9 best universities in Montreal, Quebec 2024

The higher education in Montreal for the foreign students is a great opportunity to obtain high quality education, oriented at practice at affordable prices. In terms of education and quality of life, Canada is not far behind the world leaders – the UK and the USA, but the cost is much lower here. Canada is gifted with many natural wonders: travelling, you will discover dazzling sandy beaches and Arctic tundra, mountain ranges, wheat prairies, forests, sparkling lakes and rocky shores. Tourists get special inspiration from the hospitality of local residents, a variety of cultural events, as well as man–made attractions - the Calgary Stampede Festival in the park of the same name, Jasper Park, Banff Ski Resort and, of course, Niagara Falls.

Montreal is the city, created for the students, where some of the best universities in Canada and around the world are located, and which offers a variety of leisure activities, a wide range of educational opportunities and an exciting nightlife. Obtaining a degree in Canada will increase your career prospects and value in the labour market. Study in Montreal, and immerse yourself in one of the best cities in terms of living standards in the world.

There are 6 major universities in Montreal, as well as a dozen colleges and many language schools. There are 4.4 students per 100 residents of the city, which is the highest concentration of students in North America. Canada's oldest university, McGill University, is one of the most international, with 20 percent of its students being foreign. Among its graduates are astronauts, Nobel Prize and Oscar winners, and even basketball inventor James Naismith.

The University of Montreal (Université de Montréal) is one of the largest universities in the world, in which teaching is conducted in French. The university has a well-known language school. The Université de Montréal is also known for nuclear research. Montreal is home to the largest francophone university in the world — the University of Quebec in Montreal (Université du Québec à Montréal). The University of Laval has taught several dozen future politicians and prime ministers of Canada.

Montreal, Quebec, is celebrated globally for its education, particularly at the graduate and master's level. Here, you'll find a diverse range of academic offerings and numerous specializations.

Diverse Academic Programs

• Montreal universities offer a variety of programs, including pre-university courses, Bachelor's and Master's degrees, postgraduate and doctoral studies, certificates, online courses, and summer schools.

Outstanding MBA Programs

• Montreal is known for its exceptional international MBA programs. Depending on the university chosen, these programs are offered in English or French, with many bilingual options. The city's higher education institutions excel across numerous disciplines, including business, engineering, life sciences, clinical medicine, social sciences, computer science, environmental sciences, architecture, law, education, humanities, and the arts.

Sam Jones

Recruitment Director for Partnership with INTO Universities (Europe and Central Asia)

What firstly should be considered when choosing a university?

It depends on the student - everyone determines the most important criteria for himself. I would advise you to take several rankings and compare them with each other, plus take into account the cost of the course, the location of the university and its scale, the percentage of graduates' employment. See where graduates continue their studies or where they go to work.

Preparatory programs in Montreal are designed to assist students in adapting to a new language and academic environment while improving their subject knowledge and language skills. These programs vary in duration and can focus solely on language skills or offer a combination. Upon completing these prestigious programs, students are guaranteed admission to Montreal's top universities. Pre-university courses include options like International Foundation, Transfer programs, and University Pathway programs.

• Montreal is a bilingual city where residents commonly speak both English and French, making it an excellent place to learn both languages.

• The city consistently ranks among the world's most livable cities, offering a high quality of life, excellent transportation infrastructure, picturesque parks, cozy cafes, restaurants, theaters, and museums.

• Montreal hosts major festivals, concerts, parades, and cultural events, making it a vibrant cultural capital.

• The city is a melting pot of cultures, helping foreign students quickly acclimate.

• Montreal boasts excellent transportation links to other Canadian cities and select U.S. destinations.

• University campuses are nestled in green zones, with over 350 parks enhancing the city's appeal.

• Montreal's distinct seasons attract international students, offering beach days in summer and ice skating and skiing in winter. Beautiful ski resorts are just a short distance from the city.

• Rental costs for apartments in Montreal are generally lower compared to other major Canadian cities like Toronto and Ottawa, with shared living being a common choice among foreign students.

Let's take a closer look at Montreal's leading institutions:

1. University of Montreal

Established in 1878, this non-profit state institution offers Bachelor's, Master's, and doctoral programs. It's a top choice, with 40-50% of applicants selecting this university. Its extensive research activities place it at 3rd in Canada, 36th globally in reputation, and 85th worldwide in higher education rankings.

