The Quebec Ministry of Education has denied permit renewal requests for the Collège supérieur de Montréal and the Collège supérieur de Sherbrooke, forcing both institutions to suspend operations indefinitely. The decision affects 878 students—the vast majority of whom are international—who now face significant disruptions to their education, visa status, and immigration pathways. While the administration of the two schools confirmed they have been aware of the ministry’s decision since June 30, they have not disclosed the specific reasons for the permit refusal.
Impact on International Students and Immigration Status
The closure leaves nearly 900 students in a state of uncertainty regarding their legal status in Canada. According to Noureddine Hajibi, the director general of both colleges, many students were only weeks away from completing their programs in fields such as secretarial studies and computer science. Students like Bocar Baldé, who arrived from Senegal in the spring 2025, report that the sudden closure jeopardizes their eligibility for post-graduation work permits. For many, the loss of their student status could effectively terminate their long-term immigration projects in Quebec.
Did You Know? The Collège supérieur de Montréal and the Collège supérieur de Sherbrooke share a single administration and serve 878 students, with 528 enrolled at the Montreal campus and 296 in Sherbrooke.
Government Response and Academic Continuity
The Ministry of Education has stated that its priority is the well-being and academic continuity of the affected students. Officials have announced plans to facilitate the transfer of these students into the public education network in Montreal or in Estrie. Additionally, the Ministry of Immigration, Francisation and Integration is preparing measures to minimize the impact on students’ academic progress. Despite these efforts, students will still be required to submit new applications for temporary selection for studies to maintain their legal standing.
History of Oversight and Previous Investigations
The two institutions have faced scrutiny prior to this week’s closure. In April, reports emerged that students from the Collège supérieur de Montréal had been interviewed by the Unité permanente anticorruption (UPAC) as part of an investigation into allegations of fraudulent internship reports. Numerous former students have also claimed that the institution’s reputation has negatively impacted their applications for permanent residency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were the permits for the colleges not renewed?
The Ministry of Education has not publicly released the specific reasons for the refusal, and the college administration has chosen not to describe the ministry’s motifs in their communications to students.
What are the affected students expected to do next?
The Ministry of Education is directing students to complete their training within the public school network. However, all students must file a new application for a temporary selection for studies to remain compliant with immigration authorities.
Were the colleges aware of the impending closure?
Yes. The director general confirmed that the management of both colleges had been aware of the ministry’s decision since June 30.
How should the provincial government balance the need for regulatory oversight of private colleges with the protection of international students who have already paid tuition and invested in their education?
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