Studying at Laval University
- Murat Koçak
- May 14
- 10 min read
Although options for French-language education in Canada may seem limited, Université Laval, one of the country’s oldest and most prestigious institutions, stands out as a leading choice in this field. Located in Québec City, the university offers a wide range of interdisciplinary programs, research opportunities, cultural richness, and a student-friendly environment, making it an attractive option for international students.
Studying at Laval University can be a transformative experience for students, not only academically but also in terms of cultural and linguistic development. Candidates wishing to improve their French language skills can benefit from both a strong academic environment and intensive language support programs at this institution.
At C&C Education Visa and Immigration in Canada, we provide guidance to students throughout all stages of the application process to Université Laval—from admission requirements and visa applications to scholarship opportunities and career planning. In this article, we examine the entire process in detail for those considering studying at Laval University.
General Information About Laval University
Founded in 1663, Université Laval holds the distinction of being the first higher education institution in North America to offer instruction in French. Located in Québec City, its campus blends historic architecture with modern academic facilities, providing a comprehensive environment for both education and daily life. Today, the university serves a large community of approximately 44,000 students, around 15% of whom are international.
The campus is spread across more than 50 buildings and includes student residences, research centers, sports facilities, social spaces, and a comprehensive health center. The university aims to offer not just an academic institution but also a livable and vibrant student community.
Academically, Laval University provides over 500 programs across a wide range of disciplines. These include undergraduate, master’s, doctoral, and short-term certificate programs. Approximately 90% of instruction is in French. While there are some graduate programs in English, they are limited, and undergraduate instruction is almost entirely in French. The university also offers French preparatory and support programs for international students.
In terms of research capacity, Université Laval is among the top Canadian universities receiving the highest research funding. With over 275 research centers and groups on campus, academic production spans diverse fields such as environmental science, health technologies, sustainable urban development, and artificial intelligence.
Why Choose Laval University?
Laval University stands out not only for its academic excellence but also for the cultural, social, and economic advantages it offers students. Located in the French-speaking province of Québec, the university presents unique opportunities, especially for those interested in pursuing education in French.
First and foremost, the university’s historical legacy and academic reputation provide a reliable and respected environment for students who wish to study in Canada. Its numerous international institutional partnerships allow students to gain overseas experiences during their studies or after graduation.
It also plays a key role in language development. Studying at an institution where French is the primary language of instruction (although some graduate and doctoral programs are offered in English) enables students to use the language at an academic level. Université Laval supports international students in this area through various programs. Language support centers, individual advising, summer schools, and preparatory programs are all part of this process.
In terms of living expenses, Québec City is more affordable compared to other major Canadian cities. Its budget-friendly options for transportation, accommodation, food, and social activities provide an important advantage for students choosing Laval University.
At C&C Education Visa and Immigration in Canada, we ensure that students plan their academic journey not only in terms of program selection but also considering lifestyle, language support, and financial planning.
Popular Faculties and Programs at Laval University
Laval University offers a broad academic portfolio, and international students commonly prefer programs in the following fields:
Forestry, Geography, and Geomatics: Located in one of Canada’s leading regions for natural resource management, these programs offer field-based and technologically supported training. The geomatics program stands out with its focus on mapping technologies and spatial data analysis.
Engineering and Computer Sciences: Programs in fields like artificial intelligence, data science, electrical engineering, environmental engineering, and biomedical engineering are supported by cutting-edge research centers. Laboratory infrastructure, industry partnerships, and project-based applications provide students with sector-specific experience.
Social Sciences and International Relations: Programs in political science, international relations, sociology, and public administration are enriched with both theoretical and applied content. Collaborations with Québec government institutions and NGOs also offer internship opportunities.
Health Sciences: Disciplines such as medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, physiotherapy, and nursing are integrated into Québec’s healthcare system. Clinical practice takes place in local health institutions.
Business (FSA ULaval): This faculty offers undergraduate and graduate programs in marketing, finance, international business, and human resources, and holds AACSB accreditation. Some departments offer co-op options with paid internships.
At C&C Education Visa and Immigration in Canada, we analyze your academic background and goals to help you identify the programs best suited to you and ensure your application process is built on a solid foundation.
Admission Requirements at Laval University
Applying to Université Laval requires a complete academic background, proof of language proficiency, and submission of all required documents. While each department may have specific requirements, there are some general admission criteria to keep in mind.
