The Quebec Ministry of Immigration and Francization (MIFI) has introduced new limits on the number of international students that universities in the province can admit. These restrictions, effective until February 26, 2026, aim to regulate study permit applications at Quebec’s postsecondary institutions.
Key Changes in Study Permit Allocations
Under the new rules, each university in Quebec has been assigned a maximum number of study permit applications it can process for international students. Once a university reaches its limit, it cannot accept additional applications unless exemptions apply.
These limits do not affect:
- Students who applied for a study permit before February 26, 2025.
- Students renewing their permits for the same vocational program.
- Dependent children of temporary foreign workers or international students.
- Applicants at primary or secondary school levels.
- Individuals seeking protection under specific immigration laws.
- Students in select professional training programs in health and education.
- Holders of certificates issued under Quebec government protocols.
Study Permit Allocations Per University
Below is the breakdown of the number of study permit applications each Quebec university can process between February 26, 2025, and February 26, 2026:
| University | Maximum Study Permit Applications |
|---|---|
| Advanced Technology Bar School | 3,609 |
| Bishop’s University | 356 |
| Concordia University | 5,233 |
| HEC Montreal | 1,586 |
| Laval University | 8,276 |
| McGill University | 5,131 |
| Montreal Conservatory of Dramatic Arts | 0 |
| Montreal Institute of Theological Training | 0 |
| National Institute of Scientific Research | 349 |
| National School of Public Administration | 844 |
| Presbyterian College | 0 |
| Quebec Conservatory of Dramatic Arts School | 0 |
| Tele-university | 30 |
| University of Montreal | 8,709 |
| University of Quebec in Abitibi-Témiscamingue | 1,614 |
| University of Quebec in Chicoutimi | 7,674 |
| University of Quebec in Montreal | 7,674 |
| University of Quebec in Outaouais | 4,057 |
| University of Quebec in Rimouski | 3,638 |
| University of Quebec in Sherbrooke | 2,916 |
| University of Quebec in Trois-Rivières | 2,238 |
How to Apply for a Study Permit in Quebec
To study in Quebec, international students must apply for both a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) and a study permit from the Canadian federal government.
Step-by-Step Process:
- Prepare Required Documents
- Valid passport
- Admission letter from a recognized Quebec institution
- Payment method for application fees
- If applicable, sponsor details and authorized representative information
- Create an Arrima Account
- Set up an account on the Arrima platform to manage the CAQ application.
- Complete Online Application
- Submit the CAQ application in one session (progress cannot be saved).
- Pay the Application Fee
- Fee: $132 CAD (non-refundable)
- Payment must be completed within one hour of submission.
- Submit Required Documents
- Identity pages of passport
- Admission letter from Quebec institution
- Proof of financial capacity (depending on applicant’s location)
- Await CAQ Approval
- Processing time: Approximately 25 working days
- Apply for a Canadian Study Permit
- Once the CAQ is approved, students must apply for a study permit through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Financial Proof Requirements
Applicants residing in the following regions must submit financial proof directly to MIFI:
- Canada, USA, France, Mexico
- Austria, Monaco, Greenland, Hong Kong
- Saint-Pierre-et-Miquelon, Reunion Island
Applicants from other regions will have their financial capacity assessed by the federal government based on Quebec’s criteria.
Get Expert Help with Your Study Permit
If you need guidance on studying in Quebec, schedule a Work Permit Consultation to explore your options.
