Location:
Québec City, Québec, Canada
Founded:
1663 – It’s one of the oldest institutions of higher education in North America and the first in Canada to offer higher education in French.
Language of Instruction:
Primarily French, but some graduate programs are available in English.
Reputation: Laval is a highly respected research university, especially known in fields such as forestry, agriculture, geosciences, environmental science, health sciences, and engineering.
Research: Home to over 270 research groups and chairs, including major research centers like the Centre for Northern Studies (CEN) and Institut nordique du Québec (INQ).
Student Population: Over 45,000 students, including international students from more than 100 countries.
Campus: The main campus is large and green, located in Sainte-Foy, a suburban borough of Québec City. It has modern facilities, libraries, sports complexes, and student residences.
Business Administration (offered through FSA ULaval)
Medicine and Health Sciences
Engineering and Computer Science
Environmental Sciences
Architecture and Urban Planning
Forestry and Geomatics
Immersive French Experience – Perfect for those looking to study in a francophone environment.
Research-Oriented – Excellent opportunities for research, especially at the graduate level.
Affordable Tuition – Particularly for Québec and international French-speaking students.
Quality of Life – Québec City is safe, beautiful, and rich in culture and history.
BBA (Bachelor of Business Administration)
International Business
Finance
Marketing
Accounting
MBA (available in French and English)
Master’s in Financial Engineering, Management, etc.
Civil Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Software Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Engineering Physics
Computer Science
Doctor of Medicine (MD)
Nursing (BSc, MSc)
Physiotherapy
Occupational Therapy
Public Health
Biomedical Sciences
Mathematics and Statistics
Physics
Chemistry
Biology
Environmental Sciences
Biochemistry
Geology
Computer Science (BSc, MSc)
LLB (Bachelor of Law)
Master of Laws (LLM)
Graduate diplomas in legal studies
Forest Management
Geomatics
Environmental Geography
Sustainable Development
History
Literature
Languages (including English, Spanish, German, Chinese)
Communication
Linguistics
Philosophy
Preschool & Elementary Education
Secondary School Teaching
Special Education
Educational Technology
Agronomy
Animal Science
Food Science and Technology
Agri-Environmental Engineering
Bachelor & Master of Architecture
Urban Planning
Landscape Architecture
Theology
Ethics
Religious Studies
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Business Administration (BBA) |
3 years |
~$14,000 |
|
Computer Science |
3 years |
~$14,500 |
|
Mechanical Engineering |
4 years |
~$14,500 |
|
Civil Engineering |
4 years |
~$14,500 |
|
Electrical Engineering |
4 years |
~$14,500 |
|
Architecture |
4 years |
~$14,800 |
|
Biology |
3 years |
~$13,500 |
|
Chemistry |
3 years |
~$13,500 |
|
Biochemistry |
3 years |
~$13,500 |
|
Forestry |
4 years |
~$13,200 |
|
Agronomy |
4 years |
~$13,200 |
|
International Studies and Modern Languages |
3 years |
~$12,800 |
|
Law (LL.B) |
3 years |
~$13,000 |
|
Psychology |
3 years |
~$12,800 |
|
Geography and Environmental Studies |
3 years |
~$13,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
MBA (Master of Business Administration) |
1–2 years |
~$18,000 |
|
Master in Computer Science |
2 years |
~$15,000 |
|
Master in Electrical Engineering |
2 years |
~$15,000 |
|
Master in Civil Engineering |
2 years |
~$15,000 |
|
Master in Mechanical Engineering |
2 years |
~$15,000 |
|
Master in Architecture |
2 years |
~$15,500 |
|
Master in Environmental Sciences |
2 years |
~$14,500 |
|
Master in Biology |
2 years |
~$14,000 |
|
Master in Public Health (MPH) |
2 years |
~$15,000 |
|
Master in Law (LL.M.) |
1–2 years |
~$14,500 |
|
Master in Economics |
2 years |
~$14,500 |
|
Master in Geomatics |
2 years |
~$14,500 |
|
Master in Agronomy |
2 years |
~$14,000 |
|
Master in International Studies |
2 years |
~$14,000 |
|
Master in Education Sciences |
2 years |
~$13,500 |
|
Master in Linguistics |
2 years |
~$13,500 |
|
Master in Theology and Religious Studies |
2 years |
~$13,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in Computer Science |
4–5 years |
~$12,500 |
|
PhD in Electrical Engineering |
4–5 years |
~$12,500 |
|
PhD in Mechanical Engineering |
4–5 years |
~$12,500 |
|
PhD in Civil Engineering |
4–5 years |
~$12,500 |
|
PhD in Biology |
4–5 years |
~$12,000 |
|
PhD in Chemistry |
4–5 years |
~$12,000 |
|
PhD in Physics |
4–5 years |
~$12,000 |
|
PhD in Environmental Sciences |
4–5 years |
~$12,500 |
|
PhD in Public Health |
4–5 years |
~$12,500 |
|
PhD in Economics |
4–5 years |
~$12,500 |
|
PhD in Law |
3–5 years |
~$12,500 |
|
PhD in Forestry Sciences |
4–5 years |
~$12,000 |
|
PhD in Education Sciences |
4–5 years |
~$11,500 |
|
PhD in Psychology |
4–5 years |
~$12,000 |
|
PhD in Theology and Religious Studies |
4–5 years |
~$11,000 |
Université Laval, located in Québec City, is one of the top research-intensive universities in Canada and a welcoming place for international students. It’s a French-language institution, but many programs—especially at the graduate level—offer flexibility in English.
