The Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) is Quebec’s provincial authorization for most international students and it fits into your study permit process as a required provincial step. In practice, you generally secure your school admission, obtain an attestation of issuance of your CAQ, then apply to IRCC for the federal study permit. This guide explains the sequence, documents, and common mistakes that cause delays or returned applications.
Key Takeaways
- To study in Quebec, you generally need a Quebec DLI letter of acceptance and an attestation of issuance of your CAQ before you apply for a study permit.
- Under current study permit “cap-year” rules, Quebec’s updated CAQ functions as both the CAQ attestation and the provincial attestation letter (PAL) requirement for study permits—if it includes the required statement.
- Many Quebec-bound study permit applications are returned (not refused) because the CAQ is missing, expired, or doesn’t contain the required “Quebec’s share” wording.
- For extensions inside Canada, IRCC still expects an attestation of issuance of the CAQ; IRCC also notes the CAQ attestation is accessed online (no paper copy).
Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ): how it fits with a study permit
Think of the CAQ as Quebec’s “yes” and the study permit as Canada’s “yes.” Quebec decides whether it accepts you as a temporary student in the province (the CAQ), and the federal government (IRCC) decides whether it issues you the legal authorization to study in Canada (the study permit).
IRCC is clear about the sequence for Quebec: you first need a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Quebec, and you must have received an attestation of issuance of your CAQ; then you apply for the study permit.
If you’re looking for the federal document checklist and where Quebec fits, IRCC’s “get the right documents” page is the best starting point: IRCC study permit required documents.
CAQ vs study permit vs travel document (quick clarity)
| Item | Issued by | What it does | What it does not do |
|---|---|---|---|
| CAQ (attestation of issuance) | Quebec (MIFI) | Provincial authorization to study in Quebec; currently also serves as Quebec’s PAL when correctly issued | Does not let you enter Canada or study without a valid study permit |
| Study permit | IRCC (Canada) | Federal authorization to study in Canada | Does not replace a passport or required travel document |
| TRV/eTA (if required) | IRCC (Canada) | Travel document for boarding and entry (depending on nationality and travel method) | Does not authorize studying by itself |
Why the CAQ matters even more since study permit “cap-year” rules
Most study permit applicants now need a provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL) to show they have a space within a province/territory’s allocation. IRCC specifically notes that if you’re studying in Quebec, you need a CAQ instead of obtaining a PAL/TAL the way other provinces do.
IRCC’s instructions for Quebec go further: the CAQ serves as both the attestation of issuance of the CAQ and the PAL/TAL. In other words, one updated Quebec document satisfies both the provincial step and the federal “allocation space” requirement.
The “required statement” on your CAQ (do not skip this check)
IRCC states your CAQ needs to include a specific line confirming you have a place in Quebec’s share of study permit applications (or are exempt). If you apply with an outdated CAQ that doesn’t meet current requirements, IRCC warns your study permit application may be returned and fees refunded.
Practical tip: before you submit your IRCC study permit application, open your CAQ attestation PDF and confirm the required wording appears exactly as expected. If you’re unsure, ask your school’s international office whether your CAQ version is the updated format used for current cap-year processing.
Step-by-step: the correct order of operations (Quebec studies)
- Get accepted by a Quebec DLI and obtain your official letter of acceptance (LOA).
- Apply for your CAQ (temporary selection for studies) through Quebec’s process and obtain the attestation of issuance.
- Apply to IRCC for the study permit and upload your CAQ in the correct document slots (see below).
- If approved, you receive IRCC’s instructions for travel/arrival, and you’re issued your study permit at the port of entry.
Do you apply for CAQ first or study permit first?
For Quebec, IRCC’s Help Centre and application guides align: you need the CAQ attestation before you apply for the study permit.
How to apply for a CAQ: what the Quebec online system expects
Quebec’s CAQ process is done through an online application for temporary selection for studies and is managed by the ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI). IRCC notes you can find your approved CAQ attestation in your online file with the Government of Quebec and you won’t receive a paper copy.
Core steps (as described in the Quebec online FAQ)
The Quebec government’s CAQ online FAQ lays out the workflow in plain steps: complete the form, create your online consultation profile, pay the processing fee, print your checklist/forms, and then send the identified documents via Arrima or by mail.
What to have on hand before you start
The same Quebec FAQ recommends having these basics ready for the online form: your passport, your Quebec school’s contact details, your admitted program details (start/end dates and annual tuition), and a credit card for payment.
Fees and early timing
The Quebec online FAQ lists a processing fee of CAN$132 and notes the ministry creates a file within 48 hours after confirming online payment, then begins reviewing once the required supporting documents are received.
Because rules, fees, and document portals can change, treat school instructions as “how to submit,” but treat IRCC + the Quebec government portals as the “what is required.” If a detail seems inconsistent, follow the most current official instruction on your application portal and the IRCC guide you’re applying under.
Financial capacity: the Quebec layer many applicants underestimate
For Quebec, you may face two “proof of funds” expectations: provincial (for CAQ issuance) and federal (for the study permit). IRCC’s study permit document guidance requires proof of funds for all applicants.
If your costs are being covered by someone else, Quebec provides a dedicated “Statement of Financial Support” form that must be completed and signed by the person covering your study costs in Quebec.
What the financial supporter is committing to (Quebec form)
On Quebec’s form, the supporter undertakes to cover costs such as basic living needs, tuition and study-related costs, and transportation costs; the commitment is stated to be valid for the period of validity of the requested CAQ.
