Maple News reports that Quebec’s Ministry of Immigration, Francization, and Integration (MIFI) has suspended the acceptance of new applications for the Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) from international students applying to ten designated learning institutions (DLIs) under investigation. The freeze takes effect on December 30 and will remain in place until March 31, 2021.
The CAQ is a mandatory document for most international students who wish to study in Quebec. Applications submitted prior to December 30 but not yet processed will be placed on hold during the investigation period.
The ten DLIs identified by MIFI include:
– M College of Canada
– Matrix College of Management, Technology and Healthcare
– Canada College Inc.
– Herzing College
– CDE College
– Montréal College of Information Technology
– Institut supérieur d’informatique (ISI)
– Universel College – Gatineau Campus
– Collège CDI
– Montréal Campus of Cégep de la Gaspésie et des Îles
According to a government statement, these institutions are being audited due to ‘questionable recruitment practices’ aimed at foreign students. The ministry emphasized the importance of preserving the integrity of the Foreign Student Program, noting that allowing these applications to proceed could compromise trust in the system.
Since Quebec has more autonomy than other Canadian provinces in designating private institutions as DLIs, a significant proportion of such institutions welcoming international students are located in the province. DLIs enable students to qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), a vital component for gaining skilled Canadian work experience—a pathway often used to apply for permanent residency.
Programs such as the Quebec Experience Program and Express Entry’s Canadian Experience Class allow former international students with Canadian work experience to transition into permanent residency. Consequently, the status and credibility of DLIs play a pivotal role in attracting and retaining international talent.
While investigations continue, prospective international students are urged to verify the status of institutions before applying, and affected students may need to explore alternative options for their studies in Canada.
Maple News will continue to monitor the situation and report on any changes from Quebec immigration authorities.