Comparing Canadian cities for studying abroad: Montreal vs. Toronto

Montreal

Montreal is a unique city with a rich bilingual history and culture, offering a blend of French and English influences. It is known for its vibrant student life, with numerous festivals, cultural events, and a lively nightlife available throughout the year. The city's historic charm combined with its modern amenities makes it a fascinating place to live and study, offering affordability and a warm, welcoming community to international students.

Toronto

Toronto, on the other hand, is Canada's largest city and a bustling multicultural metropolis. It offers a wide array of academic opportunities and is home to many of Canada's top universities and colleges. The city's diversity is reflected in its food, festivals, and neighbourhoods, making it a welcoming environment for students from all over the world. Toronto’s status as a global financial and cultural hub even provides numerous professional and social opportunities for those who are thinking of working in Canada after graduation.

Montreal

Montreal is home to several prominent universities and colleges known for their research contributions and innovative programmes, including McGill University, Université de Montréal (University of Montreal), and Concordia University.

McGill University is internationally renowned, consistently ranked among the world's top universities, particularly in courses related to Medicine, Chemistry, and Biology. Université de Montréal is a major French-language institution, so proficiency in French is essential for many of its programmes – including its world-renowned Artificial Intelligence (AI) studies. Concordia University offers a wide range of programmes in Accounting, Art and Design, Communications, Education, and more in English, catering to both local and international students.

Toronto

Toronto's educational landscape is characterised by its diversity and inclusivity, providing students with numerous opportunities to pursue their academic interests. It boasts some of Canada's leading educational institutions, such as the University of Toronto, Toronto Metropolitan University (previously known as Ryerson University), and York University.

The University of Toronto is globally recognised for its research and diverse program offerings, spanning various disciplines from Medicine to Engineering to Social Sciences. Toronto Metropolitan University is known for its career-oriented programmes and strong connections with industry, particularly in the fields of Computer Science, Business and Management Studies, Aerospace Engineering, and Architecture. While York University offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses, most notably in Business, Law, Psychology, and Engineering.

Unsure which university or programme suits your academic interests and aspirations best? Start a chat with our international education placement & services team for expert advice tailored to your unique academic needs and situation.

Montreal

Montreal's bilingual nature means that both French and English are widely spoken in everyday, academic, and professional contexts. International students in Montreal may need to have some proficiency in French, especially if attending a French-language institution like Université de Montréal. This bilingual environment offers a unique cultural experience and can enhance language skills, but it also requires students to be prepared for cultural integration and to improve their French language skills throughout their stay.

Toronto

Toronto is Canada’s most multicultural city where over 140 languages are spoken, making it one of the most diverse cities in the world. This creates an inclusive environment where students from various backgrounds can feel at home and engage with diverse communities. English is the predominant language of instruction in its educational institutions, making it accessible to international students who are proficient in English.

Montreal

Montreal is known for its relatively affordable cost of living compared to other major Canadian cities, including Toronto. Student accommodations are widely available, including on-campus residences, shared apartments, and homestays. Other living expenses, such as food, transportation, and utilities, are also reasonably priced, making Montreal an attractive option for budget-conscious students. According to the now defunct site I Choose Montreal, the monthly cost of living for an international student in Montreal by the end-2023—including monthly rent, food, transportation, and utilities—is around CA$2,525 per month, excluding tuition fees.

Toronto

The cost of living in Toronto is higher than in Montreal, reflecting its status as Canada's largest city. Student housing options include on-campus residences, off-campus apartments, and homestays, but rents are generally higher. While living expenses like food and transportation are also higher, Toronto offers a wide range of services and amenities that justify the costs. It's essential for students to budget carefully and explore financial aid options to manage their expenses effectively. I Choose Montreal estimated that the monthly cost of living for an international student in Toronto at the end of 2023—including monthly rent, food, transportation, and utilities—is around CA$3,210 per month, excluding tuition fees. This makes it roughly 1.3 times more expensive than a similar budget in Montreal.

Need help figuring out a possible student budget for Montreal or Toronto? IDP’s cost of living calculator takes your dining, leisure, and spending habits into account to give you the most accurate estimate possible.

Montreal

Montreal's public transportation system, operated by STM (Société de transport de Montréal), is extensive and reliable. The city has a well-connected network of buses, metros, and commuter trains, making it easy for students to navigate the city. Students studying in Montreal can purchase monthly OPUS student cards at a discounted rate, providing unlimited travel on all STM services. Biking is also a popular mode of transport, with numerous bike paths and rental services available.

Toronto

Toronto's public transportation system, managed by the TTC (Toronto Transit Commission), includes subways, buses, and streetcars. The city also offers GO Transit inter-regional bus and train services, connecting Toronto with its surrounding areas. Post-Secondary Monthly Passes on the city’s PRESTO transport card are available to those studying in Toronto, offering discounted fares for unlimited travel within the city. Toronto's public transportation is efficient, but the city's size and traffic can sometimes lead to longer travel times. Additionally, Toronto has a growing network of bike lanes and rental services, encouraging eco-friendly commuting.

International students studying in Canada, including those in Montreal and Toronto, are required to have health insurance. In most provinces, including Quebec and Ontario, international students are required to enrol in the provincial health insurance plan or purchase private health insurance. Some institutions may also provide healthcare coverage for existing students, but coverage for these plans usually ceases upon graduation or completion. This coverage typically includes medical consultations, hospital stays, and emergency services, though coverage levels may vary depending on whether it’s public or private insurance.

Montreal

Montreal offers a vibrant cultural scene with numerous festivals, museums, and entertainment options. The city hosts the famous Montreal International Jazz Festival, Just for Laughs comedy festival, and the Montreal Film Festival, amongst others, throughout summer, providing endless opportunities for cultural engagement. The city's nightlife is lively, with various bars, clubs, and restaurants catering to diverse tastes. Students can also enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and exploring Mount Royal Park.

Toronto

Toronto is a bustling city with a rich cultural landscape. It is home to the Toronto International Film Festival, one of the world's most prestigious film festivals. The city's entertainment options include theatres, museums, sports events, and a thriving music scene. Toronto's diverse neighbourhoods offer a variety of dining and shopping experiences, reflecting the city's multiculturalism. Students can also explore outdoor spaces like the Toronto Islands and High Park for recreational activities.

To study in Canada, international students must obtain a study permit. The application process involves the following steps:

• Acceptance letter: Obtain an acceptance letter from a recognised Canadian educational institution.

• Prepare documents: Gather necessary documents, including a valid passport, proof of sufficient funds, and a letter of explanation.

• Apply online: Submit the study permit application online through the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.

• Biometrics and medical exam: Complete biometrics and a medical exam if required.

• Processing time: Wait for the study permit to be processed, which can take several weeks.

IDP can assist with the visa application process for international students, providing guidance and support to ensure a smooth application experience.

Choosing between Montreal and Toronto as your study destination in Canada depends on various factors, including your academic goals, budget, language preferences, and lifestyle. Both cities offer unique experiences and opportunities for international students, from Montreal’s bilingual environment and affordable cost of living to Toronto’s multicultural metropolis with extensive academic and professional opportunities.

For personalised advice and assistance in making your decision, consult with IDP’s overseas education placement counsellors. Our experts can help you navigate the requirements for studying in Canada, find the right university, and achieve your dreams of living and studying abroad in Canada.

Book your free counselling session with us today or visit our homepage to explore more study destinations in Canada and around the world! You can also download the IDP Live App for free resources, study guides, and destination tips to navigate your education journey overseas.