Université Laval

Overview

Looking to study in Canada at one of North America’s oldest and most respected French-language universities? Université Laval, Quebec/Canada, offers a vibrant academic environment, globally recognized research, and a welcoming campus in historic Quebec City.

Université Laval is located in the heart of Quebec City, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its European charm and high quality of life. Founded in 1663, the university has over 400 years of academic heritage, and it combines innovation, cultural diversity, and strong career outcomes.

Whether you’re exploring undergraduate programs at Université Laval or specialized PG programs, this guide covers everything from admissions and tuition to scholarships, rankings, and student life.

Highlights

Acceptance Rate: 59%

Total International Students: 9,000+ (from 120+ countries)

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 29:1

Placement Percentage: 96%

Université Laval Rankings

Université Laval consistently performs well in national and global university rankings. It is often ranked in the top 20 universities in Canada and globally with respect to its research impact.

For students evaluating universities to study in Canada, Laval’s research output, sustainability initiatives, and academic reputation strengthen its global standing.

According to QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education, Université Laval consistently ranks among the top universities in Canada for research and sustainability initiatives.

Here are the updated Université Laval rankings across various agencies:

Ranking Agency	Rank
U.S. News & World Report	451 in Best Global Universities 16 in Best Global Universities in Canada
QS World University	=469 in Top Global Universities
Times Higher Education (THE) World University	401 – 500 in World University Ranking 201 – 250 for Medical & Health 201 – 250 for Law 301 – 400 for Engineering

Université Laval Intakes

If you’re planning to study Masters in Canada or Bachelors, understanding Université Laval’s intake system is essential for planning your application and student visa process.

Université Laval application deadlines depend on the program and type of student. The timeframes of applying to international students are usually 6-8 months prior to their preferred start date.

If you’re wondering how to apply to Université Laval, applications are submitted online through the university’s portal. Early preparation is recommended, especially for competitive programs.

Fall Intake: The most popular and major admission cycle is the Fall intake. The vast majority of undergraduate and postgraduate programs at Universite Laval use this intake, which allows the largest variety of course choices and scholarship possibilities.
Winter Intake: The Winter intake is right in case students have more time to prepare documents, enhance language mastery, or finish visa processes. Although there are fewer programs than Fall, a number of master and professional programs still accept applications.
Summer Intake: The Summer intake offers limited entry options and is mainly available for select graduate programs, short-term courses, or research-based studies. It is less competitive but not all faculties participate. Application deadlines for Summer generally fall between January and February.

Université Laval Courses

One of the most crucial steps when considering courses to study in Canada is to choose the right academic path. Université Laval offers a wide range of undergraduate, master’s, and research-based programs designed to meet global industry demands and support research innovation.

Some of the top courses at Université Laval include Business Administration (MBA), Civil Engineering, Environmental Sciences, Public Health, and Architecture.

Popular programs at Université Laval are as follows:

Program	Duration	Total Tuition Fees
Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Accounting	2 Years	CAD 40,785
MS Civil Engineering – Environmental Technologies	2 Years	CAD 40,785
Master of Architecture (M. Arch.)	2 Years	CAD 40,785
MS Architectural Sciences – Urban Design	2 Years	CAD 40,785
MA International Studies – International Security	2 Years	CAD 40,785
MA Translation and Terminology	2 Years	CAD 40,785
MS Public Health	2 Years	CAD 46,223

Cost of Studying at Université Laval

Understanding the overall budget is essential for international students planning to study in Quebec City. The total expense includes tuition, accommodation, living costs, health insurance, and personal spending.

Compared to other major institutions, the cost of studying at Université Laval is competitive, making it attractive for those considering the overall cost of education in Canada.

Tuition fees at Université Laval vary by program and faculty, with international students paying higher rates than domestic students. Overall expenses depend on your level of study, lifestyle, and housing preferences in Quebec City.

