CANADA · MONTRÉAL
École des Hautes Études Commerciales
public · Founded 1907 · Languages: en, fr, es
In short
HEC Montréal is Canada's oldest and most internationally recognized business school, offering over 100 management programs in French and English. It boasts triple accreditation, a top-tier global ranking, and a vibrant campus life in the affordable and cosmopolitan city of Montreal.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1907
- Students
- 15,180
- International students
- 4,144
- Acceptance rate
- 40%
- Tuition (intl)
- €14–28k/yr
- Languages
- EN, FR, ES
- Location
- Montréal, Canada
HEC Montréal is Canada's first and most internationally recognized business school, founded in 1907 and triple-accredited (AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS). It offers over 100 management programs at undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels delivered in French, English, and bilingual streams to more than 15,000 students from over 144 countries. The school excels in management research, ranking in the global top 100 for research impact, and maintains 36 research chairs. Students benefit from the largest international exchange network in Canadian management education.
Why study here
- Triple accreditation (AACSB, AMBA, EQUIS) — among fewer than 1% of business schools worldwide
- Largest international exchange program in management in Canada, with 300+ partner universities
- Programs available in French, English, and trilingual streams, ideal for multilingual careers
- Ranked 1st business school in Canada and 3rd in North America (Eduniversal 2024)
- Vibrant Montreal campus in one of North America's most liveable and affordable cities
Student life
HEC Montréal students enjoy a dynamic campus life enriched by over 50 student clubs covering business, culture, and social impact. The school's connection to the Université de Montréal campus expands social and academic opportunities. Montreal offers world-class festivals, a thriving startup ecosystem, bilingual culture, and relatively low cost of living, making it a top destination for international business students.
Fees
InternationalApprox. CAD 20,000–35,000/year depending on program and level
HomeApprox. CAD 4,000–7,000/year for Quebec residents; CAD 9,000–14,000/year for other Canadians
LivingApprox. CAD 1,400–1,800/month in Montreal (housing, food, transport)
Tuition varies by program level (BBA, MBA, MSc, PhD) and legal status in Canada (Quebec resident, other Canadian, international). Scholarship and exemption programs are available.
Admissions
BBA entryCEGEP DCS or equivalent secondary/pre-university qualification; competitive GPA review
MBA entryBachelor's degree; minimum 2 years of relevant work experience; GMAT or GRE optional for some streams
MSc entryBachelor's degree in a related field; strong academic record; program-specific prerequisites
PhD entryMaster's degree in management or related discipline; research proposal; faculty supervisor required
TOEFL iBT86 (undergraduate); 100 (graduate)
IELTS6.5 (undergraduate); 7.0 (graduate)
CANTEST4.5 overall, 4.0 per band
Rankings
Eduniversal Business Schools Rankings 20241st in Canada, 3rd in North America
QS Global MBA RankingsTop 200 globally, 6th in Canada
Times Higher Education Top Business & Economics 202579th globally, 3rd in Canada
Shanghai ARWU Global Ranking – Management 2024Top 75 globally, 3rd in Canada
QS International Trade Rankings 2024 – MSc International Business2nd in the world
Bloomberg Businessweek MBA 20243rd in Canada
University scholarships
PhD Tuition Fee Exemption & Competitive FundingFull tuition coverage + competitive stipend for first 4 years
HEC Montréal Excellence ScholarshipsVariable merit-based awards for graduate students
Quebec Merit Scholarship for Foreign Students (PBEEE)Up to CAD 25,000/year
Accreditation
AACSB International (USA), AMBA (UK), EQUIS (EFMD, Europe) — triple-accredited since 2002
For international students
CanadaStudent visa & funds
International students must obtain a study permit from IRCC before arriving. Most college and undergraduate applicants must also include a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) confirming a space under the annual cap; from January 2026, master’s and doctoral students at public institutions are exempt from this requirement. Applicants must show living funds of CAD 22,895 (effective September 2025, for a single student, excluding tuition and travel), and Student Direct Stream applicants hold this amount as a GIC.
Working while you study
Full-time students at designated learning institutions whose permits include work authorization may work up to 24 hours per week off campus during academic terms — a cap in effect since November 2024 that replaced the former 20-hour rule and a temporary 40-hour exception. Students may work unlimited hours during scheduled breaks such as summer and winter holidays. From April 2026, eligible students no longer need a separate co-op work permit for mandatory placements.
After you graduate
Graduates of eligible programs may apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) within 180 days of confirmed completion. The PGWP matches program length up to a maximum of three years, and master’s graduates receive a three-year permit regardless of program length. Since November 2024 most applicants must show a recent language test at CLB 7 (university graduates) or CLB 5 (college graduates); degree graduates are exempt from the field-of-study alignment rule that applies to other applicants.
