Founded: 1969
Headquarters: Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
Campuses: Located in Quebec City, Laval, Varennes, and Montreal
Language of Instruction: Primarily French, but many research projects and programs accommodate English speakers, especially at the graduate level.
INRS is made up of four interdisciplinary research and training centers:
INRS–Centre Eau Terre Environnement (ETE)
Focus: Water, earth, and environmental sciences
Location: Quebec City
INRS–Centre Énergie Matériaux Télécommunications (EMT)
Focus: Energy, materials, and telecommunications
Locations: Varennes and Montreal
INRS–Centre Urbanisation Culture Société (UCS)
Focus: Urban studies, culture, and society
Location: Montreal
INRS–Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie (AFSB)
Focus: Health, biotechnology, and life sciences
Location: Laval
Research-Focused: INRS ranks among the top Canadian institutions for research intensity (measured in terms of funding per faculty member).
Small Student Body: A tightly focused community of graduate students (~700 students), allowing close collaboration with professors.
International Collaborations: INRS is active in international research networks and encourages international students and partnerships.
Bilingual Environment: While French is the main language, many professors and labs operate bilingually.
INRS is particularly strong in:
Environmental science and climate change
Public health and epidemiology
Nanotechnology and photonics
Urban planning and social development
Biotechnology and genomics
Focus: Life sciences, biotechnology, microbiology, and public health
Master’s in Biology (M.Sc.)
PhD in Biology
Master’s and PhD in Virology and Immunology
Master’s and PhD in Epidemiology
Master’s and PhD in Medical Biology
Graduate Diploma in Population Health
Focus: Environmental sciences, geology, water resources
Master’s and PhD in Water Sciences
Master’s and PhD in Earth Sciences
Master’s and PhD in Environmental Sciences
Master’s and PhD in Hydrogeology and Geochemistry
Graduate Diploma in Environmental Management
Focus: Energy, materials science, photonics, telecommunications, quantum technologies
Master’s and PhD in Energy and Materials Science
Master’s and PhD in Telecommunications
Master’s and PhD in Photonics
Master’s and PhD in Nanotechnology
Joint programs in partnership with other institutions (e.g., Polytechnique Montréal, Université de Montréal)
Focus: Urban studies, social sciences, cultural studies
Master’s and PhD in Urban Studies
Master’s and PhD in Population Studies
Master’s and PhD in Social Sciences
Graduate Diploma in Regional Development and Urban Planning
Many programs include interdisciplinary approaches.
Research is the main component, often with a thesis or research project.
Some programs offer professional/structured tracks, while others are research-only.
Language of instruction is French, but research and supervision can often be done in English, especially for international students.
If you’re looking into applying:
You typically need a Bachelor’s degree for Master’s, and a Master’s for PhD.
You should contact potential research supervisors before applying.
International students are welcome and have scholarship opportunities.
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
M.Sc. in Biology |
2 years |
~$14,000 |
|
M.Sc. in Environmental Science |
2 years |
~$14,000 |
|
M.Sc. in Water Sciences |
2 years |
~$14,000 |
|
M.Sc. in Earth Sciences |
2 years |
~$14,000 |
|
M.Sc. in Epidemiology |
2 years |
~$14,000 |
|
M.Sc. in Virology and Immunology |
2 years |
~$14,000 |
|
M.Sc. in Energy and Materials Science |
2 years |
~$14,000 |
|
M.Sc. in Telecommunications |
2 years |
~$14,000 |
|
M.Sc. in Urban Studies |
2 years |
~$14,000 |
|
M.Sc. in Social Sciences |
2 years |
~$14,000 |
|
M.Sc. in Population Studies |
2 years |
~$14,000 |
|
Graduate Diploma in Environmental Management |
1 year |
~$13,000 |
|
Graduate Diploma in Regional Development & Planning |
1 year |
~$13,000 |
PhD Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in Biology |
4 years |
~$14,000 |
|
PhD in Environmental Science |
4 years |
~$14,000 |
|
PhD in Water Sciences |
4 years |
~$14,000 |
|
PhD in Earth Sciences |
4 years |
~$14,000 |
|
PhD in Epidemiology |
4 years |
~$14,000 |
|
PhD in Virology and Immunology |
4 years |
~$14,000 |
|
PhD in Medical Biology |
4 years |
~$14,000 |
|
PhD in Energy and Materials Science |
4 years |
~$14,000 |
|
PhD in Telecommunications |
4 years |
~$14,000 |
|
PhD in Photonics |
4 years |
~$14,000 |
|
PhD in Urban Studies |
4 years |
~$14,000 |
|
PhD in Social Sciences |
4 years |
~$14,000 |
|
PhD in Population Studies |
4 years |
~$14,000 |
INRS is very welcoming to international students, particularly because of its research-focused graduate programs and the university’s global collaborations. Around half of its student body consists of international students, which makes it a very diverse academic environment.
