Concordia University in Canada is a top choice for international students. It is known for its excellent education system, diverse student community, and strong research programs. If you are considering studying in Canada, this guide will help you understand Concordia’s acceptance rate, rankings, courses, tuition fees, and student accommodation options.
Why Choose Concordia University?
Studying at Concordia University comes with several advantages, including:
- Affordable Tuition: Compared to other universities in Canada, Concordia offers competitive tuition rates.
- Diverse Programs: A wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses.
- Research Opportunities: Strong emphasis on innovation and research.
- Student-Friendly City: Located in Montreal, known for its cultural diversity and affordability.
- Scholarships and Financial Aid: Several funding options available for international students.
Acceptance Rate at Concordia University
The acceptance rate at Concordia University is approximately 78%, making it a moderately competitive institution. Admission requirements depend on the course and level of study. Factors influencing acceptance include academic performance, language proficiency, and extracurricular activities.
Key Admission Requirements:
- Undergraduate Programs:
- High school diploma or equivalent.
- Minimum GPA requirement (varies by program).
- English proficiency test scores (IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 85+).
- Postgraduate Programs:
- Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution.
- Minimum GPA of 3.0 (varies by program).
- GRE/GMAT (for some programs).
- Work experience (for professional programs).
Global Rankings of Concordia University
Concordia University consistently ranks among the top universities in Canada and globally. Below is a comparison of rankings from various sources.
| Ranking System | Canada Rank | Global Rank |
| QS World University Rankings 2024 | #17 | #551-560 |
| Times Higher Education 2024 | #21 | #601-800 |
| U.S. News & World Report 2024 | #16 | #657 |
| Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) | #18 | #601-700 |
Popular Courses at Concordia University
The university offers a variety of programs in different fields. Below are some of the most popular courses among international students:
| Field of Study | Popular Programs |
| Business & Management | MBA, International Business, Finance |
| Engineering & Technology | Software Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering |
| Arts & Humanities | Communication Studies, Film Studies, Journalism |
| Science & Technology | Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Biotechnology |
| Social Sciences | Political Science, Psychology, Sociology |
| Health & Life Sciences | Exercise Science, Neuroscience, Public Health |
Tuition Fees for International Students
The tuition fees at Concordia University vary based on the program and level of study. Below is an estimated breakdown.
| Program Level | Annual Tuition Fees (CAD) |
| Undergraduate | $20,000 – $30,000 |
| Postgraduate (Master’s) | $18,000 – $35,000 |
| MBA | $40,000 – $55,000 |
| PhD | $10,000 – $25,000 |
Additional Expenses:
Apart from tuition fees, students should also consider living costs, which include accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses.
| Expense Type | Estimated Cost per Year (CAD) |
| Accommodation | $8,000 – $12,000 |
| Food | $3,000 – $5,000 |
| Transport | $1,000 – $1,500 |
| Health Insurance | $1,200 – $1,500 |
| Books & Supplies | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| Miscellaneous | $2,000 – $4,000 |
Student Accommodation Options
Finding a place to stay is an essential part of studying abroad. Concordia University offers various accommodation options:
On-Campus Housing:
- Loyola Residence
- Grey Nuns Residence
- Hingston Hall
Off-Campus Housing:
- Private apartments near campus.
- Shared housing with other students.
- Homestays with local families.
| Accommodation Type | Estimated Monthly Rent (CAD) |
| University Residence | $800 – $1,200 |
| Private Apartment | $1,200 – $1,800 |
| Shared Apartment | $600 – $1,200 |
| Homestay | $900 – $1,400 (including meals) |
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Concordia University provides several scholarships and financial aid programs for international students. Some popular ones include:
| Scholarship Name | Eligibility | Amount (CAD) |
| Concordia Presidential Scholarship | High academic achievers | Full tuition & living costs |
| Concordia International Excellence Award | Merit-based | $5,000 – $10,000 |
| Faculty-Specific Scholarships | Varies by department | $2,000 – $8,000 |
| Research Assistantships | Graduate students | Varies based on research |
Work Opportunities for Students
International students in Canada can work part-time while studying. Here are the available work options:
| Work Type | Hours Allowed |
| On-Campus Jobs | Up to 20 hours/week |
| Off-Campus Jobs | Up to 20 hours/week |
| Co-op/Internships | Full-time (as per program) |
| Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) | Up to 3 years after graduation |
Application Process for International Students
Applying to Concordia University requires careful planning. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth application process:
- Research Your Program – Check eligibility and requirements for your chosen course.