Here is an overview of the estimated expenses for international students at the Université Laval:

Expense Type	Estimated Cost (CAD)
UG Tuition Fees	22,000 – 30,000/year
PG Tuition Fees	18,000 – 25,000/year
Accommodation	8,000 – 12,000/year
Food	300 – 500/month
Travel	80 – 120/month
General Expenses	200 – 350/month

Université Laval Scholarships

Université Laval merit-based scholarships reward academic excellence and are available at both undergraduate and graduate levels. Some scholarships may cover partial tuition or provide monthly stipends.

Financial aid Université Laval options are assistantships, work-study, and research funding. Funding packages are also offered to graduate students particularly those in research intensive subjects.

Students searching for a scholarship to study in Canada should explore faculty-specific funding and government programs such as Quebec Merit Scholarships for Foreign Students.

Some of the top Université Laval scholarships for international students are as follows:

Scholarship	Value	Details
Citizens of the World Excellence Scholarships	CAD 20,000	Awarded to international students pursuing degree at university
Excellence Scholarship for International Students	CAD 3,000 – 12,000	Awarded to international students pursuing degree at university
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships	CAD 50,000 per year (for three years)	Awarded to international students pursuing PhD degree

Université Laval Admission

Basic eligibility to study at Université Laval includes academic transcripts, identity documents, and program-specific prerequisites. Most programs require French proficiency since a good number of courses are conducted in French.

While French is the primary language, certain programs may require proof of English proficiency for Université Laval through IELTS or TOEFL if instruction is in English.

The admission requirements for Université Laval are as follows:

Masters

Admission Requirements:

To get admission into a Master’s program, students must have a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent.

English Language Proficiency Test Accepted:

TOEFL iBT – 95
IELTS – 6.5
Duolingo – 110

French Language Proficiency Test Accepted:

TFI (Test de français international) – 750
DELF B2
DALF C1
TEF Canada – B2 level

Additional Requirements:

You are also required to submit academic transcripts, a letter of interest, CV, and English or French language proficiency scores.

Bachelors

Admission Requirements:

For admission to Bachelor’s in Canada, students are required to have a high school diploma or equivalent.

English Language Proficiency Test Accepted:

TOEFL iBT – 95
IELTS – 6.5
Duolingo – 110

French Language Proficiency Test Accepted:

TFI (Test de français international) – 750
DELF B2
DALF C1
TEF Canada – B2 level

Additional Requirements:

You also need to provide academic transcripts, PAL, and English or French language proficiency scores.

Accommodation at Université Laval

Finding comfortable and affordable Housing at Université Laval is an important part of preparing for student life in Quebec City. The university offers convenient on-campus residences as well as guidance for students seeking private rentals nearby.

On-Campus: Université Laval has several on-campus residence halls, such as the Alphonse-Marie-Parent Pavilion, H.-Biermans-L.-Moraud Pavilion, Agathe-Lacerte Pavilion, and Ernest-Lemieux Pavilion. These halls provide furnished residential rooms, common facilities, study rooms, and easy access of the classroom, libraries, and sports facilities.
Off-Campus: Students who want more independence may choose off-campus apartments in the following neighbourhoods: Sainte-Foy, Sillery, or central Quebec City. The university housing office provides international students with rental listings and advice on lease agreements.

Université Laval Placements

The Université Laval placement rate is strong, especially in engineering, business and applied sciences. Many graduates secure employment within six months of completing their degree.

Career support at Université Laval includes resume workshops, internship placement, job fair, and networking. Cooperative education options help students gain Canadian work experience.

The global alumni network at Université Laval includes leaders in business, politics, science, and academia. This strong professional network benefits students planning to build careers in Canada or internationally.

Some of the top recruiters at Université Laval are as follows:

Desjardins Group
National Bank of Canada
Hydro-Québec
Bombardier
Deloitte
PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers)
KPMG
IBM Canada
Ubisoft
CGI Group
Government of Canada
Quebec Provincial Government
Siemens Canada
L’Oréal Canada

Student Essential Services

Student life at Université Laval is dynamic, with over 200 student associations, cultural groups, and sports teams. Quebec City offers a safe and culturally rich environment for international students.

