Quebec stands out as one of the most attractive destinations for higher education in North America. With a multicultural environment, bilingual programs, and affordable tuition, universities in Quebec attract thousands of students each year. Whether you’re looking for English-speaking institutions like McGill or French-language powerhouses like Université Laval, you’ll find plenty of world-class options here.
In this guide, we explore the advantages of studying in Quebec, highlight the best universities in Quebec City and beyond, and offer insights into tuition fees and student life.
1. Why Choose Universities in Quebec?
High-Quality, Globally Recognized Education
Quebec universities offer top-tier programs across disciplines—engineering, medicine, business, arts, and more. Many institutions are research-driven and consistently rank among Canada’s top universities.
Lower Tuition Fees Compared to Other Provinces
One of Quebec’s strongest selling points is its affordable tuition, especially for residents and students from France and Belgium. International students also find the fees competitive when compared to Ontario or British Columbia.
Multilingual and Multicultural Environment
With French as the official language and widespread English fluency, Quebec allows students to study in either language or improve both. Montreal and Quebec City host large, diverse student populations from all over the world.
Innovation, Research, and Career Opportunities
Quebec invests heavily in innovation and research, offering students hands-on experience through internships and partnerships with industries. Many universities in Quebec also maintain co-op and placement programs to help graduates secure employment.
3. Best Universities in Quebec City
Below is a compact and mobile-optimized table of top universities in Quebec City with key details:
| University | Notable Programs | Tuition (Intl.) | Language |
|---|---|---|---|
| Université Laval | Sciences, Engineering, Law | ~$46,700/year (incl. housing) | French |
| TELUQ (Université TÉLUQ) | Distance Learning, Management | ~$12,000/year | French |
| ÉNAP (Public Administration School) | Public Policy, Admin | ~$15,000/year | French |
Want a full breakdown of how to budget for living in Canada? Read our 2025 guide on the cost of living in Canada.
4. Major Universities Across Quebec
Université de Montréal (UdeM)
- Location: Montreal
- Languages of Instruction: French
- Tuition Fees (2025):
- Quebec residents: ~CA$3,000–9,200/year
- International: ~CA$28,700/year (Arts); higher for Engineering, etc.
- Known For:
- One of the largest universities in Canada (top 3 in Canadian research universities)
- High research output
- Strong in medicine, social sciences, law and STEM
- Affiliations with Polytechnique Montréal and HEC Montréal
McGill University
- Location: Montreal
- Languages of Instruction: English
- Tuition Fees (2025):
- Quebec residents: ~CA$3,000–9,200/year
- International: ~CA$21,000–67,000/year depending on faculty
- Known For:
- Global Top 30 university (QS)
- Elite programs in medicine, science, engineering and law
- Downtown campus, highly internation
- English-language excellence in bilingual city
Université Laval
- Location: Quebec City
- Languages of Instruction: French
- Tuition Fees (2025):
- Quebec residents: ~CA$3,000–9,200/year
- International: ~CA$23,000–26,000/year (some housing incl.)
- Known For:
- First French-language university in North America
- Top online & distance learning provider in Canada
- Strong in business, environment, health, and engineering
- Affordable city with strong francophone environment
Concordia University
- Location: Montreal
- Languages of Instruction: English
- Tuition Fees (2025):
- Quebec residents: ~CA$3,000–9,200/year
- International: ~CA$28,000–36,000/year
- Known For:
- Innovation and strong co-op programs
- Business, arts, computer science, and engineering
- #1 in Quebec for research growth (comprehensive category)
- Young, dynamic, student-friendly campus
Université du Québec à Montréal (UQAM)
- Location: Montreal
- Languages of Instruction: French
- Tuition Fees (2025):
- Quebec residents: ~CA$3,000–9,200/year
- International: ~CA$25,000/year
- Known For:
- Strong in arts, social sciences, communications
- Urban campus, engaged in social causes
- High accessibility for French-speaking internationals
Université de Sherbrooke
- Location: Sherbrooke (and Longueuil campus)
- Languages of Instruction: French
- Tuition Fees (2025):
- Quebec residents: ~CA$3,000/year
- International: ~CA$22,000/year
- Known For:
- Very high student satisfaction
- Required 5 co-op internships in many programs (especially engineering)
- Smaller, intimate city experience
Polytechnique Montréal
- Location: Montreal
- Languages of Instruction: French
- Tuition Fees (2025):
- Quebec residents: ~CA$4,000/year
- International: ~CA$30,000/year
- Known For:
- Top French-language engineering school
- Strong in civil, software, electrical engineering
- Heavy research focus and industry links
HEC Montréal
- Location: Montreal
- Languages of Instruction: French (with English & Spanish programs)
- Tuition Fees (2025):
- Quebec residents: ~CA$4,700/year
- International: ~CA$27,800–32,000/year
- Known For:
- Canada’s first business school
- Holds triple accreditation (AACSB, EQUIS, AMBA)
- Strong in finance, marketing, MBA
- Multilingual programs, international cohort
Need help choosing the right city to study in? Don’t miss our article on the best places to live in Canada.
5. Application Process and Visa
To study at a university in Quebec, international students must follow a two-step process: apply to the university and then secure the required study permits.
Step 1: Apply to the University
Each university in Quebec manages its own admissions, and application procedures vary depending on the institution and language of instruction.
- For French-language universities (like UQAM or Université Laval), applications are usually submitted via regional platforms like SRAM or SRACQ.
- For English-language institutions (like McGill or Concordia), applications are submitted directly through the university’s portal.
- Documents typically required include:
- Academic transcripts and diplomas
- Proof of language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS for English programs, TFI/DELF for French)
- A motivation letter and letters of reference
Step 2: Obtain a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ)
Before applying for a Canadian study permit, students must obtain a Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ) from Quebec’s immigration authorities.
- Apply online via the MIFI portal
- Required documents: university admission letter, proof of funds (~$14,000/year), passport copy
- Fee: approx. $124 CAD
- Processing time: usually 3–4 weeks
Step 3: Apply for a Canadian Study Permit
Once the CAQ is approved, students must apply for a study permit through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal.
- Documents needed: CAQ, admission letter, proof of funds, medical exam (if required)
- Application fee: $150 CAD
- Processing time: 4 to 12 weeks, depending on your country
For more information and different types of visas, see our full article on how to get a visa for Canada.
Conclusion
Whether you’re aiming for an English-speaking school like McGill or a French-language powerhouse like Université Laval, Quebec offers some of the best academic and cultural experiences in North America. The combination of low tuition, quality education, and multicultural vibrancy makes Quebec a prime choice for any international student.
Need help securing housing? Check out our article on renting in Canada.
FAQ
1. Are degrees from Quebec universities recognized internationally?
Yes. Quebec universities follow the same high academic standards as the rest of Canada and are widely respected worldwide.
2. Can I study in English in Quebec?
Absolutely. Schools like McGill and Concordia offer full English-language programs.
3. Is it expensive to live in Quebec as a student?
It depends on the city. Quebec City and Sherbrooke are more affordable than Montreal. For details, see our cost of living guide.
4. Do I need to speak French to study in Quebec?
It depends on the university. French is required at institutions like UQAM or Laval, while McGill and Concordia operate in English.
5. When should I apply for a Quebec university?
Applications typically open in the fall for the next academic year. Check individual university deadlines.