- Prepare Required Documents – Transcripts, English proficiency test scores, recommendation letters, and personal statement.
- Submit Online Application – Apply through the university’s official website and pay the application fee.
- Wait for Admission Decision – Processing may take 4-6 weeks.
- Apply for Study Permit – Once accepted, apply for a Canadian student visa.
- Arrange Accommodation & Travel – Secure housing and book flights before your semester begins.
Conclusion
Concordia University is a fantastic option for international students looking for quality education, affordability, and strong career opportunities. The university’s flexible programs, global reputation, and welcoming student community make it an ideal place to study. If you’re planning to apply, research thoroughly, prepare your documents, and consider accommodation options in advance.
By choosing Concordia, you open doors to a bright academic and professional future in Canada. If you need guidance with study permits, housing, or scholarships, explore available student support services to make your transition smooth.
Read Also:
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- Cost of Living in Canada for Students
- Top Courses to Study in Canada for High-Paying Careers
- Top 10 MBA Colleges in Canada for Indian Students
- Canada Student Visa Guide: Requirements, Process & Application Tips
- Scholarships in Canada for International Students
- Top 10 Universities in Canada
- Cost of Studying in Canada for International Students
- Upcoming Intakes in Canada 2025–2026
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the acceptance rate at Concordia University for international students?
Concordia University has an acceptance rate of about 78%, which makes it moderately competitive. Admission depends on academic performance, English proficiency, and specific program requirements.
2. Is Concordia University good for international students?
Yes, Concordia is highly student-friendly. It offers affordable tuition, diverse programs, strong research opportunities, and is located in Montreal, one of the most welcoming and affordable cities in Canada.
3. What are the admission requirements for undergraduate students at Concordia?
Undergraduate applicants need a high school diploma, minimum GPA (varies by program), and proof of English proficiency such as IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 85+. Some programs may also require portfolios or interviews.
4. What are the admission requirements for postgraduate students at Concordia?
For master’s programs, applicants need a bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0, proof of English proficiency, and in some cases GRE/GMAT scores or relevant work experience.
5. How does Concordia University rank globally and in Canada?
In QS 2024 rankings, Concordia is placed #551–560 globally and #17 in Canada. It also ranks among the top 700 worldwide in Times Higher Education and ARWU rankings, highlighting its strong academic reputation.
6. What are the most popular courses at Concordia University?
Some of the top programs for international students include MBA, International Business, Software Engineering, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Communication Studies, and Public Health.
7. How much are the tuition fees at Concordia University for international students?
International tuition fees range from CAD 20,000–30,000 per year for undergraduates, CAD 18,000–35,000 for master’s, CAD 40,000–55,000 for MBA, and CAD 10,000–25,000 for PhD programs.
8. What is the cost of living for international students in Montreal?
Living expenses in Montreal are relatively affordable compared to other Canadian cities. Students should budget CAD 12,000–18,000 per year, covering housing, food, transport, and health insurance.
9. Does Concordia University provide on-campus accommodation?
Yes, Concordia offers on-campus housing in residences like Loyola Residence, Grey Nuns Residence, and Hingston Hall, with rent ranging from CAD 800–1,200 per month.
10. What are the options for off-campus housing near Concordia University?
Students can rent private apartments (CAD 1,200–1,800/month), shared apartments (CAD 600–1,200/month), or homestays (CAD 900–1,400/month, meals included) depending on their budget.
11. What scholarships are available for international students at Concordia?
Scholarships include the Concordia Presidential Scholarship (full tuition & living), the International Excellence Award (CAD 5,000–10,000), and faculty-specific scholarships for outstanding students.
12. Can international students work while studying at Concordia?
Yes, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during breaks. They are also eligible for co-op placements and Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP) after completing their degree.
13. How do I apply to Concordia University as an international student?
Applications are submitted online through Concordia’s official portal. Students must prepare transcripts, English test scores, recommendation letters, and a personal statement. The processing time is usually 4–6 weeks.
14. Is Concordia University affordable compared to other Canadian universities?
Yes, Concordia is considered more affordable than many other top Canadian universities. Lower tuition fees, reasonable living costs in Montreal, and scholarship options make it a budget-friendly choice for students.
15. What is campus life like at Concordia University?
Campus life is vibrant with 200+ student clubs, cultural events, sports facilities, and international student support services, ensuring that students feel included and engaged both academically and socially.