| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
HEC Montréal (École des Hautes Études Commerciales de Montréal) is a French-language business school located in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. It is affiliated with the Université de Montréal and is one of the oldest and most prestigious business schools in North America.
Founded: 1907
Location: Montreal, Quebec, Canada
Language of Instruction: French, English, and bilingual options
Type: Public Business School
Affiliation: Université de Montréal
Triple accredited: AACSB, AMBA, and EQUIS (a rare distinction held by fewer than 1% of business schools worldwide)
Regularly ranked among the top business schools in Canada and globally
Known for strong programs in finance, marketing, data science, business analytics, and international business
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
Taught in French, English, or bilingual
Multiple specializations (Finance, Marketing, International Business, etc.)
Master of Science (MSc)
Specializations: Finance, Marketing, Business Analytics, Data Science, etc.
Taught in French or English
MBA (Full-time and Part-time)
Offered in English or French
Strong focus on leadership, innovation, and sustainability
Executive MBA (EMBA)
Jointly offered with McGill University
Master of Management in International Arts Management (with SMU & Bocconi)
Ph.D. in Administration
Jointly offered with other Montreal universities
Specialized certificates in Business Analytics, Project Management, HR, etc.
Welcomes students from over 150 countries
Offers French language support services
BBA and several Master’s programs are available in English
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligible programs
Located in Montreal, one of North America's most vibrant, affordable, and student-friendly cities
Modern campus with state-of-the-art facilities
Career services, incubators, student clubs, international exchange programs
Access to Montreal’s thriving business and tech sectors
High employment rate post-graduation (especially for MBA and MSc grads)
Strong ties with employers across Canada and internationally
Dedicated Career Management Services and internship support
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
Offered in French, English, or Bilingual tracks
Specializations include:
Finance
Marketing
Accounting
International Business
Business Intelligence
Operations and Logistics
Human Resource Management
Duration: 3 to 4 years
Certificates (Undergraduate Level)
Designed for part-time or working professionals
Fields include:
Digital Marketing
Project Management
Entrepreneurship
Business Analytics
Offered in French and some specializations in English
Duration: 16–24 months
Specializations:
Finance
Marketing
Business Intelligence
Data Science and Business Analytics
Logistics
International Business
Strategy
Human Resource Management
Economics
1-year intensive program
Offered in English
Focus on leadership, sustainability, and real-world case studies
Includes internship and consulting project
Joint program with McGill University
Duration: 15 months (part-time)
Designed for mid-to-senior level professionals
Offered in English
Master of Management in International Arts Management (MMIAM)
Jointly offered with SMU (Dallas) and Bocconi (Milan)
Focused on arts, culture, and international leadership
Ph.D. in Administration
Joint program with other Montreal universities
Specializations:
Finance
Management
Marketing
Human Resources
IT Management
International Business
Applied Economics
Fully funded (stipends and scholarships)
Microprograms, certificates, and custom executive training
Topics include:
Digital transformation
Strategic leadership
Supply chain management
Artificial intelligence in business
BBA: Available in French, English, or Bilingual
MSc & MBA: Some specializations available in English
Executive & Ph.D. programs: Mostly in English
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) – French Track |
3 to 4 years |
~$19,000 – $21,000 |
|
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) – English Track |
3 to 4 years |
~$19,000 – $21,000 |
|
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) – Bilingual Track |
3 to 4 years |
~$19,000 – $21,000 |
|
Undergraduate Certificate in Marketing, Finance, HR, etc. |
1 year (full-time) or part-time |
~$13,000 – $15,000 (full-time equivalent) |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Science (MSc) in Finance |