English tests
- IELTS Academic6.0–6.5 with no band below 6.0; research-intensive universities 6.5–7.0
- TOEFL iBT80–100; top universities (e.g. University of Toronto) 100+
Main intakes
SeptemberJanuaryMay
Typical living cost
€1,250/month
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.
SourcesIRCC — Study permit: get the right documents · CIC News — Increased fund requirements for study permits (Sept 2025) · CIC News — Off-campus work rules update (May 2026) · IRCC — Post-graduation work permit: who can apply · ETS — Minimum TOEFL score requirements for the USA, UK and Canada · Mastersportal — Living costs & tuition in Canada
Programs
a selectionÉcole des Hautes Études Commerciales · Canada
Doctor of Business Administration (Ph.D.) – Accounting Sciences
This Ph.D. program in Accounting Sciences is designed for individuals aspiring to academic careers in accounting research. It provides a rigorous research-focused environment within a community of esteemed professors. The program covers areas such as financial accounting, auditing, taxation, management control, and governance. This program is offered jointly with Concordia University, McGill University, and the Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM). This partnership enhances access to a broad range of faculty expertise and courses, creating a unique academic resource. The program is full-time, typically completed in 4 to 5 years, and can be taken in French, English, or bilingually. Importantly, tuition fees are waived, and competitive funding is provided for the first four years of study.
PhD
Level
Free
Tuition
60 mo
Duration
École des Hautes Études Commerciales · Canada
Doctor of Business Administration (Ph.D.) – Applied Economics
This PhD program in Applied Economics is designed for students aiming for academic careers focused on advanced research in applied economics. You will join a community of professors with strong expertise in applied macroeconomics (including finance applications) and applied microeconomics (including industrial organization, labor economics, and health economics). The program offers an intensive environment with excellent resources and supervision. HEC Montréal provides a robust research environment for doctoral students in applied economics, featuring research chairs and professorships. Researchers in this specialization collaborate closely with various research groups and knowledge transfer centers. The program structure includes three phases: preparation, specialization, and dissertation writing. Students benefit from a full-time commitment to complete the program in 4 to 5 years, with a tuition exemption and competitive funding for the first four years.
PhD
Level
Free
Tuition
72 mo
Duration
École des Hautes Études Commerciales · Canada
Doctor of Business Administration (Ph.D.) – Marketing
This Ph.D. program in Marketing is designed for individuals aspiring to academic careers, focusing on areas like brand management, market analysis, e-commerce, customer experience, arts marketing, and marketing strategies. Offered in French, English, or bilingual format, this full-time program takes 4 to 5 years to complete. It is delivered in partnership with Concordia University, McGill University, and the University of Quebec at Montreal (UQAM), providing access to a wide range of faculty and resources. The program structure involves a minimum of 90 credits across three phases: preparation (if needed, up to 1 year), specialization (up to 2 years), and thesis writing. The specialization phase includes required seminars, a research methods workshop, a research paper, and a comprehensive exam. Upon completion, 97% of graduates secure academic positions in universities worldwide.
PhD
Level
Free
Tuition
72 mo
Duration
École des Hautes Études Commerciales · Canada
Doctor of Business Administration (Ph.D.) – Operations and Logistics Management
This Ph.D. in Administration program, with a specialization in Operations and Logistics Management, is designed for those aspiring to academic careers or leadership roles in business. It focuses on research using empirical methods or operations research models. The program is offered in collaboration with Concordia University, McGill University, and UQAM, providing access to a vast network of professors and resources. It's a full-time program, typically completed in 4 to 5 years, offering a competitive funding package and tuition waiver for the first four years. The program emphasizes a strong connection with industry and research centers, preparing students for impactful research and application in the field. Graduates are well-positioned for academic positions, or roles as analysts, consultants, and managers in various industries.
