Steps for Studying in Montréal

Feel like coming to Montréal to study soon but don’t know how to start the process to become a future international student? You can refer to our infographic and our article below.

1. Choose a program in an institution of Greater Montréal

With 11 universities, 60 colleges (private and public) and 7 school boards in Greater Montréal, you can pursue your studies in the field of your choice. So it’s vital to start by getting information on all the various programs available on the school websites.

To facilitate your search, use our Study Connect tool to discover which institutions match your study project!

2. Learn about admission requirements

Once you have decided on a program and school, it is crucial for you to find out the admission requirements for that learning institution. Each learning institution in Greater Montréal has its own admission requirements and the application deadlines can vary. It is crucial to refer to the school’s website to prepare a proper admission file.

3. Applying for the Québec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) for studies

If the duration of your study program is over six months, you must apply to the Government of Québec for a Québec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) after receiving your admission letter from a designated learning institution. You may apply online directly on the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration website. Please note that the estimated/average application processing time is 20 business days.

4. Applying for a study permit

You are required to obtain a study permit for a study program of over six months in Canada. This application must be made directly to the Government of Canada and you may need to give your biometrics. Application processing times vary from country to country, that’s why it’s important to submit a study permit application as soon as possible after obtaining your CAQ.

An international student may come to Canada accompanied by his or her family. Your spouse may be admissible for an open work permit if you establish that you are studying full time to obtain a degree from a Canadian institution. It is also possible for the children to come study in Canada if one of the parents holds a study permit. Caution: The child may also need a study permit.

5. Obtaining health and hospitalization insurance

All international students must obtain valid health and hospitalization insurance for the duration of their study program. Some countries have signed a social security agreement with Québec entitling students to Québec health insurance. The list of countries is available on the Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) website.

6. Preparing for your departure

Once all these administrative steps have been completed, you can prepare for your departure to Greater Montréal. Consider keeping all your travel documents together so you don’t encounter any unpleasant surprises at the airport.

Get information on housing and the Greater Montréal area through our various articles on life in the city.

Take advantage of the free Accueil Plus service and be greeted upon your arrival at the Montréal-Trudeau Airport. Accueil Plus also offers streamlined procedures with the Canada Border Services Agency to reduce your wait time at the airport getting your study permit.

Finally, get information to register for your classes with your new institution.

7. Arriving in Montréal

Once you arrive in Greater Montréal, remember to go to your school’s international student office to finalize the administrative process.

What’s more, the I choose Montréal team organizes events for international students throughout the year. Check out our website or follow us on social media to keep up with our events.

Finally, enjoy your stay in Montréal!