INRS offers only graduate-level programs:
Master’s (M.Sc.)
Doctorate (PhD)
Postdoctoral research opportunities
Some graduate diplomas (shorter, professionally oriented)
Programs are offered in areas such as:
Environmental sciences
Public health and epidemiology
Biotechnology and biology
Telecommunications, energy, and materials science
Urban studies and social sciences
The primary language of instruction is French.
However, many professors supervise research and conduct lab work in English, especially at the Master’s and PhD levels.
It’s possible to complete a thesis or dissertation in English, and some programs may allow coursework in English.
INRS encourages international students to learn French and offers French language support.
For international students, tuition is around $13,000–$14,000 USD per year, depending on the program.
INRS is highly supportive of international students financially:
Scholarships, bursaries, and research assistantships are widely available.
Many students receive full or partial funding, especially in research-based programs.
Funding often includes monthly stipends to cover living expenses.
To apply, international students generally need:
A Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s) or a Master’s degree (for PhD), with strong academic standing.
A research proposal or statement of interest.
To identify and contact a potential research supervisor before applying (important step).
Language proficiency proof (usually French or English, depending on program).
INRS has campuses in:
Quebec City
Montreal
Laval
Varennes
Living costs in Quebec are generally lower than in other parts of Canada, especially compared to cities like Toronto or Vancouver. The province has a unique French-speaking culture, affordable housing, and access to healthcare.
International students must:
Apply for a CAQ (Québec Acceptance Certificate) – required for studying in Quebec
Apply for a Canadian Study Permit
INRS provides support and guidance during this process
Visit the INRS website to explore Master’s, PhD, and diploma programs.
Decide on the research field that matches your academic background and interests.
INRS is organized into 4 research centers, each with specific program areas (e.g., Environment, Health, Energy, Social Sciences).
Most programs at INRS require you to contact a potential research supervisor before applying.
Browse the faculty directory by research area or department.
Email the professor with:
Your CV
Academic transcripts
Statement of research interests
Why you’re interested in their work
Tip: This is one of the most important steps. Admission often depends on finding a supervisor willing to accept you into their lab.
You’ll need to gather the following documents:
Academic transcripts (with certified translations if needed)
Diploma(s) or proof of previous degrees
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Statement of Purpose / Letter of Intent
Letters of Recommendation (usually 2)
Proof of language proficiency:
French (typically not mandatory if your program can be done in English)
English (TOEFL or IELTS, if applicable)
Passport copy
Submit your application via the INRS online application portal.
Pay the application fee (around $100 CAD, subject to change).
Make sure to upload all required documents and indicate the research supervisor who has agreed to work with you.
After your application is reviewed (including your match with a supervisor), you will receive a decision.
If accepted, you’ll get a formal admission letter, which is required for immigration purposes.
As an international student in Quebec, you must apply for:
CAQ (Québec Acceptance Certificate) – from the Government of Quebec
Study Permit – from the Government of Canada
INRS provides step-by-step assistance for these processes after admission.
Many INRS students receive financial support from:
Research assistantships
Institutional scholarships
External funding (e.g., Canadian government scholarships)
You can also apply for funding when applying or after admission, depending on the program.
INRS offers flexible intake periods, especially since most programs are research-based and depend on the availability of a supervising professor.
Three main intakes per year:
Fall (September) – Most popular
Winter (January)
Summer (May)
Some programs may have rolling admissions, meaning you can apply year-round and begin once accepted and ready.
Admission depends heavily on finding a research supervisor. Start the process at least 6–9 months in advance.
Eligibility varies slightly between Master’s and PhD programs, but here's a general overview:
Academic Requirements:
A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., biology, environmental science, engineering, sociology, etc.)
