Founded in 1974 through the merger of Loyola College and Sir George Williams University, Concordia University is one of Canada's leading public research universities. Located in Montreal, Quebec, Concordia is internationally recognised for its career-focused education, innovative research, experiential learning, and strong industry connections. The university welcomes students from more than 150 countries, making it one of Canada's most diverse and globally connected institutions. Concordia enrolls over 50,000 students, including a large international student community. It is especially known for excellence in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Business, Aerospace Engineering, Information Systems, Finance, Film Studies, Design, and Fine Arts. The university also has one of Canada's strongest co-op education programmes, helping students gain valuable work experience before graduation. Whether you're planning to pursue a bachelor's degree, master's programme, MBA, or PhD, this guide provides an overview of Concordia University admissions, available programmes, scholarships, admission requirements, and career opportunities for international students.
| Label | Value |
|---|---|
| Location | Montreal, Quebec |
| Program Levels | UG · Master's · MBA · PhD |
Which Program Level Fits You?
Concordia University offers undergraduate, postgraduate, professional, and research programmes across a wide range of disciplines.
| Program Level | Overview |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's (Undergraduate) | Undergraduate programmes in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Business, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Fine Arts, Journalism, Sciences, and Humanities. |
| Master's (Postgraduate Taught) | Advanced master's programmes in Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, Business (MBA), Finance, Information Systems Security, Public Policy, and more. |
| Professional Programmes | Graduate programmes through the John Molson School of Business, Gina Cody School of Engineering and Computer Science, and other professional faculties. |
| PhD (Research) | Research-intensive doctoral programmes supported by internationally recognised faculty and advanced research centres. |
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements vary depending on the programme and level of study. Applicants must meet programme-specific academic and English language requirements.
| Requirement | Typical Requirement |
|---|---|
| Academic Qualifications | Strong academic performance with programme-specific requirements |
| GPA | Competitive academic record |
| IELTS Academic | Generally 6.5+ (programme dependent) |
| TOEFL iBT | Generally 90+ (programme dependent) |
| Duolingo English Test | Accepted for eligible programmes |
| Other Requirements | |
| Academic transcripts, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, CV/résumé (where applicable), portfolio (for selected programmes), and programme-specific documents |
Cost of Attendance
The Concordia University tuition fees vary depending on the programme and level of study. Students should also budget for accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, books, and personal expenses while studying in Montreal, Quebec. Montreal is considered one of the most affordable major student cities in Canada, offering a lower cost of living than Toronto and Vancouver while providing access to a thriving technology, aerospace, gaming, AI, and startup ecosystem.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Concordia University offers a variety of entrance scholarships, merit-based awards, bursaries, graduate fellowships, teaching assistantships, research assistantships, and departmental funding opportunities. While the university does not offer fully funded institutional scholarships, eligible students can access several funding options based on academic achievement and financial need. Popular funding opportunities include:
- Entrance Scholarships
- Entrance Bursary Program
- In-Course Scholarships
- In-Course Bursaries
- Graduate Fellowships
- Teaching Assistantships
- Research Assistantships
- Departmental Scholarships
- John Molson School of Business Scholarships
- Gina Cody School of Engineering Scholarships
- External Scholarships and Awards
Graduate students may also receive funding through assistantships, research grants, and faculty-specific fellowships depending on their programme.
Campus Life & Student Experience
Concordia University offers a vibrant urban campus experience in the heart of Montreal, one of the world's top student cities. Students benefit from:
- More than 350 student clubs and organisations
- One of Canada's largest co-op education programmes
- Career counselling and internship support
- Entrepreneurship and startup incubators
- Modern research laboratories
- Undergraduate research opportunities
- International exchange programmes
- Recreation, wellness, and cultural facilities
- Montreal provides outstanding opportunities in artificial intelligence, gaming, aerospace, software development, finance, digital media, and entrepreneurship, making it an attractive destination for international students
Research & Global Reputation
Concordia University is internationally recognised for research excellence, innovation, and career-focused education. Highlights include:
- Ranked among the top young universities in Canada
- Welcomes students from more than 150 countries
- Strong research in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, Software Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, Sustainable Energy, Data Science, Digital Media, and Smart Cities
- Home to the internationally recognised John Molson School of Business and Gina Cody School of Engineering and Computer Science
- Strong partnerships with employers including Bombardier, CAE, Ubisoft, Morgan Stanley, IBM, Microsoft, Google, Amazon Web Services, Ericsson, CGI, Deloitte, and SAP
- Excellent graduate employability through industry partnerships, co-op programmes, and applied research initiatives
Visa & Post-Study Work
International students admitted to Concordia University generally require a Canadian Study Permit before beginning their studies. After graduation, eligible students may apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit, allowing them to gain valuable Canadian work experience. The PGWP can also support pathways toward Canadian permanent residency, subject to current Government of Canada immigration policies.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Study Permit | International students generally require a Canadian Study Permit before beginning their studies. |
| Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) | Eligible graduates may apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing them to gain valuable Canadian work experience, subject to current Canadian immigration regulations. |
How to Apply
Every study level follows a similar application process, although deadlines, admission criteria, and required documents vary depending on the programme.
- Undergraduate — choose your programme — Choose your preferred programme. Apply through the Concordia University online application portal.
- Undergraduate — submit documents — Submit academic transcripts and supporting documents. Meet English language and programme-specific requirements.
- Undergraduate — accept your offer — Receive and accept your admission offer.
- Postgraduate — apply online — Apply through the Concordia University Graduate Admissions portal. Upload academic transcripts and required documents.
- Postgraduate — meet requirements and accept — Meet programme-specific admission requirements. Receive your admission decision. Accept your offer and begin your Canadian study permit process.
- Begin your Canadian study permit process — After accepting your offer, begin your Canadian study permit process.
FAQs About Studying Here
Is Concordia University good for international students?
Yes. Concordia University is one of Canada's leading public universities, offering career-focused education, strong co-op programmes, industry partnerships, and a diverse international student community from over 150 countries.
Does Concordia University offer scholarships for international students?
Yes. Concordia offers Entrance Scholarships, Entrance Bursaries, In-Course Scholarships, graduate fellowships, teaching assistantships, research assistantships, departmental awards, and external scholarship opportunities.
What English language tests does Concordia University accept?
Concordia accepts IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, Duolingo English Test, and other approved English language proficiency tests. Programme-specific minimum score requirements may apply.
How do I apply to Concordia University?
Applicants submit their application through the Concordia University online application portal, along with the required academic documents and programme-specific requirements.
Can international students work after graduating from Concordia University?
Yes. Eligible graduates may apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit, allowing them to work in Canada after completing their studies and potentially qualify for permanent residency pathways.
Does Concordia University provide career support?
Yes. Concordia offers career counselling, internships, one of Canada's leading co-op education programmes, employer networking events, entrepreneurship support, research opportunities, and comprehensive career development services. Its location in Montreal provides outstanding access to careers in artificial intelligence, gaming, aerospace, software development, finance, and digital media.
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