Université de Montréal

The Université de Montréal (UdeM) is Canada’s largest French-language university and one of the country’s most prestigious research institutions. Founded in 1878 and located in the vibrant, multicultural city of Montreal, Quebec, UdeM ranks #168 globally in the QS World University Rankings 2026 and holds the #1 position among French-language universities in Canada for the fifth consecutive year. Together with its affiliated schools — HEC Montréal (business) and Polytechnique Montréal (engineering) — UdeM forms one of North America’s largest academic complexes, welcoming nearly 69,000 students, including approximately 11,000 international students from around the world.

What makes studying at the Université de Montréal unique is its powerful combination of world-class research, remarkably affordable tuition compared to English-language Canadian universities, and a distinct francophone identity that opens doors to Quebec’s immigration pathways. For international students — particularly from India, Bangladesh, francophone Africa, and Latin America — UdeM represents one of the strongest francophone destinations for programs in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Law, Medicine, Public Health, and Veterinary Medicine. Undergraduate international tuition of approximately CAD 29,876 per year is significantly lower than peer universities in Ontario or British Columbia, making UdeM one of the best-value top-200 universities in the world.

Université de Montréal Rankings 2026

The Université de Montréal maintains a strong global standing across major ranking systems, consistently placing within the world’s top 200 universities. Below is a summary of the Université de Montréal rankings for 2026:

In the QS World University Rankings 2026, UdeM (together with its affiliated schools) ranks 168th globally and 7th in Canada. The five-year QS trend shows movement from #116 (2023) to #141 (2024), #159 (2025), and #168 (2026), with the latest QS 2027 edition climbing back to #162 — the first upward movement in several years, driven by a rebound in academic reputation and employer reputation scores. QS’s strongest component for UdeM remains its Reputation score, which keeps the degree recognisable to global employers and graduate schools.

In subject rankings, UdeM excels across a wide range of disciplines. Polytechnique Montréal, the affiliated engineering school, is one of Canada’s leading engineering institutions, while HEC Montréal, the business school, is globally respected and triple-accredited. UdeM is especially renowned in Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence — Montreal is widely recognised as a global hub for AI research, anchored by the MILA (Montreal Institute for Learning Algorithms) and world-renowned researchers. The university also holds world-leading positions in Public Health, Law, Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, and Optometry.

Notably, UdeM holds the #1 position among French-language universities in Canada in the QS rankings for the fifth straight year — a positioning that no institution in India or most other countries can match for Quebec-PR pathways. It also ranks 53rd worldwide in the QS Sustainability Rankings 2026 and 88th in the Global Employability University Ranking (GEURS) 2026, reflecting strong performance in environmental transition, social impact, and graduate employability.

Popular Programs at Université de Montréal

UdeM offers approximately 650 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across 13 faculties, plus its affiliated schools. International students can choose from a vast range of programs taught primarily in French. Here are some of the most popular programs:

Undergraduate Programs (Baccalauréat)

1. BSc in Computer Science (Informatique) — 3 years. UdeM’s computer science program benefits from Montreal’s status as a global AI hub. The curriculum covers algorithms, software engineering, data science, and machine learning, with strong links to MILA. International tuition: approximately CAD 29,876/year.
2. BSc in Nursing (Sciences infirmières) — 3 years. One of UdeM’s flagship programs, combining clinical placements with rigorous scientific training. Graduates are in high demand across Canada. International tuition: approximately CAD 29,877–44,815/year (per-credit structure).
3. LLB in Law (Droit) — 3 years. UdeM’s Faculty of Law is one of Canada’s most prestigious, training lawyers for Quebec’s civil-law system and beyond. Note: practicing law in Quebec requires additional bar admission steps.
4. BSc in Biomedical Sciences — 3 years. A highly sought-after gateway to medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy programs. The curriculum covers biology, chemistry, genetics, and human physiology.
5. Bachelor of Business Administration (HEC Montréal) — 3 years. Through the affiliated HEC Montréal, international students access a triple-accredited business school ranked among the world’s best for Business & Economics. Specialisations include finance, marketing, accounting, and business analytics.
6. Bachelor of Engineering (Polytechnique Montréal) — 4 years. Through the affiliated Polytechnique Montréal, students pursue engineering degrees in software, mechanical, electrical, civil, and biomedical engineering, backed by an CAD 8,200-student institution with strong industry ties.

