Quebec Dramatically Increases Proof of Funds for Study Permits in 2026

These changes mean prospective students may need to rethink their financial plans before applying. We understand that is likely not welcome news for everyone – so in this news release, we’re outlining what the changes are and how you can adapt your plans to study in Quebec in 2026. 

Key takeaways 

• Quebec’s proof of funds requirement for study permits has increased sharply for 2026. 

• These funds are required in addition to tuition and are meant to cover basic living costs. 

• Higher requirements may delay applications, but aim to reduce financial hardship after arrival. 

What is the proof of funds requirement in Quebec for study permits? 

When applying for a study permit for Quebec, international students must show they have enough money to support themselves while studying. This is known as the proof of funds requirement. 

Proof of funds shows that a student can pay for their basic living expenses during their time in Quebec without relying on unauthorized work or government assistance. These funds are meant to cover everyday costs such as: 

• Housing and accommodation 

• Food and daily living expenses 

• Transportation 

• Health insurance and other required costs 

These funds are separate from tuition. Even if tuition has already been paid, students must still prove they have enough money to live in Quebec. 

A significant increase in proof of funds for 2026 

For study permit applications submitted after January 1, 2026, Quebec has raised the amount of money students must show to cover one year of essential living expenses: 

For families of more than six people, the required amount increases by $5,254 for each additional person. 

How does this compare to last year? 

In 2025, Quebec’s proof of funds requirements were much lower: 

For a single adult applicant, the required amount increased from $15,508 to $24,617 in just one year. This is a major jump that many students will notice. 

So, here’s how those figures compare:  

Quebec Study Permit Proof of Funds: 2025 vs 2026 

How to interpret this increase 

• A single adult now needs over $9,000 more than last year to meet Quebec’s proof of funds requirement. 

• For families, the increase is much steeper, with some households needing over $20,000 more than in 2025. 

• These increases apply before tuition, which must still be paid separately. 

Why is the proof of funds requirement so high? 

Quebec states that proof of funds is meant to reflect the real cost of living for students in the province. These funds are intended to cover essential expenses such as: 

• Rent and utilities 

• Food and groceries 

• Transportation 

• Personal and day-to-day expenses 

These costs are calculated on top of tuition fees, not instead of them. The higher amounts reflect rising living costs and are meant to ensure students can meet their basic needs while studying. 

Strategies for international students 

For many students, the new requirements may feel overwhelming. In practice, this could mean: 

• Waiting longer before applying to save more money 

• Looking for scholarships, grants, or other funding options to lower tuition costs 

• Adjusting study plans or timelines 

While the higher proof of funds requirement makes studying in Quebec more expensive upfront, it is meant to help students live more comfortably once they arrive. Having enough savings can reduce financial stress and allow students to focus on their studies and life in Canada. 

Studying Outside Quebec 

It may also be worthwhile considering applying to a university outside of Quebec, since proof of funds requirements are currently lower outside Quebec. However, you’ll need to factor in the cost of tuition into your overall cost calculations, since tuition costs may be higher in other provinces.  

In terms of proof of funds required for 2026 alone, here’s what the comparison looks like as of January 2, 2026:  

Note that this table will not be updated in the future and that IRCC reviews its study permit proof of funds intermittently. Always check the official source, or our study permits page, for up-to-date information about proof of funds.  

• For households of 1–7 people, Quebec requires more proof of funds than the rest of Canada 

• The gap is largest for families of 2–5 people, where Quebec requires roughly $6,000–$7,600 more 

• Beyond 7 people, Quebec’s per-person increase is actually lower than the federal amount used outside Quebec 

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