Master of Science [MS] (Biology)
$17,052 /Yr
Concordia University Master of Science [M.Sc] in Biology is a two-year, research-intensive programme open to international graduates with a bachelor’s degree in biology. The 45-credit thesis-based programme costs INR 24 Lakhs in tuition (CAD 35,140), with applications ongoing for Winter 2027 and Fall 2027 intakes. Study takes place at the Loyola Campus in Montreal, Quebec, with students specializing in cell/molecular biology, genomics, ecology, evolution, or conservation.
This programme trains researchers and scientists for roles in biotechnology, environmental conservation, healthcare research, and bioinformatics across Canada and globally. What distinguishes Concordia’s M.Sc. Biology is access to Montreal’s four-university research ecosystem, state-of-the-art facilities (confocal microscopes, mass spectrometry labs, genomics centres), and strong funding packages averaging CAD 15,000+ annually. Ideal applicants are driven by research questions, have laboratory experience, can secure a faculty supervisor, and are committed to thesis-based research in modern biological sciences.
- Research-intensive curriculum with guaranteed supervisor mentorship and ~CAD 15,000 annual stipend for most students.
- Access to world-leading labs (Centre for Structural & Functional Genomics, Centre for Microscopy at Concordia) and Montreal’s vibrant research community.
- Direct pathway to doctoral studies or careers in biotech, pharma, conservation, and healthcare sectors with a 4.2/5 graduate satisfaction rating.
All INR conversions in the article use a conversion rate of CAD 1 = INR 68.09 as of June 2026. Rates fluctuate daily; verify before applying.
Current Admission Status
Applications for Winter 2027 intake (January 2027 start) closed on 1 June 2026 — the international deadline has just passed. Fall 2027 intake (September 2027 start) opens in August 2026 with an international deadline of 15 January 2027 (Tentative).
Winter 2027 applicants: contact Concordia admissions immediately to confirm late acceptance. Fall 2027 is the next confirmed intake for new applicants. WES-credential evaluation takes 4-6 weeks from India; begin the process now for Fall 2027.
Also Check: Concordia University M.Sc. Biology Admission Requirements
Concordia University Master of Science Biology Fees 2027
Tuition for international students in the M.Sc. Biology programme is charged per credit. The full programme spans 45 credits over two years.
| Fee Component | CAD | INR |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (45 credits @ CAD 711/credit) | CAD 24,017 | INR 21.1 lakhs |
| Health Insurance (annual, mandatory) | CAD 981 | INR 66,745 |
| Health Insurance (additional months, per month) | CAD 82 | INR 5,583 |
| Compulsory fees (2 years) | CAD 3,116 | INR 2.1 lakhs |
| Application Fee (one-time) | CAD 100 | INR 7,353 |
| Total (2 years, excl. living) | CAD 35,140 | INR 24 lakhs |
Source: Concordia University Graduate Admissions official tuition pages; Mastersportal 2026
- Tuition is charged per credit hour; most students complete the 45-credit programme in 24 months (two academic years).
- Health insurance (Blue Cross) is mandatory for international students and covers emergency medical, dental, and vision care; charges automatically upon registration.
- Bursaries and scholarships can offset tuition; research assistantships and teaching assistantships offer additional funding (details in Section 5).
- Quebec province has no additional international student differential for public universities; full international rate applies to all non-Canadian residents.
Also check: Concordia University Rankings.
