The International Language Academy of Canada, known as ILAC, a major private language school, has closed following a bankruptcy filing. This abrupt closure impacts over 1,300 students enrolled at ILAC's Toronto and Vancouver locations.

ILAC was one of Canada's largest private language schools. It offered English language programs and other educational services, including pathway agreements that allowed students to improve their English before moving to programs at Canadian colleges and universities.

The closure comes as private language schools face a significant decrease in demand from international students. The number of international students in English or French language programs at private schools declined by nearly 46 percent between 2019 and 2025.

Changes to Canada's international student rules have contributed to this decline. A study permit cap reduced new international students who might need language training. Language programs also became less appealing to international students hoping to bring their families, as current spousal open work permit rules generally prevent students in private schools or language programs from bringing their spouse or partner on an open work permit.

ILAC is not the only language school to close. EC English also ceased its Canadian operations shortly before ILAC, affecting 471 international students in Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver.

Languages Canada, an organization representing English and French language schools, is collaborating with its member institutions. The goal is to place affected students into other language programs at no additional tuition cost, according to media reports.

For many ILAC students, the closure should not directly affect their immigration status. ILAC was a private school offering language programs, and its students were not eligible for a post graduation work permit. Many ILAC language students were in Canada as visitors or held study permits for short term courses of six months or less.

Efforts are underway to transfer currently enrolled ILAC international students to other language schools to continue their studies. Students planning to attend ILAC but who have not yet started will need to reconsider their plans and enroll at a different college or university in Canada. If a student holds a study permit, changing schools will require them to apply for a new study permit. International students who paid ILAC for accommodation or other services should verify if those arrangements will continue or if new arrangements are needed.

Despite its size, the closure of ILAC has a relatively limited impact on Canada's broader international student population.