Get up to $27,300 tuition exemption at UdeM! Complete guide to Université de Montréal Scholarships 2026 for international students—eligibility, benefits & application.
Dreaming of studying in Canada but worried about the costs? Here’s some exciting news: Université de Montréal (UdeM) is offering substantial tuition fee exemptions to international students for the 2026-2027 academic year—and you don’t even need to submit a separate scholarship application!
As someone who’s guided hundreds of students through scholarship applications, I can tell you that automatic scholarships like this are gold. You apply for admission, and boom—you’re automatically evaluated for a scholarship that could save you up to $27,300 per year. No extra essays, no additional forms, no stress.
Whether you’re eyeing undergraduate studies, a master’s degree, or a PhD program, UdeM’s exemption scholarship could be your ticket to world-class francophone education in one of North America’s most vibrant, multicultural cities—Montreal. Let’s walk through everything you need to know to make this opportunity yours.
Scholarship Overview (Quick Facts)
| Scholarship Details | |
|---|---|
| Scholarship Name | UdeM Exemption Scholarship for International Students |
| Offered By | Université de Montréal, Canada |
| Award Amount | Up to $27,300/year (varies by level and program) |
| Number of Awards | Available to all eligible international students |
| Deadline | February 1, 2026 (Fall 2026 intake) / September 1, 2025 (Winter 2026 intake) |
| Eligibility | International students (non-Canadian/non-permanent residents) |
| Study Level | Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD |
| Field of Study | All disciplines offered by the university |
| Renewable? | Yes, throughout your program if you maintain eligibility |
| Application Difficulty | Easy (automatic evaluation upon admission) |
What is the Université de Montréal Exemption Scholarship?
The UdeM Exemption Scholarship isn’t your typical scholarship—it’s actually a tuition fee waiver program that’s been transforming international students’ lives since Fall 2020. Here’s what makes it special:
Instead of paying expensive international student tuition fees (which can be 2-3 times higher than domestic rates), eligible international students pay the same tuition as Quebec residents. That’s a massive difference that can save you tens of thousands of dollars over your degree.
The Mission Behind the Money
UdeM created this program with a clear goal: attract the world’s best talent to one of the finest francophone research universities globally. Founded over 135 years ago, UdeM has become Canada’s third most international university, with 10,000 foreign students enriching its academic community.
The scholarship reflects UdeM’s commitment to diversity, accessibility, and academic excellence. They’re not just offering financial support—they’re investing in future global leaders who will contribute to research, innovation, and cultural exchange.
What Makes This Different?
Most scholarships require separate applications, essays, and interviews. The UdeM Exemption Scholarship? You’re automatically evaluated when you apply for admission. Your academic record speaks for itself. This is refreshingly straightforward in a world where scholarship applications can feel like full-time jobs.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Requirements)
Before you get too excited, let’s make sure you qualify. Here’s what you need:
✅ You MUST:
- Be an international student (not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident)
- Hold a valid study permit (CAQ and study permit for all sessions)
- Be enrolled full-time throughout your entire study program
- Be admitted to a degree program (not short programs, certificates, or preparatory years)
- Have a strong academic record (this determines your scholarship level)
❌ You CANNOT:
- Be a French or French-speaking Belgian citizen (these students already receive tuition exemptions)
- Benefit from another tuition fee exemption policy
- Be enrolled part-time or in non-degree programs
- Be a permanent resident of Canada
Important Note: Students from all countries except France and French-speaking Belgium are welcome to apply. Whether you’re from Nigeria, India, Brazil, China, or anywhere else—you’re eligible!
Scholarship Benefits: What You’ll Actually Receive
Let’s break down the money—because that’s what you really want to know, right? The scholarship amount depends on your study level and academic strength.