16–24 months |
~$20,000 – $22,000 |
|
Master of Science (MSc) in Marketing |
16–24 months |
~$20,000 – $22,000 |
|
Master of Science (MSc) in Business Intelligence |
16–24 months |
~$20,000 – $22,000 |
|
Master of Science (MSc) in Data Science & Business Analytics |
16–24 months |
~$20,000 – $22,000 |
|
Master of Science (MSc) in International Business |
16–24 months |
~$20,000 – $22,000 |
|
Master of Science (MSc) in Supply Chain & Logistics |
16–24 months |
~$20,000 – $22,000 |
|
MBA (Full-Time, English Track) |
1 year |
~$36,000 – $38,000 |
|
Executive MBA (EMBA, with McGill University) |
15 months (part-time) |
~$75,000 (total program cost) |
|
Master of Management in International Arts Management (MMIAM) |
12 months |
~$30,000 – $32,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in Administration – Finance |
4 to 5 years |
~$2,000 – $3,000 (funded) |
|
PhD in Administration – Marketing |
4 to 5 years |
~$2,000 – $3,000 (funded) |
|
PhD in Administration – Management |
4 to 5 years |
~$2,000 – $3,000 (funded) |
|
PhD in Administration – Human Resources |
4 to 5 years |
~$2,000 – $3,000 (funded) |
|
PhD in Administration – Information Technologies |
4 to 5 years |
~$2,000 – $3,000 (funded) |
|
PhD in Administration – Logistics and Operations |
4 to 5 years |
~$2,000 – $3,000 (funded) |
|
PhD in Administration – International Business |
4 to 5 years |
~$2,000 – $3,000 (funded) |
|
PhD in Administration – Applied Economics |
4 to 5 years |
~$2,000 – $3,000 (funded) |
HEC Montréal welcomes students from over 150 countries and has a strong international community. The school offers programs in English, French, and bilingual formats, which is perfect whether you’re fluent in French or looking for an English-language education in a French-speaking city.
Montreal itself is a student-friendly city, ranked among the best in the world for students, known for its vibrant culture, safety, and affordability compared to other North American cities.
International students can apply to:
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) – available in English, French, or bilingual
Master of Science (MSc) – English-taught options include Data Science, Finance, Marketing, etc.
MBA (1-year, full-time) – taught in English
PhD in Administration – offered in English or French
Certificates and short programs – in areas like digital marketing, entrepreneurship, or analytics
All degree programs are eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada, allowing you to work in Canada for up to 3 years after graduation.
If you don’t speak French fluently, don’t worry—HEC Montréal offers:
Free French language courses
Support with language learning as part of student services
Many programs available entirely in English
That said, learning French is a huge asset for jobs and internships in Quebec, and the school encourages international students to build bilingual skills.
Tuition for international students is competitive:
Around $19,000–$21,000 USD per year for BBA
Around $20,000–$22,000 USD per year for MSc
MBA tuition is about $36,000–$38,000 USD total
Cost of living in Montreal: approx. $10,000–$15,000 USD/year, depending on your lifestyle
HEC Montréal also offers a variety of scholarships, entrance awards, and graduate funding, especially at the master’s and PhD levels.
HEC Montréal has a vibrant student life with:
Over 20 student clubs and associations
Career services and networking events
Internship support and business competitions
A dynamic international student office to help with immigration, housing, health insurance, and more
HEC Montréal has strong connections with employers in Canada and internationally. The school has a high placement rate for both local and international students, especially in fields like:
Consulting
Finance
Business analytics
Marketing
Supply chain
Government and international organizations
Many international students stay in Canada to work after graduation using the PGWP, and some go on to apply for permanent residency.
HEC Montréal offers programs in:
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) – English, French, or bilingual
Master of Science (MSc) – Specialized master’s (Finance, Data Science, etc.)
MBA (1-year, full-time) – English
PhD in Administration – Research-based
Certificates & Executive Education
Each program has its own requirements and deadlines, so start by reviewing the details on.