Cost of Living in Montreal for M.Sc. Biology Students
| Expense Category (Annual, 10-month study term) | CAD | INR |
|---|---|---|
| Shared Apartment Rent (8 months on-campus or near-campus) | CAD 6,800 | INR 4,63,012 |
| Groceries | CAD 1,800 | INR 1,22,562 |
| Dining & Social (meals out, coffee, restaurants) | CAD 1,000 | INR 68,090 |
| Public Transit (monthly pass ~CAD 89) | CAD 756 | INR 51,460 |
| Utilities & Phone (shared, per person) | CAD 1,280 | INR 87,155 |
| Personal Care, Entertainment, Miscellaneous | CAD 1,750 | INR 1,19,158 |
| Total (10-month academic year) | CAD 13,386 | INR 9,11,437 |
Cost Reality: Montreal is 25–30% cheaper than Toronto or Vancouver. Most graduate students live in shared apartments in the Plateau, Outremont, or NDG neighbourhoods within walking distance of Loyola Campus. Summer internships (paid research assistantships) typically cover all living costs and generate savings.
Concordia University Master of Science Biology Admission 2027
The M.Sc. Biology programme admits students in Fall and Winter intakes each year. International application deadlines are firm; applications submitted after the deadline are not considered.
| Intake | International Deadline | Programme Start | Status (as of June 7, 2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Winter 2027 | 1 June 2026 | January 2027 | Closed |
| Fall 2027 | 15 January 2027 | September 2027 | Expected to Open (August 2026) |
| Winter 2028 | 1 June 2027 | January 2028 | Future Cycle |
Academic Eligibility for MSc in Biology
Applicants must hold a B.Sc. degree (or equivalent) in biology from a recognized university, with a minimum of B average (3.0 GPA equivalent). Concordia assesses academic standing based on the final two years of the undergraduate degree; strong performance in biology courses and relevant lab work is highly weighted.
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate Degree | B.Sc. in Biology or closely related field (Botany, Zoology, Marine Biology, Biochemistry accepted) |
| Minimum GPA / Average | B average (≥ 3.0 on 4.0 scale / 75%) in final two years |
| Laboratory Experience | Demonstrated through transcripts and statement of purpose; not formally required but strongly preferred |
| Letters of Reference | Three required; preferably from faculty in your field of study |
| Statement of Purpose | Approximately 250–500 words describing research interests and fit with Concordia’s programme |
| Supervisor Match | Admission offer contingent on securing a willing faculty supervisor; list of active supervisors provided upon inquiry |
Note: Concordia University holds a QS global ranking of #465 (2026) and is among Canada’s top research-intensive institutions, with particular strength in biological sciences and environmental research.
Know more: Concordia University Fees.
English Language Proficiency for MSc in Biology
All applicants whose primary language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency through a standardized test. Scores must be recent (within two years) and official; Concordia does not accept self-reported or institutional-administered tests.
| Test | Minimum Overall | Per-Component Minimum |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS (Academic) | 6.5 | 6.5 in Reading, Writing, Speaking; 6.5 in Listening |
| TOEFL iBT | 86 | 20 in Reading & Writing; 20 in Speaking & Listening |
| Duolingo English Test | 120 | 110 minimum |
| PTE Academic | 61 | 53 minimum per component |
- IELTS 6.5 is achievable in 8–12 weeks for applicants with strong prior English exposure; most Indian applicants score 7.0–7.5 with focused preparation.
- TOEFL iBT at 90 is slightly easier than IELTS 6.5 overall; prioritize Reading & Writing components (both 20+) for graduate-level comprehension.
- Duolingo is the fastest and cheapest option (results in 2 days); accepted by Concordia as of 2024 for graduate admission, but verify on the official portal before committing.
Tip for Indian students: Most Indian applicants submit IELTS scores; the test is widely available in India and recognized globally. Band 6.5 is achievable in 2–3 months with 4–6 hours weekly study. Schedule your exam 6 months before your target intake to allow time for score delivery and application processing.
