4 best international colleges in Montreal, Quebec 2024

Montreal is a beautiful Canadian city where everyone can choose the highest quality and interesting education both in schools and universities. There is a huge scope for learning in Montreal: different types of schools — public, private and language, public and private universities, and language camps and preparation courses.

Montreal is the largest city in the province of Quebec and the second largest French–speaking city in the world. In total, about four million people live in the city, including the suburbs. The official language of the city of Montreal is French, but many residents of the city also use English.

Montreal has a huge number of picturesque parks, including Parc Lafontaine, Mont Royal, Maisonneuve, Saint Louis, Angrignon and many others. Culture and education are the most important spheres in the life of the city. There are many different museums here where you can get acquainted with the history, culture and art of this country. The most famous of them are the Ramsay Castle, the International Museum of Humor, the Museum of Fine Arts, as well as the Museum of Modern Art, which presents an extensive collection of works of art from all eras.

Below there are provided facts about Montreal:

• In 2017, it became the best city to live in the world.
• In 2016, according to the QS Best Student Cities ranking, it was recognized as the best student city in North America and the seventh in the world.
• Economist's Intelligence Unit Safe Index in 2015 named it the best place to live.
• Economist's Intelligence Unit gave him the prestigious title of the best place to receive an international education in 2013.
• The second largest French-speaking settlement in the world.
• The American Public Transportation Association in 2010 praised its outstanding public transportation system.

Quebec's education system features a unique stage of mandatory education, encompassing primary, middle school, and university levels. Montreal houses an average of 50 public professional and community colleges. Additionally, 24 private institutions in Montreal offer 2-year programs to prepare students for university admission and 3-year programs for technical training, culminating in a Diploma of Collegiate Education (DEC). Some provide shorter technical training programs leading to a College Education Certificate (AEC).

To enter a university, a Diploma of Collegiate Education is typically required. Successful completion of a university entrance preparation program opens the door to higher education. Students pursuing technical education primarily prepare for the workforce but may also meet university admission requirements. College administration is overseen by an administrative council comprising teachers, students, and the local community. Below, we present the top three Montreal colleges.

Kevin McDonnell

Specialist in International Students of the University of Sussex

What advice would you give to potential students before applying to a university?

Be proactive and start your application early, ideally almost a year in advance. Seek recommendations from your teachers and academic advisors. The earlier you apply, the more time universities have to consider your application, and the more time you have to explore your options and make an informed decision.

1. La Salle College International

• Established in 1959, this institution offers programs in various specialties, including:

  • Business administration

  • Computer technology (including computer graphics)

  • Fashion design

  • Tourism

  • Hotel business (hotel management)

  • Food industry

• Instruction is available in both English and French, with renowned Canadian specialists as instructors. The college also has a branch in Vancouver.

2. Dawson College

• Founded in 1969 and named after William Dawson, the head of McGill University, this institution serves as a preparatory stage for university entry or as a source of valuable employment-focused specialties. Programs include:

  • Fine arts

  • Linguistics

  • Literature

  • Sociology

  • Computer science

  • Medicine

  • Journalism

  • Photography

  • Theater arts

3. Marianopolis College

• A private institution within the CEGEP system, Marianopolis College has been operating since 1908. It offers a diverse range of specialties, including:

  • Various branches of science and technology

  • Art

  • Linguistics and literature

  • Music

  • Sociology

  • Commerce

  • Legal studies

  • International relations

• The college provides both diploma and certificate programs, along with programs designed to prepare students for further university studies.

Colleges in Montreal offer a variety of programs, often focusing on vocational training, technical education, or pre-university courses. The cost and fees for international students at these institutions vary based on the specific college and program. Here's a general overview of some notable colleges in Montreal and the associated costs for foreign students:

• Dawson College: As the largest English-language CEGEP (Collège d’enseignement général et professionnel) in Quebec, Dawson College offers a wide range of programs. For international students, tuition fees for the 2023-2024 academic year typically range from CAD 6,000 to CAD 14,000 per year, depending on the program. Additional costs include application fees, student services fees, and materials or lab fees.

• Vanier College: Another prominent English-language CEGEP in Montreal, Vanier College provides various pre-university and technical programs. International student fees for the 2023-2024 academic year are approximately CAD 6,000 to CAD 15,000 per year. This fee does not include additional expenses such as books, supplies, and student services.

• LaSalle College: Known for its career-oriented programs, LaSalle College offers a range of diplomas and pre-university studies. International tuition fees can vary widely, typically ranging from CAD 13,000 to CAD 15,000 per year for most programs. Some specialized programs may have higher fees.

• Herzing College Montreal: A private vocational college, Herzing College offers programs in fields like business, technology, and healthcare. For international students, tuition fees can range from about CAD 12,000 to CAD 20,000 per year, varying with the program of choice.

• John Abbott College: This English-language CEGEP offers a variety of pre-university and technical programs. The fees for international students are in the range of CAD 6,000 to CAD 14,000 per academic year, depending on the program. Additional costs for books, supplies, and student services apply.

These fees are approximate and can change from year to year. In addition to tuition fees, international students should budget for living expenses such as accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, and personal expenses. Some colleges may also charge additional fees for specific services or facilities.