Study in Montreal, Quebec 2025

1. Introduction to Studying in Montreal

Montreal is a magnificent city, located in Quebec, Canada, which is one of the prime destinations for international students. It has an excellent mix of quality education matched with a high quality of life, which sets Montreal apart from the rest of North American cities. Montreal has been rated the best city for higher education in 2017 for its exceptional "cost-quality" ratio, very rare among advanced countries. Besides, job prospects and opportunities for university graduates in Canada to remain in the country are excellent. 

2. Montreal's Language and Lifestyle

As the largest city in Quebec and the second largest in Canada, Montreal boasts a diverse linguistic environment. While French is the predominant language, spoken by nearly 70% of residents, English is also widely spoken. This bilingual setting creates ideal conditions for mastering both languages. Montreal, regularly featured among the world's best cities to live in, is also recognized as a UNESCO "City of Design" and Canada's cultural capital.

3. Climate and Living Conditions in Montreal

Montreal experiences a humid continental climate, with warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters. This variety contributes to the city's dynamic character, offering a unique living experience for students.

4. Montreal's Cultural Scene

The city is famous for its rich cultural life, hosting renowned festivals like the World Film Festival, International Jazz Festival, and Francophone Music Festival. Its diverse architecture, museums, and theaters reflect a melting pot of styles and cultures, making it an exciting place for students to explore.

5. Economic Opportunities in Montreal

Montreal is a major economic hub, focusing on sectors like information technology, aerospace, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, tourism, and film. This economic diversity attracts skilled professionals from around the world, including international students.

Canada offers a consistent educational structure across provinces, with compulsory education lasting from ages 6-7 to 15 years. Private schools in Montreal are particularly popular among international students, especially in grades 6-9. These schools often provide bilingual education in French and English, emphasizing the development of well-rounded individuals. Subjects up to grade 9 include foreign languages, natural sciences, social sciences, and arts. Grades 10-11 focus on a reduced list of subjects, with options for special courses like the International Baccalaureate (IB) and High School Diploma with Advanced Placement.

Anna Parkhomenko

Ridley College Admission Manager

What advice can you give to potential applicants to schools in Canada and why?

Explore the country and make sure it suits you. Explore selected schools and narrow down your favorites: contact them, for sure they will offer you a tour (virtual or real), brochures, newsletters. Pay close attention to the language requirements, if you can meet them at the time of application. If you can't visit a school with, say, a trial semester, see if they organize a children's camp - it will help you know what to expect from the school.

Pre-university programs in Montreal offer a pathway to undergraduate studies, with a focus on language and academic preparation. Programs like International Foundation, Transfer program, and University Pathway vary in duration and almost guarantee admission to universities in Montreal and Canada.

Montreal's higher education landscape offers both university and college options. Universities provide Bachelor's, Master's, and Doctoral degrees, with popular fields including arts, pharmaceuticals, medicine, and architecture. Colleges, often part of university infrastructure, offer applied and professional education. Foreign students receive ample support through consultants, clubs, and associations, easing their adaptation and language acquisition.

Montreal's leading language centers cater to a wide range of needs, from beginners to advanced learners. They offer various intensities and specializations, including academic and professional language courses, business courses, and exam preparation.

Applying for a study permit in Montreal involves preparing a comprehensive document package, including education certificates and language proficiency certificates like TOEFL or DELF. Speaking both English and French is advantageous for applicants.

Study in Montreal Fees and Costs

Understanding the cost of study in Montreal is crucial for international students. While fees vary by program and institution, Montreal is known for its favorable cost-quality ratio in education.

Best Programs to Study in Montreal

Montreal offers a range of sought-after programs across various fields. Students can choose from diverse options, considering their career goals and interests, in one of North America's most student-friendly cities.

General information about Montreal

Cost of living in Montreal

Accommodation options in Montreal per month

Coordinates of Montreal