been disclosed, according to board chair Tom Katagis.

Sault College continues to adapt its strategies in response to evolving educational landscapes, aiming to provide accessible and quality education for both domestic and international students.