Graduate Programs (Maîtrise and Doctorat)

1. MS in Computer Science — 18–24 months. Indicative tuition: CAD 23,997–35,996 (2–3 sessions). Research-oriented programs offer excellent funding opportunities and AI specialisations.
2. MS in Data Science and Business Analytics — 18–24 months. A highly popular choice for Indian students, combining statistics, machine learning, and business intelligence. Indicative tuition: CAD 23,997–35,996.
3. MS in Finance (HEC Montréal) — 18–24 months. Through HEC Montréal, students access advanced finance training with strong connections to Montreal’s financial sector.
4. Master of Public Health (Santé publique) — 2 years. UdeM’s School of Public Health is a Canadian leader, particularly relevant for students pursuing careers in global health.
5. LLM (Master of Laws) — 12–18 months. Advanced legal studies with specialisations in international law, business law, and human rights. Indicative tuition: CAD 23,997–35,996.
6. PhD programs (all disciplines) — 3–5 years. PhD students benefit from full tuition exemption — they pay the same fees as Quebec students (approximately CAD 23,367/year), making UdeM doctoral studies exceptionally affordable.

Note: All tuition figures are indicative and based on third-party sources (collegedunia.com, shiksha.com). Confirm exact fees on the official university website before applying.

Université de Montréal Admission Requirements 2026

Admission to the Université de Montréal is competitive. The university does not publish an official acceptance rate, though third-party estimates place it around 41–57%. All figures below are indicative and based on third-party sources; verify exact requirements on the official admissions website.

Undergraduate (Baccalauréat) Requirements

• Academic qualification: High school diploma or equivalent. For Indian students: Class XII (CBSE/ISC) with approximately 65%+ overall. For Bangladeshi students: Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) with competitive grades; credential evaluation may be required. IB Diploma: typically 28–34 points depending on program. A-Levels: competitive grades in three subjects (often BBB or higher for competitive programs).
• French proficiency: This is the critical requirement. Most programs require a minimum of DELF B2 (or equivalent: TFI score of 605/990, or B2 in oral and written comprehension on another recognised test). Some programs require higher levels or official tests. A preparatory year is available for students who need to strengthen their French.
• Program-specific prerequisites: Science programs require mathematics, physics, and chemistry at the senior secondary level; health science programs may require biology.
• Application fee: Approximately CAD 106.75 (base CAD 83.40 per admission term plus CAD 23.35 per program).

Graduate (Maîtrise) Requirements

• Academic qualification: Recognised Bachelor’s degree with approximately 65–70% (3.0/4.3 GPA). Competitive research programs may require higher averages and a strong academic record in the relevant discipline.
• French proficiency: Most graduate programs require DALF C1 or equivalent. Some English-language research programs (particularly in Computer Science/AI) may accept IELTS 6.5 or equivalent, but French is strongly recommended.
• Additional documents: Letters of recommendation (number varies by program), statement of purpose, CV, and for research programs, a proposed research project. For research-oriented master’s and PhD, applicants are responsible for finding a supervising professor.

Doctoral (PhD) Requirements

• Academic qualification: Master’s degree in a relevant discipline with a strong academic record.
• Research proposal: A detailed research proposal and confirmation of a faculty supervisor are typically required before admission.
• Funding: PhD students benefit from full tuition exemption (Quebec-level rates) and may access research stipends.

English Language Requirements

Because UdeM is a French-language university, the primary language requirement is French, not English. Most undergraduate programs require DELF B2 (or TFI 605/990, or B2 in oral and written comprehension on another test recognised by the university). Some programs require official French tests; for others, a letter from the home university may suffice for exchange students.