Laval offers over 500 programs across undergraduate, master’s, and PhD levels. Fields include:
Business and management
Engineering and technology
Health and life sciences
Environmental and agricultural sciences
Law, education, humanities, and social sciences
Although most bachelor’s programs are taught in French, many Master’s and PhD programs allow for coursework, research, or theses in English, especially in science, engineering, and business.
Undergraduate tuition: Approx. $12,500–$14,800 USD/year for international students
Graduate tuition: Around $13,000–$18,000 USD/year
Cost of living in Québec City: More affordable than major Canadian cities like Toronto or Vancouver. Expect $10,000–$13,000 USD/year for housing, food, and personal expenses.
French-speaking international students (especially from countries in the Francophonie) may qualify for reduced tuition fees under special agreements.
Laval has strong support systems in place:
International student office (Bureau de la vie étudiante - BVE) offers help with immigration, visas, housing, healthcare, and cultural integration
Orientation sessions, workshops, and French language support
Opportunities for part-time jobs and co-op/internships
Located in the beautiful and historic Québec City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Safe, student-friendly city with lots of cultural events and outdoor activities
On-campus residences, libraries, labs, sports facilities, and student clubs
Campus is eco-friendly and known for sustainability initiatives
Most programs are in French, so a B2 level (intermediate-advanced) is typically required for admission
Some programs accept English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS) at the graduate level
Laval also offers French immersion and preparatory programs for students who want to improve their French before starting their degree
Laval offers scholarships for academic excellence, leadership, and financial need. Graduate students often receive research grants, assistantships, or international mobility awards.
Visit Laval’s official website: N/A
Browse programs (by level: bachelor’s, master’s, PhD)
Check language of instruction (most undergraduate programs are in French, while many graduate programs allow English)
Requirements vary by program and academic level:
High school diploma (equivalent to Québec’s diploma of college studies – DEC)
Proof of French proficiency (usually B2 level – e.g., TFI, DELF, DALF, or TEF)
Transcripts
Passport or national ID
Recognized bachelor's degree in a related field
GPA usually above 3.0/4.3 (or equivalent)
French proficiency OR English (if applicable)
CV, statement of purpose, recommendation letters
Transcripts (translated if needed)
Master’s degree in a related field
Research proposal (often)
Find a supervisor beforehand (in most research-based programs)
CV, letters of recommendation, and writing samples
Language proficiency (French or English, depending on department)
Apply via Laval’s official admissions portal:
https://www.ulaval.ca/etudes/admission
Create an account and upload documents:
Transcripts
Diplomas
Language test results
Letters of recommendation (if required)
Statement of purpose
Passport copy
Approx. $92 CAD (non-refundable)
Laval processes most applications within 4–8 weeks (it can vary by program).
You’ll receive an official admission letter if accepted, which you’ll need for your study permit.
Once accepted:
Apply for a Québec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) – required for all international students
Apply for a Canadian Study Permit
You may also need to provide biometrics and do a medical exam, depending on your country of origin
Arrange accommodation (on-campus or off-campus)
Buy health insurance (mandatory)
Attend Laval’s orientation and international welcome sessions
If needed, enroll in French language preparation courses
Laval University generally offers two main intakes for most programs:
Main intake for all academic levels and programs.
Most programs, especially at the undergraduate level, begin in the fall.
Application deadline: Varies by program but generally between February 1 – March 1 for bachelor’s; February – April for master’s and PhD.
