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Cost of Living in Quebec For Students 2025

By UniAcco
October 25, 2024 •
Quebec

Explore the comprehensive guide on the cost of living in Quebec, Canada for students. Quebec is known for its rich cultural heritage, lively cities, and renowned universities. Whether you are a local student or an international student considering studying in Quebec, understanding the cost of living is essential for effective financial planning. By exploring expenses such as rent, tuition, transportation, food, and entertainment, you can make informed decisions and manage your budget efficiently.

Cost Of Living Calculator

DescriptionCost (£)
Total Cost of Accommodation100
Total Cost of Transport50
Total Cost of Utilities30
Total Cost of Food70
Total Estimated Cost250

What Is The Cost of Living in Quebec Canada For Students?

Quebec stands out for its relatively affordable cost of living when compared to other Canadian provinces, making it an appealing choice for students, professionals, and families alike. However, to effectively explore life in this lively region, it’s crucial to account for various expenses that can impact your overall budget. In the following section, we provide an approximate breakdown of the average cost of living in Quebec, helping you to plan your budget more effectively and make the most of your experience in this beautiful province.

ParticularsPrices in CAD$
Off-Campus Accommodation950 – 1000
On-Campus Accommodation1,000 – 1,500
Transportation80 – 85
Food600 – 650
Entertainment50 – 60
Groceries130 – 150
Clothes80 – 100

Cost Of Groceries 

For international students in Quebec, managing grocery expenses is a key part of budgeting for daily life. Quebec offers a variety of affordable grocery options, from local markets to large supermarket chains, where students can find fresh produce, pantry staples, and cultural foods to suit different tastes. Being mindful of where and how you shop can make a big difference, helping you maintain a balanced diet without overspending. 

ParticularsPrices
Apples (1kg)4 – 6
Bananas (1kg)2 – 3
Oranges (1kg)6 – 6.50
Tomatoes (1kg)5 – 6
Potatoes (1kg)2 – 3
Onions (1kg)3 – 4
Lettuce (1 head)3 – 4
Water (1.5 litre bottle)2 – 3
Mid-range Bottle of Wine13 – 20
Milk (regular, 1 litre)2.50 – 3
Fresh White Bread (500g loaf)3.50 – 5
White Rice (1kg)6 – 7
Eggs (12 count, regular)4 – 5
Local Cheese (1kg)15 – 20
Chicken Breast Fillets (1kg)15 – 20
Beef Round or similar red meat (1kg)20 – 25

Cost Of Transportation 

Transportation is an important aspect of daily life for international students in Quebec, and the province offers a range of affordable and efficient options to help students explore their new surroundings. For those preferring a more flexible option, cycling is also popular in Quebec, with many bike paths and rental services available. 

ParticularsPrices
Single journey ticket (local transport)3 – 3.50
Monthly transit pass (regular rate)90 – 98
Taxi waiting fee (1 hour at standard rate)40 – 45

Cost Of Utilities 

Utilities are an essential part of living expenses for international students in Quebec and include services like electricity, heating, water, and the Internet. Understanding these costs is important when budgeting for student accommodation, as utility expenses can vary based on the size of the apartment and the season—particularly with Quebec’s cold winters. With student accommodation platforms such as UniAcco utility bills are included in the rent. 

ParticularsPrices
Basic utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for an 85m² apartment150 – 170
Mobile phone plan with calls and over 10GB of data per month50 – 70
Internet service (60 Mbps or higher, unlimited data, cable/ADSL)60 – 70

Cost Of Leisure And Fitness

Leisure and fitness are essential for maintaining a balanced lifestyle, especially for international students in Quebec. Engaging in these activities not only promotes health but also offers a great way to experience Quebec’s vibrant culture. Below, we provide an approximate breakdown of leisure and fitness costs in the province.

ParticularsPrices
Monthly membership fee for a fitness club (1 adult)50 – 55
Tennis court rental (1 hour on weekends)30 – 35
Movie ticket for an international release (1 seat)10 – 15

Cost Of Healthcare In Quebec

For international students studying in Quebec, gaining a clear understanding of the healthcare system and the related costs is essential to ensuring both peace of mind and financial stability during their studies. Quebec offers a unique healthcare system with specific provisions for international students, but it’s important to know what is covered and what additional insurance may be required. While some students may be eligible for provincial health insurance, many will need to purchase private health insurance or rely on their institution’s student health plans.

AspectDetails
Eligibility for RAMQNot eligible for Indian students
Private Insurance CostApproximately CAD 600 to CAD 1,000 per year
University Group Insurance CostApproximately CAD 650 per year
Coverage ProvidedDoctor visits, hospital stays, emergency services
LimitationsExcludes dental and optical services; check policy details

Cost Of Visa 

Understanding the visa process can seem overwhelming, especially when it comes to understanding the associated fees. In this section, we’ll break down the costs, helping you budget for your studies while focusing on the exciting opportunities that await in Quebec!

Type of FeeFee (in CAD)Approximate Fee (in INR)
Study Permit ApplicationCAD 150₹9,300
Biometric FeeCAD 85₹5,270
Certificate of Acceptance of Quebec (CAQ)CAD 120₹7,500

Studying In Quebec 

Quebec offers a unique and enriching experience for students, blending French and Canadian cultures in a vibrant academic environment. Whether you are pursuing studies in technology, arts, business, or science, Quebec’s universities and colleges provide excellent programmes in both English and French. The province also has a lively student community, rich cultural heritage, and access to natural landscapes, making it an ideal place to live and study.

UniversityCourse NameDurationTuition Fees (CAD)
McGill UniversityMBA1 yearCAD 58,000
MSc in Computer Science2 yearsCAD 18,000 to CAD 25,000
Université de MontréalMSc in Computer Science2 yearsCAD 27,063 to CAD 49,094
MA in Biomedical Engineering2 yearsCAD 27,000
Université LavalMBA2 yearsCAD 30,000 to CAD 40,000
MSc in Environmental Sciences2 yearsCAD 9,370 to CAD 16,180
Concordia UniversityMSc in Applied Computer Science2 yearsCAD 22,000 to CAD 42,000
MBA2 yearsCAD 40,000
Université de SherbrookeMBA2 yearsCAD 13,660 to CAD 16,940
HEC MontrealMSc in Management1 yearCAD 10,500 to CAD 35,840

Quebec offers an exciting and affordable student experience with its unique blend of culture and education. By considering the cost-of-living factors such as rent, tuition, transportation, food, and entertainment, you can effectively manage your budget and make the most of your student life in Quebec. Remember to research specific costs, explore student discounts, and make informed financial decisions to ensure a rewarding academic and personal journey in this vibrant province.

FAQs

How much does it cost to live as a student in Quebec?

The average monthly cost of living for a student in Quebec, including all expenses, typically ranges from CAD 1,000 to CAD 1,500.

Do students pay taxes in Quebec? 

Yes, students in Quebec, including international students, are expected and encouraged to file both federal (Canada) and provincial (Quebec) tax returns. Income from employment, as well as scholarships, bursaries, and fellowships, is typically taxable.

Is Quebec cheap to live in?

Quebec is known for its low cost of living, rich culture, and abundant outdoor activities. It’s more affordable to live in than other Canadian provinces, with cheaper housing options compared to major cities.

Is Quebec a good place to live for Indians?

Quebec offers a mix of French and Canadian cultures, making it a unique place to live. It’s affordable for studying and living, with Quebec City being a hub for industries like technology, finance, and healthcare.

What is Quebec’s minimum salary?

As of now, the minimum wage in Quebec is $15.75 per hour.

We hope you found this blog informative and engaging, for more such interesting reads click on the links below 

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