On Feb. 7, the Quebec government announced that it is ending its Quebec Perspective Scholarship Program (PBPQ) earlier than expected, with the winter 2025 semester being the last semester to accept new applicants. The program that Premier François Legault initiated in November 2021 gave bursaries of $1,500-$2,500 CAD to students studying in fields with labour shortages, such as engineering and information technology. While no new recipients will be awarded, current recipients will continue receiving the scholarship through to the end of their studies.
The decision came as a surprise to some as the scholarship fund was set to end in the Fall 2025, and there remains $1 billion CAD devoted to funding it.
Richard Rassokhine, B.S. ‘24, was a recipient of a Perspective Scholarship during his studies at McGill. In a written statement to The Tribune, Rassokhine explained that financial challenges and the increasing cost of living in Montreal meant that the scholarship was crucial in paying for his degree.
“My mother earned very little and I didn’t take internships during the summer so I had essentially no income outside of what the [Student Financial Assistance] AFE gave me. The Perspective bursary took an important weight off my chest essentially,” wrote Rassokhine. “Had I not received the bursary, I would have scraped by in some way, either taking a personal loan from my bank or borrowing money from relatives.”
Rassokhine also noted that he believes there is a significant lack of information from the government and educational institutions about how to apply for funding, such as the Perspective Scholarship, adding to students’ financial difficulties.
The McGill Media Relations Office (MRO) wrote that while the government’s decision could have financial consequences for students, the university does not believe it will harm its international standing.
“The elimination of student funding opportunities is never welcome news,” the MRO wrote. “Newly admitted students who can no longer try for PBPQ funding are encouraged to apply for Quebec’s government aid program. McGill also has need-based aid programs to supplement government aid.”
The Students’ Society of McGill University (SSMU) Vice-President External Hugo-Victor Solomon explained to The Tribune/ that he feels this is yet another recent instance of the government creating additional financial pressure for students, especially in light of recent tuition increases for out-of-province and international students.
“To say we’re disappointed in the Ministry of Education is an understatement,” Solomon wrote. “This is another example of the Quebec government prioritizing austerity over accessibility at the expense of students, further reducing investment in education and student well-being.”
Solomon highlighted that funding cuts at the provincial level have ripple effects across the university system as a whole. He acknowledged “the frustration and uncertainty” that the government’s decision will bring, and encouraged students to email him with thoughts or concerns.
“I will also remain in contact with student leaders at other universities to coordinate a united response,” Solomon wrote. “This fight isn’t over. The government cannot continue balancing its budget on the backs of students, and we will push for better solutions.”
