Two medical professionals examine an x-ray image
Ahmed, a determined 19-year-old aspiring surgeon, finds herself at a crossroads due to Quebec's recent implementation of Bill 96. This legislation has disrupted her plans to take the Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) locally, affecting her and hundreds of other pre-med students in the province.
"Encouraging language use is one thing, but enforcing it like this feels restrictive," Ahmed tells CTV News. "Before Bill 96, I enjoyed immersing myself in Quebec's culture and learning French."
While Quebec's universities don't require the MCAT for medical program admission, Ahmed hoped to apply to schools across Canada and the U.S. to enhance her chances. "Anglophones like me have no choice but to seek opportunities outside Quebec," she laments, frustrated by the lack of local exam options.
Ahmed faced difficulties securing a test slot in Ottawa or Vermont due to high demand. "All centers were fully booked. Now I might have to wait until January next year," she explains, illustrating the challenges faced by many Quebec-based students.
The Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) attributes the withdrawal of MCAT testing centers from Quebec to Bill 96's language requirements. "The exam is administered in English globally, but Quebec's regulations prevent us from offering it here," states Christina Spoehr, AAMC's senior media relations specialist.
Feeling compelled to leave Quebec for an exam available worldwide—from Germany to Thailand—Ahmed expresses disillusionment. "Despite being bilingual, these strict laws make me reconsider staying here," she reflects.
Amid Quebec's urgent need for medical professionals and widespread patient shortages, Ahmed sees a disconnect. "These laws limit opportunities for future doctors," she argues. "I wanted to contribute to Quebec's healthcare, but now I'm exploring options elsewhere."
Responding to inquiries, Quebec's ministries of education and higher education clarify their stance. "We lack specific information on MCAT requirements for medical admissions," Bryan St-Louis, media relations manager, acknowledges.
Despite setbacks, Ahmed remains determined, currently studying occupational therapy at McGill University. Her ambition to specialize in oncology or cardiology fuels her perseverance, despite the hurdles posed by provincial legislation.
