Quebec has introduced a cap on international student applications, significantly altering the landscape for prospective students looking to study in the province. Effective from February 26, 2025, to February 26, 2026, the Quebec government will accept a maximum of 124,760 applications under the Foreign Student Program. This decision aligns with broader efforts to regulate temporary immigration and ensure a balanced approach to international student enrollment.
Breakdown of the Application Cap
The new limit is allocated as follows:
| Post-Secondary Institutions | Maximum Study Permit Applications |
| Vocational Training | 32,261 |
| Colleges | 29,200 |
| Universities | 63,299 |
| Total | 124,760 |
This cap applies only to new applications submitted after February 26, 2025. The primary goal is to reduce applications at the vocational and college levels while maintaining a stable number at the university level. This measure aims to regulate international student enrollment more effectively and align with Quebec’s long-term strategic needs.
Who is Exempt from the Cap?
Certain groups are not affected by this cap, including:
- Applicants who submitted their forms before February 26, 2025.
- Students applying for extensions in the same vocational program and institution.
- Dependent children of temporary foreign workers or international students.
- Primary and secondary school applicants.
- Individuals seeking protection under Section 95(1) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.
- Health sector professionals undergoing prescribed supplementary training.
- Candidates selected under the Excellence Scholarship Program for Foreign Students.
Impact of the Cap and Future Immigration Plans
Quebec’s Immigration Minister, Jean-François Roberge, stated that the one-year cap would allow the government to reassess and adjust policies based on evolving trends and strategic needs. The cap will also factor into Quebec’s upcoming Immigration Levels Plan, expected in the third quarter of 2025. Unlike previous plans, this will include temporary resident targets to shape future international student policies.
Federal Government’s Study Permit Cap for 2025
Quebec’s new policy aligns with the broader federal government initiative announced in January 2025, which set a nationwide cap of 550,162 study permit applications until December 31, 2025. This represents a reduction from the 606,250 applications accepted in 2024. Applications exceeding the cap will be returned unprocessed, with application fees refunded.
At the provincial level, the federal government has estimated that Quebec will issue 72,977 study permits in 2025, considering all cohorts requiring Provincial Attestation Letters (PALs). The federal cap aims to regulate temporary resident growth in Canada, ensuring that student intake aligns with national immigration policies.
Navigating the Changes with ICC Immigration
Given these new restrictions, international students may find it more challenging to secure study permits in Quebec and across Canada. However, ICC Immigration can help applicants explore alternative options for long-term success in Canada. Our expert consultants provide tailored guidance to help students and professionals navigate the changing immigration landscape.
How ICC Immigration Can Assist You:
- Permanent Residency Applications: We streamline the PR process through Express Entry, Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), and other immigration pathways.
- Work and Study Permits: Our team helps you secure temporary permits that can lead to permanent residency, ensuring a smooth transition into Canada.
- Family Sponsorships: If you have relatives in Canada, we facilitate the sponsorship process to help you reunite with your loved ones.
- Expert Legal Advice: Understanding immigration policies can be complex. Our legal experts ensure that your application complies with regulations and maximizes your chances of approval.
Instead of taking uncertain routes such as asylum claims, we encourage prospective immigrants to pursue stable and legally sound pathways to secure their future in Canada.
Final Thoughts
Quebec’s international student cap is a significant policy shift that will impact thousands of applicants. By understanding these changes and seeking expert guidance, students can better navigate the evolving immigration landscape. ICC Immigration is here to help every step of the way, ensuring you make informed decisions and successfully achieve your academic and immigration goals in Canada.
For expert assistance, contact ICC Immigration today and take the first step toward a secure future in Canada.