Implications of language laws for students
The Quebec government passed Bill 96 into law, adopting new requirements to promote use of the French language. Depending on your situation, An Act respecting French, the official and common language of Quebec may have implications for you.
Frequently asked questions
Will I need to take courses in French?
This law does not require you to take courses in French, other than those that may already be required for your program.
Living in Montreal is a golden opportunity to learn or improve your French. Look into taking advantage of lower tuition for French courses and see the resources available to help you succeed in French.
Is there a cap on how many students may enter English-language universities in Quebec?
No, there is no cap on the number of students that may enter English-language universities in Quebec.
How does the new law change my experience of being a student at Concordia?
We do not anticipate any changes to your experience, the language of instruction or your course requirements (except if you intend to immigrate to Quebec). As a member of the Concordia community, an English-language institution, you’ll have access to all the services and resources the university offers.
Do I need to pass a French exam before I graduate?
Unless your permanent address is in Quebec (meaning you are domiciled here) you will not have to pass a French exam. If you decide to immigrate and are domiciled in Quebec, you will have to be able to work in French and demonstrate your proficiency to any relevant professional order. The government has yet to adopt regulations to determine how this proficiency will be assessed.
Can I still receive health care in English?
Yes, health care will continue to be available in English.
Do I need to speak French to sign a lease for an apartment?
Landlords and tenants can easily access information about rental leases, and the standard form lease required by the Quebec rental board is available in both English and French. In Montreal especially, many people speak both English and French.
Will I need to speak French to take part in paid internships through the Co-op program?
Our Co-op students, from Quebec and beyond, do paid internships in Montreal, across Canada and around the world. Some internships have specific language requirements and others do not. Learn more about the Co-op program.
I heard that immigrants to Quebec can only access government services in English or another language for six months. What will that mean for me?
Yes, that is correct. However, health-care will continue to be available in English in Quebec; also, as a member of the Concordia community, an English-language institution, you’ll have access to all the services and resources the university offers.
I’m hoping to stay in Quebec after I finish my degree. Will the new law make it more difficult for me to immigrate?
Quebec immigration programs are governed by the Quebec Immigration Act, its regulations, and related policies. You can review the requirements for the main Quebec immigration programs. Please note that, unfortunately, the International Students Office does not advise on matters pertaining to permanent residency.
Will the new law make it more difficult for me to find work in Quebec?
The new law is designed to protect the French language in Quebec. As a Concordia student, you’ll have the opportunity to learn or improve your French during your degree, and those language skills will serve you well when you graduate. Look into taking advantage of lower tuition for French courses and see the resources available to help you succeed in French.