TOP-10 schools, colleges and universities in Montreal, Quebec where foreign students can get high-quality education

Studying at a school or university in Montreal has many advantages not only in educational activities, but also in the organization of leisure and life:

1. Major bonuses

Montreal is a very popular destination among international students. Among the large North American cities, it ranks first in terms of the number of students, and in 2017 it was recognized as the best city for getting higher education, largely due to the excellent combination of "price-quality", which is difficult to find in other advanced countries. In addition, graduates of Canadian universities have a good chance of finding a well-paid job and staying in the country.

2. Language, standard of living

It is the largest in the province of Quebec and the second largest Canadian city. The official language is French (almost 70% of the inhabitants speak it), the second most common is English (about 20% of the population are native English speakers ). However, there are equally excellent conditions for practicing both English and French - more than half of the population is fluent in both languages. On our site you will find programs in French and English, which are conducted by experienced teachers - they will allow students to improve their language quality. This city is consistently in the ranking of the best cities for life. From recent honorary titles: it is called the “City of Design” (UNESCO), the cultural capital of Canada (Monocle Magazine).

3. Climate, living conditions

The city is at the junction of several climatic zones, but, as a rule, it is classified as continental-humid. Summer is warm, humid, average temperatures are from 26 ° C, winter is cold and snowy, average temperature is -6 ... -9 ° C

4. Culture

Various festivals are held here, the most famous are the World Film Festival, the International Jazz Festival, the Francophone Music Festival. In addition, the city has a large number of museums, architectural ensembles and theaters. The multinational metropolis incorporates various trends and trends - they are boldly reflected in the architecture of the city, represented by bizarre mosaics from different styles, eras and cultures. It harmoniously combines French colonial houses, Gothic cathedrals of England, modernist skyscrapers and shopping malls.

5. Economics

Being a major economic center, the city focuses on the development of the following areas (in which competent specialists, including from abroad) are actively attracted: information technology, aerospace, pharmaceutical, biotechnology, tourism, and the film industry.

You will have your own program in each province of Canada, however, in all areas there are common features: secondary education is compulsory everywhere and lasts from 6-7 to 15 years. Study is divided into the following stages:

• Elementary classes (6-12 years)
• Secondary School (12-16 years old)
• High School (16-18).

Upon graduation from high school in Canada, graduates receive a Dogwood Diploma certificate. Private schools in Montreal are especially in demand among foreign students after grades 6,7,8,9. At this age, students are more independent, are happy to immerse in the new language environment and achieve great academic results. In addition, the sooner foreign students begin to get acquainted with the Canadian system of education, the easier it will be for them in the future (studying in high school).

In grades 7-9, emphasis is put on the comprehensive development, education of holistic individuals. Most schools provide bilingual teaching (in French and English) - a great chance to learn two foreign languages at once. Basic subjects up to grade 9:

• foreign languages
• physical development
• natural sciences
• career guidance
• social sciencies
• music
• fine arts
• health sciences.

In grades 10-11, children can continue to study according to the national classical program, while the list of subjects is reduced:

• foreign languages
• maths
• choice of science discipline
• social sciencies
• creativity.

In addition, after the 10th grade, special courses are popular that combine the study of school disciplines with the preparation for entering a university: 

• International Baccalaureate (IB)
• High School Diploma + Advanced Placement.

A great advantage of pre-university programs is an opportunity to go to undergraduate programs immediately after graduating from a domestic school - subject to good knowledge and serious language preparation, there is a chance to save serious money.

But many foreign students prefer to go through a special preparatory program, which is designed to help in adapting to the new language and academic environment, to tighten knowledge in subjects, to improve language skills. In this case, students have a wide selection of courses: International Foundation, Transfer program, University Pathway. These programs differ in duration (from 1-2 semesters to 2 years). At the end of prestigious programs, students are almost guaranteed admission to the University of Montreal and Canada.

Consider the main nuances of higher education in Canada:

1. University or college?

The result of studying at a university in Canada is getting a Bachelor's, Master's or Doctoral degree. Leading College of Montreal will provide knowledge of applied and professional level in various fields. In many ways, they become an integral part of university infrastructure - in some prestigious colleges you can get a Bachelor's degree and take courses in a Magistracy. The Bachelor's degree lasts 3-4 years - directions such as the faculties of art, pharmaceuticals, medicine and architecture are in demand.

2. Support for foreign students

In elite universities, special consultants, clubs and associations work, which you can turn to for help and support - thanks to such organizations, students are much easier to tolerate adaptation, learn language faster.

3. Entry requirements

For successful admission to the University of Montreal, you will need to prepare a package of documents that includes: a certificate of secondary education, an international certificate of TOEFL / DELF (depending on the language you choose ). A great advantage for those who speak two languages.

In this city, leading language centers operate established themselves with high-quality, effective programs:

• By level of difficulty: for beginners with a zero level of language proficiency and continuing with a different level, which is determined using special testing.
• According to the degree of intensity: there are classic options, intensives and super-intensives. The latter are intended for students with deadlines and short-term goals.
• Language directions and combined - options for learning a language + hobby are very popular
• For academic purposes - to tighten the language in order to study in a foreign school or university, as well as to increase professional competence
• For work
• Business courses
• Preparation for exams.

General information about Montreal

Cost of living in Montreal

Accommodation options in Montreal

Coordinates of Montreal