Quebec Sets Student Allocation Limits for Postsecondary Institutions
The Quebec Ministry of Immigration and Francization (MIFI) has introduced new limits on the number of international students that can be admitted to the province’s postsecondary institutions. These allocations, aimed at regulating the influx of international students, will be in effect until February 26, 2026.
According to the new regulations, once an institution reaches its allocation cap, it will no longer be able to accept new international students, unless they qualify for one of the exemptions. These exemptions include students applying for a study permit extension in the same program, dependent children of temporary foreign workers or international students, and other specific cases.
This article will cover:
- Study Permit Allocations for Quebec Universities
- Overview of the Study Permit Application Process
- Exemptions to the New Allocations
1. Study Permit Allocations for Quebec Universities
MIFI has established a total allocation of 63,299 study permit applications for the upcoming year, with each university in Quebec receiving a specific number of study permits. These caps will govern the total number of new international students each institution can admit for the period from February 26, 2025, to February 26, 2026.
Here is a breakdown of the allocations per university:
| University | Maximum Number of Study Permit Requests |
|---|---|
| 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 |
| Polytechnic School of Montreal | 0 |
| 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 |
2. Overview of the Study Permit Application Process
To study in Quebec, international students must first apply for a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) through MIFI, followed by a study permit application with the federal government.
The CAQ is an official document that confirms the student’s selection to study in Quebec and their compliance with provincial requirements. It also impacts the overall study permit allocation.
Here is a step-by-step guide to applying for a CAQ:
- Prepare the Application:
- Valid passport
- Admission letter from a Quebec institution (including details of the program and tuition)
- Valid credit card for payment
- Create an Account on Arrima:
- Applicants must set up an account on the Arrima platform, where they will submit their application and pay the application fee.
- Complete the Online Application:
- The application form must be filled out in one sitting, and applicants must gather all required documents before submission.
- Pay the Application Fee:
- The current CAQ processing fee is $132, and payment must be made within one hour of submitting the application.
- Prepare and Submit Required Documents:
- Submit documents such as a photocopy of the passport, admission letter, and proof of financial capacity.
- Submit Documents on Arrima:
- After paying the fee, applicants should upload the required documents through their Arrima account.
After completing the process and receiving the CAQ, applicants can then apply to the federal government for a Canadian study permit.
3. Exemptions to the New Allocations
The new study permit allocations do not apply to:
- Students who submitted their study permit applications before February 26, 2025
- Those applying to extend their study permit for the same program
- Dependent children of temporary foreign workers or international students already in Quebec
- Students applying for primary or secondary education
- Applicants seeking protection under certain sections of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act
- Students admitted to supplementary training programs in the health sector
- Recipients of the Excellence Scholarship Program for Foreign Students
- Holders of certificates issued by Quebec government protocols
These exemptions ensure that specific categories of students are not affected by the new allocation system, allowing them to continue their educational pursuits in Quebec without limitation.
With these new regulations, international students planning to study in Quebec must be mindful of the allocations in place. Be sure to complete the application process in time and ensure you meet all necessary requirements for a smooth study permit approval.
For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!
