Canada continues to stand tall as one of the world’s most attractive destinations for higher education, welcoming thousands of international students every year. However, Quebec’s universities are currently facing a unique challenge with a noticeable decline in international student applications for 2025.
While this drop reflects recent immigration adjustments, Canada as a whole remains firmly committed to attracting global talent, ensuring that international students can continue to thrive in the country’s world-class academic and research environments.
International Student Applications in Quebec: A Recent Decline
According to the Bureau de coopération interuniversitaire (BCI), applications from international students in Quebec fell by 46% between April 2024 and April 2025. At Concordia University and Université de Montréal, applications decreased by 37%, while McGill University saw a 22% decline.
Despite these localised decreases, Canada’s broader education sector remains vibrant and competitive, with provinces outside Quebec continuing to see strong interest from international applicants.
Why Canada Adjusted Its Study Permit System
In 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) introduced study permit caps to manage housing pressures and ensure sustainable growth. For 2025, IRCC set a target of 437,000 study permits, still among the highest in the world, but reflecting a modest 10% adjustment.
Quebec, meanwhile, capped its quota at 63,299 applications, maintaining last year’s levels. While these steps were designed to balance resources, universities in the province have voiced concern that international students may interpret the change as a decline in openness.
Yet Canada’s message overall remains clear: international students are welcome and valued.
International Students’ Vital Role in Canada
International students enrich Canadian society in multiple ways:
- Contributing billions annually to the economy.
- Filling crucial roles in research labs and innovation hubs.
- Supporting regional economies and communities, especially in Quebec.
- Strengthening bilingualism and cultural diversity across the country.
Quebec universities estimate a $200 million shortfall due to the reduced intake, underlining how central these students are to both academic and economic growth.
Quebec’s Bill 74: Regionalised Enrolment Rules
Quebec introduced Bill 74 in December 2024 to regulate international enrolments based on region, program demand, language, and labour needs. While intended to protect local education priorities, universities argue it risks weakening Quebec’s international reputation.
Academic leaders stress the importance of sending a strong, positive message: Canada—and Quebec—remain open to the world’s brightest minds.
Canada’s Global Edge in Education
Despite regional challenges, Canada continues to rank among the world’s most welcoming and trusted destinations for international students. Provinces such as Ontario and British Columbia are experiencing steady flows of applications, while national initiatives—including French-speaking student streams and targeted immigration pilots are helping Canada remain competitive.
For Quebec, the focus now lies in balancing immigration policies with the need to attract and retain skilled international talent.
Canada has always been a magnet for international students. While Quebec universities face a temporary setback in international student applications, the broader message remains strong: Canada continues to welcome global talent, ensuring opportunities for students to study, innovate, and build their future here. At ImmigCanada, whether its study permits, work opportunities, or permanent residency pathways, our expert team helps you explore the right province, program, and strategy to make your Canadian dream a reality.
From helping you understand program requirements to assisting with applications and keeping you updated on the latest immigration news, we ensure you have the right information at every step. Think of us as your reliable support system while you work towards building a future in Canada. Reach out to our RCIC for trusted support and guidance.
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