FAQ

FAQ

General information

Do I need to have studied business to apply?

NO. This program is designed for a broad range of people, be they students, professionals, or otherwise. It does not require any particular knowledge of business.

Do I need basic knowledge of French to register?

NO. Once you have paid your registration fee, you will take an online placement test (written and oral) to determine your level. Depending on registration numbers, three (3) levels will be offered:

  • Beginner
  • Elementary
  • Pre-intermediate

Whatever your level, classes will be based on the four (4) language skills: reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

All learning activities will focus on everyday French and feature techniques such as authentic, interactive roleplay. Some of the skills and themes developed throughout the program will relate to the French-speaking business world.

Is the course material included in the tuition fees?

YES, all course material is included and will be provided when the program begins.

However, you will need to bring the following items:

  • A bilingual dictionary of your choice (towards French)
  • Notebook, sheets of paper, pencils, pens, etc.
Do I need to bring my laptop or tablet?

YES, it is very important that you bring either your laptop or tablet, as all content for the French course you will be taking will only be available via ZoneCours, HEC Montréal’s digital learning environment. The school is equipped with a high-speed wireless network and over 11,000 network outlets.

What is the cost of living in Montréal?

Montréal is a large city with a cost of living that is somewhat lower than in other cities of comparable size in North America and Europe.

MEALS

At the HEC Montréal cafeteria:

  • Breakfast: ± $6.00
  • Lunch: ± $13.00 (soup, daily special, dessert, beverage) – Daily special only: ± $9.00

Groceries:

  • ± $110.00/week

Restaurants in the city:

  • Set menu (menu of the day: 3 dishes + coffee often included): ± $18.00 to ± $30.00 – generally a bit more expensive for dinner

TRANSPORTATION

Metro/bus pass

  • Weekly metro/bus pass: OPUS Card (± $6.00 one-time fee) – Weekly pass (regular fare – Zone A): ± $29.00 (unlimited use, from Monday through Sunday). STM website (Société de transport de Montréal)

Parking

  • While public transit and walking are the most ecological ways to get to HEC Montréal, parking is available in the Côte-Sainte-Catherine building (where the program will take place) and can hold up to 450 vehicles. Costs: ± $3.50 per half hour | ± $20.00 for the day until 5:00 p.m. | ± $17.00 after 5:00 p.m. on weekdays | ± $17.00 on Saturdays and Sundays.

Taxis

Taxis in Montréal are safe and relatively affordable.

  • Taxi Co-op : 514 725-9885
  • Taxi Diamond : 514 273-6331
  • Taxi Atlas : 514 485-8585

All prices below are for reference only and subject to change. All prices are in Canadian dollars. Currency converter

What is the temperature like in January and February in Montréal?

Montréal can get very cold in January and February. Our winters are notoriously intense, with temperatures often well below zero. The coldest days can easily drop below -20 degrees Celsius. With such extreme weather, it is very important to dress properly. You will need to bring at least these essential items to make the most of the winter:

  1. A winter coat
  2. A hat and scarf
  3. Gloves
  4. Long underwear/base layers
  5. Winter boots
  6. Thick socks
Do I need a visa to come to Canada?

Depending which country you are from, you may need to apply for a visitor visa to study in Canada for less than six (6) months.
See if you need to obtain a visitor visa from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. Once your registration in the program has been finalized (paid in full), all official documents regarding your registration will be sent to you so you can apply for a visa if necessary.