A minimum GPA equivalent to 3.0/4.0 or B average
Other Requirements:
Research experience or academic background relevant to the program
Letters of recommendation (typically 2)
Statement of purpose / research interest
Language proficiency (French or English – see below)
Academic Requirements:
A Master’s degree in a related discipline
Strong academic record (minimum GPA 3.2/4.0 or equivalent recommended)
Other Requirements:
Proven research ability (thesis, publications, etc.)
Strong match with a research supervisor
Two letters of recommendation
Statement of research interests or proposed project
French is the main language of instruction, but many programs accept English-speaking students (especially at the graduate level).
You can complete your research, thesis, and sometimes courses in English if your supervisor agrees.
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 79–90 (depends on program)
IELTS: Minimum 6.5 overall
French: Required for certain programs (especially coursework-based ones)
Scholarship / Funding Name |
Eligibility |
Amount (USD/year) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
INRS Entrance Scholarship |
New Master’s & PhD students |
~$3,700–$5,900 (one-time) |
Automatically considered upon admission. |
|
INRS Excellence Scholarship |
Outstanding academic record |
~$7,500–$15,000 |
Renewable annually; based on academic excellence. |
|
INRS International Student Scholarship |
International Master’s & PhD students |
~$5,900–$11,000 |
Supports international students with financial needs. |
|
INRS Research Scholarship / Assistantship |
Students with research projects |
Varies (~$15,000–$25,000) |
Offered by research supervisors from grant funds; most students receive this. |
|
MERIT Scholarship – Quebec Government (PBEEE) |
Excellent international students (PhD) |
~$25,000/year + benefits |
Highly competitive; for top international PhD students. |
|
Mitacs Globalink Research Award |
Research projects in partnership (PhD) |
~$6,000–$15,000 |
For research internships or collaborations (domestic or abroad). |
|
Graduate Mobility Scholarship (INRS) |
For research abroad (Master’s/PhD) |
~$1,500–$3,000 (travel grant) |
Supports international research exchanges during studies. |
Campus |
Location |
Accommodation Available |
Type of Housing |
Estimated Monthly Cost (USD) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Centre Eau Terre Environnement (ETE) |
Quebec City |
Yes |
On-campus residence (shared units) |
$300–$500 |
Located in downtown Quebec; modern student housing available. |
|
Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotech |
Laval |
Yes |
On-campus residence (individual or shared apartments) |
$350–$550 |
Close to lab facilities; limited availability—early application advised. |
|
Centre Urbanisation Culture Société |
Montreal |
No (INRS does not offer its own housing here) |
Off-campus housing (shared rentals or studios) |
$500–$800 |
Montreal offers many rental options; INRS supports with housing search. |
|
Centre Énergie Matériaux Télécom (EMT) |
Varennes / Montreal |
No (for Varennes campus) |
Off-campus only |
$500–$750 |
Students often live in Longueuil or Montreal and commute. |
On-campus housing is available at Quebec City and Laval campuses.
Montreal and Varennes campuses do not have INRS-managed residences — students rent off-campus apartments or shared housing.
INRS provides support to help international students find housing (including online listings, housing guides, and student services).
City |
Average Total Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
|
Quebec City |
$800–$1,100 |
|
Laval |
$850–$1,150 |
|
Montreal |
$900–$1,300 |
|
Varennes area |
$850–$1,200 |
At INRS, students are deeply involved in advanced research from the start. You’ll work closely with your supervisor, often as part of a lab or research team, and participate in projects that can have real-world impact. This means you’ll spend a lot of time in labs, research centers, or out in the field, depending on your area of study.
Despite the intense academic focus, the environment is supportive rather than competitive. Faculty members are approachable, and student-supervisor relationships are usually strong and collaborative.
INRS welcomes students from all over the world — in fact, nearly half of the student body is international. This makes for a diverse and multicultural environment where you can easily meet people from different backgrounds. Many labs operate in English, and international students are well supported.
Because it’s a smaller institution, the student community at INRS is very connected. You’ll get to know your peers and professors well, especially within your research center. There are student associations, such as the Comité étudiant (student committee), which organizes academic events, cultural activities, and social gatherings.
There are also opportunities to attend and present at conferences, participate in research seminars, or get involved in interdisciplinary projects.
Each INRS campus is in a different city or suburb in Quebec:
Quebec City: Beautiful, historic, and walkable with a vibrant cultural scene.
Montreal: One of Canada’s largest cities, full of festivals, nightlife, and diverse neighborhoods.