PhD
Level
Free
Tuition
60 mo
Duration
École des Hautes Études Commerciales · Canada
Doctorate in Administration (Ph.D.) – Data Science
This Ph.D. program in Data Science, offered jointly by HEC Montréal, Concordia University, McGill University, and UQAM, prepares students for academic or corporate careers in the rapidly evolving field of data science. Leveraging the expertise of renowned professors and extensive resources from partner institutions, this program offers a unique interdisciplinary approach. Students will engage with cutting-edge research, develop advanced analytical skills, and contribute to innovations in artificial intelligence and data exploitation. The program is designed for full-time study, typically completed in 4 to 5 years. It emphasizes a strong foundation in research methodologies, culminating in a dissertation. The collaborative nature of the program provides access to a wide range of courses and specialized faculty expertise, creating an environment conducive to high-level academic and professional development.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
72 mo
Duration
École des Hautes Études Commerciales · Canada
Doctorate in Administration (Ph.D.) – Decision Sciences
The Doctorate in Administration (Ph.D.) in Decision Sciences at HEC Montréal is designed for individuals aspiring to academic or corporate careers in the field of decision science. This program offers a unique and stimulating research environment, emphasizing collaboration, critical thinking, and real-world impact. It is jointly offered with Concordia University, McGill University, and the Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM), providing access to a broad range of resources, faculty, and courses. The program is full-time, typically completed in 4 to 5 years, and includes 90 credits. Students benefit from a competitive funding package and tuition exemption for the first four years of study. The research focus is strong, with faculty members recognized globally for their publications and extensive experience in supervising doctoral students. HEC Montréal is also part of the IVADO consortium, a major research hub for artificial intelligence and data science, further enriching the research opportunities.
PhD
Level
Free
Tuition
60 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for Canada
full fundingUniversity of Toronto
Lester B. Pearson International Student Scholarship
For international students beginning undergraduate study at the University of Toronto who are first-time entrants from outside Canada. Students must be nominated by their school, then complete the U of T application and scholarship process. Selection recognises exceptional academic achievement and creativity, with a record of leadership and impact at school.
full
Funding
€200k
Max
Nov 30, 2026
Deadline
full fundingUniversity of British Columbia
International Leader of Tomorrow (ILOT) Award
For international students entering their first undergraduate degree at the University of British Columbia (UBC) who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and financial need. Students must be nominated by their school and require financial support to study at UBC; the award is need-based, covering costs the student and family cannot meet.
full
Funding
€70k
Max
Nov 15, 2026
Deadline
full fundingWestern University
Western University National Scholarship Program (Canada)
Open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents entering full-time undergraduate study at Western University's main campus, with a minimum academic average of 90% in Grade 12 U/M courses (or equivalent), a school nomination, a reference letter, a transcript and an essay.
full
Funding
€47k
Max
Feb 14, 2027
Deadline
partial fundingUniversity of Ottawa
University of Ottawa International English Scholarships
Open to international undergraduate students who hold a valid Canadian study permit and are newly admitted to an English-language undergraduate programme in Arts, Engineering, Health Sciences, Science, Social Sciences, or the Telfer School of Management. A minimum admission average of 80 percent is needed for the Admission Scholarship and 90 percent for the Academic Excellence Scholarship. Students in the French immersion or French-language streams are not eligible.
partial
Funding
€46k
Max
Apr 1, 2027
Deadline
full fundingCanadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC), Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC)
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
Open to Canadian and international students pursuing a doctoral (PhD) degree at a Canadian university. Candidates must be nominated by the Canadian institution, not yet have started the doctoral program beyond defined limits, and demonstrate academic excellence, research potential, and leadership.
full
Funding
€34k
Max
Nov 4, 2026
Deadline
full fundingCIHR / NSERC / SSHRC (Tri-Agency), Government of Canada
Canada Graduate Research Scholarship – Doctoral (CGRS-D)
For doctoral students undertaking a PhD at a Canadian institution, with an outstanding academic record. Awards are made by Canada's tri-agency (CIHR, NSERC, SSHRC); applicants apply through their university, and eligibility (including for international students) follows the current Canada Graduate Scholarships rules.
full
Funding
€27k
Max
Nov 1, 2026
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the international tuition fees at HEC Montréal?
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International tuition fees at HEC Montréal range from approximately CAD 20,000 to CAD 35,000 per year, depending on the program and level of study. These fees vary by program (BBA, MBA, MSc, PhD) and are distinct from fees for Quebec residents and other Canadian students.
Does HEC Montréal offer programs in English?
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Yes, HEC Montréal offers over 100 management programs at undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels in French, English, and bilingual streams. This provides flexibility for students seeking to develop multilingual career skills.
What are the English proficiency requirements for international students?
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For undergraduate programs, a TOEFL iBT score of 86 or an IELTS score of 6.5 is typically required. For graduate programs, the requirement increases to a TOEFL iBT score of 100 or an IELTS score of 7.0.
What are the rankings for HEC Montréal?
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HEC Montréal is ranked 1st in Canada and 3rd in North America by Eduniversal Business Schools Rankings 2024. It also ranks among the top globally in various business and economics categories by QS, Times Higher Education, and Shanghai ARWU.
What is the cost of living for students in Montreal?
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The estimated monthly cost of living in Montreal for students, covering housing, food, and transportation, is approximately CAD 1,400 to CAD 1,800. Montreal is known as one of North America's most affordable major student cities.
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