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For thousands of ambitious students around the world, studying in Canada represents more than just an academic journey. It is a gateway to new opportunities, career advancement, and a better life. Many students see Canadian education as their golden ticket to global mobility, economic stability, and long-term success. But now, a major policy shift in one of Canada’s key regions has sent shockwaves through the international student community.
Quebec has officially announced a 20% reduction in the number of international students permitted to enroll in its post-secondary institutions for the upcoming academic year. This dramatic cut has raised concerns among students, educators, and policymakers alike. The government, however, maintains that this decision is necessary to control immigration levels and ensure the sustainability of its education system.
The new enrollment cap will significantly limit international student applications to Quebec’s collegiate and university networks. The provincial government has made it clear that this restriction aligns with its broader immigration strategy, a move that follows months of discussion over the impact of foreign students on housing, labor markets, and institutional capacities. As a result, thousands of aspiring students who had set their sights on Quebec may now face uncertainty, forced to either compete for a shrinking number of available spots or redirect their academic aspirations elsewhere.
A sharp reduction in student applications
Reports indicate that Quebec will process no more than 29,200 applications for international students seeking entry into its collegiate network this year. This is a striking drop from 2024 when the Education Ministry processed 48,748 applications. The new total cap, including university and vocational college applications, is set at 124,760 for the period spanning February 26, 2025, to 2026. These new limitations will impact thousands of students who were previously planning to apply under more flexible conditions.
This policy shift stems from a bill passed in December 2024 that granted the provincial Education Ministry the authority to regulate international student admissions. The government has defended the decision, arguing that it is an essential step to managing the province’s growing population of international students and ensuring that Quebec’s education system remains both competitive and sustainable.
Under the new rules, students must secure a Québec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) before applying for a study permit. The quota reduction will directly impact these CAQ applications, meaning fewer students will be able to proceed with their study permit applications to the federal government.
Backlash from educational institutions
The announcement has sparked significant opposition from educational leaders, particularly within Quebec’s CEGEP and university systems. The Fédération des cégeps, which represents Quebec’s public colleges, has strongly criticized the policy. Marie Montpetit, CEO of the federation, expressed deep concern over the negative consequences this decision could have on Quebec’s educational and economic landscape.
“By restricting international students’ access to CEGEPs, the government is targeting a network that plays an essential role in Quebec’s educational and economic vitality,” Montpetit stated in a press release.
The federation emphasized that international students make up only 5% of CEGEP enrollments, yet their presence is crucial to sustaining many programs, particularly in regional areas. Limiting international students, they warn, could lead to program cuts, staffing shortages, and a diminished workforce pipeline for key industries.
Universities fear long-term damage
Université de Montréal’s rector, Daniel Jutras, also voiced concerns, arguing that international students are being unfairly penalized under these new restrictions. He warned that lumping legitimate students together with individuals who may misuse the system creates an unfair burden on those seeking a genuine academic future in Canada.
“International students have been placed in the same basket as those who abuse the system, and we’re treating those people in the same way as someone who is coming to Quebec to pursue a PhD in IT or a master’s in social work,” Jutras remarked in an interview with Radio-Canada’s Tout un matin.
Many academic leaders argue that international students bring significant economic and cultural value to the province. They contribute billions of dollars to the local economy through tuition, housing, and living expenses while also helping to address labor shortages in key sectors. By cutting their numbers, critics argue, Quebec risks losing out on valuable talent and economic contributions.
What this means for aspiring international students
For prospective students, this new policy means increased competition for a limited number of study permits in Quebec. Those who had planned to study in the province must now reassess their options, consider alternative Canadian provinces, or explore international study destinations with more flexible admission policies.
The change also underscores the evolving landscape of international education in Canada. While the country remains one of the top destinations for global students, policy shifts like this highlight the importance of staying informed and making strategic decisions when planning for higher education abroad.
Stay ahead with expert insights
The reduction in international student enrollment in Quebec is a pivotal moment in Canada’s immigration and education policies. Whether you are a student planning to study abroad, an academic professional, or a policymaker, staying informed is crucial.
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