Home to Montreal, with the highest per capita student population of any city in Canada, the province of Quebec continues to attract international students.

At the cultural crossroads of North America and Europe, towns and cities across Quebec offer something special. Each year, Quebec’s various francophone and anglophone educational institutions welcome some 25,000 new foreign students. Diversity and opportunity are found in abundance in this unique learning environment.

Not only are students attracted to Quebec because of its vast range of study programs. They also come for the favorable tuition rates, ultramodern facilities, and stimulating living environment, not to mention the path to Canadian immigration available through the Quebec Experience Program. When considering Canada as your study destination, it is important to recognize the opportunities available in Quebec, particularly in the city of Montreal.

Population

8.3 million

International Student Population

47,521 (2014 figures)

Location

Main Study Destinations

Montreal, Quebec City, Sherbrooke

Studying in Quebec: The Advantages

• Diplomas and degrees obtained in Quebec are recognized internationally. Quebec ensures the quality of the programs offered in each of the public institutions of its educational system, through, among other things, legislation, the use of external assessment bodies, and by securing the agreement of professional orders.
• Students have a vast range of French and English programs of study to choose from, depending on the institution selected.
• Quebec’s institutions of higher learning, irrespective of their size and location, are equipped with ultramodern facilities such as high-tech labs, computer labs, sports facilities, and auditoriums.
• Tuition fees applicable to foreign students compare favourably to those in other industrialized countries, as well as to other Canadian provinces.
• The cost of living is among the lowest in Canada.
• Quebec has the best of urban living and rural beauty. In addition to its myriad lakes and rivers, a huge boreal forest, a fjord and a majestic seaway, Quebec has a multitude of national parks.
• International students have a clear pathway to permanent immigration to Canada and, eventually, citizenship.

Immigrate After Studying in Quebec

·         Quebec Experience Program

Many international students who come to study in Quebec eventually become permanent residents of Canada through the Quebec Experience Class, also known as the Programme de l’expérience Québécoise, or PEQ. This program operates a stream dedicated to providing international students in Quebec with the opportunity to build their lives and careers in Quebec. This pathway does not require individuals to reach a point threshold and/or receive an invitation to apply.

·         Quebec Skilled Worker Program

If a student is finishing his or her studies in Quebec and holds a valid CAQ (Quebec Acceptance Certificate) and study permit, he or she may be eligible to apply through the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP). Candidates who have studied in Quebec must have completed at least one half of an eligible study program and be ready to enter the workforce. The QSWP uses a points-based system to assess the applications of individuals who wish to settle in the province.

·         Express Entry

Candidates for immigration to Canada who has completed their education at a school in Quebec and ultimately wish to immigrate to another province or territory in Canada may do so through the federal Express Entry immigration selection system. Such individuals may be awarded a significant number of points on account of their high level of education. Moreover, international graduates of Canadian educational institutions may have obtained important Canadian work experience, another highly valued factor under the Express Entry system.

Destination Schools in Quebec

These institutions are featured due to their size, proximity to urban centres, and tradition for enrolling international students into their student bodies. Learn more about each school by clicking their titles below, which will take you to the relevant page on School Search.

Concordia University

Formed in 1974, Concordia is a forward-thinking, diverse institution in a bustling urban environment, with more than 500 programs at both the graduate and undergraduate levels.

Signature programs: Business, Engineering, Intermedia, Computer Science

Location: Montreal

Université de Montréal

This francophone institution comprises 13 faculties and more than 60 departments, as well as more than 650 undergraduate and graduate programs, including 71 doctoral programs.

Signature programs: Medicine, Social Sciences, Health Sciences, Business

Location: Montreal

McGill University

This institution has produced more Nobel laureates and Rhodes scholars than any other in Canada. A centre for research and instruction, McGill attracts students from around the world.

Signature programs: Medicine, Law, Music, Dentistry, Management

Location: Montreal

Université Laval

Originally founded as a seminary in 1663, Université Laval offers over 350 programs to more than 29,000 students, of which 2,500 are international.

Signature programs: Law, Architecture, Science and Engineering, Social Sciences, Medicine

Location: Quebec City

Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM)

 UQAM is a French-language university and is the largest constituent element of the Université du Québec (UQ), a public university system. It offers Bachelors, Masters, and Doctoral degrees at a downtown location.