Secondary school diploma equivalent to Quebec’s CEGEP or completion of one year of university
Good academic standing
Proof of English or French proficiency, depending on program stream
Bachelor's degree (in business, economics, math, or related field)
GPA equivalent to B+ or higher
Language test scores (TOEFL/IELTS for English, TEF/TCF for French)
University degree
Minimum 3 years of full-time work experience
GMAT or GRE scores (some exceptions possible)
TOEFL/IELTS if program is in English
Master’s degree in a related field
Strong academic background
Research proposal
Supervisor match (for thesis-based studies)
English or French language proficiency
You must apply online through the HEC Montréal admissions portal: https://www.hec.ca/en/programs/
Transcripts and diplomas (official and translated if not in English/French)
CV or resume
Statement of purpose / Motivation letter
Two or more letters of recommendation
Language proficiency test scores (TOEFL, IELTS, TEF, etc.)
GMAT/GRE (for MBA, MSc Finance, etc.)
Approx. CAD $100–$125, non-refundable
Applications are reviewed by the admissions committee
You may be invited for an interview (MBA & PhD)
Admission decisions are typically sent via email within 4 to 8 weeks of completing the application
Once admitted:
Accept your admission offer
Pay any tuition deposit (if required)
Apply for a Canadian Study Permit (Visa)
HEC Montréal will issue an official Letter of Acceptance (LOA) to help with your visa application
BBA: Fall intake – apply by March–May
MSc: Fall intake – apply by March 15 (some specializations differ)
MBA: Rolling admissions until class is full (early application is advised)
PhD: Fall intake only – apply by January 15
HEC Montréal provides:
Help with immigration and CAQ (Quebec acceptance certificate)
French language classes
Orientation sessions and housing assistance
Dedicated International Student Office
HEC Montréal primarily follows the Fall (September) and Winter (January) intake model, though not all programs have multiple intakes.
Fall (September) – Main intake
Winter (January) – Limited intake (only for students with advanced standing)
Fall (September) – Main and often only intake
Winter (January) – Rare, available for limited programs (check availability)
Fall (September) only
Applications usually close by January 15 for fall admission
Pro Tip: Apply early, especially if you're an international student—visa and CAQ (Québec Acceptance Certificate) processing takes time.
Academic Requirements:
Completion of high school (equivalent to Quebec’s 13 years of schooling or 1 year of university post-secondary)
Competitive GPA based on your country’s grading system
Language Proficiency:
English track: TOEFL iBT (minimum 90) or IELTS (6.5+)
French track: TEF, TCF, or equivalent B2 level
Bilingual track: Proficiency in both languages
Academic Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree (preferably in business, economics, mathematics, or engineering)
Minimum GPA equivalent to a B+ (around 3.3/4.0)
Standardized Tests:
GMAT/GRE required for some programs (e.g., Finance)
May be waived based on GPA and background
Language Proficiency:
English programs: TOEFL iBT (minimum 95) or IELTS (7.0)
French programs: TEF, TCF (B2 or C1 level)
Academic Requirements:
Bachelor’s degree in any field
Minimum 3 years of full-time work experience
Standardized Tests:
GMAT or GRE required (minimum GMAT score: 570+ recommended)
GMAT waiver possible for strong candidates
Language Proficiency:
TOEFL iBT (100+) or IELTS (7.0+)
Academic Requirements:
Master’s degree in a related field (business, economics, etc.)
