Laurentian University opens its doors to French immersion students with DELF B2 requirement for entry to French-language programs

September 25, 2026 — Laurentian University is taking a major step forward in expanding access to French-language education and boosting recruitment of French immersion graduates. At its September 2026 meeting, the University Senate officially approved a motion revising its language admission criteria.

The University now accepts the DELF B2 qualification (Diplôme d'études en langue française), allowing French immersion students to apply directly to any of its French-language programs.

This strategic decision replaces the previous C1 requirement and aligns Laurentian with other Ontario institutions offering French-language programming, such as the University of Ottawa, the Université de l’Ontario français (UOF) in Toronto, and York University’s Glendon Campus. It creates a direct, accessible pathway for the thousands of Ontario high school students who complete French immersion each year and wish to pursue higher education in French in northern Ontario.

The B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) certifies an individual’s ability to understand complex topics, speak spontaneously, and write academic texts. Provincial data shows that French immersion graduates with a DELF B2 perform very well at university, with retention and academic success rates comparable to those of native French-speaking students. Importantly, this update applies strictly to admission criteria: course-specific requirements and faculty’s high academic standards remain unchanged for all students.

“This resolution passed at Senate is wonderful news for all French immersion students who dream of continuing their education in French,” expressed Natalie Poulin-Lehoux, Associate Vice-President, Francophone Affairs. “By formally recognizing the DELF B2 for admission, we are removing a major barrier to access. We are sending a clear and strong message to these bilingual youth that they are fully qualified, welcomed, and supported to succeed in their postsecondary studies in French at Laurentian University.”

By expanding access to French-language programs, the University hopes to address the shortage of bilingual workers in key sectors across northern Ontario, particularly in healthcare, education, and social services.

This initiative reaffirms Laurentian’s bilingual and tricultural mission and highlights its key role in promoting the French language and the Francophonie both in Sudbury and across the province.

Please note that French immersion students remain directly eligible for our French-language programs through the completion of the FIF 4U course (or their immersion certificate), without requiring the DELF B2. This existing pathway is unchanged; rather, we are expanding access by also accepting DELF certification.