| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Founded: 1969
Location: Rimouski, Quebec (main campus) and Lévis, Quebec (secondary campus)
Language of Instruction: Primarily French
Student Population: Approximately 7,000+ students
Type: Public university, part of the Université du Québec network
UQAR is particularly renowned for its environmental and maritime programs, as it is located on the south shore of the St. Lawrence River, near Canada’s marine and coastal ecosystems.
Marine Sciences
Oceanography
Environmental Biology
Fisheries and Aquaculture
Geography and Northern Studies
Education and Administration
Regional Development
Engineering and Information Technology
UQAR offers undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs in various fields, such as:
Natural sciences (biology, chemistry, geography)
Marine science and oceanography
Business administration and accounting
Engineering (mechanical, computer, electrical)
Education and social work
Nursing and health sciences
Note: Programs are primarily offered in French, so French proficiency is usually required for admission.
UQAR welcomes students from around the world and offers:
French language support
Scholarships for international students
A safe, affordable, and scenic environment
Research collaboration opportunities in marine and environmental sciences
Located in eastern Quebec, about 300 km northeast of Quebec City
Known for its peaceful environment, low cost of living, and access to nature
The city of Rimouski offers a good quality of life with outdoor activities, especially in winter and summer
Undergraduate: ~$11,000 – $15,000 USD per year
Master’s/PhD: ~$13,000 – $16,000 USD per year
Scholarships and assistantships may reduce costs, especially for graduate students
On-campus residences and affordable off-campus housing are available
Monthly cost: ~$300 – $600 USD for housing
Rimouski is much more affordable than major Canadian cities
Bachelor of Biology (with specializations in marine biology, ecology)
Bachelor of Marine Sciences
Bachelor of Geography and Environmental Studies
Bachelor of Business Administration
Bachelor of Accounting
Bachelor of Education (Preschool, Primary, Secondary)
Bachelor of Nursing
Bachelor of Social Work
Bachelor of Computer Science
Bachelor of Mechanical and Electrical Engineering
Bachelor of Political Science
Master of Marine Resource Management
Master of Oceanography
Master of Biology
Master of Geography
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Master of Regional Development
Master of Education
Master of Engineering (Mechanical or Electrical)
Master of Project Management
Master of Computer Science
Master of Nursing
PhD in Oceanography
PhD in Marine Resource Management
PhD in Environmental Sciences
PhD in Regional Development
PhD in Education
PhD in Engineering
PhD in Biology (in collaboration with other institutions)
These are shorter programs that can lead to career advancement or specialization:
Certificate in Project Management
Certificate in Environmental Studies
Certificate in Accounting
Certificate in Social Work
Certificate in Education
Certificate in Sustainable Development
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Biology |
3 years |
~$12,000 – $13,500 |
|
Bachelor of Marine Sciences |
3 years |
~$12,000 – $13,500 |
|
Bachelor of Geography |
3 years |
~$12,000 – $13,500 |
|
Bachelor of Environmental Studies |
3 years |
~$12,000 – $13,500 |
|
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) |
3 years |
~$11,500 – $13,000 |
|
Bachelor of Accounting |
3 years |
~$11,500 – $13,000 |
|
Bachelor of Education (Primary/Secondary) |
4 years |
~$11,500 – $13,000 |
|
Bachelor of Nursing |
3 years |
~$12,000 – $13,500 |
|
Bachelor of Social Work |
3 years |
~$11,500 – $13,000 |
|
Bachelor of Computer Science |
3 years |
~$12,000 – $13,500 |
|
Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering |
4 years |
~$13,000 – $14,000 |
|
Bachelor of Electrical Engineering |
4 years |
~$13,000 – $14,000 |
|
Bachelor of Political Science |
3 years |
~$11,500 – $13,000 |
Master’s Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Marine Resource Management |
2 years |
~$13,000 – $14,000 |
|
Master of Oceanography |
2 years |
~$13,000 – $14,000 |
|
Master of Biology |
2 years |
~$13,000 – $14,000 |
|
Master of Environmental Studies |
2 years |
~$13,000 – $14,000 |
|
Master of Geography |
2 years |
~$13,000 – $14,000 |
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
2 years |
~$13,000 – $14,000 |
|
Master of Regional Development |
2 years |
~$13,000 – $14,000 |
|
Master of Education |
2 years |
~$12,500 – $13,500 |
|
Master of Engineering (Mechanical or Electrical) |
2 years |
~$13,500 – $14,500 |
|
Master of Project Management |
2 years |
~$13,000 – $14,000 |
|
Master of Computer Science |
2 years |
~$13,000 – $14,000 |
|
Master of Nursing |
2 years |
~$13,000 – $14,000 |
PhD Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in Oceanography |
4 years |
~$13,000 – $14,000 |
|
PhD in Marine Resource Management |
4 years |
~$13,000 – $14,000 |
|
PhD in Biology |
4 years |
~$13,000 – $14,000 |
|
PhD in Environmental Sciences |
4 years |
~$13,000 – $14,000 |
|
PhD in Geography |
4 years |
~$13,000 – $14,000 |
|
PhD in Regional Development |
4 years |
~$13,000 – $14,000 |
|
PhD in Education |
4 years |
~$12,500 – $13,500 |
|
PhD in Engineering (Mechanical/Electrical) |
4 years |
~$13,500 – $14,500 |
UQAR is a welcoming, research-oriented public university located in eastern Quebec. It’s part of the Université du Québec system and has a strong reputation in marine sciences, environmental studies, and regional development. The university actively supports and encourages international student enrollment at both undergraduate and graduate levels.