Solid academic performance and research experience
Language Proficiency:
French or English depending on supervisor/program
TOEFL/IELTS or TEF/TCF as applicable
Additional Requirements:
Research proposal
Strong references
Potential supervisor match
Ranking Platform |
Category |
HEC Montréal Ranking |
|---|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Business & Management Studies |
Ranked among Top 150–200 globally |
|
QS Global MBA Rankings |
Global MBA |
Ranked in Top 100 globally |
|
QS Global MBA Rankings |
Canada |
Top 5 MBA programs in Canada |
|
U.S. News – Global Universities |
Economics and Business |
Ranked among Top 10 in Canada |
|
U.S. News – Best Global Universities |
Overall University (UdeM affiliated) |
Université de Montréal: Top 150–200 |
|
Financial Times |
Executive Education (Open Programs) |
Frequently listed in global rankings |
|
Eduniversal Rankings |
Business Schools |
5 Palmes of Excellence (Universal Business School with strong global influence) |
Scholarship Name |
Level |
Eligibility |
Amount (USD Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Entrance Scholarship for International Students |
BBA, MSc |
Strong academic record, first-time international student |
$2,000 – $4,000 |
|
Merit Scholarship (MSc Programs) |
MSc |
Excellent GPA, academic performance |
$3,000 – $5,000 |
|
MSc in Finance – Desjardins Scholarship |
MSc in Finance |
Based on academic excellence |
$5,000 – $7,500 |
|
MBA Admission Scholarship |
MBA |
Academic background, leadership, and work experience |
$5,000 – $10,000 |
|
HEC Montréal Foundation Scholarships |
All levels |
Need-based or merit-based (varies by program) |
$1,000 – $5,000+ |
|
International Mobility Scholarship |
BBA, MSc, PhD |
For study abroad, internships, exchange programs |
$1,000 – $2,500 |
|
PhD Excellence Scholarship |
PhD |
Full-time students with strong research profiles |
$20,000 – $30,000 per year |
|
External Scholarships (FRQ, Vanier, etc.) |
MSc, PhD |
Government-funded; competitive application |
Up to $50,000 per year |
Campus |
Facilities Available |
Accommodation Options |
Estimated Cost per Month (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Main Building (Côte-Sainte-Catherine) |
Lecture halls, libraries, computer labs, trading room, student services |
Off-campus housing, student residences via UdeM or private listings |
$500 – $1,000 |
|
Decelles Building (Downtown Campus) |
Executive education, MBA program, career services, event space |
Private apartments, shared housing, homestays |
$600 – $1,200 |
University Residences (via Université de Montréal)
HEC students can apply to UdeM’s student residences, located within walking or metro distance.
Single and double rooms, furnished
Common kitchens and shared bathrooms
Approx. $500 – $700 USD/month
Private Student Housing (Studios & Apartments)
Many students rent apartments near Outremont, Côte-des-Neiges, or Plateau Mont-Royal neighborhoods.
Studios, 1-bedroom or shared apartments
Utilities often extra
Approx. $700 – $1,200 USD/month
Homestays
Some international students opt for homestays with local families for a more immersive experience.
Meals included in some cases
Approx. $800 – $1,000 USD/month
HEC Montréal is known for its high academic standards, but it’s not just about lectures and textbooks. Students actively engage in case competitions, consulting projects, research, and real-world simulations. Many programs include internships, and the school maintains close relationships with top employers in Canada and abroad.
Career development is a strong focus, with the Career Management Services (CVM) providing:
Career coaching
Resume/interview prep
On-campus recruiting
Job fairs and networking events
With students from over 150 countries, HEC Montréal has a rich multicultural atmosphere. English, French, and bilingual programs make it accessible to a wide range of students. There are support services for international students, including:
Immigration and visa guidance
Orientation sessions
French language support
Housing assistance
International students are fully integrated into campus life and are encouraged to participate in all activities.
Montreal is one of the best student cities in North America—safe, diverse, affordable, and full of life. Whether you’re into art, food, music, or tech, Montreal has it all:
Affordable public transport and student housing
Vibrant nightlife and cultural festivals
Cafés, museums, galleries, and parks just minutes from campus
A strong startup and business ecosystem
The city is also bilingual, so even if you come in speaking only English, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to learn and practice French.
