Starting January 1, 2026, international students aiming to study in Quebec will face a major change in financial requirements. Quebec has announced it will triple the minimum amount of funds students must show to get a study permit. If you’re planning to study in Quebec or advising someone who is, this affects you.
What’s Changing in Quebec’s Study Permit Requirements?
To put it simply, Quebec is raising the bar. If you’re coming to study in Quebec, you’ll now need to prove you have more money to support yourself while studying. Before, a single student had to show about $11,000 CAD. Under the new rules for 2026, that number jumps to over $27,000 CAD.
Why the Big Increase?
The provincial government says the increase is meant to better reflect the true cost of living in Quebec. Over the years, prices for rent, food, and general expenses have gone up significantly. Officials believe the old amount no longer matched actual living expenses, potentially putting students at financial risk.
How Much Will International Students Need?
Let’s break it down. Starting in 2026, here’s how much money international students will need to show in proof-of-funds:
- Single student (over 18): $27,200 CAD
- One family member (18+): $7,800 CAD
- One child under 18: $3,800 CAD
This means if you’re an international student planning to bring your spouse and a child, the total amount you’d need to prove could go beyond $38,000 CAD. That’s a significant increase from the current threshold.
Who Does This Affect?
This change will affect all study permit applicants whose applications are handled through Quebec’s Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ) process. The CAQ is a mandatory document for anyone planning to study in Quebec, in addition to the federal study permit from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
So, if you’re planning to apply in or after 2026, you’ll need to meet these increased proof-of-funds requirements. Applications submitted before the end of 2025 will still be assessed under the current rules, so students hoping to avoid the higher threshold may want to submit early.
How Does Quebec Compare to the Rest of Canada?
You might be wondering: how does this new amount compare to other provinces? Good question.
Outside Quebec, IRCC currently requires most students to show they have at least $10,000 CAD for living expenses, in addition to tuition fees. That amount hasn’t changed much in years. But with inflation and rising costs of living, changes may be coming there too.
In fact, in 2024 and 2025, there were growing calls across Canada to update the federal financial requirements to better reflect inflation. Quebec’s jump might set a precedent for other regions.
What Should Future Students Do?
If you’re planning to study in Quebec, don’t panic—just plan ahead. The earlier you start preparing your finances, the better. Here are a few tips:
- Start budgeting early: Understand your total education cost, including tuition, rent, transportation, books, and food.
- Search for scholarships: Quebec and many Canadian institutions offer financial aid for international students. Take advantage of it.
- Open a Canadian bank account: Many immigration programs accept proof of a Canadian bank account as part of your financial documentation.
- Ask questions: Contact your school’s international student office. They’re a great resource and can help with planning.
What Are Experts Saying?
Immigration experts and student groups have mixed feelings. Some applaud the government for emphasizing student self-sufficiency—after all, financial stress while studying can affect academic success. But others worry it could discourage talented students from choosing Quebec, especially those from lower-income countries.
Some even argue this shift could lead to unequal access to Canadian education, favoring wealthier applicants over those with high academic or professional potential but limited financial means.
Is It Still Worth Studying in Quebec?
That depends on your goals. Quebec is home to world-renowned universities like McGill and Université de Montréal. The province offers a unique cultural blend of French and English and lower tuition rates compared to other provinces.
Yes, the cost is going up. But if you plan ahead and understand the requirements, Quebec still offers incredible value and social benefits. Many students choose Quebec for its European feel, strong academic reputation, and access to pathways for permanent residency.
Final Thoughts
Quebec’s new proof-of-funds rule is a big deal. But it doesn’t have to be a deal-breaker. If you’re dreaming of studying in Canada’s most culturally rich province, just make sure you’re ready—financially and mentally.
By planning carefully and understanding what’s required, you can still achieve your goals. And who knows—this change may push you to become even more financially savvy in the process. After all, that’s a life skill every student can benefit from!