International students can apply to:
Bachelor’s (undergraduate) programs
Master’s (graduate) programs
Doctorate (PhD) programs
Short-term exchange and research internships
Popular fields include:
Marine biology and oceanography
Environmental science and geography
Education and social work
Business administration and accounting
Engineering and computer science
Regional development and project management
French is the main language of instruction. Some graduate-level research projects can be conducted in English depending on the supervisor.
Most programs are in French.
International students must usually prove French language proficiency through recognized tests (e.g., TCF, DELF).
UQAR offers French language support and preparatory French courses for non-native speakers.
For research-based Master’s or PhD programs, you may be allowed to submit your thesis in English if your supervisor agrees.
Bachelor’s degrees: ~$11,500 – $14,000 USD per year
Master’s and PhD programs: ~$13,000 – $14,500 USD per year
Living costs in Rimouski are relatively affordable compared to other Canadian cities (housing, food, transport).
UQAR and the Government of Quebec offer various financial supports:
Merit scholarships for academic excellence
PBEEE (Quebec Government Scholarship) – for top international PhD and postdoc students
Mitacs programs for research internships
Research assistantships through faculty grants
Tuition exemptions for some international students from certain countries (francophone countries, for example)
UQAR is known for its tight-knit, welcoming campus environment.
Students can live in:
On-campus residences
Off-campus apartments (affordable and within walking distance)
Estimated monthly cost of living: $700–$1,000 USD
Located in eastern Quebec, by the St. Lawrence River
Safe, peaceful, and ideal for outdoor lovers
Excellent quality of life with a low cost of living
Known for access to marine environments, hiking, and winter sports
International students must:
Apply for a CAQ (Certificat d’acceptation du Québec)
Apply for a Canadian Study Permit
UQAR offers support to guide students through these steps.
UQAR provides:
Welcome orientation
French language help
Health insurance guidance
Career and academic counseling
Student integration activities
The Bureau des étudiants internationaux (International Student Office) is dedicated to helping you settle and succeed.
Visit UQAR's official website and explore available undergraduate, Master’s, or PhD programs.
Choose a program that matches your academic background and career goals.
Make sure to check the language of instruction (most programs are in French).
Requirements vary by level:
High school diploma equivalent to Quebec's CEGEP diploma (12–13 years of schooling)
Proof of French proficiency (e.g., DELF B2, TCF)
Bachelor’s degree in a related field
Strong academic record
French proficiency (unless research can be done in English with supervisor)
Master’s degree in a relevant field
Research proposal and supervisor agreement (recommended)
Academic transcripts, CV, and letters of recommendation
Typical documents include:
Academic transcripts and diplomas (translated into French or English if needed)
Proof of language proficiency (French and/or English)
Passport copy
CV/Resume
Letter of intent or motivation
Two letters of recommendation (mostly for graduate programs)
Research proposal (for PhD applicants)
Go to the UQAR admission portal: N/A
Create an account and complete the online application.
Upload required documents and pay the application fee (~$100 CAD).
Application Deadlines:
Fall intake (September): Apply by March 1
Winter intake (January): Apply by November 1
Some programs may offer rolling admissions or later deadlines
UQAR will evaluate your application and contact you by email.
If accepted, you will receive an official Letter of Admission, required for visa and study permit applications.
As an international student in Quebec, you must apply for:
CAQ (Certificat d’acceptation du Québec) – Apply online via Immigration Quebec
Canadian Study Permit – Apply via IRCC after receiving the CAQ
UQAR provides support throughout this process.
