Does the idea of studying in a bustling city that has all the hallmarks of a large North American metropolis but the intimacy and culture of a European city sound appealing? If so, then Montreal could be exactly what you’re looking for. Expat’s founder, Louise, attended the Open House events at McGill and Concordia to discover more about exactly what studying at these world-renowned universities in Montreal has to offer.
Catching-up with students that actually study abroad at McGill University in Montreal
Whilst she was there, Louise also caught up with some ex-Expat Students to get an insider’s view of not only studying at the prestigious institutions but also to find out how they have settled into life in this vibrant city. When she took them out for dinner and asked them about life in Montreal, the feedback was unanimously positive.
- I love the fact that the city is bilingual so for me I can be speaking French one minute and then English the next – it has made me feel at home but also greatly helped me to improve my English!
- I feel really safe here, people are friendly and look out for each other and I feel like that both on and off campus which is great!
- I love it here! There’s always something to do – It doesn’t matter if you prefer to relax in a cute little cafe or go and watch an ice hockey match, you’ll never be bored
First stop, what it is like to study abroad at McGill University in Montreal, Canada
Exploring the McGill University from the inside
The Open House from visiting accommodation blocks, seeing the teaching and extracurricular facilities on offer to talking to the students and professors, Open Days and Open Houses provide prospective students and their parents with a unique opportunity to explore what each university and campus has to offer. Their purpose is for students to see whether that particular university is the place for them…
The Campus Louise began her exploration at McGill’s historic downtown campus located on the slope of Mount Royal. Established in 1821 and with an impressive list of alumni, it’s easy to see why this university and its red brick buildings attract students from over 150 countries worldwide who then make up 30% of the student body.
McGill has a wealth of undergraduate and graduate courses on offer, all taught in English and split between its two campuses, but it is particularly well-known for undergraduate offerings such as the Bachelor of Commerce at its Desautels Faculty of Management with its international outlook and focus on critical thinking. In addition to this, is the plethora of options within the Faculty of Engineering which focuses on not only developing knowledge within the fields of science and technology but also places a strong emphasis on teamwork and interpersonal skills, ensuring that engineers are well-rounded in their abilities.
Student’s wellness, a real subject at McGill University
Alongside the excellent academic programmes on offer, McGill also offers a wealth of support for students through initiatives such as the Student Wellness Hub and the Buddy program. International students in particular can benefit from the Buddy system which pairs them with current students who provide a friendly face and give plenty of advice about life at McGill. As students enter into their final years of study, McGill offers invaluable advice through their Career Planning Service which offers workshops, careers fairs and 1:1 advisory sessions so students can be sure they are making the right choices as they enter into the world of work.
Why you should be accompagnied on your application process
With such advantages, study abroad at McGill and it’s application process is no easy feat. That is exactly where Expat Student can help. Whether you are just considering your options now or are ready to apply, we have the expertise and knowledge to guide you at each step of the process. Entry requirements vary by programme, but you will need excellent grades throughout the last 3 years of school.
Next stop, Concordia Campus Montreal
The Next-generation University
Next stop on Louise’s tour was the University of Concordia with its melange of old and new buildings, reflecting both its history and focus on being, what they term, the ‘next-generation university – aligning learning opportunities with the significant challenges facing society’. The university itself is split between two campuses, one in downtown Montreal and the other within easy reach just outside the city centre.
It is not without good reason that Concordia is a particularly appealing option for students. Every undergraduate and graduate programme is taught exclusively in English, offers hands-on experience, over 20% of the student body comes from abroad and the majority of courses have less than 60 students enrolled so there is a close community feel whilst retaining a mixed student body and a forward thinking attitude.
Art, engineering and business departments attract many foreign students
The Faculty of Arts, the Gina Cody School of Engineering and Computer Science and the John Molson School of Business are the most popular amongst both local and international students. Popular undergraduate courses include Political Science, Mechanical Engineering and International Business to name just a few. Concordia also offers students the freedom of selecting a major when applying but amending this when they begin their course if they change their mind.
As part of the Open House, Louise attended a presentation to find out more about a particular aspect of Concordia’s offering: the undergraduate co-op. In addition to the regular internship programs offered, every year, through the co-op program, Concordia provides 1500 undergraduates with a unique form of flexibility when approaching the structure of their studies. Students who apply to take part are supported to identify and secure 3 paid work placements in positions linked to their degree. This not only means that when they enter into the world of full time work they have experienced different roles and created invaluable links with other professionals in their chosen field, but also that students leave equipped with the necessary skills to search for their future job.
Give your application the best chance of success
Applying to Concordia can be a time consuming and confusing process as it involves different requirements depending on your chosen course: some require interviews, others require examples of work and letters of motivation. This is where Expat Student can help to ensure students are fully prepared and that every document, or possible interview, reflects them at their very best.
More than just a university city
Whilst in Montreal, Louise fell in love with the city, ‘From small independent book shops and boutiques to the interconnected passages of the underground city with its wealth of attractions, it is undeniable that Montreal has a unique charm.’ So whilst students aren’t busy with their academic studies there are plenty of ways to spend their downtime. With the endless number of art galleries, concerts and sporting events it’s no wonder Montreal was voted 6th in the World QS Best Student Cities Index in 2019. (Source)
Do you live in France or have French nationality?
This means you are able to benefit from the same tuition fees as Canadian students, making the universities in Quebec a very competitive option for many students.
