McGill University
Top Public Research University in Ontario
University Overview
Established in 1821, McGill University is one of Canada’s most prestigious
public research universities and among the top-ranked institutions worldwide.
Located in the heart of Montreal, Quebec, McGill is renowned for its academic excellence,
bilingual culture, and vibrant international community. The university enrolls over
40,000 students, including more than 12,000 international students
representing 150+ countries.
McGill consistently ranks within the top 50 universities globally in major rankings such as
QS, Times Higher Education (THE), and ARWU. It offers over 300 undergraduate programs
and 250 graduate and professional degrees across faculties like Arts, Engineering, Medicine,
Law, Management, and Science. The university’s research contributions span cutting-edge fields including
neuroscience, artificial intelligence, sustainability, and healthcare innovation.
McGill’s main campus, nestled at the foot of Mount Royal, combines historic architecture with modern
research facilities, fostering a dynamic learning environment. The Macdonald Campus in
Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue focuses on agricultural and environmental sciences. With affordable tuition,
extensive scholarships, and a strong network of 300,000+ alumni worldwide,
McGill University continues to shape global leaders and advance knowledge for a better world.
Key Facts & Highlights
Tuition & Living Costs
| Item | Cost (CAD/year) |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fee (Domestic Students) | 3,000 – 9,500 |
| Tuition Fee (International Students) | 25,000 – 62,000 |
| Living Expenses | 15,000 – 20,000 |
| Accommodation | 8,000 – 14,000 |
| Health Insurance | 1,200 – 1,400 |
| Application Fee | 129 (one-time, non-refundable) |
Note: Tuition and fees at McGill University vary by program, faculty, and residency status. Professional programs such as Medicine, Law, and Engineering generally have higher tuition rates than Arts or Science. Living costs reflect typical expenses in Montréal, including housing, meals, books, transportation, and personal items. All international students must be covered by McGill’s International Health Insurance plan unless exempt. For the most current fee information, please visit the official McGill University tuition page.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
McGill Entrance Scholarship Program
The McGill Entrance Scholarship Program rewards outstanding incoming undergraduate students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance and leadership potential. These merit-based awards range from CAD 3,000 to CAD 12,000 and are renewable for up to four years, provided students maintain high academic standing. No separate application is required for most programs.
Major Entrance Scholarships
McGill’s Major Entrance Scholarships recognize approximately 80 top first-year students each year. These highly competitive awards are valued between CAD 3,000 and CAD 12,000 per year and are renewable for the duration of the student’s degree. Applicants must submit a separate scholarship application after receiving admission.
McGill Graduate Funding and Fellowships
The Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies Office at McGill offers numerous funding opportunities, including teaching assistantships, research fellowships, and external awards. Typical funding packages for master’s and Ph.D. students range from CAD 18,000 to CAD 35,000 annually. Prestigious awards such as the Tomlinson Doctoral Fellowship and PBEEE – Québec Merit Scholarship are available for top-tier researchers.
Need-Based Aid & Bursaries
McGill provides extensive need-based financial aid through its Entrance Bursary Program for students with demonstrated financial need. Domestic and international students may receive assistance covering tuition, housing, and living expenses. The Scholarships & Student Aid Office also offers personalized financial advising, emergency loans, and work-study programs.
Programs Offered at McGill University
Master of Business Administration (MBA) – Desautels Faculty of Management
Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Computer Science
Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in Economics
Master of Public Health (MPH) – Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences
PhD in Electrical & Computer Engineering
Admission Requirements
English Language Requirements
- IELTS: Minimum overall 6.5 (no band below 6.0)
- TOEFL iBT: Overall 90–100 (writing 21+)
- Duolingo English Test: 120+
Academic Requirements
- Canadian high school diploma or equivalent (A-Levels, IB Diploma, etc.)