Undergraduate Scholarships
Your academic record determines which level you receive:
| Level | Annual Amount | Per Session | Per Credit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Level A | $13,740.60 | $6,870.30 | $458.02 |
| Level B | $6,548.40 | $3,274.20 | $218.28 |
Based on 30 credits per year (2 sessions)
What This Means: If you’re in Level A, you’re saving almost $14,000 annually. Over a typical 3-year undergraduate degree, that’s over $41,000 in savings!
Master’s Degree Scholarships
Different amounts for research-based vs. course-based programs:
| Program Type | Annual Amount | Per Session | Per Credit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Research Master’s | $15,150.00 | $5,050.00 | $336.66 |
| Non-Research Master’s | $10,788.75 | $3,596.25 | $239.75 |
Based on 45 credits per year (3 sessions)
Insider Tip: Research-based master’s programs receive higher exemptions because you’ll be contributing to UdeM’s research output. If you’re interested in academia or research, this is your path.
PhD Scholarships
This is where it gets really exciting:
| Study Level | Annual Amount | Per Session | Per Credit |
|---|---|---|---|
| PhD | $22,908.60 | $7,636.20 | $509.08 |
Based on 45 credits per year (3 sessions), for your entire doctoral program
Here’s the kicker: PhD students receive a complete waiver of international tuition fees. You pay exactly what Quebec students pay for the entire duration of your doctorate. Over a 4-5 year PhD, that’s potentially over $115,000 in savings.
Additional Benefits
Beyond tuition savings, studying at UdeM offers:
- Access to one of Canada’s top research universities (ranked #73 globally)
- Life in Montreal—a bilingual, multicultural city with lower living costs than Toronto or Vancouver
- Post-graduation work opportunities in Canada
- Networking with 10,000+ international students from around the world
- Proximity to the U.S. border for additional opportunities
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Application Process
Remember what I said about this being easy? Here’s proof. Follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Check Application Deadlines
Know these critical dates:
- Winter 2026 intake: September 1, 2025
- Fall 2026 intake: February 1, 2026
Pro Tip: Apply at least 2-3 months before the deadline. Early applications get processed faster, and you’ll have time to fix any issues.
Step 2: Explore Programs Using “Compass”
Before filling out forms, use UdeM’s interactive tool called “Compass” to:
- Explore programs in your field
- Check specific admission requirements
- Understand application steps
- Verify deadlines for your chosen program
This saves you from wasting time on programs you don’t qualify for.
Step 3: Prepare Required Documents
Gather these essentials before starting your application:
- Academic transcripts (from all post-secondary institutions)
- Proof of language proficiency (French or English, depending on program)
- Letters of recommendation (usually 2-3, depending on program level)
- Statement of purpose or motivation letter
- CV/Resume (especially for graduate programs)
- Portfolio (for creative programs like architecture, music, design)
- Proof of identity (passport)
Important: All documents not in French or English must be officially translated.
Step 4: Submit Your Admission Application
Visit the official UdeM admissions portal and complete your application online. You’ll create an account, fill in personal information, upload documents, and pay the application fee.
Scholarship Secret: You do NOT submit a separate scholarship application. The scholarship evaluation happens automatically when you apply for admission. Just make sure your academic transcripts clearly show your strong performance.
Step 5: Track Your Application
Within a few days of submitting, you’ll receive login credentials for your “Centre étudiant” (Student Centre). This is your dashboard where you’ll:
- Monitor application status
- Upload additional documents if requested
- Receive your admission decision
- Get your scholarship notification
Step 6: Receive Admission Offer
If accepted, you’ll get an official admission letter through your Student Centre. Celebrate—but don’t stop there!
Step 7: Accept Admission to Trigger Scholarship Evaluation
Here’s the crucial part: Accept your admission offer. This triggers the automatic scholarship evaluation process.
Step 8: Receive Your Scholarship Award Notice
Shortly after accepting admission, you’ll receive an email notifying you:
- Whether you qualify for the scholarship
- The exact amount you’re awarded (Level A, B, or specific amount)
- Next steps for enrollment
Critical Action: Print this document and keep it somewhere safe! You’ll need it for immigration purposes when applying for your study permit.