Academic Requirements
Undergraduate Programs:
Applicants from Turkey must have graduated from a recognized high school and hold a valid high school diploma. The GPA listed in the transcript is a key factor. Programs in engineering, health sciences, or science may require strong performance in math, physics, and chemistry. Some creative disciplines (e.g., architecture or design) may request additional documents such as a portfolio.
Graduate and Doctoral Programs:
Master’s programs require a four-year undergraduate degree, while doctoral programs require a relevant master’s degree. Applications typically include academic reference letters, a detailed CV, a statement of purpose, and for some departments, a research proposal. A strong GPA and a relevant academic background are critical for acceptance.
Language Proficiency:
Laval University offers instruction in both French and English. The following test results are generally accepted:
TCF/TEF: Usually minimum B2 level
DELF/DALF: Typically, minimum B2, or C1 for certain departments
For some graduate programs, English proficiency may also be accepted:
IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall, with no section below 6.0
TOEFL iBT: 86–90 range
Applicants who do not meet French language requirements may receive conditional admission through the university’s preparatory language programs.
Required Documents:
The core application includes an online application form, transcripts (high school or university), diploma copies, language test scores, passport copy, CV, statement of purpose, and letters of reference.
At C&C Education Visa and Immigration in Canada, we support you in preparing all documents according to the specific requirements of your program and help you manage the application process without errors.
Tuition Fees, Scholarships, and Financial Aid
Properly evaluating the costs of education is a key step in planning to study in Canada. Laval University, compared to many other Canadian institutions, stands out for offering French-language education and for the relatively low cost of living in Québec.
● Undergraduate programs: 25,000 – 35,000 CAD
● Graduate programs: 9,000 – 18,000 CAD
● Doctoral programs are often supported by scholarships, making them partially or fully funded for some students.
Program content, duration, and components such as lab work or field training may affect the total cost. Programs in engineering, health sciences, or those requiring extensive lab work may have additional expenses.
Living Costs:
Québec City offers more affordable living compared to cities like Toronto or Vancouver. Estimated annual living expenses for a student include:
● Housing: 6,000 – 8,000 CAD
● Transportation: 600 – 1,000 CAD
● Food and personal expenses: 5,000 – 7,000 CAD
● Total: Estimated around 15,000 – 20,000 CAD
Scholarships and Financial Support:
Université Laval offers various financial aid options for international students:
● Entrance Scholarships: Automatically awarded based on academic merit
● Research Scholarships: Project-based scholarships supported by faculty advisors
● Community Involvement / Leadership Scholarships: Based on volunteer work, club activities, or social responsibility projects
● Graduate and Doctoral Scholarships: Long-term scholarships funded by faculties or the government
Post-Graduation Career Opportunities
Graduates of Laval University can access diverse employment opportunities across Québec and Canada. Thanks to its research-oriented structure and strong ties with industry, the university equips students not only for academic pursuits but also for professional success.
PGWP – Post-Graduation Work Permit:
Graduates of Laval University may apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Depending on the length of their study program, graduates may be eligible to work in Canada for 1 to 3 years. The work experience gained during this period may be used toward eligibility for Express Entry or Québec’s provincial immigration programs.
Québec Experience Program (PEQ):
This program is specifically designed for students who studied in Québec and worked in the province after graduation. Applicants with French language proficiency may complete the process for permanent residency more quickly under this program.
Career Opportunities by Sector:
Students who choose to study in Québec not only benefit from a high-quality academic environment but also gain access to a variety of career opportunities after graduation. Many industries across the province offer employment pathways for qualified international graduates. Below are key sectors where Laval alumni are often employed:
● Health Sciences
Québec’s publicly funded healthcare system is supported by a robust infrastructure that employs thousands of professionals annually. Graduates in health-related fields can work in hospitals, family health centers, and rehabilitation clinics in a variety of roles. Fields like nursing, physiotherapy, medical laboratory technology, and radiology allow graduates to directly enter the workforce. For those interested in academic careers, Québec’s medical schools and research centers offer positions such as research assistantships or lecturer roles. With an aging population and a government focus on expanding healthcare services, demand in this sector continues to grow.