For graduate programs, the requirement is typically DALF C1. However, some research-oriented programs — particularly in Computer Science and AI — may accept English proficiency scores as follows:

All language requirements are indicative. The university’s Centre de communication écrite publishes the official list of recognised tests. Verify exact requirements for your specific program on the official admissions website.

Université de Montréal Tuition Fees for International Students (2026)

One of UdeM’s greatest advantages is its remarkably affordable tuition compared to English-language Canadian universities. International students pay base tuition plus supplementary fees set by the Quebec government. All figures below are indicative, based on third-party sources (collegedunia.com, shiksha.com); confirm exact fees on the official website.

Undergraduate Tuition (Indicative, 2026–27)

Graduate Tuition (Indicative, 2026–27)

Key insight: UdeM undergraduate tuition at approximately CAD 29,876/year is significantly lower than peer universities in Ontario, British Columbia, or any US private university. The UdeM Exemption Scholarship (see Scholarships section) can reduce this further by up to CAD 14,015/year at the undergraduate level.

Cost of Living in Montreal (2026)

Montreal is one of North America’s most affordable major cities for students, offering a significantly lower cost of living than Toronto or Vancouver. This is a major advantage for international students managing a fixed budget. Below is an indicative monthly breakdown:

Money-Saving Tips

• Choose on-campus residence where possible — UdeM residences cost as little as CAD 268/month, far below private rentals.
• Use the STM student transit pass — unlimited metro and bus access at a student discount.
• Shop at ethnic grocery stores — Montreal’s diverse neighbourhoods (Côte-des-Neiges, Parc-Extension) offer affordable South Asian, Middle Eastern, and Latin American groceries.
• Cook at home — eating out in Montreal is affordable by North American standards, but home cooking saves CAD 200–300/month.

Part-Time Work

International students with a valid study permit can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during academic terms and full-time during scheduled breaks (winter/summer holidays). On-campus jobs — including research assistantships, library positions, and teaching assistantships — are also available. Quebec’s minimum wage provides a meaningful income supplement; working 20 hours/week can generate approximately CAD 1,200–1,400/month.

Université de Montréal Scholarships for International Students

UdeM offers one of Canada’s most generous automatic scholarship programs for international students — the UdeM Exemption Scholarship. No separate application is required; once you receive an offer of admission, your file is automatically evaluated.

UdeM Exemption Scholarship (Automatic)

This scholarship provides tuition fee reductions for eligible international students (excluding French and French-speaking Belgian citizens). Amounts are automatically deducted from tuition fees:

Eligibility: International students who have received an offer of admission to a degree program, hold valid study authorisations (CAQ and study permit), are enrolled full-time, and do not receive any other tuition exemption. Renewed for the Winter 2026, Summer 2026, Autumn 2026, and Winter 2027 terms.

Additional Scholarships

• Faculty of Law Entrance Scholarships: CAD 1,500 to college students admitted to the Bachelor of Laws with an R Score of 35+, paid in two CAD 750 instalments.
• Graduate research funding: Research-based master’s and PhD students may receive supervisor funding, teaching assistantships, and research stipends.
• External scholarships: Canadian government programs (Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships, Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships), Mitacs Globalink awards, and country-specific scholarships.

How to Maximise Your Scholarship Chances

1. Apply early — the Exemption Scholarship is automatic, but early admission gives you more time for visa processing.
2. Maintain strong grades — higher academic averages may qualify you for Level A (higher tier) exemption.
3. For research programs — contact potential supervisors early; a supervisor’s support strengthens both admission and funding chances.
4. Explore external awards — check your home country’s government scholarships for studying in Canada.

Campus and Facilities

The Université de Montréal’s main campus is located on the north-west side of Mount Royal in Montreal, offering stunning views of the city. The campus is renowned for its Art Deco architecture, particularly the iconic Roger-Gaudry Building (the university’s central pavilion), designed by Ernest Cormier.