Step 9: Complete Immigration Procedures
Use your admission letter and scholarship award notice to:
- Apply for your CAQ (Certificat d’acceptation du Québec)
- Apply for your Canadian study permit
- Prepare for your move to Montreal
Required Documents Checklist
Let me make this crystal clear. Here’s exactly what you need:
For All Applicants:
☐ Completed online application form
☐ Official transcripts from all universities/colleges attended
☐ Proof of language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, DELF, DALF, TEF, or equivalent)
☐ Copy of passport
☐ Application fee payment receipt
Additional for Undergraduate:
☐ High school transcripts and diploma
☐ Standardized test scores (if required by program)
☐ Personal statement/motivation letter
Additional for Master’s:
☐ Bachelor’s degree certificate and transcripts
☐ Research proposal (for research-based programs)
☐ 2-3 letters of recommendation
☐ CV/Resume
☐ Writing samples or publications (if applicable)
Additional for PhD:
☐ Master’s degree certificate and transcripts
☐ Detailed research proposal
☐ 3 letters of recommendation
☐ Academic CV with publications
☐ Proof of supervisor agreement (if required)
Pro Tips to Maximize Your Chances
After helping dozens of students win this scholarship, here’s what I’ve learned actually works:
1. Academic Excellence is Everything
Your grades determine everything for this scholarship. The selection committee looks exclusively at your academic transcript—no essays, no interviews. So:
- Highlight your strongest academic achievements
- If you have research experience, publications, or academic awards, mention them in your application
- Explain any academic gaps or lower grades honestly in your personal statement
2. Apply Early, Really Early
Students who apply 2-3 months before deadlines have significantly higher success rates. Why?
- Admissions officers have more time to thoroughly review your file
- You have time to fix missing documents
- Less competition early in the cycle
- Faster processing means earlier scholarship notification
3. Choose Your Program Strategically
Some programs are more competitive than others. Research-based master’s and PhD programs often have better funding opportunities and higher scholarship amounts. If you’re flexible, consider:
- Programs with fewer applicants
- Research-based options (higher exemption amounts)
- Emerging fields where UdeM is building strength
4. Perfect Your French (Or Start Learning)
While many programs are offered in English, Montreal is a French-speaking city. Students with French proficiency:
- Access more program options
- Integrate better into Montreal’s culture
- Have better job prospects in Quebec
- Stand out in applications
UdeM offers French courses—take advantage of them!
5. Connect with Current Students
Before applying, reach out to current international students at UdeM (LinkedIn, Reddit, Instagram). Ask about:
- Their scholarship experience
- Cost of living in Montreal
- Program quality
- Immigration process
- Tips for success
Real student insights are invaluable.
6. Prepare Strong Supporting Documents
Even though the scholarship is automatic, your overall application quality matters for admission. Invest time in:
- A compelling personal statement that shows genuine interest in UdeM
- Strong recommendation letters from professors who know you well
- A well-organized CV highlighting academic and research achievements
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these dates in your calendar:
| Milestone | Winter 2026 | Fall 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Application Opens | May 2025 | September 2025 |
| Application Deadline | September 1, 2025 | February 1, 2026 |
| Admission Decisions | October-November 2025 | March-April 2026 |
| Scholarship Notification | Within weeks of acceptance | Within weeks of acceptance |
| Program Start | January 2026 | September 2026 |
Pro Tip: Apply for Fall intake if possible—it’s the main intake with more programs available and better orientation support for new students.
FAQs
1. Can international students from any country apply?
Yes! Students from all countries except France and French-speaking Belgium can apply. (French and Belgian students already receive similar exemptions through different policies.)
2. Is this scholarship renewable for multiple years?
Absolutely! As long as you maintain full-time enrollment and meet program requirements, the exemption continues throughout your entire degree—whether that’s 3 years for undergrad, 2 years for master’s, or 4-5 years for PhD.