Signature programs: Arts, Health Sciences, Business

Location: Montreal

Université de Sherbrooke

Université de Sherbrooke is known for is its international partnerships and external co-op program, through which students can receive course credit in a paid internship.

Signature programs: Medicine and Health Sciences, Administration, Education, Engineering, Law, Sports

Location: Sherbrooke, Longueuil

Other Select Schools in Quebec

Select Schools are those that BICAVS has assessed for quality, value, and competency with international students. These schools are accredited by Colleges and Institutes Canada (formerly the Association of Community Colleges of Canada) or are chosen because of proven pathway programs and exemplary student services.

Bishop’s University

Collège Ahuntsic

Collège de Maisonneuve

Collège de Rosemont

Collège Gérald-Godin

Collège LaSalle

Collège Lionel-Groulx

Collège Mérici

Collège Montmorency

Dawson College

Ecole de technologie supérieure

Ecole Polytechnique de Montréal

HEC Montréal

Vanier College

Studying in Quebec FAQ

How can a potential international student apply to study in Quebec?

To apply for a Canadian study permit, prospective international students must first obtain a letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). As each institution may have different admission requirements and application processes, interested applicants may contact the desired institution(s) individually.

To obtain a Canadian study permit to attend a post-secondary institution in Quebec, most students require a Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (Quebec Acceptance Certificate, or CAQ).

What are the designated learning institutions in Quebec?

For the complete list of designated learning institutions, please visit this page.

What are the top universities in Quebec?

• Concordia University is a comprehensive English language university with over 500 programs at the graduate and undergraduate levels. Located in downtown Montreal, it is known for its hands-on creative programs. Formed in 1974 as a marriage between Loyola University and Sir George Williams University, Concordia is a forward-thinking, diverse institution in a bustling urban environment. The John Molson School of Business is one of the top ten universities in Canada for business programs.
  • Signature programs: Business, Building Engineering, Intermedia, Engineering and Computer Science, Geography and Urban Studies
• Université de Montréal is a giant among French-language universities in Canada, with a strong reputation in the health sciences and law. Almost 50,000 graduate and undergraduate students have access to more than 650 programs in more than 60 departments. Two affiliated schools — HEC Montréal and École Polytechnique — offer programs in Business and Engineering respectively, and each is renowned in its own right.
  • Signature programs: Medicine, Social Sciences, Health Sciences, Law, Business
• McGill University may be the province’s best-known English-language university. Consistently ranking among the top universities in Canada and worldwide, McGill is particularly known for its Medicine, Management, and Engineering programs. Home to 11 faculties and 12 professional schools, McGill offers its 38,000 students a choice of over 300 programs over two campuses. The park-like main campus is located in downtown Montreal, while the campus in nearby Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue hosts the Agricultural and Environmental Sciences faculty, where students have access to a working farm.
  • Signature programs: Medicine, Law, Music, Dentistry, Engineering, and Management
• Université de Québec is a network of 10 institutions across the province, with universities in Montreal (UQAM), Trois-Rivières (UQTR), Chicoutimi (UQAC), Rimouski (UQAR), Outaouais (UQO), and Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT). It also has two member schools (of public administration and technology), a science research institute, and North America’s only French-language distance learning university, TÉLUQ.
• Bishop’s University is one of the three English-language universities in Quebec, along with McGill and Concordia. It is located in Sherbrooke, in southern Quebec. With a population of fewer than 3,000 students, the university is ideal for those looking for a smaller, cosier, residential experience where their input in the community matters. Bishops is primarily an undergraduate university with a strong tradition in the humanities and social sciences, as well as natural sciences and business.
  • Signature programs: Languages, Education, Business, Humanities, Natural Sciences, and Mathematics

What are the top colleges in Quebec?

