CANADA · MONTREAL
Université de Montréal
public · Founded 1878 · Languages: fr, en
In short
The Université de Montréal (UdeM) is a leading francophone research university in Montreal, Quebec, ranking in the global top 200. It offers over 600 programs and boasts affordable living costs, making it an attractive destination for international students.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1878
- Students
- 45,360
- International students
- 9,000
- Acceptance rate
- 55%
- Tuition (intl)
- €4–9k/yr
- Languages
- FR, EN
- Location
- Montreal, Canada
The Université de Montréal (UdeM) is Canada's leading francophone research university, founded in 1878 and located on Mont Royal in Montreal, Quebec. With over 45,000 students and 600+ programs spanning arts, sciences, medicine, law, education, and technology, UdeM ranks in the global top 200 (QS 2025) and generates over CAD 775 million in annual research revenue. Together with affiliated schools Polytechnique Montréal and HEC Montréal, it forms one of Canada's largest university clusters. Montreal is a globally recognised AI research capital and a top student city for affordability and quality of life.
Why study here
- Access to over 600 study programs in French, ensuring a wide range of academic choices across every major discipline.
- Global top 200 ranking (QS 2025) and second-largest university in Canada by scientific activity.
- Study in Montreal — one of the world's top student cities — with a vibrant cultural scene and low cost of living relative to other major university cities.
- Generous UdeM exemption scholarship automatically assessed at admission, potentially reducing international fees to near-domestic levels.
- Major hub for artificial intelligence research: Montreal is home to Mila (AI institute) with strong UdeM ties, offering unique research access.
Student life
Université de Montréal offers a vibrant and inclusive campus environment with student associations, sports teams, cultural events, and a rich French-language social scene. The university's Campus mobile initiative connects the campus to the wider Montreal community. The Faculty of Law legal clinic provides students practical experience. UdeM is committed to accessibility for students with disabilities across its digital and physical environments. Affordable on-campus and nearby off-campus housing is available in one of North America's most liveable cities.
Fees
InternationalInternational students without exemption pay approx. CAD 22,000–30,000 per year (EUR 15,000–21,000). With the UdeM exemption scholarship (Level A), fees drop to approx. CAD 14,000 per year (EUR ~9,500); Level B approx. CAD 6,700 per year (EUR ~4,500).
HomeQuebec resident students pay approximately CAD 2,000–4,000 per year in tuition. Out-of-province Canadian students may access the French-program exemption.
LivingMontreal living costs approximately CAD 15,000–20,000 per year — among the most affordable of any major university city in Canada.
Canadian students from outside Quebec may be eligible for tuition fee exemptions for specific French-language programs. Scholarship assessment is automatic at admission — no separate application required.
Admissions
Undergraduate (international)Apply directly to UdeM; submit secondary/post-secondary transcripts, certified French translations if documents are not in French or English, and proof of French proficiency for French-taught programmes.
Graduate Coursework (international)Bachelor's degree or equivalent; programme-specific GPA minimums; proof of language proficiency.
PhD (international)Master's degree or bachelor's with strong honours research component; research proposal; supervisor confirmation for most programmes.
Rankings
QS World University Rankings 2025168
Times Higher Education World Rankings 2025201
Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) 2024151
University scholarships
UdeM Exemption Scholarship for International StudentsUp to CAD 14,015 per year (Level A) — automatic assessment at admission
Scholarships of Excellence (Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies)Varies; annual merit competition for masters and doctoral students
Merit Scholarship Programme for International Students (PBEEE)CAD 3,000–25,000 per year depending on study level
UdeM–CSC Doctoral Scholarship (China)Tuition fees + CSC living allowance for eligible Chinese students
Accreditation
Bureau de coopération interuniversitaire (BCI); member of Universities Canada
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 selectionUniversité de Montréal · Canada
Arts and Music Programs at Université de Montréal
The Université de Montréal offers a vibrant and interdisciplinary environment for students passionate about the arts and music. Our programs are designed to foster creativity and provide advanced training in various artistic fields, from classical and jazz music to contemporary media arts and cinema. We encourage students to explore diverse artistic expressions and develop unique creative approaches. Our offerings cater to different levels of study, including Bachelor's degrees, Master's degrees, Diplomas of Advanced Studies (DESS), and Doctoral programs. These programs are ideal for individuals seeking to deepen their knowledge, refine their skills, and contribute to the contemporary arts landscape. Located in Montreal, the university provides a dynamic cultural setting for artistic exploration and professional development.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Université de Montréal · Canada
Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy
This program is the first part of a bachelor's-master's continuum in physiotherapy, providing a strong foundation in essential health sciences like anatomy, physiology, and pathology. It prepares you for a professional master's program or research-focused graduate studies. Through various teaching methods, you will learn to assess and treat physical impairments affecting the musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiorespiratory systems in individuals of all ages. Over 30% of the program's credits involve practical activities at the university, building your clinical skills and preparing you for internships. You are encouraged to contribute to the advancement of physiotherapy throughout your studies. It's important to note that this bachelor's degree does not qualify you to practice physiotherapy. You must complete the professional master's program to meet the qualification requirements of the Ordre professionnel de la physiothérapie du Québec (OPPQ).