Key facilities include:

• Libraries: UdeM operates one of Canada’s largest academic library networks, with the Bibliothèque des lettres et sciences humaines (BLSH) as the flagship. The library system holds millions of volumes, extensive digital resources, and specialised collections.
• Research facilities: World-class laboratories across disciplines, including the MILA (AI research), the Institut de recherche en immunologie et en cancérologie (IRIC), and the Centre de recherche du CHUM (hospital research centre).
• Health sciences campus: The Faculty of Medicine is affiliated with major teaching hospitals, including the CHUM (Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal) — one of North America’s largest hospital complexes.
• Affiliated schools: HEC Montréal (downtown business campus) and Polytechnique Montréal (engineering campus adjacent to UdeM’s main campus).
• Student life: Over 300 student associations, extensive sports facilities (CEPSUM sports centre), cultural venues, and a vibrant campus community.

The campus is well-connected by Montreal’s metro system (Université-de-Montréal station on the Blue Line), making it easy to access the city’s cultural life, restaurants, and neighbourhoods.

Accommodation Options

UdeM offers both on-campus and off-campus housing options. Montreal’s rental market is more affordable than Toronto or Vancouver, giving international students good choices.

On-Campus Residence

• UdeM residences: Approximately CAD 3,216–4,824/year (CAD 268–402/month), making them among the most affordable university residences in Canada. Options include single rooms and shared apartments.
• Application: Apply early — residence places are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis for international students.
• Inclusions: Furnished rooms, utilities, internet, and access to common kitchens and study areas.

Off-Campus Housing

• Shared apartments: CAD 700–1,100/month per person in neighbourhoods near campus (Côte-des-Neiges, Notre-Dame-de-Grâce).
• Studio apartments: CAD 1,000–1,400/month.
• Homestays: CAD 800–1,200/month, often including meals — a good option for improving French.

Tips

• Start your housing search 3–4 months before arrival; September is peak season.
• Join UdeM’s off-campus housing portal and student Facebook groups for listings.
• Consider neighbourhoods along the Blue metro line for easy campus access.
• Be cautious of rental scams — never send money before viewing a property or signing a lease.

Application Deadlines and Intakes 2026

UdeM offers three intakes per year: Fall (September), Winter (January), and Summer (May). The Fall intake is the most popular among international students. All deadlines below are indicative; specific programs may have different deadlines — always verify on the official admissions website.

Important: Immigration procedures (CAQ + study permit) can take 3–6 months. If they are not completed in time, you must postpone admission to a later term. Apply as early as possible.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

1. Choose your program: Browse UdeM’s program catalogue (admission.umontreal.ca) and check specific admission requirements, including French proficiency levels. International students can apply to up to three programs in one session.
2. Check French requirements: Confirm whether your program requires DELF B2, DALF C1, TFI, or another recognised test. If needed, enrol in a preparatory French program.
3. Create a visitor account: Sign up on UdeM’s online admissions portal and complete the sections on your profile and previous studies.
4. Prepare documents: Academic transcripts, diplomas, French/English test scores, letters of recommendation (graduate), statement of purpose, CV, and passport copy.
5. Pay the application fee: Approximately CAD 106.75 (CAD 83.40 per term + CAD 23.35 per program).
6. Submit before the deadline: Respect official deadlines — late applications are generally not accepted for competitive programs.
7. Receive admission decision: Decisions are communicated via the Centre étudiant portal. If accepted, you will automatically be evaluated for the UdeM Exemption Scholarship.
8. Pay the confirmation deposit: CAD 1,000 (deductible from first-session tuition) to reserve your place.
9. Apply for CAQ and study permit: Apply for the Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) first, then the federal study permit. Allow 3–6 months.