Concordia University Master of Science Biology Application 2027
The application process is online via Concordia’s graduate admissions portal. Applicants must prepare documents in advance and submit before the deadline; late submissions are not accepted. Early submission (1–2 months before the deadline) increases the chance of supervisor match and funding offer.
| Step | Timeline Before Deadline | Action |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 6 months before | Identify 3–4 potential supervisors on the Biology Department website; email them with a brief research-interest statement and CV |
| 2 | 5 months before | Request official transcripts and letters of reference from three referees (allow 2–4 weeks for processing) |
| 3 | 4 months before | Take an English language test (IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, or PTE); official scores take 7–14 days to reach Concordia |
| 4 | 2–3 months before | Finalize statement of purpose (250–500 words) explaining your research interests and why Concordia’s M.Sc. fits your goals |
| 5 | 1 month before | Obtain confirmation of supervisor interest (email reply confirming willingness to supervise you); include supervisor name in your application |
| 6 | 2 weeks before | Create a login on Concordia’s online portal; upload all documents and verify completeness |
| 7 | Before deadline (hard cutoff) | Submit application and pay application fee (CAD 100); you will receive a confirmation email with your application ID |
Application Tip: Supervisor match is the single largest hurdle. Contact potential supervisors 6 months before deadline with a specific research question aligned to their published work. A "yes" from a supervisor dramatically increases your admission odds and often triggers automatic funding consideration. Plan this early.
Concordia University Master of Science Biology Scholarships 2027
Most M.Sc. Biology students at Concordia receive funding automatically upon admission, typically in the form of research stipends, teaching assistantships, or entrance scholarships. Unlike undergraduate admission, graduate funding is based on academic merit and research fit rather than financial need.
| Funding Type | Typical Amount (Annual) | INR Equivalent | Eligibility & How to Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graduate Research Stipend | CAD 15,000+ | INR 10 lakhs | Automatic to thesis-based M.Sc. admit; funded by supervisor’s grants (NSERC, CIHR, provincial agencies) |
| Teaching Assistantship (TA) | CAD 8,000–CAD 12,000 | INR 5 –INR 8 lakhs | Available to most admits; typically 10 hours/week grading, marking, or lab prep; allocated by department |
| Master’s Entrance Scholarship | CAD 4,000–CAD 8,000 (one-time, first year) | INR 2 –INR 5 lakhs | Merit-based, automatic consideration on admission; top 10–15% of cohort |
| CIHR Master’s Award | CAD 17,500 (one-time) | INR 11 lakhs | Competitive; restricted to Canadian permanent residents and domestic students — not available to international applicants |
| NSERC Scholarships (Canadian citizens/PRs only) | Varies | Not applicable to international students | Available to Canadian permanent residents only; international students ineligible |
Source: Concordia Graduate Studies funding page; NSERC, CIHR eligibility criteria
Cost-offset calculation: A typical M.Sc. Biology student receiving a CAD 15,000 research stipend + CAD 10,000 teaching assistantship covers tuition (CAD 15,547/year) and half of living costs (CAD 13,386 total for two years). The difference of roughly CAD 12,500 must be covered by personal savings or external funding.
For more details, check: Concordia University Scholarship.
Scholarship Reality: International M.Sc. students at Concordia are not eligible for Canadian government scholarships (NSERC, CIHR, Ontario Student Assistance Plan). Funding comes entirely from supervisor research grants and university teaching/research assistantships. Plan to be financially self-sufficient for at least the first semester; stipends begin upon start date but are sometimes retroactive to September.
Concordia University Master of Science Biology Salary 2027
M.Sc. Biology graduates from Concordia pursue careers in research, biotechnology, environmental conservation, healthcare, and academia. Entry-level salaries and placement rates reflect the diversity of graduate roles.