Available for some programs, mostly at the graduate level (master’s and PhD).
Fewer options at the undergraduate level.
Application deadline: Around September 15 – October 15 (for winter admission)
Very limited; mostly for short programs, research, or language preparation programs.
Eligibility depends on the program level and field of study. Here's a general guide:
Academic Requirements:
High school diploma equivalent to a Quebec Secondary School Diploma (e.g., 12 years of schooling)
For some programs (e.g., engineering, science), specific courses like math or physics are required
Minimum academic average or GPA (varies by country)
Language Requirements:
French proficiency is required (minimum B2 level)
Accepted tests: DELF, DALF, TCF, TEF, TFI
Limited English-taught bachelor programs; most require French
Academic Requirements:
A bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in a related field
GPA requirement: usually minimum 3.0/4.3 (or equivalent)
Some programs may require work experience, portfolio, or entrance exams
Language Requirements:
Most programs: French proficiency (B2 level or equivalent)
Some graduate programs are available in English
English tests accepted: TOEFL iBT (min 79), IELTS (min 6.5), or equivalent
Additional Documents:
Statement of purpose (motivation letter)
CV or résumé
Recommendation letters
Transcripts and diplomas
Academic Requirements:
A master’s degree in a relevant field
Strong academic background and research experience
Research proposal (usually required)
You may need to find a research supervisor before applying
Language Requirements:
French or English depending on the program and supervisor
Most research and thesis work can be done in English
Additional Documents:
CV
Statement of research interest
Recommendation letters
Published papers (if applicable)
Ranking System |
Global Rank |
National Rank (Canada) |
Focus/Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
~#421–430 |
Top 20 in Canada |
Strong in Life Sciences, Agriculture, and Sustainability |
|
U.S. News & World Report (Global) |
~#354 |
Top 15 in Canada |
High score in research output and regional reputation |
Scholarship Name |
Level |
Amount (USD) |
Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Citizens of the World Excellence Scholarship |
Master’s, PhD |
Up to $20,000 (PhD) / $10,000 (Master’s) |
High academic merit; open to international students applying to research-based programs |
|
Citizens of the World Commitment Scholarship |
Undergraduate |
Up to $3,000 |
Academic excellence + community involvement |
|
Laval Foundation Scholarships |
All levels |
($1,000–$10,000) |
Academic performance; some based on financial need or field of study |
|
Research Assistantships (RA) |
Master’s, PhD |
($10,000–$25,000/year) |
Based on research work with a supervisor; often covers tuition + living costs |
|
Teaching Assistantships (TA) |
Master’s, PhD |
($5,000–$15,000/year) |
Assigned by department; typically for graduate students |
|
Graduate Mobility Scholarships |
Master’s, PhD |
$1,000–$3,000 |
For international exchange, research internships, or fieldwork abroad |
|
Excellence Scholarships (Faculty-Specific) |
N/A |
$1,000–$5,000+ |
Offered by specific faculties (e.g., Engineering, Business, Science) |
Accommodation Type |
Location |
Features |
Cost/Month (USD) |
Cost/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
On-Campus Residences (Shared) |
Main campus (Sainte-Foy) |
Single room, shared bathroom/kitchen, furnished, internet, study areas |
~$380–$480 |
~$4,500–$5,800 |
|
On-Campus Residences (Private) |
Main campus |
Single room with private bathroom, shared kitchen, fully furnished |
~$500–$600 |
~$6,000–$7,200 |
|
Off-Campus Apartments (Shared) |
Near campus |
Shared apartments with 1–3 others, kitchen access, bills separate or included |
~$450–$700 |
~$5,400–$8,400 |
|
Off-Campus Studio (Private) |
Québec City |
Studio apartments, fully private, more independence |
~$650–$900 |
~$7,800–$10,800 |
|
Temporary Housing (Short-Term) |
Campus or nearby |
For students needing short-term stay before move-in |
~$30–$50 per night |
N/A |
Laval University is a top-tier research university, which means students—especially at the graduate level—are deeply engaged in innovation, research projects, and real-world applications. Professors are approachable, classes are interactive, and there are many opportunities for hands-on learning, internships, and co-ops.
