Frequently Asked Questions about Study in Quebec

Requirements

Who can study there?

Marquette students with at least junior standing and strong French language skills (9 credits beyond FREN 004) may apply to this program.

What are the programs dates?

The fall term is from mid-September to mid-December, while the spring term is from mid-January through early May. There are also two summer terms (May until June/July till August) with French courses only.  

Do I need to know French?

Yes. Courses are taught in French, the language of Quebec. You will need to have earned at least 9 credits beyond FREN 004 or 010 to participate in this program.

Will my financial aid transfer? 

Because this is a Marquette-exchange program, most financial aid generally applies. To learn more about how this program will affect your specific financial aid package, please see the Office of Student Financial Aid.

Do I need a visa? How do I get a visa? 

Yes, you need a student visa to study in Canada for a semester or a year. Please apply two months in advance and remember that you need a passport. Note: US citizers do not need visas for summer sessions; they only need a passport.

Do I need vaccinations before I travel?

No.

About the Program

Who will my classmates be?

Your classmates will come from Canada and the rest of the world.

How many classes are taken per semester, on average?

The number of classes can range from 4 to 5 per semester and 3 per summer session.

How many credits can I earn?

An average of 15 credits can be obtained per semester. During each summer session you may obtain an average of 7 credits in French language.

What subjects are offered?

Business, Economics, French language, Education, Philosophy, Sociology, History, and Political science are a few. A list of classes can be obtained from Dr. Jamshid Hosseini.

Will my grades transfer? What are passing grades?

Yes, the courses are pre-approved by the different chairs of the departments before your departure.

Where will I live?

Laval offers four residences with 2400 rooms, all connected to the internet. Three of the residences are equipped with ultramodern communal kitchens. If you are seeking a living environment conducive to studying and that offers an enriching experience, the residence office can provide you with what you’re looking for at very affordable prices. Contact Dr. Jamshid Hosseini for more information.

Is there an orientation?

Yes, Laval Univeristy offers an extensive orientation at the beginning of each semester and a short orientation at the start of each summer session.

About the City

What is public transportation like?

Québec City is covered by a reasonably priced and efficient bus system, the hub of which is Gare Centrale d'Autobus on Boulevard Charest Est in St. Roch. Horse-drawn coaches (calèches) are a much more expensive treat. Finally, those who like to get around under their own steam can rent a bicycle for a day and explore the city's network of cycle paths.

How do I get around?

You are free to travel as often as your schedule permits. There are various travel modes. VIA Rail Canada operates train service in all regions of Canada. For information on routes, schedules, and reservations, contact VIA Rail Canada at (800) 561-9181 or visit their Web site. Greyhound Canada provides service to nearly 1,100 towns and cities in Canada, and maintains interline agreements with other bus companies in parts of Canada and in the United States. Contact them at (800) 661-8747 or visit their Web site. C.T.M.A. also offers ferry service between Montréal and the Magdalen Islands 10 months of the year.

What will the weather be like?

The climate of Québec is characterized by long, cold winters and short, cool summers, and by ample year-round precipitation, about a third of which falls as snow. Polar air masses sweep from the northwest across Hudson Bay, which is frozen over in winter. Warmer, more humid air comes from the southwest and southeast.

What is the cost of living compared to the United States?

Generally speaking, you will find food and services to be slightly cheaper than expenses in the US.

How can I find out more about the city?

Quebec City overlooks the St. Lawrence River from atop Cape Diamonte.  The city formed from 13 municipalities, with 650,000 people living in Greater Quebec. About 167,000 of these people are in the central of Quebec City. As the only fortified city in North America, Quebec City was recognized by UNESCO for its international culture and added to the prestigious list of World Heritage Cities. All in all, Quebec City holds a mystical story of cosmopolitan charm. For more detailed information explore the city's Web site . 

 Applying

What is the application deadline?

Program-specific applications are due by October 1 for the spring semester and March 1 for the summer and fall semester.

How do I apply?

Program-specific applications are available from Dr. Jamshid Hosseini in DS 101.

Required Materials for Marquette University

See the Applying for Study Abroad Page to see Marquette's requirements.

Marquette Requirements Deadline

October 1 for the spring semester and March 1 for the fall semester, summer term, or academic year.