Laval: Suburban and quieter, with quick access to Montreal.
Varennes: A smaller, peaceful town with proximity to Montreal.
Living costs are relatively affordable, especially compared to other Canadian cities like Toronto or Vancouver.
French is the main language in Quebec, and while it’s not always required for academic work at INRS, it’s helpful for day-to-day life. INRS offers French language courses and supports students in integrating into the local culture. Many students pick up conversational French during their stay, even if they start with little or no knowledge.
While INRS doesn’t have large-scale sports facilities like big universities, you still have access to:
Campus-organized activities like hikes, game nights, or networking events.
Local gyms, pools, and recreation centers.
Student-organized events, movie nights, and cultural outings.
The natural surroundings in Quebec offer great options for skiing, hiking, biking, and kayaking — depending on the season.
Although INRS doesn’t have a traditional "placement cell" like some undergraduate institutions, its graduates enjoy strong career prospects, especially in research, academia, government, and high-tech industries. Here's what you can expect:
Many Master’s and PhD graduates go on to postdoctoral research or faculty positions.
INRS alumni can be found in universities, government research institutes, and international labs.
Some students continue studies or research at top institutions in Canada, Europe, and the U.S.
Graduates in fields like biotech, environmental science, telecommunications, photonics, nanotech, and AI are recruited by:
R&D departments of multinational companies
Clean energy and green tech firms
Pharmaceutical and biotech companies
Engineering and tech consultancies
INRS has strong ties with provincial and federal agencies in Canada.
Many alumni work in:
Public health and epidemiology
Environmental regulation and policy
Urban planning and development
Energy and climate science
INRS provides career support services such as:
Career counselling
Networking events
Workshops on CV writing, job search, and interviews
Internships and industry research collaborations
Professional development programs
INRS also encourages and supports students in attending scientific conferences and symposia, which help with networking and career exposure.
The employment rate for INRS graduates is very high, especially among PhD holders.
A large percentage of alumni are employed in research-intensive roles within 6–12 months of graduation.
Many Master’s students are offered roles in labs or continue into PhD studies, often within the same institution or through international collaborations.
INRS’s strong global research collaborations give students a competitive edge for international careers.
Programs like Mitacs, PBEEE, and other partnerships often open doors for work experience abroad.
Approximately 30% – 50%
(Varies by program and research supervisor availability)
Graduate-Only and Research-Focused:
INRS admits only Master’s, PhD, and postdoctoral students, not undergraduates. Since it's a research-intensive institution, admission heavily depends on finding a supervisor who is willing to take you on for a project — more so than just GPA or test scores.
Supervisor-Driven Admissions:
A strong match with a research supervisor often determines whether your application will succeed. Even highly qualified students may be declined if no professor is available to supervise their research topic.
Smaller Student Body:
INRS has a small student population (around 700 total students), so the number of available spots is limited each year, particularly in highly specialized labs.
International Student Welcoming:
Despite its selectiveness, INRS is very welcoming to international students, and nearly half the student body comes from outside Canada. If you have a solid academic background and a clear research plan, your chances are good.
Contact potential supervisors early.
Tailor your statement of purpose to align with their research.
Highlight research experience and publications if any.
Make sure your application documents (CV, letters, transcripts) are strong and well-organized.
Location: Quebec City, Quebec
Focus Areas: Water sciences, earth sciences, environmental engineering
Address:
490, rue de la Couronne, Quebec City, QC G1K 9A9
Located in downtown Quebec City, close to government offices and the Saint Lawrence River.
Location: Laval, Quebec
Focus Areas: Biotechnology, microbiology, public health, medical biology
Address:
531, boulevard des Prairies, Laval, QC H7V 1B7
Situated near the Cité de la Biotech, a major biotech hub in Canada.
Location: Montreal, Quebec
Focus Areas: Urban studies, population studies, culture and society
Address:
385, rue Sherbrooke Est, Montreal, QC H2X 1E3
Right in the heart of downtown Montreal, close to UQAM and cultural institutions.
Locations:
Varennes Campus: Focus on energy and materials
Montreal Campus: Focus on telecommunications and photonics
Addresses:
1650, boulevard Lionel-Boulet, Varennes, QC J3X 1S2
800, rue de la Gauchetière Ouest, Montreal, QC H5A 1K6
Varennes is a suburban city near Montreal; the Montreal location is central and urban.
