Designation - French Language Services Act

In September 2015, the University of Ottawa officially obtained designation for its services and academic programs in French under the French Language Services Act of Ontario.

This designation guarantees the continuation of the Francophone character of our university. It will protect the provision of services and academic programs in French by the University of Ottawa, the largest bilingual university (French-English) in the world.

The University of Ottawa has always been firmly committed to promoting and protecting the interests of the Franco-Ontarian community. This commitment was enshrined in the legislation that saw the University become a public institution some 50 years ago. Franco-Ontarian and Franco-Canadian Culture are also one of the six core aspirations of our strategic plan, Transformation 2030

This designation is a fundamental acknowledgement of the University of Ottawa’s commitment to the promotion and development of the French language and culture in Ontario for generations to come.

Starting on January 1, 2016, the University of Ottawa is designated as a public service agency under the French Language Services Act of Ontario.

Read the Regulation

Find answers to commonly asked questions about the designation of the University of Ottawa.

Read the FAQ

There is already a procedure in place to file a complaint that relates to bilingualism. Anyone can lodge a complaint with the Office of the Vice-President, International and Francophonie, who will contact the service concerned to resolve the issue and, as required, report back to the complainant. This process is overseen by the Council on French Services and Programs, which includes a summary of all complaints in its annual report.

Designation is in effect since January 1, 2016, at which point this procedure was adjusted to respond to complaints under the  French Language Services Act. In addition, any person who is dissatisfied with the way the University of Ottawa handles a complaint can bring the matter to the French Language Services Commissioner of Ontario, who may launch an investigation and make recommendations as specified in the Act.