LaSalle College is postponing the start of its school year by one day as it pushes back against a $30 million fine from the Quebec government related to the number of English-speaking students enrolled at the school.
The private downtown Montreal CEGEP was supposed to welcome students back on Monday, Aug. 25., but in an email to its community, announced Friday that all classes on that day are cancelled. The fall semester is now scheduled to begin on Tuesday, Aug. 26.
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In a message to students, LaSalle College called the decision “exceptional” and said the campus will still be open on Monday for those who want to visit, meet with staff or simply gather with friends.
The reason for the delay, according to the school, is the province’s refusal to fund what it calls “services rendered” for Quebec students in English-language programs. LaSalle says that since the government has already signaled it will not meet its financial obligations, the college cannot begin delivering classes as planned.
The dispute stems from Quebec’s Bill 96, which places limits on how many students can attend English-language programs at public and subsidized private CEGEPs.
According to the Ministry of Higher Education, LaSalle College went over its allowed quota by 716 students during the 2023–2024 school year. In 2024–2025, the school reportedly exceeded its limit by more than 1,000 students.
The $30 million fine is meant to cover what the province says are funding overpayments, but LaSalle College is fighting back, calling the penalty “abusive” and saying it threatens the school’s survival. The college is also taking the matter to Quebec Superior Court, asking the judge to cancel the fine.
Despite the delayed start, the school says students’ academic progress and program quality will not be affected.
“LaSalle College is fully committed to defending the interests of its students and employees and to resolving this situation fairly,” the school said in its message.
The college says it hopes to reach an agreement with Quebec before the new term begins.
