LaSalle College seeks creditor protection, after $30 million in fines!
LaSalle College Enters Creditor Protection: What This Means for International Students
LaSalle College, a major private subsidized institution in Quebec (And Vancouver), has officially filed for creditor protection under the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act (CCAA). As a direct result, all classes initially scheduled for the upcoming term have been suspended until further notice while the administration works to restructure its finances.
Why Is This Happening?
The financial crisis stems from a $48 million debt owed to the province of Quebec. The provincial government imposed strict enrollment quotas on English-language programs as part of broader legislation aimed at protecting the French language.
Between 2023 and 2025, LaSalle College exceeded these language-based enrollment caps, leading to:
$29.9 Million in Penalties: Fines issued by the Quebec government for over-enrolling students in English-language instruction.
$17.9 Million in Repayments: Demands from the province to return educational subsidies paid during the 2025–2026 academic year.
While the college argues that all students were legally admitted with prior government authorization and has challenged the penalties in court, recent attempts to negotiate a reduced repayment plan with the province were unsuccessful.
Impact on Students & Key Advice
If you are currently enrolled at LaSalle College or holding an offer letter for upcoming terms, take immediate steps to protect your academic standing and immigration status:
Monitor Official College Communications: LaSalle College has stated that the suspension of classes is intended to be temporary. Keep a close eye on your student email for updates regarding class reschedulings or institutional arrangements.
Protect Your Study Permit & PGWP Eligibility: IRCC regulations require international students to maintain active enrollment and continuous full-time study to preserve their work authorization and Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility.
Explore Transfer Options: Given the uncertainty surrounding the resumption of classes, students should assess options for transferring to designated learning institutions (DLIs) in good standing if extended delays occur.
How NewSteps Immigration Can Help
Navigating sudden institutional changes while keeping your immigration status secure can be stressful. Our team is actively monitoring the situation to guide affected international students through status maintenance, study permit amendments, and institutional transfer applications.
Express Entry & PR Consultation: +1-604-595-1636 (WhatsApp)
Student & Educational Pathways: +1-778-214-0200 (WhatsApp)
Lead Consultant: Dr. Sunil Jain | Surrey, BC, Canada.