Canadian residents pay in Canadian funds at the preferred exchange rate of 1.36

Established in Montreal in 1982.

Outstanding summer programs for teens since 1982

Pre-College Enrichment Montreal - On the Campus of McGill 21 Days

Pre-College Program on the Campus of McGill

Study abroad in Montreal this summer and prepare for college with engaging courses on the campus of McGill University, often referred to as the “Harvard of the North”. This pre-college summer program for high school students is designed to balance academic enrichment and personal growth with fun group excursions, new experiences and free time to explore one of the top student cities in the world! Students will enjoy the independence and freedom that they desire, balanced with the structure, guidance and staff supervision that parents expect. What better way to spend the summer than making new friends, getting a taste of college life, and immersing yourself in the vibrant city of Montreal?

Program Highlights

Get a taste of college life on the McGill University campus.
Explore your interests with a variety of engaging courses.
Live in Montreal, one of the top student cities in the world.
Explore Montreal highlights during Student’s Choice.
Stay active at McGill's incredible fitness facility.
Experience Montreal's amazing summer festivals.
Meet and make new friends while living in residence.
Enjoy jet boating, Six Flags Amusement Park, and more.

Courses

Morning

Have you ever thought about starting your own business? You will learn the fundamental tools and techniques necessary to launch your own company. After you review all the steps to create and maintain your own business venture, you have the opportunity to try your new skills and will develop and present a professional business plan.

BusinessMorning

This course introduces basic concepts in psychology including behavioral, cognitive and clinical psychology. Through the use of discussion, film and in-class activities, explore topics such as how to improve emotional intelligence, limitations in perception, cognitive distortions and how to improve memory. Other topics included are mental illness, stereotyping and prejudice.

Social SciencesMorning

Did you know Montreal is the second largest primarily French-speaking city in the world after Paris? Separate course levels from beginner to advanced are offered. Attention is given to grammar, vocabulary, reading and writing with the primary goal of enhancing your verbal skills. You will have many opportunities to practice French in this incredible city.

* A supplementary fee of $220 applies.

LanguageMorning

There are few better places to master the art of photography than in the vibrant city of Montreal. With your smartphone or digital camera in hand, this photography course will teach various digital photography techniques including imaging scanning, color digital printing, printing digital negatives, basic darkroom techniques and Adobe Photoshop. Creativity mixes with practical skills and culminates in an individual final photography project completed by the end of the course.

*A DSLR or bridge camera with manual functions having at least a 12.0 megapixel sensor is required.

Creative & Applied ArtsMorning

Before you invest in the stock market, it’s important you understand the basics of finance, the components of an investment portfolio and the underlying mechanics of the markets. This course gives you a detailed overview of investing in the stock market and offers you many tools and techniques needed to invest. Practice by investing in a simulated stock market competition.

BusinessMorning

Climate change, bans on religious freedoms, racial injustice, gender-based violence… the list of human rights violations, and social and ecological injustices are seemingly endless in the world around us. Join this forum on social justice and human rights where we will explore a number of topics through a systems-thinking lens to examine why and how unequal distributions of rights and freedoms manifest. We will also consider our personal identities, positions and power within these systems challenging our ideas of how to make positive social change in the world in which we live. This forum will involve participant discussion.

Social SciencesMorning

This program is designed to increase your overall fluency through real experiences with American culture. Improve your vocabulary and pronunciation, review proper grammatical structures, and practice your writing skills. Beyond the classroom, guided field trips provide you many opportunities to practice your English in the real world. If attending a university in the USA is one of your future goals, then this is the program for you!

LanguageMorning

Afternoon

This course provides students with an overview of business for professional sports including finance, marketing and technology. Learn about professional sports entities that make billions of dollars entertaining people around the world. Through lectures, case studies and guest speakers, explore topics such as producing live events, broadcasting rights, athlete marketing, sponsorship, the fan experience, and sports law.

BusinessAfternoon

Experience the world of forensic science through hands-on training exercises and theoretical lessons. Examine CSI procedures along with forensic anthropology, biology and bloodstain pattern analysis. A scenario is staged and you work in investigative teams to identify, collect and interpret the evidence before you act as a forensic expert witness and testify in a mock-court setting.

