Bachelor of Fine Arts [BFA] (Design)
$21,816 /Yr
Concordia University’s Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A) Design is a 90–120 credit undergraduate program combining critical design theory with hands-on creative practice. Based at the downtown Sir George Williams campus in Montreal, the program enrols approximately 200–250 design-focused students per cohort. Admission is available for the Fall intake only, with an international application deadline of February 1. Tuition for international students is CAD 32,050 per year (INR 21.6 Lakhs approximately).
Concordia University’s design program equips students to work as creative directors, graphic designers, industrial designers, or multimedia specialists at firms like Sid Lee, the National Film Board, and Surface3 Design. Concordia’s Faculty of Fine Arts ranks in the top 150 art and design schools globally, with nearly 4,000 students across all disciplines. The curriculum emphasises sustainability and positive social impact, asking students to "think critically about every choice as a designer." Ideal applicants are visually curious, socially aware, and eager to explore how design shapes culture and the built environment.
- Access to professional workshops including metal/wood fabrication labs and digital production facilities for prototyping and experimentation.
- Small cohort structure with direct mentorship from practising designers and design theorists working in real-world industries.
- Eligibility for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allowing up to 4 years of paid work in Canada after graduation.
Current Admission Status
Applications for the Fall 2027 intake are Open—international student deadline: 01 February 2027.
Indian applicants should submit documentation 4–6 weeks before this date to allow time for passport/credential verification and Study Permit processing via the Canada-India bilateral agreement.
Concordia University BFA Design Fees and Living Costs 2027
International tuition for the BFA Design program at Concordia is charged per credit. Below is the annual cost breakdown for a typical 30-credit academic year.
| Fee Component | Amount (CAD) | Amount (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (30 credits @ CAD 1,160/credit) | CAD 32,050 | INR 21.6 Lakhs |
| Compulsory Health Insurance (Blue Cross) | CAD 981 | INR 67,900 |
| Books, Materials & Supplies | CAD 2,843 | INR 1.97 Lakhs |
| Public Transport (Montreal OPUS card) | CAD 756 | INR 52,400 |
Source: Concordia University Undergraduate Tuition & Fees (2026–2027) and Faculty of Fine Arts course requirements.
Fee Components Explained:
- Tuition is the largest expense; international students in Arts and Science pay CAD 1,160 per credit, applied across 30 credits per academic year (some semesters lighter or heavier depending on course load).
- Health insurance is mandatory for all international students and cannot be waived, even if you have coverage from your home country.
- Design students incur additional material costs for 3D fabrication, printmaking supplies, and digital software licenses above the general books allowance.
- The OPUS public transport card grants unlimited access to Montreal’s metro, bus, and commuter rail system, valid from August to April each academic year.
All INR conversions in the article use a conversion rate of CAD 1 = INR 69.19 as of June 2026. Rates fluctuate daily; verify before applying.
Know more: Concordia University Fees.
Cost of Living in Montreal for BFA Design Students
| Accommodation Type | Annual Cost (CAD) | Annual Cost (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| On-Campus Residence (8 months, mid-range) | CAD 9,136 | INR 6.32 Lakhs |
| Off-Campus Shared Apartment (12 months) | CAD 8,800 | INR 6.09 Lakhs |
| Groceries & Dining (monthly CAD 400–500) | CAD 5,400 | INR 3.74 Lakhs |
| Personal Goods & Services | CAD 4,897 | INR 3.39 Lakhs |
| Total Annual Living Costs (Off-Campus Scenario) | CAD 18,697 | INR 12.94 Lakhs |
Living Cost Reality: Most design students live off-campus in shared apartments in the Plateau, Griffintown, or Old Montreal neighborhoods, where monthly rent (INR 18,000–22,000) is cheaper than residence halls.