2. McGill University

Founded in 1821, McGill is a renowned public institution celebrated for its research excellence. It offers a wide array of programs in various fields.

3. Concordia University

Founded in 1974, Concordia is a dynamic higher education institution that embraces experiential learning, research, and online education. It offers programs leading to Bachelor's, Master's, and doctoral degrees across multiple disciplines, emphasizing creativity and innovation in its approach. Admission primarily considers students' past academic performance.

Embark on Your Educational Journey in Montreal

Montreal's educational landscape offers a rich tapestry of opportunities for international students seeking quality education and cultural enrichment. Whether you're interested in pre-university preparation or advanced degrees, Montreal's top-notch universities provide the ideal setting to nurture your academic aspirations. Explore the possibilities, immerse yourself in bilingualism, and seize the opportunity to thrive in this dynamic city.

Applying to universities in Montreal as a foreign student involves a multi-step process that requires careful planning and attention to detail. The first step is to research and select the universities and programs that align with your academic interests and career goals. Montreal is home to several renowned universities, each offering a diverse range of programs. Utilize university websites, virtual tours, and educational forums to gather information about course offerings, faculty, campus life, and the cultural dynamics of the city. It's also important to consider factors like language of instruction (French, English, or bilingual), program duration, and university reputation.

Once you've selected your preferred universities, the next step is to prepare and submit your application. This typically involves providing academic transcripts, standardized test scores (such as the TOEFL or IELTS for English proficiency, or TEF for French proficiency), letters of recommendation, and a personal statement or essay. Some programs may require specific entrance exams or portfolios, depending on the field of study. Pay close attention to the application deadlines, as they can vary between institutions and programs. Additionally, since application procedures and requirements can differ for international students, it's crucial to check the specific guidelines provided by each university.

Financial planning and obtaining a study permit are also critical components of the application process. International students should explore tuition fees, living expenses, and potential scholarships or financial aid options offered by the universities or external organizations. After securing admission, you will need to apply for a Canadian study permit and, if necessary, an entry visa. This involves providing proof of acceptance from a designated learning institution, evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses, and other supporting documents as required by the Canadian immigration authorities. It's advisable to start the visa application process well in advance to accommodate any potential delays.

Throughout the application process, it's beneficial to stay in touch with the universities’ international student offices. They can provide specific guidance for international applicants, assist with any queries about the application process, and offer support in navigating the complexities of studying abroad in Montreal.

Universities in Montreal offer a range of programs for foreign students, and the cost and fees vary depending on the institution and the program of study. Here's an overview of some of the major universities in Montreal, along with general information about their costs and fees for international students:

• McGill University: As one of Canada's leading universities, McGill is known for its high academic standards and diverse programs. For international undergraduate students, tuition fees vary significantly based on the program. For the 2023-2024 academic year, fees for most arts and sciences programs range from CAD 18,000 to CAD 48,000 per year. Professional and specialized programs, like engineering or management, may have higher fees. Additionally, students must account for living expenses, books, and other supplies.

• Université de Montréal: This French-language university offers a wide array of programs. The tuition fees for international students at the undergraduate level can range from approximately CAD 20,000 to CAD 45,000 per year, depending on the program. Programs in medicine and certain specialized fields may be more expensive. Again, students need to consider additional costs such as living expenses and insurance.

• Concordia University: Known for its innovative approach and diverse student body, Concordia offers competitive programs in arts, business, engineering, and science. International undergraduate tuition fees for the 2023-2024 academic year generally range from CAD 20,000 to CAD 40,000 per year. Some specialized programs may have higher fees. Living and other educational expenses are extra.

• Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM): This university provides a variety of programs primarily in French. For international students, the tuition fees for undergraduate programs are typically around CAD 18,000 to CAD 25,000 per year. Fees for certain specialized programs may be higher.

It's important to note that these figures are approximate and can vary each academic year. Additionally, all international students should factor in additional costs such as accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, and personal expenses, which can significantly increase the overall cost of studying in Montreal. Some universities also charge additional fees for services like student associations, sports facilities, and health services.

Prospective students should visit the individual university websites for the most up-to-date and specific information regarding tuition and fees, as well as explore opportunities for scholarships, bursaries, or financial aid that may be available to international students.