Look for housing (on or off-campus)
Attend UQAR’s international student orientation
Set up health insurance, bank account, and other essentials
UQAR offers two main intakes per year for most programs:
Primary intake for most undergraduate, Master’s, and PhD programs
Best time to apply, especially if you’re seeking scholarships or housing
Available for select programs (especially graduate-level and some flexible undergraduate programs)
Check availability with the admissions office or on the program page
Application Deadlines (for international students):
Fall intake: Apply by March 1
Winter intake: Apply by November 1
Eligibility varies based on program level (Bachelor, Master’s, PhD) and field of study. Below are the general requirements:
Completion of high school or pre-university education
Education equivalent to Quebec’s CEGEP (typically 12–13 years of schooling)
Strong academic performance
Proficiency in French is required (most programs are in French)
Accepted tests: TCF, TEF, DELF, DALF (B2 level or higher)
Some programs may offer French language support or preparatory courses
A Bachelor’s degree in a related field (usually 3–4 years)
Good academic standing (minimum GPA often around 2.7–3.0/4.0 or equivalent)
Some programs may require specific coursework or research experience
French proficiency required for most programs
In some research-based programs, students may be allowed to work in English (with supervisor approval)
A Master’s degree (with thesis, preferably) in a related field
Solid academic background and research experience
A clear research proposal
Contacting and securing a research supervisor is recommended before applying
French required for most programs, especially if coursework is involved
English may be acceptable for thesis writing in research-only programs, depending on the supervisor
Scholarship Name |
Level |
Amount (USD approx.) |
Eligibility/Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
UQAR Excellence Scholarships |
Bachelor, Master’s, PhD |
$1,000 – $5,000 (one-time) |
Based on academic merit; automatically considered in some cases. |
|
PBEEE (Quebec Merit Scholarship) |
PhD, Postdoc |
$25,000/year + benefits |
Highly competitive; for top international researchers in Quebec. |
|
Mitacs Globalink Research Award |
Master’s, PhD |
~$6,000 |
Supports short-term research internships in Canada; requires project proposal. |
|
Entrance Scholarships (UQAR Foundation) |
Bachelor, Master’s |
$1,000 – $3,000 |
Based on academic excellence and financial need. |
|
Research Assistantships (paid by supervisors) |
Master’s, PhD |
$10,000 – $20,000+/year |
Offered by professors using research grants; often combined with admission. |
|
Tuition Fee Exemption Scholarships |
N/A |
Covers partial/full tuition |
For students from certain francophone countries or under special agreements. |
|
Graduate Mobility Scholarships |
Master’s, PhD |
$1,000 – $3,000 |
For conducting research abroad during studies. |
|
International Development Bursaries |
Bachelor, Master’s |
N/A |
Based on financial need and academic success; limited to certain regions or countries. |
Campus |
Location |
Accommodation Type |
Availability |
Monthly Cost (USD) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Main Campus (Rimouski) |
Rimouski, Quebec |
On-campus residence (shared or private rooms) |
Available for students |
~$250 – $450 |
Includes internet, heating, electricity. Very affordable housing. |
|
|
|
Off-campus apartments |
Widely available |
~$350 – $600 |
Many student apartments within walking distance of campus. |
|
Lévis Campus |
Lévis (near Quebec City) |
No on-campus housing (currently) |
Off-campus only |
~$400 – $650 |
Students typically rent in Lévis or nearby areas; housing assistance available. |
UQAR is known for its student-centered approach. Class sizes are generally small, which allows for close interaction with professors, easy access to research opportunities, and strong support networks. Whether you’re in marine biology, geography, engineering, or business, you’ll find a collaborative and inclusive academic culture.
Graduate students especially benefit from hands-on research, often tied to real-world environmental, social, or regional development challenges. The university’s ties to research institutes and labs (especially in marine sciences) create many chances for internships, fieldwork, and conference participation.
International students are warmly welcomed, and UQAR has a dedicated international office to help with orientation, integration, and immigration processes. You'll find a multicultural environment where students from all over the world live, study, and share experiences together.
French is the main language spoken both on and off campus, but many people are supportive and patient with newcomers who are learning. The university also offers French language support and resources for international students.
Rimouski is a small, safe, and student-friendly city. The cost of living is very affordable compared to larger Canadian cities. Many students live in on-campus residences or in private rentals near the university. Most places are within walking or biking distance of campus, grocery stores, and the waterfront.
If you enjoy the outdoors, you’ll love Rimouski. The city sits along the St. Lawrence River, offering incredible views and opportunities for hiking, biking, kayaking, and winter sports. Students can explore nearby parks like Parc national du Bic, just a short drive away.