Science & TechnologyAfternoon

Tom Peters, leadership author of ‘’In Search of Excellence’’ and nicknamed the ‘’Red Bull’’ of management thinking, wrote ‘’Success in business today is 15% technology and 85% Emotional Intelligence.” If this is true, what better way is there to prepare you for college and a future career than to improve your Emotional Intelligence skills? This course has been designed to increase your understanding of emotional intelligence and will empower you to use E.I. to increase your self-confidence, and guide your thinking and behavior. Using experiential exercises, discussions and group collaboration you will learn how to define personal goals and how to leverage your skills, knowledge and experience to create success in new situations both personally and professionally.

Social SciencesAfternoon

Students learn to understand differing worldviews that stem from varied cultural and socio-economic backgrounds. You will appreciate the shifting international balance of power; which regions assert hegemony in our time and in the future. Develop your understanding of how conflicts arise and modern issues of global concern.

Social SciencesAfternoon

You can make a real difference to local communities in Montreal. Projects may include working with youth and families, sorting through donations for families in need, as well as serving meals to the homeless. A letter of completion recognizing the hours of service and detailing the projects accomplished will be issued after the summer. Westcoast Connection is a Certifying Organization for the President’s Volunteer Service Award.

Program Length	# of Hours
14-day Option	16
21-day Option	22

Social SciencesAfternoon

Full Day

Typical Weekday Schedule

Choose either a full-day track option or a morning and afternoon course. Your personal schedule and lunch time may vary based on your course choices.

Option 1: Morning & Afternoon Courses

8:00 AM Wake Up
8:30 AM Breakfast
10:00 AM Morning Course
12:00 PM Lunch
2:00 PM Afternoon Course
4:00 PM Student's Choice (sports, fitness center, exploring, free time)
7:00 PM Dinner
9:00 PM Evening Activities

Option 2: Full-Day Track

8:00 AM Wake Up
8:30 AM Breakfast
10:00 AM Start of Full-Day Track
12:00 PM Lunch
2:00 PM End of Full-Day Track
4:00 PM Student's Choice (sports, fitness center, exploring, free time)
7:00 PM Dinner
9:00 PM Evening Activities

Travel Highlights

City Highlights
Montreal

International Jazz Festival • Old Montreal • La Ronde Six Flags amusement park • Jet boating • “Just For Laughs” comedy festival • The Tam-Tams • Atwater Market & Lachine Canal • Saint-Laurent & Sainte-Catherine Street • Mount Royal • Bell Centre tour • Montreal urban zipline • Ice skating • Super Aqua Club waterpark • La Grande Roue de Montreal observation wheel • Dragon Boating • McGill University campus tour

See More Details for the full list of highlights.
Day Trip
Mont-Tremblant

Explore the picturesque Mont-Tremblant village • Sample a delicious crepe or Canadian “Beaver Tail” • Visit the lake-side beach club • Experience a thrilling downhill luge ride

See More Details for the full list of highlights.

College Life

McGill Campus

Enjoy strolling around McGill University's campus in the very heart of Montreal. The school's campus sits at the foot of Mount Royal, tucked in between downtown Montreal on one side and leafy-green woods and trails on the other.
Residence La Citadelle – McGill University

Say hello to La Citadelle, your hotel-like summer residence in the heart of downtown Montreal, steps away from chic cafés, boutiques, and parks. All rooms feature individual twin beds, air conditioning, private bathrooms, Wi-Fi, housekeeping services and personal work desks. The residence is a short walking distance to class, and offers a laundry room and group common areas.
Athletic Facilities

Stay active with complimentary access to McGill University’s athletic facilities featuring free weights, strength training, cardio machine workout area, Olympic-size pool, basketball courts, tennis courts, indoor jogging track, racquetball and squash courts.
Organized sports & games

Our sports coordinator organizes games of all kinds including basketball, volleyball and ultimate Frisbee.
Positive Social Experience

This program is designed to give you a taste of the excitement and independence you will experience in college. Just like in college, you will be part of a large group of students, live in a residence, and have your choice of classes. And like in college, you will enjoy a warm, family environment within your residence where you enjoy many opportunities to socialize with other students.

