Studying in Quebec as an International Student: CAQ, Study Permit, and After Graduation
The classic path: Quebec Acceptance Certificate, federal study permit, diploma, then post-graduation work permit — the major steps, in order.
This page describes the general structure of the system, which stays stable. But exact thresholds, fees, and specific program statuses can change within weeks — the PEQ, for example, was suspended and then reopened in 2026, and CAQ fees changed twice within the same year. Before relying on a specific figure or date below, confirm the current status on quebec.ca/immigration or canada.ca.
CAQ-related fees changed at least twice in 2025-2026 according to sources consulted while preparing this guide. Exact amounts, processing times, and specific requirements change regularly — this guide covers the steps, which remain stable, not the exact figures. Always check the current amount at quebec.ca and canada.ca.
The four-step path
Studying in Quebec as an international student follows a specific sequence, where each step depends on the previous one:
| Step | Issued by | What it covers |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) | Government of Quebec (MIFI) | Provincial authorization required before applying for the federal permit |
| 2. Study permit | Government of Canada (IRCC) | Federal authorization to stay in Canada to study |
| 3. Studies and diploma | Your educational institution | Length of your chosen program (vocational diploma, CEGEP diploma, bachelor's, master's, doctorate) |
| 4. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) | Government of Canada (IRCC) | Authorization to work in Canada after graduating, generally without needing a prior job offer |
Note well: the CAQ is a provincial requirement specific to Quebec — a student targeting Ontario or British Columbia doesn't need one, only the federal study permit. It's an additional administrative layer specific to studying in Quebec.
Why so many people aim for the PGWP
The post-graduation work permit is particularly sought after because it allows you to stay and work in Canada after graduation without needing a validated job offer beforehand — unlike many other work permits. Its length generally depends on the length of the completed study program: a longer program usually qualifies you for a longer post-graduation permit, up to a maximum set by federal regulations in effect at the time of your application.
The link to permanent immigration
Work experience gained in Quebec after your studies, combined with the diploma itself, can open the door to Quebec economic programs designed specifically for people with existing local experience — see our guide on economic programs and the CSQ. This is one of the most common paths to permanent residence: study, then work experience, then a permanent residence application.
Choosing your city for studies
Montreal has the largest concentration of post-secondary institutions and international student life, but Quebec City, Sherbrooke, Trois-Rivières, and Gatineau also have established universities and CEGEPs, with a generally more affordable cost of living. See our French-language city comparator to compare housing costs by city.
After you arrive
From the moment you arrive, learn about the RAMQ waiting period (see our dedicated guide) — many institutions also require private health insurance for international students for the duration of their studies, in addition to or instead of RAMQ depending on agreements with your home country.