Québec Tightens PR Rules: New French Language Requirements for International Students
Effective November 23, new eligibility requirements for the Québec Experience Program and the Regular Skilled Worker Program will significantly impact international students already in Québec.
PR Eligibility Rules
Resource : Thepienews
Both PR pathways, crucial for international students, were suspended in 2023 and will resume no later than June 30, 2025, with updated rules.
Programs Suspended Until Mid-2025
Starting mid-2025, applicants must complete:✅Three years of post-secondary studies in FrenchOR✅75% of courses in French, including those abroad.
Increased French Language Requirements
Master’s theses, dissertations, internships, and lab research can be in another language, but 75% of other courses must be in French.
Exceptions for Research Work
Institutions are scrambling to prepare students. Many are offering six months of free French courses to meet the new PR application criteria.
Students Struggle to Adapt
Students cannot work while taking language courses. Many face financial hardships, with some unable to afford food during this transition period.
Challenges for Students
Certain programs, like nursing, are now entirely taught in French, making it even harder for English-speaking students to adapt.
Impact on Specialized Programs
Québec’s French language commissioner proposed raising French-taught higher education courses to 85%, citing concerns about declining French usage.
New Targets for French Education
Québec's Immigration Levels Plan aims to lower PR admissions from 15,000–19,000 to 13,500–15,000, emphasizing French-language priorities.
Reduced PR Admissions in 2025
Québec's Immigration Levels Plan aims to lower PR admissions from 15,000–19,000 to 13,500–15,000, emphasizing French-language priorities.