Sample budget
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 (15 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 |
||
| 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 not included.
*** Would be a shared expense 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@hec.ca.