• Quebec’s college system is unique within Canada. After 11 years of elementary and secondary school, students may enter public colleges known as CEGEPs, where they may pursue vocational diplomas (DEP) or pre-university (DEC) courses. The former prepares students to enter the workforce directly or enter university; the latter prepares students to enter a Bachelor program with advanced standing (Bachelor programs in Canada for students who have completed CEGEP are usually three years in length). The following colleges are within the CEGEP system. Quebec also has several private colleges.
• Founded in 1970, Vanier College was Montreal’s second English-language public college. Most of its approximately 6,000 students pursue pre-university programs, although as with other colleges in Quebec, three-year technical programs are also on offer. Vanier is located in the St. Laurent borough of Montreal, known for its diversity (according to the most recent census data, more than half of its residents reported a first language other than English or French) and residential feel. The college is also well-connected by metro to the downtown core.
  • Signature programs: Pre-University, Career Programs, Attestation Programs, College Majors, Sustainability
• Founded in 1969, Dawson College was the province’s first English-language vocational college and is now the largest with almost 11,000 students. Students may choose from a wide range of pre-university or technical programs and may pursue their studies in the English language. For this reason, Dawson is popular with international students. The college is known for experimenting with pedagogical techniques, including smaller seminar-style classes.
  • Signature programs: “First Choice Science”, Arts, Literature and Communication, Business, Engineering, Business Technology
• Collège Ahuntsic, one of the largest CEGEPs in Quebec with approximately 10,000 students, is well-known for its science programs. In certain programs, students may have access to part-time work in their field of study. As a Francophone college, classes at Ahuntsic are conducted in French. The college is located in the Ahuntsic-Cartierville neighbourhood in northern Montreal.
  • Signature programs: Natural Sciences, Arts, Literature and Communication, Radiology, Pre-hospital Emergency Care (Paramedic), Police Technology.

Which areas of study are particularly popular in Quebec?

• As is the case across Canada, popular study programs include Engineering, Nursing, and Computer Science.
• McGill’s reputation draws many students to its Medicine, Law, and Management programs. Montreal is known for its art scenes, and Arts and Humanities-related subjects are popular here. Several Quebec institutions are known for specializing in Hospitality and Tourism Management and Culinary programs, which are also big draws for students.
• In addition to the programs above, institutions across Quebec offer a broad range of programs.

What is the cost of tuition for international students in Quebec?

International tuition at CEGEPs is established across the province, and international students may expect to pay between $12,000 and $18,602 per year, depending on the program of study.

Universities in Quebec show more variation intuition. International students may expect to pay between $10,000 and $30,000 per year, depending on the program of study (certain specialized post-graduate programs may be more expensive).

Prospective international students should note that Quebec also has agreements with certain countries that exempt citizens of these countries from paying international tuition supplements. For more information, prospective students are encouraged to consult Quebec’s Ministry of Education or a post-secondary institution.

What are the health care and insurance options in Quebec?

International students studying in Canada are required to purchase health insurance before arriving in Canada. Often, this is organized through the post-secondary institution.

However, students from countries that have a reciprocal agreement with Quebec may be eligible for provincial healthcare coverage. These countries are:

• Belgium
• Denmark
• Finland
• France
• Greece
• Luxembourg
• Norway
• Portugal
• Romania, and
• Sweden

It should be noted that only students from France are also eligible for prescription drug coverage.

What is the average monthly cost of living for a student in Quebec?

To apply for a study permit, a potential international student must show that he or she has $11,000 in addition to tuition fees to cover living expenses in Quebec. This equates to $917 per month.

It should be noted that the costs of living can vary widely across the province, particularly between large cities and smaller towns. For an approximate estimation of living costs in Quebec, please see below.

Factor	Per month (approx.)	Per year (approx.)
Accommodation	$550	$6,600
Food	$200	$2,400
Clothing, miscellaneous	$150	$1,800
Recreation and entertainment	$150	$1,800
Health insurance	$83	$1,000
Transportation (Montreal network, reduced fare for students 25 and under)	$49.75	$597
Phone bill	$60	$720
Internet	$50	$600
Utilities	$100	$1,200
Cost of living total	$1,442.75	$17,313

What are the options for financial aid in Quebec?

International students in Quebec may have access to private loans on the same terms as Canadian citizens and permanent residents. Loans may be offered by banks, student organizations, or other groups. It is important to properly research loan options and understand the interest and repayment plans, before committing to any contract.

Many organizations and institutions may offer scholarships or bursaries to international students studying in Quebec. For more information, students are encouraged to contact the international student services department of their institution.

Graduate programs in particular often have funding options for students pursuing a Master’s or PhD program. It is important to contact the educational institution directly for more information.

Which colleges and universities in Quebec offer engineering study programs?

• As a popular program across Canada, it is possible to study Engineering in many Quebec universities and colleges.
• McGill in particular is known for its engineering department, which was ranked fifth-best in Canada by Maclean’s magazine in 2016.
• Concordia’s Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science offers more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs.