Also check: Cost of Living in Canada
Concordia University BFA Design Admission
Concordia’s BFA Design accepts international students each fall. Admission intakes and academic thresholds are standardised across the Faculty of Fine Arts, though the Design program is more selective due to portfolio review.
| Admission Criteria | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Intake | Fall Only (September Start) |
| Minimum High School GPA | 3.0 (unweighted) or equivalent CGPA in your final secondary exams (75%) |
| Portfolio Submission | Maximum 15 creative works; required for admission decision |
| Statement of purpose | 500-word essay (1 page) explaining program choice and artistic goals |
| Admission Selectivity (Design) | Highly competitive; approximately 15–20% acceptance rate for international applicants |
Know more: Concordia University Admission
English Language Proficiency (ELP) Requirements
All international students whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency through one of the tests below. Average scores among admitted BFA Design students typically exceed these minimums.
| Test | Minimum Overall Score | Per-Component Minimum |
|---|---|---|
| TOEFL iBT | 90 | Reading 20, Writing 20, Speaking 20, Listening 20 |
| IELTS (Academic) | 7.0 (B2) | All bands 6.5 minimum |
| PTE Academic | 61 | All sections 55 minimum |
| Duolingo English Test | 119 | No component breakdown |
- TOEFL and IELTS are most widely recognised; results valid for 2 years from test date, critical for visa applications.
- Indian applicants typically require 4–6 months of preparation; IELTS scores are often obtained through centres in major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore.
- Design-focused programs at Concordia do not waive English requirements even for portfolio-strong applicants; all components must be met.
Concordia University BFA Design Application
The application process for international students involves multiple steps and has specific deadlines to allow for Study Permit and credential verification.
| Milestone | Deadline | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| International Application Submission | 01 February 2027 | Required for visa and credential processing time |
| Portfolio Upload (Slideroom) | 01 February 2027 | Max 15 works, high-resolution images and video media |
| Letter of Intent Submission | 01 February 2027 | 500 words, English or French |
| Admission Decisions Released | 31 March 2027 (Expected) | Conditional or unconditional offers; portfolio review may take 4–6 weeks |
| Confirmation of Enrollment | 31 May 2027 (Expected) | Pay CAD 100 deposit (non-refundable, applied to tuition) |
| Study Permit Application Window Opens | 01 April 2027 (Expected) | Submit within 4 weeks of admission decision; processing 4–8 weeks |
Source: Concordia University Section 13 – Admission Regulations (2026–2027).
Application Tip: Submit your portfolio by mid-January to build a buffer for technical glitches or credential verification delays; a 2-week early submission signals seriousness and reduces last-minute stress.
Know more: Concordia University photos
Concordia University BFA Design Scholarships
Concordia offers several merit-based scholarships for international undergraduate students, though the percentage of Design students receiving full-tuition awards is small (typically 3–5% per cohort).
| Scholarship | Award (CAD) | Award (INR) | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Presidential Scholarship | Full Tuition + Fees + Books + Residence | INR 1.5–2.0 Crore (4-year) | Exceptional academic + leadership; highly competitive |
| Entrance Scholarship (One-Time) | CAD 4,000 | INR 2.77 Lakhs | Top 10% admission average; automatic consideration |
| Faculty Merit Awards (Annual) | CAD 8,000–16,000 | INR 5.54–11.07 Lakhs | Strong academic record; awarded by the Faculty of Fine Arts |
Cost-Offset Math for Design Students: An Entrance Scholarship of CAD 4,000 reduces year-one tuition by ~12%, bringing net cost to CAD 30,800 (INR 21.33 Lakhs). Most international design students do not qualify for additional awards beyond admission-based scholarships, making external funding (family, Indian government loans, or private lenders) the primary supplement.
- Applications for need-based aid are separate; contact Concordia’s International Students Financial Aid office for specific eligibility and deadlines.
- Concordia does not offer tuition waivers based on country of origin; all international students pay the same full international rate.
Scholarship Reality: Design students often bridge the gap through part-time work (max 20 hours during studies, unrestricted hours during breaks under PGWP rules). Monthly part-time earnings (CAD 600–800) help cover food, transport, and discretionary costs.
For more details, check: Concordia University Scholarship.
