Why study abroad?
Where and what to study?
How do I apply?
After receiving an offer
Prepare to depart
Arrive and thrive
a doodle of buildings in Canada

Explore the benefits of studying in Quebec: A comprehensive guide

Topics covered

Know more about studying in the only official French-speaking province in Canada “Quebec”

Why study in Quebec?

Quebec offers a unique cultural experience that combines French language, history, and cuisine with modernity and innovation. Here’s why studying in Quebec can be a great experience for you:

Diplomas and degrees obtained in Quebec are recognised internationally and the programs offered are passed by provincial bodies, and other external educational entities in Quebec taking into consideration the current employment needs in the province. Quebec has considerably lower international student tuition fees than other Canadian provinces. Since Canadian tuition fees are generally lower than other popular study destinations, such as the USA.

However, Quebec is considered one of the most affordable international education destinations in North America. Further accommodations, food, transportation, and other living costs are lower in Quebec as compared to any other province.

Quebec is home to some of the most breath-taking natural wonders. Including thousands of lakes and waterways, majestic mountains and hills, and further Quebec has many world-renowned national parks.

The French were amongst the earliest settlers in Canada, coming to Quebec. French architecture, language, and traditions have become part of Quebec culture due to which Quebec is known as the “Europe of North America”. International students have a clear pathway to PR and citizenship in Canada after completing their course from the province through the Quebec Experience program

Highlights

  • Quality of education

  • Affordable tuition fees and low cost of living

  • Beautiful landscape

  • Exposure to French Canadian culture

  • Easy settlement option in Quebec post-course completion

Quebec at a glance

  • Population: 8,537,731

  • Capital: Quebec City

  • Largest City: Montreal

  • Cost of Living: $3,050

  • Weather: With hot and humid summers and cold and snowy winters, the temperature varies to an average of 26°C (79 °F) in July (warmest month) to -9°C (79 °F) in January (the coldest month) in the province.

Popular courses to study in Quebec

Quebec has several universities and colleges that offer a wide range of courses and programs. Here are some popular courses to study in Quebec:

1. Engineering

Quebec is known for its strong engineering programs, and several universities, including École Polytechnique de Montréal, Concordia University, and McGill University, offer undergraduate and graduate engineering programs.

2. Business and Management

Many universities in Quebec, including HEC Montréal and Concordia University, offer business and management programs that prepare students for careers in various industries.

3. Computer Science

Quebec has a growing technology sector, and several universities, including Université de Sherbrooke and Université Laval, offer computer science programs that prepare students for careers in the tech industry.

4. Health Sciences

Many universities in Quebec, including McGill University and Université de Montréal, offer health sciences programs, including medicine, dentistry, and nursing.

5. Arts and Humanities

Quebec is home to several universities and colleges that offer programs in the arts and humanities, including McGill University and Université du Québec à Montréal.

Education system in Quebec  

Quebec’s education system is an integrated system that comprises career colleges, community colleges, and universities. However, to study in Quebec, you first need to have a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution from a Quebec institute. Further, you must receive a Certificat d'acceptation du Québec (CAQ) or certificate of acceptance which is issued by the province of Quebec to apply for the study permit. The system allows students to smoothly move among post-secondary institutions by transferring credits.

The universities are public entities that offer degrees at various levels – Bachelor, Master, and Doctorate. The courses are research-intensive and highly recognised across the globe
Community colleges are public institutions that offer certificate courses, undergraduate degrees, and postgraduate diplomas. The curriculums go hand-in-hand with industry trends.

Career colleges are privately owned and operated colleges that offer short-term certificate and diploma programs approved by the provincial education board to meet current employment demands.

Accommodation options for international students

You can choose to stay either on-campus or off-campus. The on-campus stay will help you stay close to your institution and save on commuting time while off-campus stays will help reduce your cost considerably. Homestays are also a great option to experience the culture of Canada in its true elements.

Transportation system in Quebec

As an international student studying in Quebec, there are several transportation options available to you. Here are some of the most common modes of transportation you can use:

Public Transit: The Société de transport de Montréal (STM) operates the public transit system in Montreal, which includes buses and metro trains. The Réseau de transport de la Capitale (RTC) operates the public transit system in Quebec City. Public transit is affordable and convenient for getting around the city.

Biking: Quebec is a bike-friendly province with many bike lanes and paths available. Biking is an excellent way to get around the city, stay active, and save money on transportation costs.

Taxis and Ride-sharing Services: Taxis and ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are widely available in Quebec. These services can be more expensive than public transit but can be a convenient option for getting around the city quickly.

Intercity Buses and Trains: Quebec has several intercity bus and train services, such as Via Rail and Greyhound, which can take you to other cities in the province and beyond.

Employment prospects after studying in Quebec

Studying in Quebec can greatly enhance your employment prospects, as the province has a strong economy and a diverse range of industries that are in need of skilled workers. Here’s the scope after studying in Quebec:

An appeal of French gateway, Montreal is the economic powerhouse comprising major industries such as Tourism, software development, and design.

Aviation biggies such as “Bombardier” and several other international air carriers have their headquarters located in the province. Therefore, a Graduate seeking an exciting career in Aviation gets a hand on live- experience and aircraft operations.

Further, mining and forestry generate billions of revenues and employ thousands of potential job seekers

If you are still deciding, Quebec has abundant opportunities for you to work after completing your study with no comprise on the quality of education. To know more about studying in Quebec you can in touch with our international education experts at IDP who will help you with the admission process.


One account for all your study abroad needs

Create your profile and unlock a wide array of features including personalised recommendations, fast-tracked applications and much more.

Related articles

Search for articles

Dive into our extensive collection of articles by using our comprehensive topic search tool.

Select a category