Frequently Asked Questions
Here you’ll find important updates for Fall 2025 applicants. Check back often!
Learning French at McGill
Do students at McGill have to learn French?
McGill is expanding opportunities for students to develop French-language skills while they study. Participation is optional and French proficiency is not a requirement for graduation, but this is a great chance to connect with the community and immerse yourself in the culture of Montreal, North America's largest French-speaking city.
Do I need to achieve a specific level of French to graduate?
No, newly admitted students will not need to demonstrate proficiency in French to graduate.
French proficiency remains an admission requirement for select undergraduate programs and demonstrated proficiency may be required for certain French language based courses and programs of study.
What kind of programs will be available?
McGill offers a variety of programs to support French language learning and to help non-francophone students build connections with Montreal’s community during their studies. These programs combine academic and extracurricular activities, including credit-bearing courses, immersive summer programs, internships, and other experiential learning opportunities.
Who are these programs intended for?
The new French learning initiatives are intended for newly admitted bachelor's-level students coming from outside Quebec, including those in professional programs that already require French proficiency.
What are some examples of the types of activities and courses I can register for?
Here are some of the French-language skill development opportunities at McGill:
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French Language Centre programs: https://www.mcgill.ca/flc/courses-and-programs
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Programs in the Département des littératures de langue française, de traduction et de création : https://www.mcgill.ca/litterature/fr/programmes
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Minor in Quebec Studies and Community-Engaged Learning (in French): https://www.mcgill.ca/qcst/programs
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Free cultural and professional French activities and workshops on campus and outside of campus: https://www.mcgill.ca/flc/experiences
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French Immersion Program at Université Laval in Quebec City: https://www.mcgill.ca/internationalstudents/once-here/summer-french-immersion-program
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Mini-courses offered through the SSMU: https://minicourses.ssmu.ca/
To learn more about what is happening in French at McGill visit: https://vivreenfrancais.mcgill.ca/
Do these new measures affect admission criteria?
No, fall 2025 admission criteria remain unchanged. Note that a number of programs, such as medicine, nursing, dentistry, dietetics and law, already require, or take into consideration, proficiency in French. Program-specific requirements should be verified with the admissions advisors for the program in question.