INRS only teaches graduate students. Part of the Université du Québec network since 1969, it runs research centres in Quebec City, Montreal, Laval and Varennes, covering water and earth sciences, energy and telecommunications, health and biotechnology, and urban studies. Most teaching is in French. Many master's and PhD students receive funding through their research supervisor.
Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
Official website: inrs.ca
1969
Université du Québec
Graduate research university
Quebec City, Montreal, Laval and Varennes
CA$18,000 – CA$25,000
International graduate students, before funding
CA$13,000 – CA$17,000
Rent, food and local transport
Approximate figures for 2026-27, please verify. Fees change every year and vary by course, so check the latest amount on inrs.ca before you apply.
MSc Water Sciences
Masters DegreeDuration
24 Months
Intake
Sep, Jan, May
Exam Score
French proficiency, IELTS: 6.5
MSc Energy and Materials Science
Masters DegreeDuration
24 Months
Intake
Sep, Jan, May
Exam Score
French proficiency, IELTS: 6.5
MSc Telecommunications
Masters DegreeDuration
24 Months
Intake
Sep, Jan, May
Exam Score
French proficiency, IELTS: 6.5
MSc Applied Microbiology
Masters DegreeDuration
24 Months
Intake
Sep, Jan, May
Exam Score
French proficiency, IELTS: 6.5
PhD Earth Sciences
DoctorateDuration
48 Months
Intake
Sep, Jan, May
Exam Score
French proficiency, IELTS: 6.5
Graduate-only research training.
Four research centres across Quebec.
Funding through supervisors for many students.
Graduates join research labs, government agencies and environmental consultancies.
Energy and telecom graduates work in Quebec's technology and hydro sectors.
Eligible graduates can apply for a post-graduation work permit.
Undergrad
No UG intake
Postgrad
Main intake
Undergrad
No UG intake
Postgrad
Rolling
Undergrad
No UG intake
Postgrad
Rolling
The water and earth sciences centre is in Quebec City's Saint-Roch district, near the old town. Other centres are in Montreal, Laval's biotech park and Varennes.
Quebec City is French-speaking, historic and affordable. Montreal and Laval students have the metro and a larger job market.
Letter of acceptance from INRS
Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ)
Proof of funds for tuition and living
Online IRCC study permit application
Medical exam, if requested
Valid passport and biometrics
INRS admits students three times a year. Contact a potential supervisor first, then apply several months before the term to allow time for the CAQ and study permit.
Programmes start in September, January and May.
You need a Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) and then a Canadian study permit, supported by the letter of acceptance from INRS. Apply online to IRCC with proof of funds and biometrics.
Water sciences, energy and materials, telecommunications and microbiology attract most international students. You need a relevant degree, a supervisor and usually working French.
Many INRS students receive research funding through their supervisor, and some international students qualify for exemptions from differential fees. Ask your supervisor.
