Pyramid eServices extends support for its students affected by the bankruptcy of three DLI institutions in Quebec, Canada

We at Pyramid eServices fully understand and feel the pain of our students affected by the bankruptcy of the three DLI Institutions of Quebec province — M College in Montreal, CDE College in Sherbrooke, and CCSQ College in Longueuil (hereinafter collectively referred to as the “Colleges”). While on the one hand this event caused financial loss to the students, on the other hand their plans to study in Canada were hindered.

For the last 20 years, we have been helping the students in every way for a bright future abroad. Staying true to our student-centric approach even in this difficult time, we are ready to support the affected students and go an extra mile and help them to pursue their study abroad dream.

Measures taken by Pyramid eServices to support students

Pyramid eServices and have been working with various stakeholders to provide a concrete solution. In addition, we have taken certain measures to give our students the best possible way to secure their future in Canada.

Pyramid support commitments include:

• Pyramid e-Services has entered into an arrangement with some institutions in Quebec and British Columbia, which will enable the affected Pyramid students to study at a world-class institution in Canada. This measure also ensures that students will not pay tuition fees for the first year (amounting to approximately CAD$15,000 to CAD$18000, depending on their program). Additionally, the eligible students will also get a scholarship of up to CAD2500 in the second year.
• In case a student, after making the application, still gets a refusal, Pyramid eServices, as a goodwill gesture on humanitarian ground, will pay the amount that students have paid to the colleges of Quebec, minus any amount that they have received from the colleges directly. 
• For all students whose IELTS has lapsed, Pyramid eServices will give them free IELTS coaching, and the examination fees will also be borne by Pyramid eServices.

Whatever option our students choose, Pyramid is and will do its best to support and bring justice to its students. For more information, students can reach the nearest Pyramid office or connect with their counsellor.

Situation Background:

Quebec, one of Canada's provinces, is the only province that allows its private educational institutions to offer certificate and diploma programs that are eligible for a post graduate work permit. The institutions had flexible admission requirements (low IELTS scores), faster application process, and flexible teaching hours and schedules, which made these institutions very popular for both education consultants and students. These factors gave rise to a huge demand for such institutions in Quebec among students.

Due to COVID-19, there was a massive delay in visa processing, followed by a large number of student visa refusals. Consequently, the three DLI Institutions filed for creditors protection in January 2022. Due to this, many students in India, who have taken admissions to these colleges and paid the tuition fees, could not start their study program.

The matter is sub judice with the superior court of Quebec, which has allowed a renowned educational group, to acquire these institutions and continue to operate as per the regulations laid down by the Canadian government.

In addition, the Student Representative Council has asked the court to allow immigration, refugee and citizenship Canada ("IRCC") to reconsider students whose study permits have been denied.

It is expected that the change of ownership and the appeal will yield good outcomes for the students, and it will enable them to reconnect with their studies while having their existing admission fees honored.