Studying in Quebec offers numerous benefits, such as its excellent universities, many colleges (CÉGEP), and hundreds of other great schools. Quebec provides opportunities to study in English, French, or both languages, and earn an internationally respected education.
Why study in Quebec?
Quebec is a Canadian province with a European charm and home to Montreal, one of the best student cities in the world. Quebec offers prestigious university programs, leading-edge research centers, and access to the Canadian job market. The cost of living in Quebec is among the lowest in North America.
Eligibility requirements to study in Quebec
As Quebec has more autonomy in creating immigration policies, studying in Quebec as an international student is different from other provinces. International students must apply to Quebec for acceptance before applying to the federal government for a Canadian study permit.
- Admission to a Quebec school
The first step is to be accepted into a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Quebec. However, not all programs qualify for a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) or permanent residence, so make sure to check the program’s eligibility.
To be accepted into a Quebec school, you must meet specific educational and language requirements, depending on the program you are applying to.
- Certificate of Acceptance of Quebec (CAQ)
A Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ) is a document that attests that Quebec has accepted you as an international student. If your program of study is in Quebec, you must obtain a CAQ before you can apply for a study permit.
A CAQ document is issued by Quebec’s Ministry of Immigration, Francisation et Intégration (MIFI).
Requirements To be eligible for a CAQ, you need to meet the following requirements:
- Be accepted into a Quebec designated learning institution;
- Pay the CAQ application fees;
- Agree to comply with the conditions for issuing a CAQ for studies; and
- Meet the financial capacity requirements.
Conditions of a CAQ
You must agree to comply with the conditions for issuing a CAQ for studies, such as receiving instruction for the program or level of study indicated in your application. You must also make studies your principal activity in Canada and maintain health insurance for yourself and any accompanying family for the entire time you are in Canada.
Financial capacity requirements You must demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your tuition fees, transportation costs, and living expenses. For 2022, these amounts, not including tuition fees, are estimated at:
- One person under the age of 18: $6,742
- One person aged 18 and over: $13,481
- Two people aged 18 and over: $19,773
- Two people aged 18 and over and one person under the age of 18: $22,149
- Two people aged 18 and over and two people under the age of 18: $23,905
Although you need to provide proof of sufficient funds, you do not need to spend the money to study in Quebec.
Note:
International students can work up to 20 hours per week (and up to 40 hours per week during regular breaks) to support themselves. If your spouse accompanies you, they may also apply for a spousal open work permit.
- Study permit
Once you have a CAQ, you can apply for a study permit from the Government of Canada. With your study permit, you can start studying in Canada!
If you need assistance with the application process, consider consulting our Canada immigration consultant or a Canada study visa consultant service. New Beginnings Immigration’s International Student program can help you come to any province in Canada as an international student. Get started today with a free online student assessment.