Quebec’s universities have long attracted students from across Canada thanks to their strong academic reputations and vibrant campuses. Many out-of-province students have moved to la belle province to pursue degrees that helped them launch careers and succeed after graduation.
Beginning next fall, however, students from outside Quebec may face significantly higher tuition at institutions such as McGill University, Concordia University and Bishop’s University. The Quebec government has proposed tuition changes intended to promote and protect the French language. If enacted, those changes could prompt many out-of-province applicants to rethink their plans. Below is a clear overview of what is proposed, who would be affected and how prospective students can evaluate whether studying in Quebec remains the best choice for them.
Current tuition fees for out-of-province and international students studying in Quebec
Out-of-province students in Quebec already pay substantially higher tuition than Quebec residents. The table below shows 2023–24 undergraduate tuition for a typical business program at several universities. Fees vary by program and do not include administrative or compulsory charges.
| University | Language of instruction | Quebec students | Out-of-province students | International students |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| McGill University | English | $2,881 | $8,992 | $65,604 |
| Concordia University | English | $2,881 | $8,992 | $33,300 |
| Bishop’s University | English | $2,881 | $8,992 | $27,006 |
| UQAM | French | $3,640 | $9,750 | $24,600 |
| Université Laval | French | $2,881 | $8,992 | $23,668 |
| Université de Sherbrooke | French | $2,881 | $8,992 | $28,830 |
As the table shows, out-of-province students currently pay more than three times the Quebec resident rate at many schools, while international students pay the highest fees. Generally, French-language institutions report lower international fees than some English-language universities.
Proposed Quebec tuition fee changes
In October 2023, the Quebec government publicly proposed increasing tuition for out-of-province undergraduate students from $8,992 to $17,000 per year. More recent reports indicate the province may moderate that proposal and instead set the new out-of-province tuition at about $12,000 annually. Under both scenarios, students already enrolled would generally be protected from the increases unless they switch programs; PhD students would also be exempt.
The changes are designed to apply across all universities, but English-language institutions—Bishop’s, Concordia and McGill—would be most affected because a large share of out-of-province students study in English. International students could also see adjustments: under earlier proposals, a minimum international tuition of $20,000 per year was suggested, with universities retaining discretion to set higher rates and additional fees.
Higher tuition for out-of-province students could have broader consequences beyond student finances. For example, McGill has warned it could lose a substantial portion of its out-of-province enrolment, potentially reducing revenue by tens of millions of dollars and triggering cuts to staffing and services.
So, is studying in Quebec still worthwhile?
For Canadian students outside Quebec, the anticipated rise means tuition could increase by roughly $3,000 to $8,000 or more per year starting in 2024. That is a meaningful shock for many applicants. To decide whether studying in Quebec remains a good investment, consider the following questions and planning steps.
Can you save more to cover higher tuition?
Increasing savings is one route to absorb higher fees. Practical options include regularly contributing to a high-interest savings account (HISA), investing in a guaranteed investment certificate (GIC) or using a tax-free savings account (TFSA) if you won’t need the funds immediately. Working a summer job, taking on a side gig, securing paid internships or co-op placements, using available funds from a registered education savings plan (RESP), and applying for scholarships, bursaries and student loans can all help reduce the burden.
- Use a high-interest savings account or TFSA to build tuition savings.
- Take paid work, internships or co-op placements to offset costs.
- Apply early for scholarships, bursaries and school-specific aid.
- Consider withdrawing eligible RESP funds if available.
Will your degree lead to strong job prospects?
Consider the career pathways linked to your program. Tools such as career directories and university employment reports can show which employers hire recent graduates in your field, including opportunities within Quebec. Also weigh regional employment markets and cost of living: after accounting for living expenses, disposable incomes in cities like Québec City and Montreal may be lower than those in Vancouver or Toronto, which could influence your post-graduation standard of living.
Are there comparable programs elsewhere?
Explore similar programs at universities in other provinces or internationally. If a comparable degree is available at a lower cost, that alternative may free you from financial pressure and let you focus more on studies than on covering tuition hikes. Keep in mind that rising tuition is not unique to Quebec; other provinces are also reassessing fees amid fiscal pressures.
How will moving to Quebec affect your lifestyle?
Non-financial factors matter, too. Relocating to another province means adapting to a new city, culture and daily life. Ask whether living and studying in Quebec would fit your preferences and whether the cultural and language environment would enhance—or detract from—your overall experience and wellbeing.
Making a decision: Should you study in Quebec?
Now is a good time to review your options and finalize your applications, which are typically due between November and January for many programs. If you’re determined to attend a top Quebec school and are prepared to manage the proposed tuition increases, that may be the right choice. However, don’t overlook how financial strain could affect your student experience. If flexibility is an option and comparable programs exist elsewhere with lower fees, choosing a more affordable location could reduce stress and let you concentrate on academics and career preparation.
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