In a major policy shift, Quebec has announced a cap on international student applications, effective February 26, 2025. The province will only accept a total of 124,760 study permit applications between February 26, 2025, and February 26, 2026, under the Foreign Student Program. This move is expected to impact students applying for vocational training, college, and university programs across the province.
Breakdown of the New Study Permit Cap
Quebec has provided a clear breakdown of how these application slots will be distributed among different educational institutions:
| Post-Secondary Institutions | Number of Study Permit Applications to be Accepted |
|---|---|
| Vocational Training | 32,261 |
| Colleges | 29,200 |
| Universities | 63,299 |
| Total | 124,760 |
This cap applies to all study permit applications received after February 26, 2025. However, it is important to note that the restriction applies to applications accepted for processing, not the number of study permits that will ultimately be issued.
Why is Quebec Limiting International Student Applications?
This is the first time Quebec has introduced such a limit on student applications. According to the provincial government, the cap aims to reduce the number of applications from students enrolling in vocational training and college programs while maintaining a stable number of university applicants. By controlling the influx of new students, Quebec seeks to manage enrollment numbers more effectively and align them with the province’s strategic needs.
Exceptions to the International Student Cap
While the cap applies to most applicants, some groups are exempt, including:
- Students who submitted their applications before February 26, 2025.
- Those applying for extensions within the same vocational training program and institution.
- Dependent children accompanying parents who are temporary foreign workers or international students.
- Applicants for primary and secondary school education.
- Refugees and individuals applying for protection under specific provisions of Canada’s Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.
- Students pursuing health sector training as required by a professional order.
- Candidates selected under the Excellence Scholarship Program for Foreign Students pursuing professional training.
Quebec to Include Temporary Residents in Immigration Planning
Jean-François Roberge, Quebec’s Minister of Immigration, Francisation, and Integration, has emphasized that this one-year cap will allow the government to reevaluate the situation and make necessary adjustments based on Quebec’s strategic priorities.
For the first time, temporary immigration targets will be considered in Quebec’s upcoming Immigration Levels Plan, expected in the third quarter of 2025. The province’s 2025 Immigration Levels Plan, released last year, did not include targets for temporary residents. However, the new plan will set specific objectives for admitting temporary residents, which will impact the number of international student applications Quebec will accept in future years.
Impact on International Students and Educational Institutions
This policy shift is expected to significantly affect international students looking to study in Quebec. With limited application slots, prospective students will need to plan their applications carefully and ensure they meet the necessary eligibility criteria. Universities are less affected by the cap, while vocational training centers and colleges will see a reduction in the number of new international students.
Next Steps for International Students Applying to Quebec
If you are considering studying in Quebec, it is crucial to stay informed about these new changes and submit your applications as early as possible. Due to the limited number of applications that will be accepted, competition for study permits will be intense. Prospective students should explore alternative pathways or other provinces if they do not secure a study permit under this cap.
For more information on your eligibility and to explore other immigration options, Schedule a Free Consultation with our experts today.
