Your Creative Future Starts in Montreal

Over 60 programs in arts, design, business, and technology. Bilingual campus. Full support from application to career in Canada.

Montreal has always been recognized for its education ecosystem, affordable living costs, and bilingual culture that attracts students from every continent. The city hosts over 300,000 students each year, including tens of thousands of international students choosing Montreal for its academic quality, career pathways, and affordable lifestyle.

Why Is Montreal a Top Destination for International Students?


Advantage

Why it matters

Cultural diversity and bilingual life

150+ countries represented, daily French-English immersion, 100+ annual festivals

Academic excellence and recognized institutions

Multiple DLIs, career-ready college system, 320,000+ students in the city

Career opportunities and post-graduation pathways

Strong creative and tech job market, PGWP eligibility, Quebec immigration pathways

Affordable student living

Lower costs than Toronto and Vancouver across housing, food, and transit


Cultural Diversity and Bilingual Life in Montreal


Montreal is home to communities from 150+ countries. French and English coexist naturally, giving international students daily exposure to 2 major languages in the city. This cultural energy makes studying abroad a built-in global experience:

  • Jazz festivals:
    World-class music events drawing international audiences every summer
  • Public markets:
    Neighbourhood hubs where local food culture and community meet
  • Street art:
    Murals and installations across the city that reflect Montreal's creative identity
  • 100+ annual festivals:
    Film, comedy, food, and art events running year-round

Academic Excellence and Recognized Institutions in Montreal


Montreal's higher education network includes multiple designated learning institutions (DLIs) recognized for academic quality. Quebec's system is built to move graduates directly into careers or into advanced studies:

  • Recognized institutions:
    DLIs and schools across the city, from colleges to universities in Montreal
  • Career-ready training:
    Technical school programs centred on hands-on, applied learning
  • Student demand:
    The city draws more than 30,000 international students every year
  • Quebec credentials:
    Diplomas recognized across Canada, with pathways to university in Quebec and beyond

Career Opportunities and Post-Graduation Pathways in Montreal


Montreal's job market runs on creative industries, technology, gaming, aerospace, and design: sectors that actively recruit from the city's graduate talent. Here is how international students make the move from campus to work in Canada:

  • Eligible programs:
    Complete studies at a designated learning institution like LaSalle College Montreal
  • PGWP:
    The Post-Graduation Work Permit lets graduates apply and gain Canadian work experience immediately
  • Immigration pathways:
    Quebec makes it possible to transition from a work permit to permanent residency in Canada

Affordable Student Living in Montreal


Montreal's cost of living sits well below Toronto and Vancouver, making it one of the best cities in North America for international students on a budget:

  • Housing:
    Affordable options available across the city, from shared apartments to student residences
  • Groceries and food:
    Neighbourhood markets and stores keep daily costs low
  • Transportation:
    The STM student pass covers the full metro and bus network
  • Overall affordability
    One of the most practical reasons international students choose to study in America's top-ranked student city

How to Start Studying in Montreal as an International Student?

International students who want to study in Montreal need a clear plan. The application process follows a standard path from program selection to study permit, and help is available at every step. Here is what applicants must do.

1. Explore Programs and Choose a Path

Start by identifying a designated learning institution (DLI) in Montreal, since only DLI programs qualify for immigration and post-graduation work permits. Look at program duration, PGWP eligibility, and career alignment to find the right field of studies. LaSalle College Montreal, for example, offers programs across 7 schools:

  • 7 schools: Creative arts, business, technology, hospitality, and more programs to choose from
  • PGWP eligibility: Confirm early, not all programs qualify for post-graduation work rights in Canada
  • Duration and format: DCS, ACS, and language tracks with different studies and career outcomes
  • Program explorer: Browse all available options to find the best fit for your goals

2. Apply and Receive the Letter of Acceptance

Admission to most Montreal DLIs requires a secondary school diploma or equivalent, language proficiency, and supporting academic documents. At institutions like LaSalle College Montreal:

  • Admission requirements: School diploma, language evidence, and academic records
  • 3 intakes per year: Fall, Winter, and Summer, so submit the application before the deadline
  • Rolling admissions: The college processes applications on a rolling basis, so apply early
  • Popular programs: Intake spots may fill quickly, so timing the application matters

3. Secure the Study Permit and Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ)

Quebec requires a Certificat d'acceptation du Québec (CAQ) before applicants can apply for a federal study permit. Financial proof set by IRCC must be met:

  • CAQ first: The Quebec certificate must be secured before submitting a federal study permit application
  • Financial proof: IRCC requirements must be met before applying (amounts update annually)
  • Processing times: Vary by country of citizenship, so applicants need to start the immigration process early
  • Full guide: The study in Canada as an international student page outlines each step

4. Prepare for Arrival and Settle in Montreal

Before leaving home, students should gather key documents, arrange health insurance, and confirm travel logistics for life in Montreal:

  • First-week tasks: Set up a bank account, get a phone plan, and attend orientation on campus
  • Campus community: Connect with peers, mentors, and student services from day one
  • Support and information: LaSalle College Montreal provides help throughout the transition
  • Admitted students: The guide for admitted international students covers pre-departure to settling in the city

What Is the Cost of Studying in Montreal?

Clear cost information helps international students plan with confidence. Montreal may be one of the most affordable major cities in Canada, with tuition, living expenses, and financial aid options that compare favourably to Toronto and Vancouver.