HEC Montréal has over 20 student associations and clubs, ranging from academic and professional groups to social, cultural, and athletic clubs. Some highlights include:
HEC Montréal’s Student Association (AEHEC)
Consulting, finance, and entrepreneurship clubs
Sports teams and intramurals
International student groups and cultural associations
Case competitions and hackathons
Events include:
Networking nights
Guest speaker series
Social mixers and galas
Volunteer opportunities and community outreach
The campus features:
A world-class business library
Collaborative study spaces and modern classrooms
Computer labs, Bloomberg terminals, and trading rooms
A fitness center, cafeteria, and student lounges
Plus, being part of Université de Montréal, students get access to an even broader network of facilities, events, and research opportunities.
High employment rate: Over 90% of HEC Montréal graduates secure a job within 6 months of graduation, particularly in MSc and MBA programs.
Strong employer connections: HEC has relationships with top companies like Deloitte, PwC, KPMG, EY, RBC, Desjardins, Ubisoft, Bombardier, L’Oréal, Google, and many others.
Global job readiness: Graduates are well-prepared for both the Canadian job market and international roles, especially in multinational companies, startups, and public organizations.
The Career Management Services (CVM) at HEC Montréal provides:
Personalized career coaching
CV and cover letter reviews
Mock interviews
Networking events and job fairs
Internship and co-op placement assistance
Employer info sessions and campus recruiting
They also host events like:
HEC en direct (speed interviews with recruiters)
Industry-specific job fairs (finance, consulting, marketing, etc.)
HEC Montréal students find jobs in a wide range of industries, including:
Consulting
Finance and Banking
Business Analytics and Data Science
Marketing and Sales
Supply Chain and Logistics
Technology and AI
Government and Nonprofits
Entrepreneurship and Startups
MBA graduates: Average salary ranges from $75,000 to $95,000 USD/year, with higher salaries in consulting and finance.
MSc graduates: Depending on specialization, starting salaries average $60,000 to $80,000 USD/year.
BBA graduates: Entry-level salaries range from $45,000 to $60,000 USD/year.
Note: Salaries can be higher for students with work experience or strong bilingual (English-French) skills, especially in Quebec.
International students are eligible for Post-Graduation Work Permits (PGWP) of up to 3 years.
Many use internships and co-ops as a stepping stone to full-time jobs.
Strong support is available for navigating Canadian work permits, resumes, and interviews tailored to local standards.
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA):
Estimated acceptance rate: 60% – 70%
Admission depends on academic performance and language proficiency. International students need to meet equivalency for Quebec education standards.
Master of Science (MSc):
Estimated acceptance rate: 40% – 50%
Competitive specializations like Finance, Business Analytics, and Data Science may have lower acceptance rates due to high demand and limited spots.
MBA (1-Year Program):
Estimated acceptance rate: 30% – 40%
Selective program requiring work experience, GMAT/GRE scores, and strong motivation. Higher competition among international applicants.
PhD in Administration:
Estimated acceptance rate: 10% – 20%
Highly selective due to research focus and supervisor availability. A strong academic and research background is essential.
Academic performance: High GPA and strong performance in related fields
Language proficiency: TOEFL, IELTS, TEF, or TCF (depending on program language)
Standardized tests: GMAT or GRE (for some MSc and all MBA applicants)
Relevant experience: Especially important for MBA and PhD applicants
Quality of documents: Strong letter of intent, CV, and recommendations
Address: 3000, chemin de la Côte-Sainte-Catherine, Montréal, QC H3T 2A7, Canada
Main features:
Most undergraduate and graduate courses held here
State-of-the-art classrooms, auditoriums, and meeting rooms
Business library, computer labs, trading room, cafeteria, bookstore
Career services and student services offices
Accessible via Côte-Sainte-Catherine metro station (Orange Line)
Address: 5255, avenue Decelles, Montréal, QC H3T 1V6, Canada
Main features:
Hosts some MBA and Executive Education programs
Research offices and some specialized classrooms
Located a short walk from the main building
One of the best student cities in the world
Bilingual (French and English) environment
Safe, vibrant, and culturally diverse
Lower cost of living compared to Toronto or Vancouver
Hub for finance, AI, startups, gaming, and global corporations
