English Language Requirements
Since English is the primary language of instruction and communication at McGill, you must demonstrate an adequate level of English proficiency prior to admission to McGill, regardless of citizenship status or country of origin.
McGill University has this language requirement to ensure that all students will have the opportunity for success in their chosen program. On the following pages you will find information on when proof of proficiency is required, not required and where exemptions may occur.
Applicants to the DMD Program and DMD Advanced Standing for Foreign Trained Dentists Pathway should click on the 'Prospective Undergraduate Students English Language Proficiency' link.
Prospective Undergraduate Students English Language Proficiency
Prospective Graduate Students English Language Proficiency
French Language Requirements
As dental students, you will be in regular contact with francophone patients in the undergraduate dental clinic and in teaching hospitals. As of the 2025 cycle (applicants applying in 2024), having a basic knowledge of French will not be a requirement for admission into the DMD program, but applicants will be expected to acquire a basic knowledge of the French language by their third year upon starting their clinical practice. Please see resources below to help you get started on your French learning journey.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The Admissions Committee is currently in the process of working on establishing a French Language Proficiency Evaluation Policy for candidates applying to the DMD Program (including the Dent-P Year and DMD Advanced Standing for Foreign Trained Dentists).
Prospective Undergraduate Students French Language Proficiency
Here are a few programs offered to learn French:
- French for Healthcare Professionals, School of Continuing Studies
- Centre d'enseignement du français de la Facuté des arts
- French Medical & Dental Workshops are offered by the Faculty of Medicine on weekends throughout the duration of the program. These workshops are available to applicants accepted into our undergraduate dental program. They offer five levels of conversation French (beginner to high intermediate).
- Dawson College, Continuing Education
- Vanier College, Centre for Continuing Education
- Explore: participate to a five week French immersion program while discovering another region of Canada.
- The Commission scolaire de Montréal offers French courses at a very low price.
- The YMCA International Language School offers six levels of oral and written communication, for “real” beginners to advanced speakers, with daytime classes (10 to 25 hours per week) or evening classes (3 to 6 hours per week) so you can learn or perfect your French.