Quebec's adoption of Bill 74 on December 5 introduces new regulations targeting primarily private colleges and their enrolment of international students. Designed to address rapid growth in student numbers and improve education standards, the legislation is part of Quebec’s broader immigration and education strategy. These changes are expected to reshape how and where international students can study in the province.

What is Bill 74?

Bill 74 introduced measures to regulate private colleges in Quebec, granting the provincial government expanded oversight powers. The legislation gives Quebec the authority to:

• Limit enrolments: The government can cap international student numbers based on region, program type, institutional capacity, or level of study.
• Designate institutions: Only institutions officially designated by the government are permitted to enroll international students. Students must remain enrolled in their approved institution unless granted authorization to transfer.
• Enforce local student quotas: Private institutions must meet minimum enrolment thresholds for Quebec-resident students, ensuring a balance between domestic and international admissions.
• Regulate recruitment: The government can monitor and restrict aggressive or misleading marketing practices targeting international students.
• Impose penalties: Institutions that fail to comply with the new regulations may face fines, restrictions on their operations, or removal from the list of designated institutions.

These measures aim to address long-standing concerns about overcrowded classrooms, insufficient student support, and uneven educational standards at some private colleges. However, there are concerns that international students are unfairly blamed for broader immigration issues, and this bill can take away the autonomy of institutions.

Why was Bill 74 introduced?

The law comes after a surge in international students, drawn by the promise of affordable education and pathways to permanent residency – a 140% increase in Quebec between 2014 and 2023. While this trend has brought economic benefits, it has also created challenges, such as overcrowded classrooms, insufficient support services, and inadequate housing options.

For students, these issues can lead to a less-than-ideal experience, including difficulties in adapting to Quebec's academic and cultural environment. By limiting enrolments and introducing stricter regulations, the government hopes to promote regional diversity, address labor market needs, and ensure the sustainability of the province's integration capacity.

How the Bill 74 may affect you

Bill 74 introduces several changes that international students should keep in mind:

1. Enrolment limits: Private colleges will now have stricter rules on how many international students they can accept. This might make it harder to secure a spot at some institutions or in certain programs, so applying early and considering backup options is a good idea.
2. Approved colleges only: You'll need to study at a government-approved, designated institution. If you want to transfer programs or schools later, you might need special permission, which could limit flexibility.
3. Higher standards for colleges: Schools must prove they can properly support students. This includes offering services like academic counseling, mental health resources, and safe housing. These changes aim to create a better student experience overall.
4. Tuition increases possible: With enrolment limits, some private colleges might face financial challenges, which could lead to higher tuition fees. Budget planning will be more important than ever.
5. Fewer options: Colleges that don't meet the new requirements could lose their designation, meaning fewer choices for students looking to study in Quebec.

These changes are intended to ensure that institutions meet high standards, but they also mean students will need to be more strategic in their planning. Staying informed and researching colleges early will be key.

What's next?

As the new rules take effect, students should monitor updates from their institutions and stay informed about potential impacts on their education plans. Bill 74 is part of a broader effort to address concerns about rapid international student growth and ensure that Quebec remains a competitive and supportive destination for global learners.