Your success at university can hinge on how well you manage your expenses. The following table will provide you with a realistic picture of the expenses you can expect to incur.
- The figures below reflect the expenses of a Montréal undergraduate student.
- For the first year: Add $4,500 for initial settling-down costs (i.e. computer, winter clothing, furniture).
- International students: Fees for immigration documents and airline tickets are not included.
| Quebec student | Canadian, French or Belgian student | Other international student | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total for the year (two sessions)* | Min. $38,260 Max. $59,592 | Min. $45,860 Max. $65,692 | Min. $56,560 Max. $87,342 |
| Tuition fees for undergraduate students, two terms of full-time study (30 credits) | $4,600 | $10,700 | $31,600 |
| Cowan insurance – HEC Montréal (per year)** | – | – | $711 |
| Books (one session) | Up to $500 | ||
| Housing (per month) | Rent: $1,100 to $1,500 ($600 to $1,000 with roommate) | ||
| Home insurance: $30 to $50 | |||
| Heating and electricity***: $100 to $150 | |||
| Telephone, cable, Internet***: $120 to $150 | |||
| Food (per month) | Groceries: $400 to $600 | ||
| Restaurant and cafeteria meals: $150 to $200 | |||
| Transportation (per month) | Public transit (Montréal full-time student rate): $60 to $271 | ||
| Car: $200 to $300 | |||
| Gas and repairs: $200 to $320 | |||
| Personal care and medications (per month) | $120 to $250 | ||
| Sports and entertainment (per month) | $150 to $300 | ||
| Clothing (per month) | $50 to $250 | ||
| Other expenses | $100 | ||
* The minimum total budget reflects the financial reality of a student with a roommate who takes public transport. The maximum total budget reflects that of a student who lives alone and owns a car.
** Supplemental health and dental insurance fees are not included.
*** Would be shared expenses for roommates.
Inspired by a tool developed by the Université Laval’s Student Awards and Financial Aid Office
Useful information
- Student Budget Worksheet from the Government of Canada. Helps you calculate a realistic budget
- Tuition Fees for your program
- Funding my studies
Need help?
Get advice from a member of the financial aid team by emailing us at sae.afe [at] hec.ca (sae[dot]afe[at]hec[dot]ca).