Are you an international student considering Montreal, Quebec, as your study destination in Canada? As one of the world’s most vibrant and multicultural cities, Montreal offers a unique blend of high-quality education, rich cultural experiences, and a bilingual environment that immerses you in both French and English. At Domus Hub Immigration, we specialize in guiding students like you to study in Montreal, from selecting top programs to securing your student visa and exploring permanent residency options. With our partnerships with leading institutions in Montreal, we help you find educational pathways that align with your goals while leveraging Quebec’s immigrant-friendly programs like the Programme de l’expérience québécoise (PEQ) for a smooth transition to life in Canada.
Montreal, the largest city in Quebec with over 1.7 million residents, attracts more than 50,000 international students annually from over 150 countries to its world-class universities and colleges. As a global hub for innovation in AI, aerospace, health sciences, and creative industries, studying here provides access to cutting-edge research, internships, and networking opportunities. Institutions offer globally recognized degrees in both English and French, with strong employability outcomes. Completing your studies in Montreal can lead to post-graduation work permits (PGWP) and fast-tracked permanent residency through PEQ or federal Express Entry, especially if you gain French proficiency. Whether pursuing undergraduate, master’s, or language programs, Montreal’s educational landscape is ideal for those searching “study in Montreal Quebec for international students,” “best universities in Montreal Quebec,” or “immigration after studying in Montreal Canada.”
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about studying in Montreal, including benefits, top institutions, popular programs, admission requirements, costs, student life, visa processes, and immigration options. Packed with practical tips, external resources, and video insights, this resource is optimized for queries like “cost of living in Montreal Quebec for international students 2025” or “student life in Montreal Quebec.” Let’s turn your Canadian study dreams into reality.
Montreal stands out as a premier destination for international students in Canada, combining academic excellence with a lively cultural scene, affordability, and strong immigration prospects. Here’s why thousands select Montreal each year:
Montreal hosts some of Canada’s top universities, consistently ranked globally for research and teaching. Institutions like McGill University (ranked #29 worldwide in QS 2025) and Université de Montréal emphasize interdisciplinary programs with access to labs, startups, and industries like biotech and gaming. The city’s bilingual nature allows studies in English or French, enhancing language skills and career versatility. With over 11 universities and colleges, Montreal offers diverse options, from liberal arts to STEM, with high graduate employability (over 90% within six months).
External link: QS World University Rankings – McGill University
Compared to other major cities, Montreal is more affordable, with monthly living costs for international students averaging CAD 1,500-2,500 (excluding tuition). This includes rent (CAD 800-1,500 for shared apartments), groceries (CAD 300-500), and public transit (CAD 90/month with OPUS card student discount). Quebec’s lower tuition for French-taught programs (around CAD 3,000/year for locals/internationals in certain cases) adds value, though internationals pay CAD 20,000-40,000/year. The city’s cost index is lower than Toronto’s, allowing enjoyment of its vibrant lifestyle without excessive strain.
External link: Numbeo – Cost of Living in Montreal 2025
With residents from over 150 nationalities speaking more than 100 languages, Montreal is one of Canada’s most diverse cities. International students thrive in neighborhoods like Plateau-Mont-Royal or Mile End, participating in festivals, markets, and cultural events. Universities offer robust support through international offices, buddy programs, and clubs, fostering integration and global friendships.
Montreal’s dynamic scene includes world-famous festivals (e.g., Jazz Festival, Just for Laughs), historic sites like Old Montreal, and outdoor activities in Mount Royal Park. Bilingualism enriches daily life, with easy access to Toronto (1-hour flight) or Quebec City. The city’s safety and efficient STM transit make it student-friendly.
Watch this YouTube video for a student’s view: A Day in the Life of an International Student in Montreal – Explore daily routines and city highlights.
As a leader in AI (home to Mila Institute), gaming, and aerospace, Montreal offers part-time jobs (CAD 15-20/hour) in hospitality, retail, or tech. Graduates benefit from low unemployment (~6%) and average salaries CAD 55,000+, with many securing roles at companies like Ubisoft or Bombardier.
External link: Montreal International – Job Market
Ranked among the safest large cities globally, Montreal provides excellent healthcare via the Quebec Health Insurance Plan (RAMQ) after three months. Its clean environment, efficient public services, and cultural richness enhance overall well-being.
Montreal’s education, culture, and affordability make it a top choice for “best places to study in Quebec for international students.”
Montreal hosts numerous Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) eligible for PGWP. Here’s a comprehensive list, optimized for “top colleges in Montreal Quebec Canada.”
A world-renowned English-language university with 40,000 students, including 12,000 internationals from 150 countries. Offers 300+ programs in medicine, law, engineering, and arts.
External link: McGill University – International Students
Watch this YouTube video: McGill University Campus Tour – Virtual tour of the downtown campus.
A leading French-language research university with 67,000 students, 10,000 internationals. Programs in health, sciences, humanities; offers English options too.
External link: Université de Montréal – International Students
An innovative English-language university with 51,000 students, 10,000 internationals. Strong in business, engineering, fine arts.
External link: Concordia University – International Students . Watch this YouTube video: Concordia University Campus Tour – Highlights of student life.
A public French-language university with 43,000 students, focusing on social sciences, arts, management.
External link: UQAM – International Students
A top business school affiliated with UdeM, offering bilingual MBA and management programs.
External link: HEC Montréal – International Students
Specializes in engineering and technology, part of UQ system.
External link: ÉTS – International Students
Leading CEGEPs (pre-university colleges) with diverse programs for internationals.External link: Dawson College – International Students
For more, explore EduCanada for Quebec. External link: EduCanada – Study in Quebec
Montreal’s programs reflect its innovative economy, ideal for “popular courses in Montreal Quebec for international students.”
McGill’s Law (bilingual) or UdeM’s Psychology.
Language: French immersion at UdeM or English ESL at Concordia.
External link: EduCanada – Programs in Quebec
Requirements vary by institution and language, for “admission requirements for international students in Montreal Quebec.”
Domus Hub Immigration handles CAQ and permit applications. External link: Canada.ca – Study Permit Requirements
Total: CAD 15,000-25,000/year; Quebec requires proof of CAD 13,134/year for study permit.
External link: EduCanada – Costs for International Students
Vibrant with festivals, nightlife, and parks. Bilingual environment aids language learning. Part-time jobs in service/tech (CAD 15-20/hour). Safe, with STM transit.
Watch this YouTube video: A Day in the Life of an International Student at McGill – Daily experiences.
We’re your partners with 15+ years, connected to McGill, Concordia, UdeM. Services: Profile evaluation, program matching, CAQ/applications, visas, arrival support.