Canada Student Visa — Key Points

International students studying at the Université de Montréal need both a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) and a federal study permit. Here are the key points:

• CAQ (Quebec-specific): Apply to the Quebec Ministry of Immigration (MIFI) after receiving your admission offer. The CAQ is mandatory for all international students studying in Quebec.
• Study permit: Apply to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) after obtaining the CAQ. You need a Letter of Acceptance from UdeM (a Designated Learning Institution) and a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL).
• Proof of funds: You must demonstrate CAD 20,635/year in living expenses (excluding tuition and travel), plus additional amounts for accompanying family members. You must also show you can cover first-year tuition.
• Biometrics and medical: Most applicants must provide biometrics; some nationalities require a medical examination and police clearance.
• Work rights: With a valid study permit, you can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during academic terms and full-time during scheduled breaks.
• Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): After completing an eligible program, you can apply for a PGWP valid for up to 3 years, allowing you to work for any employer in Canada. This is a key pathway to permanent residency through Express Entry or Quebec’s PEQ (Programme de l’expérience québécoise).
• Quebec advantage: French-speaking graduates may qualify for the PEQ, one of Canada’s fastest immigration pathways — a significant advantage of studying at a francophone university.

Visa rules change frequently. Always verify current requirements on the official IRCC and MIFI websites before applying.

Research Excellence

The Université de Montréal is one of Canada’s top research universities, attracting over CAD 600 million annually in research funding. Key research strengths include:

• Artificial Intelligence: Montreal is a global AI capital, anchored by MILA (Montreal Institute for Learning Algorithms), co-founded by deep-learning pioneer Yoshua Bengio. UdeM researchers lead breakthroughs in machine learning, natural language processing, and computer vision.
• Health and Life Sciences: The IRIC (Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer), the CHUM Research Centre, and the School of Public Health drive advances in cancer research, immunology, genomics, and epidemiology.
• Social Sciences and Humanities: Leading research in sociology, political science, demography, and criminology, with the Centre international de criminologie comparée among the world’s foremost criminology institutes.
• Physics and Chemistry: Strong programs in quantum materials, astrophysics, and sustainable chemistry.
• Law: The Faculty of Law is a leader in cyberjustice, business law, and international human rights research.

UdeM’s research output places it among the top Canadian universities for research intensity, and its affiliated hospital network provides unparalleled opportunities for clinical and translational research.

Notable Alumni

The Université de Montréal has produced distinguished graduates across politics, science, business, and culture:

• Pierre Elliott Trudeau — 15th Prime Minister of Canada (honorary connections; studied law at UdeM).
• Yoshua Bengio — Turing Award-winning pioneer of deep learning; professor at UdeM and founder of MILA.
• Louise Arbour — Former UN High Commissioner for Human Rights and Supreme Court of Canada Justice.
• Hubert Reeves — Renowned astrophysicist and science communicator.
• Roger Guillemin — Nobel Prize in Medicine (1977) for discoveries concerning peptide hormone production in the brain.
• Denise Bombardier — Celebrated journalist, author, and media personality.

The broader UdeM network — including HEC Montréal and Polytechnique Montréal alumni — spans global business leaders, engineers, and policymakers.

Comparison Table: Université de Montréal vs Peers

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I need to speak French to study at the Université de Montréal?

Yes, for most programs. UdeM is a French-language university, and most undergraduate programs require a minimum of DELF B2 (or TFI 605/990 or equivalent). Most graduate programs require DALF C1. Some research-oriented programs (particularly in Computer Science/AI) may accept English proficiency, but French is strongly recommended for daily life in Montreal and for Quebec immigration pathways.

2. How much is tuition for international students at UdeM?

Undergraduate international tuition is approximately CAD 29,876/year (CAD 995.89 per credit). Graduate tuition varies: research master’s approximately CAD 10,363/trimester, course-based master’s CAD 23,997–35,996, and PhD approximately CAD 23,367/year (exempted to Quebec rates). The UdeM Exemption Scholarship can reduce these amounts significantly. All figures are indicative — confirm on the official website.