● Engineering
Québec is known for offering diverse opportunities to engineering graduates. The province invests heavily in hydroelectric energy, sustainable transportation infrastructure, and green building projects. Graduates in fields such as civil, mechanical, electrical, and environmental engineering may find employment in both public and private sector projects. New graduates are particularly well-positioned in projects focused on energy efficiency and modernizing transportation networks. Moreover, many engineering firms in Québec offer internship and graduate programs to help international students take their first steps in their careers.
● Information Technology
In recent years, Québec has become a hub for digital innovation with investments in artificial intelligence, data science, and cybersecurity. Montréal, in particular, is globally recognized for AI research and hosts numerous tech companies and research labs. Graduates of computer science and software engineering programs can find opportunities in software development, data analytics, game design, and cloud technologies. Thanks to government-supported R&D initiatives, recent graduates can also join large-scale projects and start their careers with hands-on experience.
● Public Administration and Education
To attract skilled professionals into the public sector, the Québec government operates various support and employment programs. Graduates of public administration programs can work in areas such as planning, policy development, and public service organization within government offices. Graduates of education faculties may teach in public schools throughout the province or participate in adult education, language instruction, and professional development courses. Québec’s bilingual nature offers additional opportunities for teachers fluent in both French and English. Government-funded scholarships and recruitment programs are key tools that help international graduates integrate into the public workforce.
At C&C Education Visa and Immigration in Canada, we offer strategic planning support and expert guidance throughout the PGWP, PEQ, and Express Entry application processes.
Being a Student at Laval University: Life in Québec
For students studying at Laval University, Québec City offers a supportive environment with its historical charm and student-friendly amenities. The city’s French-inspired architecture, safe living conditions, and rich cultural scene enhance the student experience both academically and socially.
Housing Options:
● University residences: On-campus, fully furnished rooms at various price points
● Shared apartments: Student housing in neighborhoods close to the city center
● Homestays: An opportunity for language practice and cultural immersion with local families
Transportation and Adaptation Process:
Québec City has an extensive public transportation network, with discounted bus passes available for students. The university also organizes orientation programs, cultural adaptation workshops, and academic support sessions for newly arrived international students.
Social and Cultural Activities:
In addition to city-wide events like the Winter Carnival, Film Festivals, and the International Music Festival, the university campus is home to student clubs, sports teams, and social responsibility projects, all of which support an active student life.
With its natural surroundings, riverside paths, walking trails, and proximity to ski resorts, Québec City offers a lifestyle that balances academic focus with personal growth and well-being.
Turn Your Educational Goals into Reality with Laval University
As one of Canada’s most established higher education institutions, Laval University combines academic excellence with cultural richness for international students pursuing education in French. Located in the heart of Québec City, the university—backed by a history of over 350 years—is not just a place of learning, but also an intellectual hub.
Its research infrastructure includes numerous labs and institutes across different faculties, supporting interdisciplinary education and offering students a wide academic spectrum. From health sciences and engineering to business and environmental studies, this diversity allows every student to find a path aligned with their interests and goals.
Lower living costs compared to the national average make Laval University a particularly appealing option for international students. In addition, the university’s career development programs, internship opportunities, and strong connections with Québec’s job market provide significant advantages in finding employment after graduation.
At C&C Education Visa and Immigration in Canada, we offer comprehensive consulting services that go beyond school selection and support your long-term goals. Our personalized approach ensures that every step—academic, administrative, and visa-related—is planned with awareness and clarity.
We Support You at Every Stage of the Application Process
The strength of your application depends directly on the accuracy of your documents, the relevance of your statement of purpose, and the thorough planning of your references. Throughout this process, we offer tailored guidance, not only for the technical requirements but also for time management.
Moreover, we provide strategic input based on up-to-date information regarding student visas, post-graduation work permits, and province-specific immigration pathways like those in Québec. For students who wish to stay in Canada after completing their education, we also offer support in long-term career planning, helping you go beyond academic goals.
Turning your dream of studying in Canada into reality depends not only on choosing the right university but also on carrying out a complete and timely application process. At C&C Education Visa and Immigration in Canada, we stand by you through every stage—from program selection to the visa process.
If you’re looking to study at a university like Laval, which offers multi-dimensional opportunities for growth, laying a solid foundation for your application is essential. We are pleased to accompany you on this journey and help ensure you move forward with confidence and clarity.
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