Quebec’s recent decision to raise university tuition for international students is facing criticism for potentially exacerbating the province’s labour shortage. The move, aimed at preserving the French language, has sparked opposition, with concerns raised about its impact on attracting and retaining international talent. This article explores the implications of Quebec’s tuition hike on the labour market and immigration, challenging the assumption that international students do not contribute to the province’s French-speaking workforce.
The Tuition Hike and its Justification
The province’s decision to increase international student tuition to a minimum of $20,000 annually, coupled with redistributing the first $20,000 to French-speaking universities, has drawn backlash. Pascale Déry, the minister of higher education, justified the move by claiming that international and out-of-province students do not stay in Quebec and work French-speaking jobs.
Contrary Perspectives
Critics argue that this assertion does not hold true for a significant portion of international students. According to a report from the Quebec Institute, 44% of the province’s 50,000 post-secondary study permit holders work during their studies. Moreover, with over 200,000 job vacancies in Quebec, business leaders emphasize the role of foreign workers, including international students, as a “safety valve” to address the labour shortage.
The Role of International Students in the Labour Force
International students and temporary foreign workers have become integral to Canada’s labour force. Between 2000 and 2019, the number of employed international students across the country increased from 18% to 50%. Recognizing their importance, the federal government lifted the 20-hour-per-week work restriction for international students last year to address the labour shortage.
Quebec’s Risk of Deterring International Students
By increasing tuition fees, Quebec risks discouraging international students from choosing the province for their studies. If universities are compelled to raise international student rates to compensate for the government’s redistribution of tuition, it could render education in Quebec “extremely unaffordable,” warns Meti Basiri, CEO and founder of ApplyBoard, a company assisting international students with their applications.
Impact on Immigration and French Proficiency Rules
The recent tuition hike is part of a series of policies aimed at preserving the French language in Quebec. However, earlier decisions, such as exploring new French proficiency rules for temporary workers, have faced criticism from business leaders. These policies may indirectly affect immigration to the province, making it more challenging for skilled workers to choose Quebec over other provinces with less restrictive policies.
The Importance of Pre-Admission Experience
Raising international tuition could also impact immigration, as many of Quebec’s immigrants initially arrive as international students. Between 2016 and 2021, over 202,000 immigrants to Quebec had “pre-admission experience,” having studied or worked in the province before applying for permanent residency. Immigrants with pre-admission experience tend to integrate better into the workforce and earn more, according to the Quebec Institute’s report.
Conclusion
While Quebec’s efforts to preserve the French language are commendable, it is essential to consider the unintended consequences on the labour market and immigration. The tuition hike risks deterring international students and exacerbating the existing labour shortage. Striking a balance between language preservation and attracting skilled talent will be crucial for Quebec’s economic growth and competitiveness in the global landscape.