- Minimum average of 85% or higher (competitive programs require 90%+)
- Completion of prerequisite subjects (e.g., Math, Physics, Chemistry for Science programs)
Required Documents
- Official high school transcripts (English or French)
- Copy of valid passport or national ID
- Personal statement or essay (optional for most programs)
- Letters of Recommendation (optional for some programs)
- Non-refundable application fee: CAD 132
English Language Requirements
- IELTS: 7.0 overall (no band less than 6.5)
- TOEFL iBT: Minimum 92–100 (writing 25)
- PTE Academic: Overall 70+
Academic Requirements
- Four-year bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) with strong academic standing
- Minimum GPA: 3.0/4.0 or equivalent
- GRE or GMAT required for select programs (e.g., MBA, Economics)
Required Documents
- Official university transcripts and degree certificates
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) or academic résumé
- Statement of Purpose outlining academic and research goals
- Two to three academic or professional recommendation letters
- Application fee: CAD 135
How to Apply to McGill University
Choose Your Program
Explore over 300 undergraduate and 400 graduate programs across faculties such as Arts, Science, Engineering, Management, Medicine, and Law. Visit the McGill Programs Directory to find a program that best fits your goals.
Check Admission Requirements
Review academic prerequisites, GPA expectations, and English language requirements (IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 90+). Some programs may require portfolio submissions, interviews, or specific prerequisite courses.
Prepare Your Documents
Gather official transcripts, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT for select programs), statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, and proof of English proficiency. International students should also prepare passport and financial documents.
Submit Online Application
Complete your application via McGill’s official Online Application Portal. Ensure all required documents are uploaded before the deadline—January 15 for most undergraduate programs.
Pay Application Fee
Pay the non-refundable application fee of approximately CAD 130 (subject to change). You can pay securely through the portal using a credit card or other approved methods.
Track Your Application & Apply for Study Permit
Monitor your application status through Minerva, McGill’s student system. Once admitted, accept your offer, pay any deposits, and apply for a Canadian study permit through the IRCC website.
Important Dates – McGill University Admissions 2025–2026
| Intake | Application Deadline |
|---|---|
| Fall 2025 (September Entry) | January 15, 2025 |
| Winter 2026 (January Entry) | September 1, 2025 |
| Summer 2026 (May Entry) | March 1, 2026 |
Note: McGill University application deadlines vary by faculty and level of study. International applicants are encouraged to apply at least 6–8 weeks before the posted deadline to allow time for visa processing and document verification. For exact program-specific dates, visit the official McGill Admissions Calendar.
What Our Students Say
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Mera Admission guided me through every step of McGill’s admission process. From program selection to visa documentation, their support made it stress-free. I received my acceptance letter in just 5 weeks!
Thanks to Mera Admission, I understood McGill’s MBA requirements clearly. Their personalized counseling helped me secure a spot and a partial scholarship. The platform’s transparency is unmatched!
The guidance I received from Mera Admission about Montreal’s lifestyle, healthcare internships, and student housing was invaluable. I’m thriving at McGill and love the vibrant international community!
The visa and study permit instructions on Mera Admission were so clear. I completed my SDS process confidently and got my McGill study permit approval without delays!
Location & Lifestyle
Montreal, Quebec
McGill University is situated in the heart of downtown Montreal, a vibrant bilingual city known for its European charm, cultural diversity, and affordable cost of living. Surrounded by Mount Royal Park and historic architecture, students enjoy a balance between academic excellence and dynamic urban life. Montreal is consistently ranked among the world’s best student cities, offering a safe, inclusive, and inspiring environment.
- Climate: Distinct four seasons — snowy winters (-10°C to -20°C), pleasant springs, and warm summers (22°C to 28°C)
- Transportation: Excellent metro and bus system (STM) with affordable student passes; bike-friendly city
- Career Opportunities: Strong access to research institutions, tech startups, healthcare centers, and bilingual corporate sectors
Frequently Asked Questions
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Ready to Begin Your Study Journey at McGill University?
Join one of Canada’s top-ranked institutions, renowned for excellence in research, innovation, and global impact. Apply now to become part of McGill’s diverse community of scholars in Montreal.