International applicants
Vanier College will consider students for admission who have completed a portion of their high school education in Quebec (sec 4 and sec 5). As of Winter 2025, international applicants with no status in Canada (applying from abroad) are no longer eligible for admission.
Application process
International students with a valid status in Canada must apply online through the SRAM application system as a "regular" applicant. SRAM is an external service that manages applications for Vanier, and many other CEGEPs in Quebec. For admission deadlines by semester, see this page.
Evaluation of schooling
International academic documents are evaluated by SRAM (the external service managing applications).
Applicants, whether living in Canada or not, who have completed high school leaving certificates in a foreign country may have an evaluation done by SRAM or request a comparative evaluation from the Quebec government that must then be submitted at the time of application to SRAM.
Language requirements
English
As of Winter 2025, English Language Proficiency testing is no longer an admission requirement for international applicants to Vanier College. Once accepted, all incoming students complete an English placement test to determine which English course they are registered for in their first semester.
French
Recent changes in provincial legislation (Bill 96 or Law 14) affect the language of instruction at English colleges. While Vanier College can still accept international applicants, all international students must successfully complete the Épreuve uniforme de langue française (EUF) at the end of their studies to obtain their diploma.
French Language Proficiency for Admission
International applicants who did not complete their high school studies in Quebec must demonstrate French proficiency by taking an approved test and achieving a minimum score of B2. These test scores are valid for two years from the exam date. Exemptions are granted only to applicants from France who completed their secondary studies in French.
Accepted French proficiency tests:
- Bright
- TCF tout public (TCF Québec and TCF Canada are not accepted) - Mandatory sections: Written Comprehension, Oral Comprehension, Vocabulary and Syntax
- DELF tout public niveau B2 (all components)
- DALF
- TEF (TEF Express, TEF Québec, and TEF Canada are not accepted) - Mandatory sections: Written Comprehension, Oral Comprehension, Vocabulary and Syntax
We understand these changes may require additional planning. Vanier College remains committed to providing a welcoming and supportive environment for all students. If you have any questions regarding these new requirements, please don't hesitate to contact our admissions office.
Next steps after receiving your conditional acceptance letter
Congratulations! You've received a conditional admissions letter from Vanier. There are still a few more steps to finalize your arrival to Montreal.
- Official transcripts: While you may receive a letter of conditional acceptance, you must submit to Vanier College an official final transcript once courses in progress are completed.
Required documents to study in Quebec
The following documents are mandatory to study in Quebec:
- Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ): Issued by the Ministry of Immigration of Quebec. Find more information at Quebec immigration website.
- Study Permit: Issued by Immigration Canada. Get details on obtaining a study permit on the Canadian immigration website.
- Medical and Hospital Insurance: By law, international students must have a medical and hospital insurance coverage that covers the entire academic year at Vanier College. Vanier provides mandatory insurance with Greenshield to all its international students. Consult the plan (pdf).
All the above documents must be submitted to the Vanier College Admissions Office before registration begins.
Study Permit Processing Time: Government guidelines recommend a minimum processing time of 4 to 6 months for the Certificat d’acceptation du Québec (CAQ) and the study permit. Plan accordingly to ensure you have ample time to secure these documents.
Additional mandatory documents for career program students
Students admitted to career programs with mandatory fieldwork (stage) require a Co-op work permit in addition to the study permit. Apply for the work permit at the same time as you apply for your study permit.
We encourage you to review this information carefully and factor in processing times when planning your arrival in Quebec. If you have any questions regarding these steps, please contact the Vanier College Admissions Office.
Tuition fees and other expenses
International student fees are regulated by the Government of Quebec. Learn more about student fees and tuition.
The cost of living and studying in Canada for one year is estimated to be about $15,000 for room and board, and $500 to $1,000 for books, depending on course requirements.
International students are not eligible for Quebec student loans and bursaries.