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Université de Montréal · Canada
Communication Programs
The Université de Montréal offers a range of communication programs designed to explore the evolving landscape of media, social networks, podcasting, and immersive technologies. These programs examine how changing communication practices shape our interactions and understanding of the world. You can delve into the core principles of communication, its societal impact, and its various applications across different fields.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
36 mo
Duration
Université de Montréal · Canada
Doctorate in Biomedical Sciences
The Doctorate in Biomedical Sciences at the Université de Montréal is a research-intensive program designed to train independent researchers. You will conduct original research in a multidisciplinary setting, focusing on clinical, fundamental, or epidemiological aspects of biomedical sciences. The program covers areas such as psychiatric sciences, aging, experimental medicine, clinical ethics, and oral/dental sciences. This advanced training provides the necessary supervision and resources to deepen your understanding of health research and stay at the forefront of recent advancements. The program is offered by the Faculty of Medicine in collaboration with other UdeM faculties, fostering an interdisciplinary approach. You will gain knowledge of the latest technological developments in biomedical sciences and benefit from cutting-edge instruction. The curriculum emphasizes the design, planning, and execution of original research projects, equipping you with the methodological skills for a successful research career.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Université de Montréal · Canada
Doctorate in Neuroscience
The Doctorate in Neuroscience program at Université de Montréal offers an advanced research-focused study of the nervous system. You will delve into specialized fields such as cellular and molecular neurobiology, neuroanatomy, neurochemistry, neurophysiology, neuropharmacology, neuroendocrinology, and neuropsychology. The program emphasizes original research, allowing you to contribute to the scientific understanding of the nervous system. This doctorate is ideal for students seeking to become leading researchers and experts in the field. This program is conducted entirely in French. While French language proficiency is required, students who have not previously studied in French must demonstrate a minimum level of A1 (CEFR) or complete a 3-credit French as a Second Language course at UdeM.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
60 mo
Duration
Université de Montréal · Canada
Doctorate in Pharmacy (First Cycle)
The Doctorate in Pharmacy program aims to train competent pharmacists equipped to address current and future health challenges. You will learn to provide high-quality pharmaceutical care, prioritizing patient needs and assisting them in managing their health. This program enables you to play a full role in the Quebec health system as a frontline healthcare professional, collaborating interdisciplinarily with other health professionals. It also fosters the development and social recognition of your profession.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
36 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 tuition fees for international students at the Université de Montréal?
+
International students without exemption pay approximately CAD 22,000–30,000 per year. However, the UdeM exemption scholarship can reduce fees significantly, with Level A bringing them to around CAD 14,000 and Level B to about CAD 6,700 annually.
What are the estimated living costs for students in Montreal?
+
Living costs in Montreal are estimated at CAD 15,000–20,000 per year, which is considered among the most affordable for major Canadian university cities.
Does Université de Montréal offer programs in English?
+
The Université de Montréal is Canada's leading francophone research university and offers over 600 study programs, primarily in French. International students applying to French-taught programs will need to provide proof of French proficiency.
What are the university's rankings?
+
The Université de Montréal is ranked in the global top 200 by QS World University Rankings (168 in 2025), Times Higher Education (201 in 2025), and Academic Ranking of World Universities (151 in 2024).
Are there scholarships available for international students?
+
Yes, the UdeM Exemption Scholarship for International Students is assessed automatically at admission and can significantly reduce tuition fees. Other scholarships, such as the Merit Scholarship Programme for International Students, are also available.
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