Concordia University BFA Design Salary
Graduates of Concordia’s BFA Design program work as creative directors, graphic designers, user-experience (UX) designers, and industrial designers. Recent graduates have secured roles at Sid Lee, the National Film Board, and boutique design studios across Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver.
| Role / Industry | Starting Gross Salary (CAD) | Starting Gross Salary (INR) | Years to Mid-Career (CAD) | Years to Mid-Career (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graphic Designer (Freelance Start) | CAD 28,000–35,000 | INR 19.37–24.22 Lakhs | CAD 50,000–65,000 | INR 34.60–45.00 Lakhs |
| Creative Director (Advertising/Design Firm) | CAD 40,000–50,000 | INR 27.68–34.60 Lakhs | CAD 70,000–90,000 | INR 48.43–62.27 Lakhs |
| UX/UI Designer (Tech Startup) | CAD 50,000–60,000 | INR 34.60–41.51 Lakhs | CAD 75,000–95,000 | INR 51.88–65.72 Lakhs |
| Industrial Designer (Manufacturing) | CAD 45,000–55,000 | INR 31.15–38.04 Lakhs | CAD 65,000–80,000 | INR 45.00–55.35 Lakhs |
Source: Concordia Faculty of Fine Arts – Career Management Services Employment Data & Canadian Design Industry Wage Reports (2025–2026).
Gross salary figures above reflect typical 2026 Canadian market rates. Deductions include federal tax (14–33% depending on province and income), Canada Pension Plan (5.95% employee contribution), and Employment Insurance (1.63%). Take-home pay is typically 65–75% of gross depending on province and deductions.
- Many design graduates start as freelancers, building clientele over 2–3 years before securing full-time roles with salary and benefits.
- Design salaries in Montreal are 10–15% lower than Toronto or Vancouver due to lower cost of living and regional market size.
- Bilingual designers (English + French) command a 5–10% salary premium in Montreal and Quebec.
ROI Reality: A 4-year BFA Design totals ~INR 97 Lakhs (tuition + living). Starting salary of INR 24–35 Lakhs requires 3–5 years post-tax earnings to recoup cost, but portfolio-driven career growth can accelerate this timeline, especially for those who move to larger markets (Toronto, Vancouver, or later, USA).
Also Check: Concordia University students’ profile
Canada Visa for BFA Design Graduates
The Canadian government explicitly supports international design graduates through the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing visa-free work for up to 4 years without a specific employer sponsorship.
- The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is issued for the same duration as your program; a 4-year BFA grants a 4-year PGWP valid from the date of graduation.
- The PGWP is an open work permit, allowing you to change employers, freelance, or start your own design studio without re-applying for a new visa.
- After accumulating 12+ months of Canadian work experience, you become eligible for Express Entry skilled-worker immigration, which can lead to permanent residence within 12–18 months.
- Spouses or dependents can apply for companion open work permits if you sponsor them, though they must meet separate financial requirements.
Visa Reality: The PGWP is one of the world’s most generous post-study work visas, allowing design graduates to build a professional portfolio and earn Canadian income before applying for permanent residence—a path unavailable to US or UK design graduates.
Also Check: Canada Student Visa Requirements and Process for Indian Applicants
The program suits visually-driven, independent thinkers who want to work on projects with social and environmental purpose. If you thrive in maker-spaces, collaborate across disciplines, and view design as activism—this program is an excellent fit. Montreal offers lower living costs than Toronto or Vancouver while maintaining a world-class design and creative industry. A 4-year BFA and 4-year PGWP provide a clear 8-year pathway to Canadian permanent residence, making this an attractive option for Indian students seeking a stable, work-integrated post-secondary route outside the US and UK.
BFA Design FAQs
Ques. Do I need previous design experience to be admitted to Concordia’s BFA Design program?
Ans. No prior formal design education is required, but a strong portfolio demonstrating visual thinking, creativity, and problem-solving is essential. High school art classes, independent creative projects, or design internships strengthen your application. Admissions judges portfolios holistically, valuing conceptual clarity and intentionality over technical polish.
Ques. Can I work part-time while studying the BFA Design program?
Ans. Yes. International students on a study permit can work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks (May–August, December–January). Many design students work as freelance designers, retail staff, or baristas, earning CAD 15–17/hour minimum wage. This income helps cover living costs and builds professional experience.
Ques. What is the portfolio review process for BFA Design applicants?
Ans. You upload a maximum of 15 creative works via Slideroom (Concordia’s portfolio platform). Faculty review your work for originality, conceptual strength, and communication clarity. Reviews take 4–6 weeks, and decisions are issued via email with detailed feedback on portfolio strengths and areas for growth.
