A Certificate of Eligibility for Instruction in English in Quebec is an important part of securing your rights as an English-speaking Quebecer. This certificate serves as a permanent, transferable right that allows a child to attend public English elementary and high schools, as mandated by the Charter of the French Language. It is required for exemption from specific CEGEP requirements set out in law 14 (Bill 96). It also helps preserve educational and potentially broader language rights for future generations.
Read more about how to get the certificate, who is eligible, and why it is important:
Are you or your child(ren) eligible for English-language instruction in Quebec?
Generally, a child can obtain a Certificate of Eligibility:
– If they received most of their elementary education in Canada in English
– If their brother or sister received the majority of their elementary education in English in Canada
– If their mother or father received the majority of their elementary education in English in Canada
– There is a possible exemption for individuals with severe disabilities (this exemption would also transfer to their siblings, but not to their future children, should they have any)
When should you apply for the certificate?
As early as you can! The certificate must be received prior to the child starting grade 11, but we recommend getting it as early as possible to ensure your rights are protected in the event of future policy changes.
How do you apply?
Applications are submitted through your local school board. They will provide you with the forms, walk you through what documents are needed to apply (for example, long-form birth certificates, school records), and submit the application on your behalf. Individuals are not permitted to apply directly. In the Outaouais, contact the Western Quebec School Board to start the process.
https://westernquebec.ca/services/eligibility
How will I know if my application was approved?
Applicants will receive notice by letter mail from the Ministry of Education.
What if my application is not approved?
If the Ministry of Education refuses a request to go to an English school, the parents or legal guardians can challenge the decision. A challenge must be made to the Tribunal administratif du Québec (administrative tribunal) within 60 days of getting the decision. The website of the Tribunal has information on how to file a challenge.
If my child is going to French school, why should I get the certificate?
There are a few reasons why having the Certificate of Eligibility is important, even if you have chosen to send your child to a French school. Having a certificate of eligibility on file will give your child priority admission when applying to an English-language program at a French or English CEGEP. Given Law 14 and enrolment caps, this can have a major impact on their admissions. Additionally, students with the certificate will be eligible to take the English exit exam, whereas students without the certificate will be required to take the French exit exam in order to graduate. It also provides them with more choice of courses available in English at both French and English CEGEPs.
Additionally, should your child decide to send their future children to an English school, they will only have this right if the parent (your child) has received their certificate of eligibility. This forward planning safeguards rights for future generations.
What other rights fall under the Certificate of Eligibility?
The Quebec Act of Health and Social Services indicates that, under certain circumstances, an English-language eligibility certificate may be required for individuals to communicate exclusively in English within the healthcare system. The right to communicate in English with other government services also falls under this certificate.
For more information, resources, or support reach out to us and we will be happy to help!