3. What is the UdeM Exemption Scholarship?

It is an automatic tuition reduction for international students (excluding French and French-speaking Belgian citizens). No separate application is needed — your file is evaluated automatically upon admission. Undergraduate students can receive up to CAD 14,015/year (Level A); master’s research students up to CAD 15,452/year; and PhD students receive full exemption to Quebec-level tuition.

4. What are the application deadlines?

For the Fall (September) intake: undergraduate applications close around April 1 for international students; master’s and PhD around February 1. Winter intake deadlines are around August–September, and Summer around December. Deadlines are indicative and vary by program — always verify on the official admissions website.

5. How long does the visa process take?

Immigration procedures (CAQ + study permit) can take 3–6 months. Apply for the CAQ immediately after receiving your admission offer, then the federal study permit. If procedures are not completed in time, you must defer to a later term.

6. Can I work while studying?

Yes. With a valid study permit, international students can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during academic terms and full-time during scheduled breaks. After graduation, you may qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) of up to 3 years.

7. What is the cost of living in Montreal?

Montreal is one of North America’s most affordable major student cities. Expect approximately CAD 15,000–25,000/year for living expenses, including accommodation (CAD 268–1,100/month depending on type), food, transport, and personal expenses — excluding tuition.

8. Is UdeM good for Artificial Intelligence?

Absolutely. Montreal is a global AI hub, and UdeM is at its centre through MILA (Montreal Institute for Learning Algorithms), co-founded by Turing Award winner Yoshua Bengio. UdeM’s computer science and AI programs are among the best in the world for machine learning research.

9. What are my immigration options after graduating from UdeM?

French-speaking graduates have a significant advantage through Quebec’s PEQ (Programme de l’expérience québécoise) — one of Canada’s fastest permanent residency pathways. Alternatively, the federal Express Entry system rewards Canadian education and work experience. The PGWP (up to 3 years) gives you time to gain qualifying work experience.

10. How does UdeM compare to McGill?

Both are world-class Montreal universities. McGill (QS #27) is English-language with higher global prestige and higher tuition. UdeM (QS #168) is French-language, significantly more affordable (especially with the Exemption Scholarship), #1 among francophone universities in Canada, and offers superior Quebec immigration pathways for French speakers. Your choice depends on language ability, budget, and career goals.

Final Thoughts

The Université de Montréal stands out as one of the world’s best-value top-200 universities — combining QS #168 global standing, remarkably affordable tuition (from ~CAD 29,876/year for undergraduates, reducible further through the automatic Exemption Scholarship), and a unique francophone identity that unlocks Quebec’s fast-track immigration pathways. For students willing to invest in French proficiency (DELF B2/DALF C1), UdeM offers world-class programs in AI, health sciences, law, and business through its affiliated schools HEC Montréal and Polytechnique Montréal — all in one of North America’s most vibrant, affordable, and culturally rich student cities.

If you are considering studying at the Université de Montréal, start by assessing your French level, explore the program catalogue, and apply early to allow ample time for the CAQ and study permit process. With its automatic scholarships, strong employability outcomes (#88 globally), and the PEQ immigration advantage, UdeM represents a compelling choice for ambitious international students in 2026 and beyond.

Sources and Verification

This article was researched using the following sources. All figures are indicative and should be verified on the official university website before making application decisions:

• QS World University Rankings 2026 (topuniversities.com) — UdeM #168
• HEC Montréal news: QS rankings 2026 announcement (hec.ca)
• collegedunia.com — University of Montreal ranking, fees, admissions 2026
• shiksha.com — University of Montreal courses, fees, eligibility
• yocket.com — University of Montreal rankings
• admission.umontreal.ca — official admissions portal, French requirements
• international.umontreal.ca — official international student information
• scholarships.af — UdeM Exemption Scholarship details
• IRCC (canada.ca) — study permit requirements and PGWP rules

Disclaimer: Tuition fees, deadlines, and admission requirements change frequently. Always confirm current information on the official Université de Montréal website (admission.umontreal.ca) and the IRCC website before applying. This article is for informational purposes and does not guarantee admission, scholarships, or visa approval.