Tuition Fees for International Students in Montreal

Tuition for international students in Montreal varies by institution, program type, and duration. College programs such as DCS (2-3 year technical) and ACS (shorter professional training) generally carry lower tuition than university degrees. Most institutions publish current tuition rates by program on their admissions pages, along with information on payment plans.

Cost of Living in Montreal for International Students

International students in Montreal can expect to spend around CA$1,400 per month on living expenses, excluding tuition:

  • Housing (shared apartment/homestay): CA$700-1,700/month
  • Groceries: CA$300-400/month
  • Transportation (STM student pass): CA$128/month
  • Phone and internet: CA$50-100/month
  • Estimated monthly total: ~CA$1,400

These ranges make Montreal one of the most accessible options available in Canada. Students who take advantage of shared housing and student discounts can bring costs down further.

Scholarships and Financial Aid for International Students in Montreal

Quebec and Canada offer government-funded scholarships and bursaries for international students, depending on country of origin and field of study. Eligibility criteria, deadlines, and application details vary by institution, so students should start researching financial support early.

What Is Student Life Like in Montreal?

Montreal's student life extends well beyond the classroom. The city offers a mix of culture, food, outdoor activities, and community that makes the experience of studying here feel less like a temporary stay and more like home.

Housing Options for International Students in Montreal

International students in Montreal can find housing options that fit a range of budgets, from shared apartments and homestays to private rentals and student residences. Neighbourhoods near LaSalle College Montreal's downtown campus, including Griffintown and NDG, are popular choices with easy access to transit and local services. Students should start searching early, since availability may shift quickly around intake periods.

Getting Around Montreal as an International Student

Montreal's STM metro and bus network covers the entire city, with student discounts on monthly transit passes that make commuting affordable. Bixi bike-sharing services and walkable streets take the pressure off daily commutes, so most students don't need a car to get around campus, work, or the city.

What to Look for in Campus Life and Student Support

When evaluating a campus in Montreal, look for orientation programs designed for international students, active student clubs, and accessible academic advising. Career services and mentorship programs are strong indicators of graduate support. Small class sizes and direct access to faculty create a more personalized learning environment.

Programs for International Students at LCI Education Montreal

LCI Education's Montreal campus offers over 60 programs through 7 schools in both French and English. Browse programs and courses at LaSalle College Montreal to find what's available for international students studying in Canada.

Program category

Type

Key fields

PGWP eligible

College Diplomas (DCS & ACS)

2-3 yr technical or shorter professional

Quebec-recognized credentials across all schools

Yes (qualifying)

Creative Arts & Design

DCS

Fashion, graphic, interior, animation, VFX, game design

Yes (qualifying)

Business, Tech & Hospitality

DCS

Management, IT, hotel, tourism, events

Yes (qualifying)

Language Preparation

Certificate

French and English proficiency

No

College Diploma Programs (DCS and ACS) at LCI Education Montreal

LaSalle College Montreal holds official recognition from Quebec's ministère de l'Enseignement supérieur. Credentials earned here carry official weight across Canada:

  • DCS programs: 2-year pre-university or 3-year technical school track for academic and career preparation
  • ACS programs: Shorter, focused professional training for direct career entry
  • PGWP eligible: Qualifying programs let international students work in Canada after the school year ends
  • Quebec credentials: Diplomas from a recognized institution with standing across all fields of studies

Creative Arts and Design Programs at LCI Education Montreal

LaSalle College Montreal's creative programs offer hands-on training on a campus built around industry partnerships and real-world projects:

  • Fashion & graphic design: Program tracks in fashion, graphic, and interior design
  • Animation & gaming: VFX, game design, and animation with portfolio-driven learning
  • Industry experience: Projects built with real clients and creative professionals
  • Career-ready graduates: Enter the workforce with a portfolio of tangible work to offer

Business, Technology, and Hospitality Programs at LCI Education Montreal

Programs in business, technology, and hospitality align with Montreal's strongest employment sectors and prepare students for work in Canadian and global markets:

  • Business & marketing: Management, marketing, and entrepreneurship program tracks
  • IT & computer science: Practical skills in information technology and development
  • Hospitality & tourism: Hotel management, tourism, and event planning with industry support
  • Career services: Mentorship, project-based coursework, and academic support for every student

Language Preparation Programs at LCI Education Montreal

Students who need help building French or English proficiency can find language preparation courses at LaSalle College Montreal:

  • Conditional admission: Available for applicants who meet academic requirements but need language support
  • Bridge to diplomas: Programs may serve as a pathway to any college certificate or diploma stream
  • Structured learning: A clear path from language proficiency to full enrolment, starting from day one
  • Find the right fit: Courses designed to help international students prepare for studies in either language

Why Is LCI Education a Top Choice to Study in Montreal?

LaSalle College Montreal is the largest private college of public interest in Canada, with decades of experience training professionals in creative and applied fields. The institution connects education directly to career outcomes through industry partnerships and hands-on graduate preparation.

LCI Education's network spans campuses in

  • Montreal
  • Vancouver
  • Barcelona
  • Melbourne

and other cities worldwide!

Start the application process through international student admissions at LaSalle College Montreal to find the best program for your goals.

Frequently Asked Questions About Studying in Montreal

Apply to Study at LCI Education Montreal


Ready to start? Choose from 60+ programs across 7 schools, apply online in minutes, and join a global student community at LaSalle College Montreal.

Apply now · Explore programs · Request a consultation · Attend a virtual open house

Questions? The admissions team is here to help you find the right program and plan your move to Montreal.