Quebec Updates PEQ Graduates Stream Requirements: New French Language Criteria

If you're a graduate from a Quebec post-secondary institution planning to settle in the province through the PEQ Graduates stream, you'll need to be aware of new French-language criteria coming into effect on November 23, 2024. The changes are aimed at strengthening French proficiency among applicants, and here's what you need to know:

75% French-Language Requirement

Starting November 23, only students who have completed at least 75% of their courses or credits in French will be eligible for the PEQ Graduates stream. Here’s how the new requirement applies based on the type and level of study:

• Vocational and College Training Programs: 75% of courses must be completed in French.
• University Undergraduate Programs: 75% of program credits must be completed in French.
• University Master’s and PhD Programs: 75% of program credits must be completed in French.

It’s important to note that while theses, master's dissertations, internships, and research labs can be completed in another language, all other courses or credits must adhere to the French requirement.

Special Eligibility Conditions for Certain Students

Students who have graduated from a Quebec institution and whose program was previously eligible for the PEQ Graduates stream but did not meet the 75% French-language requirement may still qualify under a special condition. These students must have completed at least three years of full-time secondary or post-secondary education in French, either in Quebec or abroad.

Temporary Pause on PEQ Graduate Applications

The PEQ Graduates component has seen a temporary pause in applications, which will last until June 30, 2025. The Quebec immigration department (MIFI) expects to issue only 4,500-5,700 Quebec Selection Certificates (CSQs) to PEQ graduate candidates in 2025, a significant decrease from the 14,500 projected for 2024. The 2025 issuance target applies only to profiles submitted before the application pause took effect.

Additionally, MIFI has paused invitations for the Regular Skilled Worker Program (QSWP), which will soon be renamed the Skilled Worker Selection Program, until June 30, 2025.

Immigration Options Outside of Quebec for PEQ Candidates

The pause in the PEQ Graduates stream may limit opportunities for some candidates, but there are other immigration pathways available outside of Quebec. The Canadian Experience Class (CEC) under Canada’s Express Entry system is one alternative. To qualify, candidates must have at least one year of Canadian work experience and demonstrate language proficiency at a Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) level 5 or 7, depending on the job.

Additionally, category-based selections under Express Entry for French-speaking candidates can offer opportunities. Candidates who meet eligibility requirements for at least one Express Entry program and possess a CLB level 7 in all language skills (reading, writing, listening, and speaking) may receive invitations even with lower ranking scores.

These changes highlight the importance of French proficiency for immigrants planning to settle in Quebec while offering alternative options for candidates outside the province.