9 best universities in Montreal, Quebec 2025

Montreal is internationally recognized for its educational institutions, especially at the graduate and master's level. The city boasts a rich selection of academic disciplines and specialized fields of study.

Diverse Academic Programs

The universities of Montreal present a comprehensive spectrum of academic routes, including preparatory courses, undergraduate and graduate degrees, as well as doctoral studies, certificates, online courses, and summer programs.

Outstanding MBA Programs

Montreal is well-known for its impressive selection of international MBA programs. Delivered in English, French, or both languages depending on the institution, the city's universities excel in diverse disciplines, from business and engineering to life sciences, computer science, 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.

Montreal's preparatory courses assist students in adapting to new linguistic and scholarly environments, while strengthening both subject-specific knowledge and language proficiency. These programs, varying in length, can focus on language acquisition alone or combine it with other subjects. Successful graduation from these programs guarantees admission to leading Montreal universities. Options for pre-university pathways include International Foundation, Transfer programs, and University Pathway programs.

• As a bilingual city, Montreal is an ideal location for learning both English and French, making it an excellent place to learn both languages.
• It consistently ranks as one of the world's most livable cities, boasting a high quality of life, well-developed transport infrastructure, picturesque parks, cozy cafes, restaurants, theaters, and museums.
• With over 350 parks and access to stunning ski resorts nearby, Montreal’s unique seasons offer a variety of activities.
• Montreal's distinct seasons attract foreign students, offering beach days in summer and ice skating and skiing in winter. Beautiful ski resorts are just a short distance from the city.
• Additionally, the cost of living is generally more affordable than in other major Canadian cities like Toronto and Ottawa, with many international students choosing shared accommodations.

Let’s explore the best educational institutions in Montreal:

1. University of Montreal

Founded in 1878, this public university offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs. With 40-50% of applicants opting for this institution, it is a favored choice. Its extensive research activities rank it 3rd in Canada, 36th worldwide in terms of reputation, and 85th worldwide in higher education rankings.

2. McGill University

Established in 1821, McGill is a prestigious public university recognized for its outstanding research opportunities. It provides an extensive spectrum of programs across various disciplines.

3. Concordia University

Founded in 1974, Concordia is a vibrant university focused on experiential learning, research, and online education. It offers Bachelor's, Master's, and doctoral degrees in diverse fields, prioritizing creativity and innovation. Admissions are largely based on past academic performance.

Start Your Academic Journey in Montreal

Montreal's educational environment is rich with opportunities for international students looking for top-tier education and cultural experience. Whether you’re pursuing pre-university preparation or advanced degrees, Montreal’s top universities are the ideal setting to nurture your academic journey. Discover your options, indulge in bilingualism, and take advantage of the vibrant atmosphere in this exciting city.

The application process for universities in Montreal for foreign students involves several steps and requires careful planning. Begin by researching and selecting universities and programs that match your academic and professional aspirations. Use online resources like university websites and virtual tours to gather information about course offerings, faculty, campus life, and the city’s cultural environment. Additionally, consider factors such as the language of instruction, program length, and university reputation.

After selecting the universities you prefer, the next step involves preparing and submitting your application. This usually includes academic records, standardized test results (like the TOEFL or IELTS for English proficiency, or TEF for French), letters of recommendation, and a personal statement or essay. Depending on the area of study, some programs may also require specific entrance exams or portfolios. Check the application deadlines as they can differ among universities and programs. Furthermore, since application processes and requirements may vary for international applicants, checking the unique guidelines for each institution is important.

Financial planning and obtaining a study permit are also important aspects of the application procedure. International applicants should research tuition costs, living expenses, and available scholarships or financial aid from universities or external organizations. Once you gain admission, you’ll need to apply for a Canadian study permit and a visa. This includes submitting proof of acceptance from a recognized learning institution, evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses, and other supporting documents for Canadian immigration authorities. It’s wise to initiate the visa application process early to manage any possible delays.

Throughout your application process, maintaining communication with the international student offices of the universities can be highly advantageous. They provide specific guidance for international students, help with any queries regarding the application process, and assist in managing the challenges of studying in Montreal.

Universities in Montreal offer a variety of programs tailored for international students. Tuition costs are variable, depending on the specific university and the area of study. Here's an overview of prominent Montreal universities, including approximate expenses for international students:

• McGill University: Acknowledged as a leading Canadian university, McGill is known for its demanding academic environment and extensive program offerings. In the 2023-2024 academic year, international undergraduate tuition fees exhibited a broad range, generally falling between CAD 18,000 and CAD 48,000 per year for the majority of arts and science disciplines. Specialized courses like engineering and business administration usually carry higher fees. Students should also plan for accommodation, textbooks, and other supplies.
• Université de Montréal: Primarily a French-language university, this institution presents a broad range of academic options. International undergraduate students can anticipate tuition fees ranging from CAD 20,000 to CAD 45,000 annually, depending on the specific program. Programs in medicine and particular specialized areas generally incur higher expenses. It is also important for students to account for supplementary costs, such as living expenses and health insurance.
• Concordia University: Сelebrated for its groundbreaking methods and varied student population, Concordia University delivers robust academic options spanning arts, business, engineering, and the sciences. In the 2023-2024 academic year, annual undergraduate tuition for international learners typically ranged from CAD 20,000 to CAD 40,000. Certain specialized courses may incur higher costs, and this fee excludes living costs and supplementary educational charges.
• Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM): This institution presents an array of courses mainly taught in French. Tuition for international undergraduates generally falls between CAD 18,000 and CAD 25,000 annually, with higher costs for specialized fields.

It's essential to recognize that these figures are approximate and subject to change each year. Furthermore, international students must budget for living expenses like accommodation, food, transport, health coverage, and personal spending, which can substantially increase the overall cost of studying in Montreal. Universities might also impose extra fees for amenities such as student associations, sports facilities, and health care.

Applicants should consult the universities' official websites for the most current and precise information regarding tuition and supplementary fees. They should also investigate potential scholarships, grants, or financial assistance options for international students.