CAQ for studies in Québec

What is the CAQ for studies?

The Québec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) for studies is the authorization issued by the Government of Québec confirming that you may study in Québec. To obtain it, you submit a temporary selection application for studies to the Ministère de l'Immigration, de la Francisation et de l'Intégration (MIFI).

The CAQ is separate from the study permit, which is issued by the federal government (IRCC).

Who has to apply for a CAQ for studies?

In general, a CAQ for studies is required for international students taking a program of more than 6 months in Québec. Some situations are exempt, for example programs of 6 months or less, or particular situations such as protected persons or certain scholarship holders.

A CAQ cannot be obtained if you take your entire program online. Your specific situation needs to be checked before the application is submitted.

When should you apply for a CAQ?

The application is submitted after you are admitted to a Québec institution, as soon as you have received your acceptance letter, and before your study permit application. Before you start, it is useful to check that:

• your acceptance letter meets the MIFI's requirements;
• your program and your institution are eligible;
• your documents are ready.

From December 17, 2025 to December 16, 2027, the Government of Québec limits the number of temporary selection applications for studies per institution for certain levels of study; exemptions exist. According to the MIFI, a decision is made within 25 working days in 80% of cases, from the receipt of a complete application.

Documents and supporting evidence

Depending on your situation, documents may include:

• Admission: the institution's acceptance letter, with the information required by the MIFI;
• Identity: a copy of your valid passport;
• Study information: program, dates, length and place of training (in Québec, abroad or online);
• Financial capacity: proof of financial resources, for example bank statements, a GIC, a scholarship or a student loan, depending on your situation and your country of residence;
• Other supporting documents: the signed declaration, undertakings and authorization form, and certified translations of documents that are neither in French nor in English.

Requirements may vary depending on your situation. This list is not exhaustive.

How we support your CAQ application

Pro Immigration can help you:

• check your admission and your program;
• review the applicable requirements;
• check your documents;
• prepare the application and the supporting evidence;
• submit the application to the MIFI;
• follow the file through to a decision.

We cannot guarantee that a CAQ will be issued: the decision rests with the MIFI.

After you receive the CAQ

Once you have your CAQ, you generally need to continue with the applicable federal steps, in particular the study permit application in Canada, when one is required.

Do you need to renew your CAQ?

If your CAQ is about to expire or your study path changes, see our page on CAQ renewal.