2025 Montreal Ranks Among the Top Ten Best Cities for International Students

Montreal has secured its place as one of the top ten best cities for international students, according to the QS Best Student Cities ranking for 2025. Quebec’s largest city placed 10th out of 150 cities worldwide, with an impressive overall score of 92.1 out of 100. This ranking showcases Montreal’s strong appeal across various aspects that are crucial for international students. Additionally, Toronto, Canada’s largest city, was ranked 11th with an overall score of 91.9 out of 100, emphasizing Canada’s overall attractiveness as a destination for education.

Top Ten Cities for International Students

The top ten cities in the QS Best Student Cities ranking for 2025 are:

• London

• Tokyo

• Seoul

• Munich

• Melbourne

• Sydney

• Paris

• Zurich

• Berlin

• Montreal

Toronto ranked 11th, while Vancouver came in 19th.

Criteria for Ranking

QS Top Universities assessed cities based on six key categories, requiring a population of over 250,000 and at least two universities in the QS World University Rankings. Montreal meets these criteria with McGill University and Concordia University.

Student Mix

The “Student Mix” category looks at the proportion of students in the city’s population, the percentage of international students, and inclusivity. Montreal hosts 40,000 international students from 150 countries each year, creating a diverse and welcoming environment. The study also considers how well the study environment accommodates various cultural backgrounds, lifestyles, and identities.

Desirability

Desirability considers factors like safety, pollution levels, and the city’s popularity among prospective students. Montreal scored 85.1 in this category, while Toronto scored higher at 92.8. This score is partly derived from surveys where students identified their “dream student city.”

Employer Activity

Employer activity measures a city’s attractiveness to employers recruiting new graduates. This category includes youth employment rates and the popularity of local institutions among employers. Toronto leads Canadian cities with a score of 84.3, followed by Vancouver at 78.9, and Montreal at 77.

Affordability

Affordability is crucial for students. Montreal scored higher in this category with 41.6, compared to Toronto’s 21.2 and Vancouver’s 25.1. Montreal’s lower cost of living, including rent and tuition, makes it more accessible for students. The “Big Mac Index” is also used to evaluate retail costs.

Student View

The “Student View” category assesses how students rate their city based on tolerance, diversity, transit, friendliness, nightlife, culture, and sustainability. It also considers the likelihood of students staying in the city after graduation. Montreal scored 93.6, slightly below Toronto’s 94.3.

Navigating Canadian Immigration as a Student

Studying in Montreal provides an excellent pathway to Canadian immigration. Programs such as the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allow students to gain valuable work experience in Canada after graduation. Additionally, international students may be eligible for the Quebec Experience Program (PEQ), which offers a fast track to permanent residency.

Pathway to Canadian Immigration

Montreal’s universities, such as McGill and Concordia, not only offer world-class education but also pave the way for students to transition into Canadian permanent residency. The PGWP enables graduates to work in Canada for up to three years after graduation, a critical step for those looking to build a career and life in Canada.

Post-Graduation Opportunities

Graduates from Montreal’s universities have access to a myriad of post-graduation opportunities. The PEQ allows students to apply for permanent residency quickly, leveraging their education and work experience. Additionally, the PGWP enables graduates to gain work experience in their field, enhancing their immigration prospects.

Safety and Quality of Life

Montreal is known for its high quality of life and safety, making it an attractive destination for international students. The city’s low crime rates and high standard of living contribute to its desirability, ensuring students can focus on their studies and enjoy their time in Canada.

Affordable Education and Living

Montreal is known for its relatively affordable cost of living and education compared to other major Canadian cities. Lower tuition fees and living expenses mean students can enjoy a high-quality education without the financial burden seen in other cities. This affordability extends to immigration-related costs, making the transition smoother for international students.

Career Opportunities for International Students

Montreal offers robust career opportunities for international students. Many local and international companies actively recruit from Montreal’s universities, recognizing the quality of education and diverse skill sets of graduates. The PGWP allows graduates to work in Canada for up to three years, providing a significant advantage in gaining Canadian work experience.

Conclusion

Montreal’s position as the 10th best city for international students highlights its strengths in student mix, affordability, and overall student satisfaction. Its diverse, inclusive, and vibrant environment, coupled with prestigious universities and lower living costs, make Montreal a top choice for students worldwide. Additionally, the pathways to Canadian immigration make it an even more attractive destination for those seeking to build a future in Canada.

At Altec Global, we are dedicated to helping individuals achieve their Canadian immigration dreams, no matter how challenging the circumstances may seem. If you need immigration assistance, we encourage you to contact our team for a personalized assessment.