Quebec to increase tuition fees and enforce French language requirement in its universities

English-language universities in Quebec are opposing a proposal that will raise tuition fees and require out-of-province students to have French language proficiency. McGill University and Concordia University are concerned about potential decreases in student enrollment as a result of these changes. The plan, to be implemented next year, will increase tuition for out-of-province students by 33% and require 80% of non-Quebec students to reach an intermediate level of French by graduation, with universities facing financial penalties if this target is not met. Additionally, a greater portion of international student fees will be directed to the province instead of university operating budgets. Quebec's higher education minister, Pascale Dery, explained in a letter that the purpose of these changes is to balance funding between English and French universities and reduce the amount spent on subsidizing students from other provinces, while also preserving the French language. McGill University's President, Deep Saini, criticized the plan as illogical and not evidence-based, suggesting that the university may consider establishing a campus outside of Quebec or taking legal action. Concordia University's President, Graham Carr, expressed concerns that the plan would result in a smaller student body and negatively impact Quebec's reputation. Both universities estimate that these changes could cost them $150 million annually, with McGill potentially having to cut up to 700 jobs. The proposed changes to higher education in Quebec align with other initiatives aimed at preserving the French language and heritage in a province where it has been declining. For instance, in June, Quebec passed a law designating French as the sole official and common language in the region.