Thinking of studying in Canada? Montreal could be the perfect place to start your journey, and IDP is here to help you every step of the way.

Table of Contents

  • Why study in Montreal?

  • Top universities in Montreal

  • Application process & requirements

  • Tuition fees & living expenses

  • Student life & accommodation

  • Scholarships & financial aid

  • Life as a Pakistani student in Montreal, Canada

  • FAQs

Why study in Montreal?

Montreal, Canada’s vibrant cultural and academic hub, is fast becoming a favourite destination for Pakistani students. With its leading universities, affordable living and multicultural environment, the city offers a unique blend of top-quality education and an enriching lifestyle.  

Whether you're interested in AI, business, arts, or engineering, Montreal has something to offer, all wrapped in a bilingual (French & English) experience.

Top universities in Montreal

Montreal is home to several prestigious institutions. Here are the top picks for international students and their rankings according to the QS World University Rankings:

University Name 

QS World Ranking 

McGill University 

27 

Université de Montréal  

168 

Concordia University 

=465 

Each institution offers a range of programs taught in English and/or French, depending on your language preference.

Application process & requirements

The application process may vary slightly by university, but here’s a general roadmap:

Eligibility Criteria

  • Completion of Intermediate/A-Levels or equivalent. 

  • English or French language proficiency (IELTS or DELF/TEF). 

  • Program-specific requirements (Example: portfolio for arts, math for engineering). 

Application process

  • Choose your program and university. 

  • Meet with an IDP counsellor to explore your best-fit options and begin the application process. 

  • Submit an online application via the university’s portal (your counsellor can guide you). 

  • Upload academic transcripts, passport copy, and proof of language proficiency. 

  • Pay the application fee. 

  • Wait for your Letter of Acceptance (LOA). 

  • Apply for your Canadian study permit (student visa) with IDP’s visa support. 

Recommended: Start your application process at least 6–8 months before your intended intake.

Tuition fees & living expenses

Montreal is one of the most affordable major cities in Canada. Here's a breakdown of the estimated cost of living in Canada:

Tuition Fees (Annual)

Undergraduate

CAD 20,000 – 36,000

Postgraduate

CAD 20,000 – 36,000

College/Diploma

CAD 20,000 – 36,000

Student life & accommodation

Montreal is consistently ranked among the best student cities in the world, listed 18th globally according to the QS Best Student Cities 2026, and for good reason!

Student life in Montreal has a buzzing student culture, with over 180,000 students from around the world. University campuses are lively with clubs, societies, and events happening year-round.

Whether you’re into live music, theatre, food trucks, or outdoor festivals, there’s always something happening. The city is also known for its safety, friendliness, and inclusive atmosphere, making it easy to connect with people and feel at home.

Student accommodation options in Montreal include shared apartments, student residences, and homestays, each offering different levels of privacy and budget flexibility. Explore more accommodation options with IDP.

Scholarships & financial aid

Canadian universities offer various scholarships for Pakistani and other international students. Explore the types of scholarships, how to apply, and eligibility criteria:

Types of scholarships

  • Merit-based scholarships, such as McGill’s Entrance Scholarship Program. 

  • Need-based financial aid. 

  • Departmental awards and research grants. 

  • External scholarships, including Canada-ASEAN and Commonwealth scholarships. 

How to apply

Eligibility criteria

  • Strong academic performance 

  • Community involvement or leadership skills 

  • Demonstrated financial need (for need-based scholarships) 

Life as a Pakistani student in Montreal, Canada

Here’s what to expect as a Pakistani student in Montreal!

Cultural adaptation

Montreal is a multicultural city with a growing South Asian community. Halal food, mosques, Pakistani student groups, and cultural events help students feel at home. While French is widely spoken, you can easily live and study in English.

Work opportunities

Montreal’s booming tech, finance, and creative industries offer a range of employment opportunities after graduation. Here are some types of jobs you can have while studying in Canada: 

  • On-campus jobs are available during study. 

  • Off-campus work permit allows up to 20 hours/week during academic terms and full-time during breaks. 

  • Post-graduation, eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) of up to 3 years. 

FAQs

What are the best universities in Montreal?

Top universities in Montreal include McGill University, Université de Montréal, and Concordia University —all known for academic excellence and diverse programs.

How much does it cost to study & live in Montreal?

Tuition fees range from CAD 20,000 to 36,000 per year, while living expenses typically cost around CAD 3,344 per month for a single person.