Explore the Best Colleges in Montreal!

Montreal is a beautiful city in the province of Quebec situated in Canada. The city is centrally placed on the island of Montreal and a few smaller peripheral islands. Along with the several tourist attractions in Montreal, the city is one of the dream study destinations of many. As of 2023, the total number of international students in all education levels in Canada is 807,750, including higher education, as per Erudera. This blog will cover the major aspects attracting thousands of students to pursue education in this city!

Reasons to study in Montreal

Montreal attracts several students from across the globe every year. Montreal has been ranked the #1 city for students in the QS Best Student Cities. The city hosts over 30,000 international students and features some of the best universities offering a range of undergraduate, postgraduate and research programs across disciplines. Here are a few reasons to study at these top universities in Montreal Canada.

1. Education Quality

The education system is a little different compared to other systems in North America. Montreal offers a CEGEP, the pre-university and technical programs students must attend after high school. The colleges in Montreal offer quality education that not only focuses on theoretical learning but also on strengthening practical skills. These best universities in Montreal encourage students to participate in social activities and become a part of social groups and clubs that allow them to interact with students from other programs. 

2. Exposure to the Job Market

Students studying in the universities in Montreal are exposed to several opportunities depending on their specialisations. The universities in Montreal offer exposure to the job market by conducting regular campus recruitments. These top universities in Montreal Canada offer training sessions to help students prepare for the job interviews with chutzpah and kick-start their careers!

3. Affordability

Living away from home comes with its share of challenges. Finance is one of the main things a student needs to figure out before moving out. The cost of living plays a major role in this scenario. Montreal offers an excellent standard of living at affordable prices, which makes it one of the most favourable study destinations in the world. Here is a guide that can help you manage your finances as an international student!

4. Cultural Dynamic

Montreal welcomes students from all over the world. One can connect with several students from different cultural backgrounds and broaden their perspectives. Montreal is Canada's cultural capital, with a confluence of French and English traditions. The city's cultural vibrancy is reflected in the several festivals that are celebrated annually.

5. Safety and Security

The need for safety and security is another concern that comes up when moving to a new city or country. Parents and students are usually worried about safety and try to be more careful when living alone. However, you can live and roam in Montreal without worry! Montreal is a safe city for students. Some boroughs in Montreal offer public security services; you can contact them in case of emergencies. 

Top Universities in Montreal

We looked at some of the main factors why Montreal is one of the best destinations to study. Given the education quality, the standard of living, and the cultural dynamic, there are a few more reasons why the best universities in Montreal hold a rank in the world's top-notch universities. Let's know a little more about the top universities in Montreal Canada.

1. University of Montreal

Average Fee: CA$3,500 - CA$8,500
Ranking: QS Rank #141
Type of University: Public
Acceptance Rate: 50%
Exams required: IELTS & French Proficiency tests such as DELF, TCF, or TEF
IELTS Score: 6.5
Language of instruction: French
Intake Season: Fall (starts August 15th of preceding year & ends february 1st) | Winter (starts February 1st & ends September 1st) | Summer (starts August 15th of preceding year & ends february 1st)
No. of Enrolments: 66,972
Popular courses: MBA, MSc Management, Computer Engineering
Famous Alumni: Pierre Elliot Trudeau, Calin Rovinescu, and Denys Arcand
Branches: Brossard campus, The MIL campus, Laval campus, Saint-Hyacinthe campus, & Mauricie campus

Founded in 1878, the University of Montreal is a public research university in Montreal, Quebec. It is one of the French-language colleges in Montreal and a member of the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada. The university offers high-quality education at lower tuition fees, making it a top choice for students. As per Canada’s Top 100 Employers report, it’s the only university in Quebec to find a place amongst the top 100 Canadian employers. Students studying here get regular placement assistance, with assured placements in top companies.

2. Mcgill University

Average Fee: CA$4,000 - CA$9,000
Ranking: QS Rank #31
Type of University: Public
Acceptance Rate: 46.3%
Exams Required: ACT or SAT & IELTS
IELTS Score: 6.5
Language of Instruction: English
Intake Season: Fall (application deadline is January 15 for international students) | Winter (deadline is August 1 for international students) | Summer (October 1 for international students)
No. of Enrolments: 39,513
Popular courses: Computer Science, Engineering, Health, Social Science and Humanities
Famous Alumni: Mackenzie Davis, Alan Emtage, Suroosh Alvi, & Darcy James Argue
Branches: Downtown campus & Macdonald campus

McGill University is also an English-language university in Montreal. McGill University offers diplomas and degrees in more than 300 fields. Students studying at the university get exceptional social networking and research opportunities. Most students usually enrol for the six largest faculties: arts, science, medicine, education, engineering and management. The university is famous for its medical-doctoral research across the globe. Students also get good placement opportunities by getting into companies like Deloitte, Metro Inc., and IBM Corp.