Dedicated International student support at Université Laval includes orientation programs, Canada student visa guidance, language support, and academic advising to help newcomers adapt smoothly.

Bureau de la vie étudiante (Student Life Office): This office coordinates student associations, leadership programs, and over 200 clubs and societies on campus. It also deals with cultural events, volunteering projects, and student participation events throughout the academic year.
Centre d’aide aux étudiants (Student Assistance Centre): Provides academic advising, learning support workshops, exam preparation sessions, and individual consultations. Students may utilize tutoring services and also study skills coaching to enhance academic performance.
Psychological and Counselling Services (Service de consultation psychologique): Licensed professionals on campus offer confidential counselling, mental health services as well as stress management workshops and crisis intervention services.
Health Services (Clinique médicale et services de santé): Primary healthcare, vaccination assistance, health insurance advice are provided to the international students on-campus.
PEPS Sports Complex (Pavillon de l’éducation physique et des sports): One of the largest university sports complexes in Eastern Canada, PEPS offers fitness facilities, swimming pools, ice rinks, and organized sports programs for students.

Location of Université Laval

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do you need French to study at Université Laval?

Université Laval is mainly a French-speaking institution, and hence, students with a weak command of the French language may not easily integrate academically at the beginning. Nonetheless, the university provides French language support courses, immersion courses and academic support to enable students to learn fast. Other programs involve some English element, yet acquisition of French proficiency increases classroom attendance, internships, and jobs in Quebec.

Does Université Laval offer co-op or internship opportunities?

Yes, many faculties at Université Laval integrate internships, cooperative education, or practical training into their curriculum. Engineering, business, IT, and environmental science programs often include structured internship options. Such experiences enable students to have an exposure to the work environment in Canada and increase employability following graduation.

How safe is the Université Laval campus?

Université Laval is known for its safe and secure campus environment. The university has its own security services available 24/7, emergency phone stations across campus, and a safety escort service for students at night. Quebec City itself is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in North America.

What is Université Laval known for?

Université Laval is one of Canada’s oldest universities, founded in 1663 in Quebec City. It is recognized for its research excellence, good French-language academic programs, and international partnerships in engineering, human sciences, and environment studies.

Key advantages include:

Member of the U15 Group of Canadian Research Universities.
Affordable tuition and lower living costs compared with major Canadian cities.
Strong programs in Engineering, Agriculture, Health Sciences, and Business.
Extensive research facilities and laboratories.
Co-op programs and experiential learning opportunities.
Supportive international student community.

Is Université Laval good for international students?

Yes, Université Laval is a good choice for international students seeking high-quality education in Canada. The university hosts over 9,000 international students from more than 120 countries and offers strong academic programs, research opportunities, and scholarships.

What is the acceptance rate of Université Laval?

The estimated Université Laval acceptance rate is around 55%-60%, making it moderately competitive for international students. Admission decisions depend on academic performance, program requirements, and language proficiency in French or English.

Can international students stay in Canada after graduating from Université Laval?

Graduates of eligible programs at Université Laval may apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing them to gain Canadian work experience. This pathway can support long-term immigration plans through provincial or federal programs.

Is Université Laval a French or English university?

Université Laval is primarily a French-language university located in Quebec City. Most programs are taught in French. However, some programs and research opportunities may include English components. International students who do not speak French fluently can take French language courses or immersion programs offered by the university to improve their proficiency.

How much are Université Laval tuition fees for international students?

Tuition fees for international students at Université Laval generally range between CAD 18,000 and CAD 30,000 annually, depending on the program and the level of study. Other expenses are accommodation, health insurance, and living cost in Quebec City.

What makes Université Laval unique compared to other Canadian universities?

Université Laval boasts of an old academic tradition, robust research productivity and a unique Francophone culture. The benefits of being in Quebec City are that it provides an experience of European culture, though it still has available North American career opportunities.

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