UQAR also has recreational facilities, including a gym and organized sports clubs. Students can participate in intramural sports, fitness classes, or go hiking and skiing during the long winter season.
UQAR has a vibrant student association (AGECAR) that organizes:
Social events and cultural nights
Workshops and speaker series
Film screenings, music events, and parties
Outdoor excursions (snowshoeing, camping, etc.)
You’ll also find student clubs based on interests such as environmental sustainability, marine biology, photography, international culture, and entrepreneurship.
While life in Rimouski is mostly in French, the university makes it easier for international students to adapt linguistically and culturally. Many professors and staff understand English and are used to helping international students transition into French-speaking academia. Students are encouraged to learn or improve their French during their time at UQAR, and many do.
Student life at UQAR is calm, friendly, and community-oriented. It’s the ideal place for students who want:
A focused academic experience
Outdoor lifestyle options
A safe, affordable, and welcoming environment
Opportunities for deep, meaningful research
UQAR helps students transition into the workforce through various services and programs:
Career counseling and job search workshops
Internship programs integrated into many undergraduate and graduate degrees
Resume writing and interview preparation
Networking events with employers and alumni
Access to job and research assistant postings through internal portals
There’s also a Service d’aide à l’emploi (Employment Help Office) that supports students and recent graduates in job hunting.
Graduates from UQAR go on to work in various sectors, including:
Environmental and climate change agencies
Marine and oceanographic research institutes
Coastal engineering and environmental consulting firms
Fisheries, aquaculture, and conservation organizations
Government and regulatory bodies (e.g., Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Environment and Climate Change Canada)
Regional development organizations
Municipal governments and NGOs
Financial institutions and consulting firms
Schools and education boards (for teaching graduates)
Hospitals and clinics across Quebec
Public health agencies and long-term care centers
UQAR graduates, especially Master’s and PhD students, often continue in academic research, postdoctoral fellowships, or international development roles.
Many collaborate with global research networks in marine biology, oceanography, and sustainable development.
While UQAR does not publish an official employment rate annually, studies show that:
Over 80–90% of graduates find employment within 6–12 months of graduation, particularly in fields related to their studies.
Master’s and PhD students benefit from research assistantships and networking opportunities, which often lead to long-term roles in academia or industry.
Many UQAR programs — especially in marine sciences, business, geography, and education — include internships or applied research projects as part of the curriculum.
These are often done in collaboration with government agencies, local industries, or research labs, helping students gain work experience before graduation.
(Varies by program and applicant background)
Open and Inclusive Admission Policy:
UQAR is a public university in Quebec that welcomes students from across the world, especially those interested in research, regional development, and environmental sciences.
Smaller Class Sizes and Regional Focus:
As a regional institution serving eastern Quebec and beyond, UQAR maintains a relatively high acceptance rate to ensure access to higher education for a broad population.
Program-Specific Variation:
While general programs like business or social sciences may be more accessible, competitive research-based programs in fields like marine biology, oceanography, and engineering may be more selective — especially at the graduate level where supervisor approval is often required.
French Language Requirement:
Since most programs are taught in French, a significant number of international applicants may not qualify unless they meet the language criteria, which naturally lowers application volume.
Strong academic background (especially for Master’s/PhD)
Meeting the French language proficiency requirement (usually B2 level or higher)
Relevant research or work experience (for graduate programs)
A well-written statement of purpose and recommendation letters
Early application (before deadlines)
City: Rimouski, Quebec
Address: 300 Allée des Ursulines, Rimouski, QC G5L 3A1, Canada
Overview:
Located on the south shore of the St. Lawrence River
Known for its scenic waterfront, peaceful environment, and marine research institutes
Hosts most undergraduate and graduate programs, including biology, oceanography, business, education, and engineering
Houses student residences, libraries, labs, and administrative offices
City: Lévis, Quebec (across the river from Quebec City)
Address: 1595 Boulevard Alphonse-Desjardins, Lévis, QC G6V 0A6, Canada
Overview:
Primarily offers continuing education, professional development, and some graduate business and management programs
Convenient for students living near Quebec City and the Chaudière-Appalaches region
Does not have on-campus residences, but housing is available nearby
Parc national du Bic – for outdoor recreation
Institut des sciences de la mer de Rimouski (ISMER) – world-renowned marine science research institute
Cafés, restaurants, and student-friendly housing all within walking distance
Rimouski is also served by regional airports and bus routes for travel across Quebec