Ques. Are there scholarships specifically for international design students?
Ans. Scholarships are merit-based and not country-specific. Presidential Scholarships (full tuition + living costs) are extremely rare but available to exceptional international applicants. Entrance Scholarships (CAD 4,000 one-time) are automatic if you rank in the top 10% of admitted students. Contact Concordia’s International Financial Aid office for Canada-specific bursaries or external funding opportunities.
Ques. Can I transfer from a 2-year design diploma to Concordia’s BFA Design?
Ans. Yes, with conditions. Concordia evaluates transfer credits on a course-by-course basis; typically 30–45 credits from an accredited design diploma transfer into the 120-credit BFA. You would enter in second or third year depending on your prior coursework. Contact designandcomputationarts@concordia.ca with your transcript and program outline for a formal equivalency assessment.
Important Alert
- Application Deadline for Fall 2027 Intake - Feb 1, 2027
Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | $21816 (CAD 30300) |
Other Expenses
| Head | Avg Cost Per Year |
|---|---|
| Room And Board | $5832 (CAD 8100) |
| Food | $4536 (CAD 6300) |
Previous Year Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| 2024 | $22068 (CAD 30650) |
| 2023 | $22068 (CAD 30650) |
| 2022 | $19529 (CAD 27123) |
| 2021 | $13062 (CAD 18142) |
Important Dates
| Event | Application Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline for Fall 2027 Intake | Feb 1, 2027 |
Scores Required
Required Document List
Complete Application
Application Fee
Official Transcripts
English Language Requirements
A copy of the Passport
Do you think the Rankings are wrong ? Report Here
Key Resources for Your Study Abroad Journey
Course Guides
Bachelor of Arts in Canada: Top Universities, Cost for Indian Students, and Scope
Top Undergraduate Courses in Canada: Fees 2024, Top Colleges, Admissions, Placements & Salaries
Options Available
| Program | Delivery Type | Duration | Program Type | Tuition Fees |
| B.F.A Art History and Studio Art | full time | 4 years | on-campus | $23830.56 |
| B.F.A Computation Arts | full time | 4 years | on-campus | $23830.56 |
| B.F.A Contemporary Dance | full time | 4 years | on-campus | $23830.56 |
| B.F.A Music | full time | 4 years | on-campus | $23830.56 |
Scholarship Grants & Financial Aids
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| India First Year Excellence Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 3,600/Yr$5,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| Axol Science Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 1,440/Yr$2,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCompany-Sponsored | |
| Business Administration Scholarships | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| University of Montreal Scholarships | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| VueVille Future Technology Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 720/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Go Clean Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 2,520/Yr$3,500 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based |
Similar Programs
| Program | Important Date | Total Fees | Median Exams Score | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Application Deadline for Fall 2027 Intake (1st Feb 2027) | USD 21,816 /Yr CAD 30,300 /Yr |
| ||
-- | USD 30,599 /Yr CAD 42,498 /Yr |
| ||
-- | USD 19,171 /Yr CAD 26,627 /Yr |
| ||
 B.F.A, University of Ottawa4 years | Application Deadline for Fall Intake (1st Apr 2027) Document Submission Deadline for Fall Intake (2nd May 2027) | USD 31,200 /Yr CAD 43,334 /Yr |
| |
-- | USD 26,300 /Yr CAD 36,528 /Yr |
|
Do you think the Dates are wrong ? Report Here
interested in this College ?
Follow & Share this college to get information about admission.
Comments
Found 8 Comments
To apply for the M.Eng Information Systems Security program of Concordia University you must have taken IELTS Academic and have an overall score of 6.5 with no individual score less than 6.5.
To apply for the MBA program of Concordia Univesity, you must have an undergraduate degree in any discipline with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 out of 4.3 from a recognized college/university. You must also have a GMAT score of 580 and above plus a valid language proficiency test score in English or French. Along with these a minimum of two-years full-time work experience is required.
The duration required to complete the Master of Computer Science thesis-based program of Concordia University is two year. The university accepts applications for this program in the Fall, Winter and Summer intakes. While pursuing this program you can apply for a scholarship.