Which colleges and universities in Quebec offer computer technology programs?

• McGill was ranked sixth-best in Canada for Computer Science by Maclean’s magazine in 2016.
• As a popular program across Canada, it is possible to study Computer Technology and related programs in many Quebec universities and colleges.
• Computer Science and related programs are available at all three of Quebec’s English-language universities (Bishop’s, McGill, and Concordia), as well as at English-language colleges such as Dawson and Vanier.

Which colleges and universities in Quebec offer nursing study programs?

• As a popular program across Canada, it is possible to study Nursing and related health programs in many Quebec universities and colleges.
• McGill was ranked sixth-best in Canada for Nursing by Maclean’s magazine in 2016.
• Dawson College’s nursing program prepares graduates to enter the workforce, but also encourages them to continue to a Bachelor of Nursing degree — to this end, it has developed an integrated DEC-BAC program in partnership with McGill University’s School of Nursing.

Where in Quebec offers STEM degrees?

STEM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. While careers in STEM fields are popular, there is no specific program entitled “STEM” in a Quebec college or university. Prospective students are encouraged to research programs in their particular area of interest.

What are the employment prospects for international students after graduation in Quebec?

The wholesale and retail trade sector is the largest employer in Quebec, followed by the health and social assistance sector.

From September 2015 to September 2016, significant employment growth was seen in the business, building and other support services, finance, insurance, real estate, rental and leasing, and educational services sectors.

How can an international graduate work in Quebec?

Graduates from a DLI in Quebec may apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit after graduating from an eligible study program.

Does studying in Quebec provide options for permanent immigration to Canada for international students?

• Quebec Experience Program: Many international students who come to study in Quebec eventually become permanent residents of Canada through the Quebec Experience Class, also known as the Programme de l’expérience Québécoise, or PEQ. This program operates a stream targeted at international students in Quebec. This pathway does not require individuals to reach a point threshold and/or receive an invitation to apply.
• Quebec Skilled Worker Program: If a student is finishing his or her studies in Quebec and holds a valid CAQ and study permit, he or she may be eligible to apply through the Quebec Skilled Worker Program (QSWP) as a cap-exempt applicant. Candidates who have studied in Quebec must have completed at least one half of an eligible study program and be ready to enter the workforce. The QSWP uses a points-based system to assess the applications of individuals who wish to settle in the province.
• Express Entry: Candidates for immigration to Canada who has completed their education at a school in Quebec and ultimately wish to immigrate to another province or territory in Canada may do so through the federal Express Entry immigration selection system. Such individuals may be awarded a significant number of points on account of their high level of education. Moreover, international graduates of Canadian educational institutions may have obtained important Canadian work experience, another highly valued factor under the Express Entry system.
• Studying in Quebec does not prevent an international graduate from applying to a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) elsewhere in Canada for which he or she may be eligible. However, applicants must have the intention to reside in the province to which he or she is applying through a given PNP category.

What is the climate like in Quebec?

Quebec is Canada’s largest province, and consequently, the climate varies greatly between the southern border with the United States and the northern coastline (which extends almost to the Arctic Circle). Most of Quebec’s major cities, including Montreal, are located in the south of the province and experience hot, humid summers and cold, snowy winters.

What advantages are there to studying in Quebec?

Quebec universities are known for preparing their graduates for life after university. Three of Quebec’s universities ranked in the top 10 in Canada for this key factor. In a survey conducted by Maclean’s Magazine in 2016, graduates ranked Bishop’s University fifth, Université de Sherbrooke sixth, and UQAM seventh.

Prospective students interested in languages may find many opportunities in this predominantly Francophone province.

What are the largest cities and towns in Quebec?

Montreal is by far the largest and best-known city in Quebec. Montreal’s abundance of universities and colleges, as well as comparatively low cost of living and diverse culture, have long made it a popular destination for students. While Quebec is officially a Francophone province, many English-speakers find it easy and welcoming to live in this functionally bilingual city.

The province’s capital city is also officially named Quebec but is often referred to as Quebec City. The city is one of the oldest settlements in North America, and local history is proudly preserved here. Université Laval is located in Quebec City.

Other major cities and towns in Quebec include Gatineau (across the river from Ottawa), Laval, Trois-Rivières, Sherbrooke, and Saguenay.