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Internal resource: Proof of funds for students: strong evidence packages that reduce refusals.
Applying for the IRCC study permit with a CAQ
Once you have your LOA and CAQ attestation, you move to the federal stage. IRCC’s “Get the right documents” page lists core requirements like the LOA, proof of identity, proof of funds, and a letter of explanation, with medical exams and police certificates as “if needed.”
Where to upload the CAQ (common upload mistake)
IRCC’s Guide 5269 instructs that the CAQ serves as Quebec’s PAL/TAL and that when uploading documents online, you should submit the updated CAQ in both the Provincial/Territorial Attestation Letter section and the CAQ section.
CAQ validity at time of application
IRCC emphasizes that your CAQ must be valid when you apply. IRCC also describes a “cap-year” statement that must appear on the CAQ attestation for current processing rules.
Extensions and renewals inside Canada: renew CAQ first, then the study permit
If you’re already studying in Quebec and need more time, IRCC’s in-Canada student guide says that whether you’re renewing or applying initially, you must get an attestation of issuance of the CAQ from MIFI.
IRCC also notes key CAQ “format” changes: Quebec’s updated CAQ attestation contains the “Quebec’s share” statement and serves as both the CAQ attestation and the provincial attestation letter. IRCC warns that using the wrong CAQ version can result in your extension application being returned and fees refunded.
Internal resource: Study permit extension checklist for Quebec students.
School changes and the CAQ: don’t assume your old CAQ always works
IRCC’s PAL/CAQ page includes special rules about when you can reuse a CAQ and when you must obtain a new one (for example, changing level of study can require a new CAQ; some school-change scenarios depend on when the CAQ was issued).
Best practice: before switching schools or levels, confirm (1) what IRCC requires for a new study permit or extension and (2) whether Quebec requires a new CAQ for your new program details. For the federal side, see: Changing schools and study permit rules.
Common mistakes that cause delays, returns, or refusals
1) Applying to IRCC without the CAQ attestation
For Quebec studies, IRCC’s guidance expects the CAQ attestation before you apply for the study permit. Submitting without the required provincial document can lead to a returned application in the current framework.
2) Using an outdated CAQ that doesn’t contain the required statement
IRCC specifies the CAQ must include the “Quebec’s share of the distribution of study permit applications” line (or exemption wording). If that statement is missing when required, your IRCC application may be returned.
3) Date mismatches (program dates, passport expiry, or too-short authorizations)
Your LOA should show anticipated start and finish dates and tuition details, and your passport must be valid as your identity document for IRCC. If your passport expires soon, it can limit how long your documents can be issued and can force earlier renewals.
4) Weak or unclear financial story
IRCC requires proof you have enough funds for the first year (and a plan for the full duration for longer programs). For Quebec, if someone else is paying, use the Quebec financial support form and ensure the supporter’s documents align with what they’re committing to.
5) Uploading the CAQ into the wrong slots
IRCC specifically instructs Quebec-bound applicants to upload the CAQ in both the CAQ and PAL/TAL document sections. Missing one can trigger document requests or delays.
Action Checklist
- Secure admission to a Quebec DLI before applying for a CAQ
- Ensure your CAQ includes the required “Quebec’s share” statement
- Submit your CAQ attestation in both the CAQ and PAL/TAL sections when applying for the study permit
- Prepare proof of financial support documents and submit with your application
- Check your CAQ and study permit application status regularly through the Quebec and IRCC portals
Conclusion
Successfully navigating the CAQ and study permit process for Quebec requires attention to detail and adherence to both provincial and federal requirements. By following the steps outlined in this guide, ensuring your documents are current and contain the necessary statements, and avoiding common mistakes, you can increase your chances of a smooth application process and focus on your studies in Quebec.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a CAQ to study in Quebec?
In most cases, yes. IRCC states that to study in Quebec you need a letter of acceptance from a Quebec DLI and an attestation of issuance of the CAQ issued by Quebec before applying for the IRCC study permit.
Is the CAQ the same thing as a study permit?
No. The CAQ is Quebec’s provincial authorization, while the study permit is the federal authorization issued by IRCC. You generally need both to study in Quebec (plus a travel document if required).
Does the CAQ replace the provincial attestation letter (PAL) requirement?
For Quebec, IRCC explains that the CAQ serves as the PAL/TAL for study permit applications, and IRCC provides specific wording that must appear on the CAQ attestation under current rules.
Where do I find my approved CAQ?
IRCC states you can find your approved attestation of issuance of your CAQ in your online file with the Government of Quebec and that you won’t get a paper copy of the CAQ.
How do I upload my CAQ in the IRCC online study permit application?
IRCC’s Guide 5269 instructs Quebec applicants to submit the updated CAQ in both the Provincial/Territorial Attestation Letter section and the CAQ section in the online application.
I’m extending my study permit from inside Canada—do I still need a CAQ?
Yes. IRCC’s in-Canada student guide says that whether you renew or apply for your initial study permit, you must get an attestation of issuance of the CAQ issued by MIFI.
If my parents (or another person) are paying, is there a Quebec form for that?
Yes. Quebec’s “Statement of Financial Support” form indicates it must be completed and signed by the person covering the foreign national’s study costs in Quebec and describes the types of costs they undertake to cover.
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Sources: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), official government publications
