LaSalle College Students Shifted to Part-Time Status Amid Compliance Issues

Dozens of students at LaSalle College in Montreal have found themselves unexpectedly transitioned from full-time to part-time status as the institution scrambles to adhere to Quebec’s language reform requirements. This significant change was communicated to students less than a month before the start of classes, leaving many in a state of uncertainty regarding their educational and professional futures.

Among those affected is Alex Abraham, 33, who was preparing to enter his second year of a network management program. Reacting to the abrupt notification, Abraham expressed his shock, stating, “We all came here with lots of expectations and dreams.” The shift to part-time status severely impacts students’ eligibility for Canada’s post-graduation work permit, which is crucial for many international students since it allows them to work off-campus under specific conditions. For Abraham, this sudden alteration jeopardizes his ability to maintain a factory job that he relies on for financial support.

The college confirmed that approximately 90 students are affected by this change, which is limited to the upcoming fall semester. In a statement, Caroline Gervais, a spokesperson for LaSalle College, explained that the decision was made to ensure compliance with the Charte de la langue française and government-imposed quotas on English-language Attestation d’études collégiales (AEC) programs. This law mandates restrictions on the number of English-speaking students in vocational programs, leading to significant challenges for institutions like LaSalle College.

During the 2024-25 academic year, LaSalle College exceeded the government’s enrollment cap for English-language programs by 1,066 students, which resulted in fines totaling $21,113,864. This was compounded by an earlier fine of $8.7 million, bringing the college’s total debt to nearly $30 million. LaSalle College is currently contesting these fines in a civil suit filed in Quebec’s Superior Court, arguing that many factors outside the institution’s control, such as academic performance and student retention rates, influenced the enrollment patterns.

Abraham, who moved from India to pursue his studies, indicated he was aware of the college’s troubles but believed solutions would be found. The sudden change in his enrollment status was unexpected and has caused him considerable anxiety. “How can I meet my expenses?” he questioned, highlighting the impact on his financial situation.

Gervais clarified that while the college has the capacity to accommodate students as full-time participants, compliance with government quotas restricts their ability to do so. The college is working to address the concerns raised by students, acknowledging that these changes can disrupt graduation timelines, financial aid, and immigration status.

While LaSalle College has arranged a meeting for affected students with representatives from Immigration Canada, Abraham hopes it will clarify the situation. He emphasized, “I have the right to know the reason,” and expressed frustration at the potential perception that students like himself are somehow responsible for the college’s regulatory challenges.

As the situation unfolds, many students remain anxious about their futures and the implications of these changes on their educational and career goals in Quebec. The outcome of the civil suit and the college’s ongoing efforts to navigate government regulations will be closely watched by both students and educational stakeholders in the region.