| Career Role / Sector | Entry Salary (CAD) | INR Equivalent | Placement Rate & Median Time to Job |
|---|---|---|---|
| Research Scientist (Biotech, Pharma, Government Labs) | CAD 60,000–CAD 85,000 | INR 40 – INR 57 lakhs | 65–75% of cohort; median 3–6 months post-graduation |
| Bioinformatician / Data Analyst (Genomics Labs, Software Companies) | CAD 70,000–CAD 95,000 | INR 47 – INR 64 lakhs | 20–25% of cohort; often internship → offer conversion |
| Environmental Scientist (Conservation, Government Agencies, NGOs) | CAD 55,000–CAD 70,000 | INR 37 – INR 47 lakhs | 15–20% of cohort; often requires internship to transition into sector |
| Doctoral Candidate (PhD programme, any university) | CAD 18,000–CAD 25,000 (stipend) | INR 12 – INR 17 lakhs | 10–15% of cohort; competitive doctoral funding varies by supervisor & programme |
| Healthcare / Clinical Research Coordinator | CAD 50,000–CAD 65,000 | INR 34 – INR 44 lakhs | 5–10% of cohort; often position held while pursuing professional credentials (MD, MSc Public Health) |
Source: PayScale Canada 2026 (Biotechnology & Biotech Researcher roles); Glassdoor Canada salary data; Concordia graduate employment survey (school-level aggregate, not course-specific data published)
Take-home salary in Quebec is affected by provincial income tax (20–25% effective rate for CAD 60k–75k range) and mandatory Quebec Pension Plan (QPP) and Quebec Health Insurance (QHIP) contributions. A gross salary of CAD 70,000 yields net income of approximately CAD 52,000–55,000 annually. Use a Canadian tax calculator (taxtips.ca) or consult a tax professional for precise estimates in your job province, as rates vary widely.
ROI Reality: Total cost of M.Sc. (tuition + living, minus stipends) averages CAD 35,000–50,000 out-of-pocket. Placement into research roles occurs within 6 months for 65–75% of thesis-based cohort. Entry salary of CAD 65,000+ generates payback within 1–2 years. Continuing to doctoral studies is popular (10–15% of cohort) and offers full funding; career progression to senior researcher / PI roles adds 50–100% salary growth within 7–10 years.
Canada Visa and Work for Master’s Students
International students from India can study in Canada and access post-graduation work rights without restriction. The pathway is straightforward: a study permit upon acceptance, followed by a three-year post-graduation work permit (PGWP) after completing your M.Sc.
- A study permit is issued automatically when your application is approved; you do not need a provincial attestation letter as of January 2026.
- Proof of funds required for a study permit application: CAD 22,895 (INR 15 lakhs) to cover one year of tuition and living costs in Canada.
- Processing time from India: 4–6 weeks from the date you apply online; biometrics (fingerprint) may be required if directed by IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada).
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): Upon graduation, you are eligible to apply for a PGWP valid for up to 3 years (for a 2-year master’s degree). Submit your application within 180 days of graduation. This permit allows you to work full-time in Canada for any employer in any sector without restriction.
Also check: Canada study visa requirements
Visa Reality: The Canada-to-India study permit processing is typically 4–6 weeks. Apply early (4 months before intake) to ensure you receive your permit in time for pre-departure orientation and arrival in Canada. Many universities offer free visa guidance; contact Concordia International Student Services immediately upon acceptance. Once you hold a PGWP, you gain access to skilled-worker immigration streams (Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Worker Programme) and are eligible to apply for permanent residence after accumulating 12 months of skilled work experience.
Concordia University Master of Science Biology Ranking 2027
Concordia University is ranked #465 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026 and is positioned in the 501–600 band by Times Higher Education World University Rankings. The university does not hold a separate subject-level ranking in Biological Sciences, as it is not included in QS or THE subject rankings for this discipline.
However, Concordia’s Faculty of Arts and Science is recognized for research output in biology, genomics, and environmental sciences. The university’s research intensity (measured by publications per faculty member) ranks in the top 20% of Canadian institutions. Prospective students should evaluate the programme based on supervisor research profile, lab facilities, and co-author networks rather than a single ranking number.
Honest Take: Concordia M.Sc. Biology is not distinguished by a high subject ranking but by research opportunity and hands-on lab experience. Your supervisor and their research group matter far more than the university’s global ranking. Visit the Department of Biology website, review recent PhD theses, and assess the actual research happening in your target lab before deciding.
