If you are considering studying in Canada at the Master’s level, why not look at Montreal, the largest city in the province of Quebec? From affordable living costs to world-renowned universities and a vibrant city life, Montreal has a lot to offer.
This article covers everything you need to know about studying in Montreal, including top universities, living expenses, and career opportunities.
Why Pursue a Master’s in Montreal?
Here’s a brief overview of the benefits of studying in Montreal for postgraduate students:
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Affordable Education: Tuition fees for international students in Quebec are among the lowest in North America, and Montreal is also one of the more affordable cities to live in Canada.
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Research Hub: Montreal is a center for Artificial Intelligence research, and major international companies like Google and Microsoft have heavily invested in the sector.
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Prime Location: Situated in southeastern Canada, Montreal is conveniently close to cities like Vancouver and Ottawa, as well as several major U.S. cities.
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Cultural Center: Whether you are interested in music, arts, theater, or sports, there is always something exciting happening in Montreal.
Top Universities in Montreal
Two of the six universities in Montreal rank among the top 200 in the world (according to Times Higher Education).
1. McGill University
McGill University is ranked 49th globally and offers more than 400 graduate programs. Popular fields of study at McGill include Engineering, Life Sciences, and Medicine. With 50 research institutes and fieldwork stations in Barbados and the Arctic, there are opportunities for every student.
2. University of Montreal
The University of Montreal is ranked 111th worldwide and is one of Canada’s leading research universities. If you are interested in studying or researching Deep Learning, Immunology, Cancer, or Public Law, the university offers specialized research centers in these areas.
Living Costs in Montreal
Although living costs in Montreal are relatively average compared to the rest of Canada, they may still be higher than in many other countries. With careful budgeting, you can manage expenses effectively. Here are typical living costs in Montreal:
| Expense | Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Monthly rent (1-bedroom apartment, city center) | 1,720.86 |
| Monthly rent (1-bedroom apartment, outside city center) | 1,336.54 |
| Restaurant meal | 24 |
| Cinema ticket | 15 |
| Monthly transport pass | 100 |
| Monthly utilities (water, electricity, gas, internet) | 106.89 |
These estimates are for private one-bedroom apartments, but living in student residences or shared housing is usually cheaper. For example, a shared room in McGill University student housing ranges from CAD 800 to CAD 1,000.
Working While Studying in Montreal
International students with a valid study permit can work during their studies, though restrictions may apply depending on the type of work:
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On-Campus Jobs: There is no limit to the number of hours. Positions include research assistants, library assistants, or university café staff.
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Off-Campus Jobs: Students can work up to 24 hours per week during the term. Casual off-campus jobs include courier work or retail assistant positions.
For students planning immigration to Canada after graduation, gaining work experience during studies can significantly improve your chances of entering the Canadian job market.
Things to See in Montreal
Montreal offers the best of both worlds, blending a modern city with the charm of a historic French town:
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Old Montreal: Stroll through cobblestone streets and enjoy the Parisian flair. Visit the Bonsecours Market or simply admire the stunning architecture.
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The Plateau: One of the best neighborhoods to experience food, theater, and art, or to simply walk around and enjoy Victorian architecture.
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Mount Royal Park: One of Montreal’s largest green spaces, perfect for canoeing in summer and skiing in winter.
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Circuit Gilles-Villeneuve: Home of the Canadian Grand Prix, ideal for motorsport enthusiasts.
Careers in Montreal
Through Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program, students can work in Canada for up to three years after completing a full-time Master’s program lasting at least eight months. Montreal offers numerous career opportunities in fields such as aerospace, technology, artificial intelligence, and game development.