Laval has a spacious, modern campus in Sainte-Foy, a district in Québec City. The campus is:
Well-equipped with libraries, study spaces, labs, and tech hubs
Full of green spaces, walking trails, and eco-friendly buildings
Home to cafeterias, cafés, restaurants, and even a small mall nearby
Very walkable, bike-friendly, and connected by public transit
Laval welcomes students from over 100 countries. International students are supported by:
The Bureau de la vie étudiante (BVE) – a student life office that helps with immigration, housing, health insurance, and cultural adaptation
Orientation programs, buddy systems, and welcome weeks
Language support, including French courses and conversation clubs
You’ll feel at home with a strong international network and plenty of cultural events throughout the year.
Most students choose to live in on-campus residences or nearby apartments. On-campus housing is affordable, safe, and community-driven, while off-campus living offers more independence.
There are plenty of places to eat on campus and around, with options for vegetarian, vegan, halal, and international cuisine. You can also cook your own meals if you live in a residence with a shared kitchen.
Laval has over 200 student clubs and associations—covering everything from entrepreneurship to cultural groups, gaming, music, and volunteering. Some popular activities include:
Joining student associations related to your field of study
Participating in intramural sports, fitness classes, and recreational leagues
Enjoying campus events like concerts, cultural festivals, film nights, and speaker panels
Getting involved in community service or sustainability initiatives
Laval is home to one of Canada’s top university sports programs—Rouge et Or. Whether you’re a serious athlete or just want to stay active, you’ll have access to:
A state-of-the-art sports complex (PEPS) with gym, pools, courts, and climbing walls
Skiing, snowboarding, and hiking opportunities nearby in winter
Running trails and bike paths on and around campus
Québec City is safe, historic, and full of charm. As a student, you’ll enjoy:
A mix of European culture with Canadian friendliness
Seasonal festivals like Winter Carnival, Festival d’été, and Christmas Markets
Great local food, music, museums, and nature (including ski resorts and national parks)
Laval has a dedicated Career Services Center (Service de placement de l’Université Laval - SPLA) that offers:
Job and internship portals (exclusive for Laval students)
Resume and cover letter workshops
Mock interviews and job interview coaching
Networking events and career fairs with over 300 employers annually
On-campus recruitment by top companies and government agencies
Laval is known for its co-op education model (especially in engineering, science, and business), which allows students to gain paid, practical work experience during their studies. These internships are often a direct pathway to full-time employment after graduation.
Some programs even require internships as part of the degree.
Bachelor’s graduates: Approx. 85–90% employed within 6 months
Master’s and PhD graduates: Over 90% employed, especially in research, industry, and academia
Engineering, IT, business, health, and environmental science students see particularly high placement rates
Information Technology & AI
Engineering & Construction
Environmental Sciences & Sustainability
Public Administration
Finance & Insurance
Health & Biotech
Forestry & Agriculture
CGI
Ubisoft
Hydro-Québec
Desjardins Group
Government of Québec
Deloitte, PwC, EY
GSK, Medicago, CAE
Research labs and universities (for PhD grads)
International students can:
Work part-time (up to 20 hrs/week) during semesters
Work full-time during breaks
Apply for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) — valid for up to 3 years after graduation
Use Laval’s career services to find jobs or internships in Canada
Undergraduate Programs: ~65–75%
Master’s Programs: ~50–60%
PhD Programs: ~40–50% (varies depending on field and availability of supervisors)
Program competitiveness – Some programs (like Medicine, Law, and certain Engineering specialties) are more competitive.
Academic record – Laval values a solid GPA, especially for graduate programs.
Language proficiency – For most programs, you must demonstrate French proficiency. For some graduate programs, English is accepted.
Availability of space – Some programs fill up quickly, so applying early increases your chances.
Supervisor availability (for PhD) – You typically need to secure a research supervisor before admission.
Apply early, especially for competitive or limited-seat programs.
Submit a strong motivation letter, CV, and recommendation letters.
Meet or exceed language requirements (French or English, depending on the program).
For PhD, start contacting potential research supervisors well in advance.
Main Campus Address:
Université Laval
2325 Rue de l’Université, Québec City, Québec, Canada, G1V 0A6
Laval is located in Québec City, the capital of the province of Québec, and one of the oldest and most beautiful cities in North America.
The campus is in the Sainte-Foy–Sillery–Cap-Rouge borough, a safe and student-friendly district about 15 minutes from Old Québec.
Green and spacious campus with bike paths, trails, and sustainable buildings
Easy access to public transportation, major shopping centers, and restaurants
Close to ski resorts, parks, rivers, and cultural festivals
A French-speaking environment – great for immersion in Québec culture
Québec City is known for being safe, clean, and affordable for students
