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How to Move to Montreal as an International Student

A cosmopolitan city with a vibrant cultural scene, Montreal is the best student city in North America. It’s easy to see why, with its energetic festivals, relatively low cost of living and diverse population. You’ve made the right choice to study in Canada – but you may be wondering how to move to Montreal as an international student. 

Every year, Concordia welcomes thousands of international students through its doors. Our International Students Office is here to ensure you have a smooth transition to Montreal. You’re going through some exciting changes, and we’re here to help you with the big move.  

Before your departure 

Make sure you have all your required immigration documents, along with your valid passport. It is your responsibility to make sure you have all the legal documents needed to study in Quebec. 

You’ll want to consult the ISO’s pre-departure checklist to confirm that you’ve completed all the necessary steps before boarding the plane. This includes booking temporary accommodation for when you land in Montreal, if you will be looking for an apartment to rent.

Arriving at the airport in Montreal

You’ll want to arrive in Montreal at least two weeks before classes begin, so you’ll have time to get settled. When you arrive, have the address of your accommodation on hand. A taxi from the airport to downtown is about $41, but Uber may have different prices. Bus 747 is $10 and will take you downtown to Berri-UQAM metro station.

Set up your Canadian accounts

The advantage of arriving early is that you’ll have time to get yourself sorted—not to mention recovering from jetlag! Getting a Canadian SIM card, opening a bank account, finding a place to live and getting your WiFi set up will take time, but don’t stress! We have a few tips for settling in, which you’ll want to look over after arriving. 

If you’re fresh out of high school, check if you qualify for Concordia’s on-campus housing.  

Get ready for school  

Getting your student ID, registering for classes, sorting out health insurance and paying tuition should all be completed before the term begins. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by your pre-term tasks, check out the new student checklist to keep track of what you need to do at the start of your first term. 

Connect with Concordia’s international community

With thousands of international students on campus from over 150 countries, you’ll meet many students who are going through a similar experience. The ISO holds events and workshops for newly arrived international students, so you’ll have many opportunities to meet new friends in your new home. 

Try new things

Montreal was voted the safest city in the world for travelers in 2022. There’s plenty of exciting experiences that await, including trying new foods like poutine, or maybe experiencing your first snowfall. Don’t forget to snap some photos for your friends and family back home—they’ll want to see your new life!

Questions

If at any time you’re feeling confused about applying to Concordia and moving to Montreal, reach out! Our Office of Student Recruitment can answer your questions about admissions, and the International Students Office can answer your questions about the immigration process. 

Top 5 Student-Friendly Cities in The World

You’ve chosen the subject you want to pursue. You have a good idea of what job title you want to nail after graduation. You’ve always dreamed of living and learning in a different country. All that’s left now is to pick the city you want to study next.

Here’s a list of the top 5 student-friendly cities in the world. Each can offer you valuable study opportunities, career options and unforgettable life experiences.

1. London, UK

Why study in London?

In London, you’ll find some of the best universities and colleges in the world, with Imperial College London and University College London ranked in the world’s top 10 (QS Top Universities 2021). When you’re not busy studying and you want to unwind during term time, you can explore London’s top attractions such as the London Eye, St Paul’s Cathedral, The Shard’s observation deck and discover London’s history at the London Dungeons. 

2. Montréal, Canada

Why study in Montréal?

As soon as you arrive, friendly locals will greet you with warmth all year-round – yes, even if it’s winter! Regardless of the climate you’ve been used to in your home country, Montréal will open a whole new world for you, where the beauty of winter will be the main character. No matter if you travel to Canada for a one-month study abroad experience or to study for a three-year Bachelor’s degree, you must definitely try out ice skating at least once and all the festive markets held in Vieux-Montréal.

3. Berlin, Germany

Why study in Berlin?

Regarded as one of the coolest urban hubs of Europe, Berlin promises students an unforgettable living and learning experience at decent prices. The low cost of living combined with a colourful nightlife transforms Berlin into one of the most welcoming cities for international students. It offers endless travelling opportunities in every direction. So, why not wake up early on a Saturday, rent a car and drive around Europe with your new uni friends.

4. Sydney, Australia

Why study in Sydney?

With exhaustive English-language programmes for non-English speakers and home to some of the best universities in Australia, Sydney is the dream city for every international student. The best part of coming here is that with the student visa, you are also granted permission to work up to 40 hours every two weeks. And that applies throughout your whole academic year! With an amazing climate, iconic landscapes and, not to mention, Sydney’s Taronga Zoo daily Koala Encounter sessions, Sydney will quickly become a holiday resort for your studies.

5. Seoul, South Korea

Why study in Seoul?

Who could say no to a global city with a 24/7 vibe, ranked one of the best in the world for employer activity? Plus, the quality of education in Seoul is beyond exceptional. This comes at a very decent price since everything from accommodation to food is very cheap. The modern skyscrapers, Buddhist temples and countless food markets prove that Seoul is a must-see city. And what better way of discovering it if not by living and studying there? Visit The Trickeye Museum, Lotte World, and Everland (South Korea’s largest outdoor theme park).

So, where are you heading to next?