3. Concordia University

Average Fee: CA$4,000 - CA$9,000
Ranking: QS Rank #551
Type of University: Public
Acceptance Rate: 81%
Exams Required: IELTS
IELTS Score: 7.0
Language of Instruction: English
Intake Season: Fall (March 1 for September entry for international students) | Winter (June 1 for January entry for international students)
No. of Enrolments: 35,404 (undergraduate) & 10,084 (graduate)
Popular courses: Executive MBA, MFA and B.Arch
Famous Alumni: Brigeen Badour, Corinne Charette, & Daniel Cross
Branches: Sir George Williams campus & Loyola campus

One of the best universities in Montreal, Concordia is a renowned university where the primary language is English. This prestigious university is a non-sectarian and co-educational institution offering more than 400 undergraduate and 200 graduate programs and courses in the four faculties that the university offers. The university provides an excellent student life and encourages students to participate in clubs and programs. Students get an excellent education, which is reflected in its numbers. Around 85% of students are accepted to graduate school or employed full-time within six months of graduation.

4. University of Quebec

Average Fee:  CA$46,000 - CA$49,000
Ranking: QS Rank #751
Type of University: Public
Acceptance Rate: 50%
Exams Required: TFI (French proficiency test) & IELTS
IELTS Score: 6
Language of Instruction: French
Intake Season: Fall (March 1) | Winter (September 15)
No. of Enrolments: 40,000
Popular courses: Data Processing, Electrical Engineering, & Finance
Famous Alumni: Denis Villeneuve, Maxime Bernier, & Pierre Lapointe

The University of Quebec is also one of the best colleges in Montreal. Headquartered in Quebec, it is a system of 10 provincially-run public universities. The university offers students quality programs, cutting-edge research & creation, & innovation in multiple disciplines. The university coordinates almost 300 programs for more than 87,000 students. The university also offers good placement opportunities for students studying here.

5. Polytechnic School of Montreal

Average Fee: CA$3,500 - CA$8,500
Ranking: QS Rank #61
Type of University: Public
Acceptance Rate: 65%
Exams Required: IELTS, TOEFL, & FCE
IELTS Score: 6.5
Language of Instruction: French
Intake Season: For international students Fall (March 1) | Winter (June 1) | Summer (November 15)
No. of Enrolments: 10,000
Popular courses: Chemical Engineering, Civil, Geological, Mining Engineering
Famous Alumni: Julien Michalk-Allaire, Marie-Claude Blais, & Idriss Benjelloun

The Polytechnic School of Montreal is also one of the best universities in Montreal that is affiliated with the University of Montreal. It offers graduate and postgraduate programs in various disciplines and is renowned for its excellent research opportunities. If you're interested in pursuing a bachelor's in engineering, according to tradition, you will receive an iron ring during the Canadian ritual of the calling of an engineer ceremony. An iron ring is a symbol and a reminder of the obligations and ethics associated with engineers. Polytechnic School of Montreal is one of the best colleges in Montreal, one of the three largest engineering schools in Montreal, and the largest in Quebec.

6. Kensley College

Average Fee: CA$14,000 - CA$24,000 
Ranking: Webometrics-National 188
Type of University: Private
Acceptance Rate: 55%
Exams Required: IELTS, TOEFL (75 overall), CAEL (60 overall), & PTE (60 overall)
IELTS Score: 6 
Language of Instruction: English
Popular courses: Cyber Security, Software Testing
Famous Alumni: Guy Cormier, Indu Krishnamurthy, & Olivier Laquinte

Kensley College is one of the best colleges in Montreal, known for its excellent programs that focus on building practical skills that students will require in their jobs. The college hosts more than 18,000 students and is located on the second-longest street. This esteemed university in Montreal offers several Bachelor's, Master's, and PG diploma courses.

7. HEC Montreal

Average Fee: CA$10,700 - CA$15,000
Ranking: QS ranks #45
Type of University: Public
Acceptance Rate: 38%
Exams Required: GMAT, GRE, TAGE MAGE, & IELTS
IELTS Score: 6.5 - 7 
Language of Instruction: English
Popular courses: MSc in International Business, Global Supply Chain Management, MBA

If you're looking to study bilingual programs in English and French, this is one of the best colleges in Montreal you should enrol in! The college offers several academic departments like accounting, applied economics, finance, entrepreneurship and innovation, logistics and operations management, international business, and many more. This prestigious university in Montreal ranks among the best business schools and is accredited by three prestigious institutions: EQUIS, AMBA, and AACSB International.

One of the main eligibility criteria of these best universities in Montreal is an IELTS score. Here are some tips and tricks to crack the IELTS entrance exam! Ensure you complete all the requirements and tick every box of the eligibility criteria to increase your chances of getting admission to your dream university. 

Documents required for studying in the Best Colleges in Montreal

Here is a list of all the basic documents required to apply to the top universities in Montreal Canada. The list will vary depending on each university and the selected course. However, you must check with the specific university and program you are applying to for their requirements and deadlines.

1. Copy of all official academic transcripts.

2. English language proficiency test scores (such as IELTS or TOEFL)

3. Curriculum vitae (CV) or resume

4. Statement of purpose or personal statement

5. Letters of recommendation from academic or professional references

7. Proof of citizenship or permanent residency status

8. Application fee receipts

Studying in Montreal has several perks and gives students an unforgettable experience living there. Along with the top-notch universities and standard of living, the cost of living and exquisite tourist spots make Montreal an ideal place to pursue further studies. You can learn more about the best universities for masters in Canada, along with their courses and fees! The city comprises some of the best universities that provide high education quality and job opportunities. Many institutions also offer fully funded scholarships in Canada! So now that you have a fair idea, you can consider Montreal your study destination. Happy Learning!