ILAC Bankruptcy: What International Students Need to Know Following the Sudden Closure September 2026 — International students in Canada have been left facing uncertainty following
ILAC Bankruptcy: What International Students Need to Know Following the Sudden Closure
September 2026 — International students in Canada have been left facing uncertainty following the sudden closure of the International Language Academy of Canada (ILAC), one of Canada’s prominent private education providers for international students.
ILAC announced that it had filed for bankruptcy protection on September 18, 2026, and that it was ceasing operations immediately. The school stated that all classes and programming had been cancelled effective immediately.
What Happened to ILAC?
According to ILAC’s announcement, the institution had experienced increasing financial challenges over the previous three years. ILAC attributed those challenges, in part, to significant regulatory changes affecting the education sector.
After more than 30 years of operations, ILAC stated that it no longer had the financial resources required to continue operating and expressed regret over the impact on students, employees and partners.
The closure has affected students who were enrolled in programs at ILAC’s locations, with reports highlighting concerns around interrupted studies, tuition already paid, school transfers and immigration-related questions.
ILAC Students Are Now Facing Important Questions
For international students, the sudden closure of an educational institution can create concerns that go beyond simply finding another school.
Students may need to consider their educational pathway, current study permit, designated learning institution (DLI), remaining program requirements and whether any immigration application or update is required based on their individual circumstances.
Students who have paid tuition in advance may also have questions regarding refunds, outstanding balances and the bankruptcy process.
KPMG Appointed as the Bankruptcy Trustee
KPMG Inc. has been appointed as the trustee in bankruptcy for International Language Academy of Canada Inc. KPMG’s official creditor information page provides contact information for students and other creditors with outstanding amounts.
KPMG currently lists ilac@kpmg.ca for creditor inquiries, including amounts outstanding to students, and info@ilac.com for immediate student inquiries concerning academics, transfer options, student records, transcripts and related matters.
What Should ILAC Students Do Now?
Students should avoid making rushed decisions before understanding their individual situation. The appropriate next step can vary depending on whether a student is currently in Canada, has a valid study permit, has already completed part of a program, has not yet started studies, or has outstanding tuition with ILAC.
1. Gather Your ILAC Documents
Students should keep copies of their passport, study permit, Letter of Acceptance, tuition receipts, academic records, transcripts, enrolment documents and any correspondence received from ILAC.
2. Review Your Current Immigration Status
If you are an international student in Canada, review your current study permit and understand how the closure may affect your educational plans. Immigration requirements can vary depending on your circumstances.
3. Explore Alternative Educational Options
Students may need to identify another suitable institution or program to continue their studies. The right option will depend on the student’s previous education, current program, career plans, location preferences and immigration circumstances.
4. Keep Records of Tuition Payments
If you paid tuition or other fees to ILAC, retain all receipts, invoices, payment confirmations and related correspondence. These documents may be important when communicating with the relevant parties regarding outstanding funds or other claims.
NewSteps Education Group & Immigration Is Offering Free Support to Affected ILAC Students
If you are an ILAC student affected by the closure, NewSteps Education Group & Immigration is offering FREE admission assistance to eligible students who need help exploring alternative Canadian educational options.
Our education team can review your situation and help you explore suitable programs and institutions based on your academic background and future goals.
FREE Admission Assistance for ILAC Students
No admission consultation fee.
- Alternative college and university options
- Program and pathway guidance
- Admission application assistance
- LOA guidance
- PAL guidance, where applicable
- Education pathway planning
Free Immigration & Visa Assistance for Eligible ILAC Students
NewSteps also provides FREE immigration and visa application assistance to eligible ILAC students who proceed with their new admission through NewSteps, subject to the applicable requirements and the student’s individual circumstances.
Our immigration team can help students understand their options regarding study permit-related processes, documentation and changes to their educational pathway.
FREE Immigration Support for Eligible ILAC Students
Let our team review your situation before you make your next move.
- Study permit document review
- Immigration status guidance
- Study permit-related application assistance
- Document preparation and review
- Guidance regarding DLI changes, where applicable
- Application submission assistance
Eligibility and applicable services will depend on your individual circumstances.
Need Help Finding Your Next Step?
If your studies at ILAC have been interrupted, you do not have to figure out your education pathway and immigration-related questions on your own.
Contact NewSteps Education Group & Immigration for a FREE assessment of your situation and to discuss your available options.
Call: 604-595-2415
Book a Consultation: Book an Appointment
Important Information for ILAC Students
This article is intended to provide general information about the ILAC closure and potential next steps for affected students. It