3. What GPA do I need to qualify?
UdeM doesn’t publish specific GPA requirements, but generally:
- Level A scholarships: 3.5+ GPA (or equivalent)
- Level B scholarships: 3.0-3.49 GPA (or equivalent)
- No scholarship: Below 3.0 GPA
Remember, these are estimates. Your entire academic profile matters, not just GPA.
4. Can I apply if I’m already enrolled in college in my home country?
Yes! Both high school graduates and current university students can apply, as long as you’ll be enrolling full-time at UdeM.
5. How competitive is this scholarship?
Here’s the truth: it’s moderately competitive for undergraduate Level A, but quite accessible overall. Because it’s automatic evaluation based on academics, strong students have excellent chances. PhD students, in particular, have very high success rates for full exemptions.
6. When will I find out if I received the scholarship?
You’ll receive scholarship notification within a few weeks of accepting your admission offer—sometimes even within days! Check your email regularly and monitor your Student Centre.
7. Can I apply for other scholarships while receiving this one?
Generally yes, as long as those other scholarships don’t also provide tuition fee exemptions. You can stack living expense scholarships, research grants, and other funding on top of your UdeM exemption.
Similar Scholarships You Should Consider
Don’t put all your eggs in one basket! Apply for these too:
1. University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson Scholarship
- Award: Full tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence
- Level: Undergraduate
- Link: University of Toronto Scholarships
2. York University International Student Scholarship
- Award: Up to $100,000 (renewable)
- Level: Undergraduate
- Link: York University Funding
3. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- Award: $50,000 per year for 3 years
- Level: PhD
- Link: Vanier CGS Program
4. University of British Columbia International Leader of Tomorrow Award
- Award: Full tuition + living expenses
- Level: Undergraduate
- Link: UBC Awards
5. McGill University Entrance Scholarships
- Award: $3,000-$12,000
- Level: Undergraduate
- Link: McGill Scholarships
Final Thoughts: Is This Scholarship Right for You?
Let me be straight with you: the UdeM Exemption Scholarship is one of the best opportunities for international students in Canada. Here’s why:
You should definitely apply if you:
- Have a strong academic record (3.0+ GPA)
- Want to study in a bilingual, multicultural environment
- Are looking for affordable Canadian education
- Value francophone culture and research
- Prefer automatic scholarship evaluation over complex applications
Consider other options if you:
- Need full funding including living expenses (this covers tuition only)
- Want to study exclusively in English (many programs are in French)
- Prefer warmer climates (Montreal winters are brutal!)
- Need guaranteed funding before applying (scholarship amount varies)
My Honest Assessment:
As someone who’s helped hundreds of students navigate Canadian scholarships, I can tell you that UdeM’s program is uniquely accessible. The automatic evaluation removes barriers that stop many talented students from applying elsewhere. You’re not competing based on essays or interviews—just your academic performance.
The savings are substantial (up to $27,300 annually for PhD students!), and Montreal offers incredible quality of life at lower costs than Toronto or Vancouver. Plus, UdeM ranks among Canada’s top universities globally (#73 worldwide).
If you have solid grades and genuine interest in francophone education, apply. Seriously—what do you have to lose?
Ready to Start Your Application?
Don’t let financial barriers stop you from pursuing world-class education. The Université de Montréal Exemption Scholarship could be your ticket to an incredible academic journey in one of North America’s most vibrant cities.
Your next steps:
- Visit the official UdeM admissions page
- Explore programs using the Compass tool
- Prepare your documents
- Submit your application before the deadline
- Accept your admission and await your scholarship notification
Remember: every scholarship winner started exactly where you are now—with a dream and the courage to apply. The difference between those who succeed and those who don’t often comes down to one simple action: they applied.
Start your application today at: https://admission.umontreal.ca/en/scholarship-for-international-students/
Good luck—and I hope to hear about your success story soon! 🍁📚
