IRCC confirmed on May 6, 2026 the maintenance of the national cap of 485,000 study permits for 2026 — a 10% reduction from the 2024 peak. New provincial restrictions are directly impacting students planning to study in Canada.
Provincial Quotas 2026: Who Is Affected?
| Province | 2026 Quota | Change |
|---|---|---|
| Ontario | 133,000 | 🔴 −15% |
| British Columbia | 79,000 | 🔴 −12% |
| Quebec | 84,000 | ⚠️ Managed by MIFI |
| Alberta | 54,000 | ✅ Stable |
| Manitoba | 22,000 | ✅ Slight increase |
| Nova Scotia | 14,000 | ✅ Stable |
Programs Exempt from the Cap
- Primary and secondary school students (under 18)
- Short-term exchange programs (under 6 months)
- Master's and PhD programs at accredited universities
- Programs at designated research institutions
📋 Quebec: CAQ Still Mandatory
To study in Quebec, the Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) is required before applying for a federal study permit. As of May 2026, CAQ processing takes 4–6 weeks. Quebec's quota is managed independently by MIFI.
Alternative Strategies If Quota Is Reached
- Choose a province with available quota (Alberta, Manitoba) — same degrees, same recognition
- Opt for a master's or doctoral program (exempt from quotas)
- Start the process early — quotas reset at the beginning of each academic cycle
- Consider a work permit first if you already hold a Canadian degree
Visit our Study Permit 2026 page for the complete guide.
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