University of Ottawa and Université de Montréal: Two Prestigious Francophone Destinations for Moroccan Students
Two leading Canadian Francophone universities, two complementary models: the University of Ottawa, a bilingual hub in the federal capital, and the Université de Montréal, the largest French-language university outside France. Fees, scholarships and admissions in 2025-2026.
For Moroccan students wishing to pursue university studies in French in Canada, the University of Ottawa and the Université de Montréal represent two top-tier choices. One is bilingual and anchored in the country's federal capital; the other is the largest French-language university in the world outside Paris. Their profiles are complementary, and admission decisions are based on distinct criteria.
University of Ottawa
The University of Ottawa is officially bilingual: the majority of its programmes are offered in French and English, often in both languages. Located in the national capital, it maintains close ties with the federal public service and parliamentary institutions. Its most recognised faculties cover law, political science, health, engineering, and management.
- International tuition (undergraduate): approximately 21,500–22,000 CAD per term based on available estimates — indicative 2025-2026 figures, to confirm on the official site
- Francophone exemption scholarship: awarded automatically at admission for Francophone international students — significant reduction in supplementary fees
- UHIP health insurance: included in annual fees for international students
- Languages: programmes available in French, English, or both depending on the programme
- Campus: Ottawa, 2 hours from Montreal, 5 hours from Toronto
Université de Montréal (UdeM)
The Université de Montréal is the largest French-language university in Canada. It brings together more than 60,000 students, including a significant proportion of internationals. Its programmes cover a very wide spectrum: medicine, law, science, arts, music, architecture, nutrition, industrial relations, and education sciences, among others. It is also recognised for the quality of its graduate programmes.
- Tuition: calculated per credit. A 4% increase was applied for international undergraduate students from fall 2025 — consult the registrar for exact 2026-2027 rates
- Exemption scholarship programme (levels A and B): deducted directly from tuition based on level and academic excellence
- Registration confirmation deposit: 1,000 CAD payable on acceptance of the offer
- Campus: Montreal, a dynamic Francophone metropolis with a rich cultural and professional offer
- Research output among the best in Canada
How to Choose Between the Two?
The choice between the University of Ottawa and the Université de Montréal depends on several factors: your discipline (some programmes are only offered at one of the two), your preference for a bilingual versus strictly French-speaking environment, the city where you wish to settle, and the scholarships available for your profile. Both institutions are recognised DLIs and provide access to the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).