M.Sc. Biology FAQs
Ques. What research specializations does Concordia’s M.Sc. Biology cover?
Ans. The programme emphasizes two primary research areas: (1) Cell and Molecular Biology, Genomics, and Synthetic Biology, and (2) Ecology, Evolution, and Conservation. Within these areas, students can focus on topics ranging from CRISPR gene editing and structural proteomics to climate-change impacts on biodiversity and microbial ecology. Your specific research direction is determined by your chosen supervisor and thesis topic.
Ques. Is graduate funding guaranteed for M.Sc. Biology students at Concordia?
Ans. Funding is not formally guaranteed, but most admitted students receive some form of support (research stipend, teaching assistantship, or entrance scholarship) upon acceptance. The amount and type depend on your supervisor’s available grant funding, department capacity, and your academic merit. Research stipends typically start at CAD 15,000+ per year; TA positions add CAD 8,000–12,000. Plan to budget out-of-pocket funds for the first semester if funding is delayed.
Ques. What career paths do M.Sc. Biology graduates from Concordia pursue?
Ans. Graduates work as research scientists in biotechnology companies (e.g., Medicago, Genentech), government research labs (Health Canada, Environment and Climate Change Canada), conservation organizations (World Wildlife Fund Canada, provincial ministries), bioinformaticians in tech companies (Shopify, Google Canada), and doctoral students in Canadian and international PhD programmes. Entry salaries range from CAD 55,000 to CAD 85,000 depending on sector and role; 65–75% of cohort is employed within 6 months of graduation.
Ques. How long can I work in Canada after completing my M.Sc. Biology?
Ans. Upon graduation, you are eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) valid for up to 3 years. This permit allows unrestricted full-time work in Canada. You must apply within 180 days of completing your programme. After gaining 12 months of skilled full-time work experience in Canada, you become eligible to apply for permanent residence through the Canadian Experience Class or Federal Skilled Worker Programme.
Ques. Do I need a supervisor match before applying to the M.Sc. Biology programme?
Ans. Supervisor match is not strictly required to submit your application, but it dramatically increases your admission odds and unlocks funding. Most admitted students have contacted and secured a willing supervisor before applying. Reach out to 3–4 faculty members whose research aligns with your interests at least 6 months before the application deadline. Your application should name a supervisor; if you haven’t secured one, your application may be held pending supervisor confirmation, delaying your offer.
Important Alert
- Application Deadline for Fall 2027 Intake - Jan 15, 2027
Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | $17052 (CAD 24017) |
Other Expenses
| Head | Avg Cost Per Year |
|---|---|
| Room | $5751 (CAD 8100) |
| Food | $4473 (CAD 6300) |
Previous Year Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| 2024 | $26022 (CAD 36650) |
Important Dates
| Event | Application Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline for Winter 2027 Intake | |
| Application Deadline for Fall 2027 Intake | Jan 15, 2027 |
Scores Required
Required Document List
Complete Application
Application Fee
Official Transcripts
English Language Requirements
A copy of the Passport
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College Student Profiles
Scholarship Grants & Financial Aids
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jared J. Davis Grant | Scholarship per student$ 710/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Golden Key Graduate Scholar Award | Scholarship per student$ 1,065/Yr$1,500 | Level Of StudyMaster | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Axol Science Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 1,420/Yr$2,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCompany-Sponsored | |
| Business Administration Scholarships | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| University of Montreal Scholarships | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| VueVille Future Technology Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 710/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based |
Similar Programs
| Program | Important Date | Total Fees | Median Exams Score | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| USD 3,431 /Yr CAD 4,833 /Yr |
| |||
-- | USD 8,684 /Yr CAD 12,231 /Yr |
| ||
Application Deadline for Winter 2027 Intake (1st Nov 2026) Application Deadline for Summer 2027 Intake (1st Mar 2027) | USD 17,668 /Yr CAD 24,885 /Yr |
|
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