What It’s Like

Experience college life with the balance of engaging courses, group excursions, and free time.
Certificate of Completion

Receive a letter certifying the completion of your courses. Letters of recommendation are also available.
Exclusive Classes

All classes are private to Westcoast Connection students only.
Engaging Instructors

Courses taught by experienced university-level faculty, instructors, and local professionals.
Accommodations

McGill University residence.
Athletic Facilities

Unlimited access to the world-class facilities at McGill.
Meals

Includes breakfast and dinner daily. Enjoy a variety of options at the dining hall, residence café and local restaurants.
Excursions

Discover all the fun, festivals, culture and green spaces that summer in Montreal has to offer.
Transportation

Public transportation and occasional private motor coach or school bus.
Commuter Option

Available for students who don’t require accommodations. Contact us for details.
Dietary Options

We can accommodate most dietary preferences and allergies.

More Details

Flight to Montreal, Canada
As a participant on our Pre-College Enrichment: Montreal program, you may fly to Montreal and be greeted upon arrival and enjoy complimentary transfer (for flights in designated times) from the airport to our downtown residence. We are happy to assist you with arranging flights to and from the program upon request. If you prefer, you may be dropped off directly at our McGill residence and meet your staff there. If you are driving to Montreal, it is approximately 5 hours from Boston and 6.5 hours from New York City.

Return Flight Home from Montreal, Canada
For the 21-day program return from Montreal for flights in designated times, we provide airport transfer and our leaders help you to check in and remain in the airport until flights have departed. You may also arrange to be picked up at the McGill residence if you prefer.

Food & Meals
A big part of your Pre-College Enrichment program’s success depends on how well you eat. We are proud of the fact that year after year we are complimented for our quality, quantity and choice of food! Enjoy a delicious breakfast with a healthy variety of hot and cold choices. For lunch, you enjoy the choice of eating in smaller groups and choosing from local cafés and small restaurants. For dinner, either the whole group goes to the same restaurant or we divide into smaller groups with staff to sample quainter places with a variety of cuisines. Food options are varied and plentiful. Montreal is known for its diverse and trendy food scene. Get ready to indulge from famous Montreal smoked meat and bagels to poutine and BeaverTail pastries.

We have satisfied the choosiest of eaters and gladly accommodate most special dietary requests including vegetarian, food allergies, lactose intolerance, celiac disease, and kosher style. We welcome discussing your individual requirements with you and have extensive experience in this area.

Laundry
You will only need one week’s worth of clothing as outlined in the packing list that will be sent to you prior to departure. You will have the opportunity to do laundry at your convenience by either dropping off your laundry at a local wash and fold service and then pick it up clean, folded and ready to go or you may do laundry in your residence hall.

What’s Included
Included in your program tuition is all lodging, breakfast and dinner daily, recreation & entertainment listed, day and weekend excursions, application fee, use of McGill athletic facilities, Wi-Fi in residence, campus identification fee, courses (supplementary fees may apply for some) airport transfers in designated times, gratuities & taxes.

Not included is transportation to and from the program, lunches, snacks, personal spending money for souvenirs, and laundry. We also make available optional travel insurance that is not included, but highly recommended.

Please contact us with any questions. We are happy to hear from you!

Workshop 1: Choosing the Right School and College Application Process
Choosing the right college for your academic and personal interests is the first step in the application process. It requires careful research and self-evaluation. This interactive workshop provides you with tools and resources to help you develop a list of criteria integral in choosing appropriate colleges. Explore the basic elements of the college application and learn the ins and outs of the Common Application. Develop your academic/co-curricular profile, learn how to craft a high caliber application and set up your timeline for completion of applications, supplements and essays.

Workshop 2: College Essay Writing
Explore different essay topics and strategies to write a proper admission essay that distinguishes you. As one of the top qualitative measures in the admissions process, your personal essay is an integral part of your application. As a critical aspect of your first impression to an admissions officer, the essay is an opportunity for you to share your stories, adding greater depth and dimension to your application. This workshop includes an overview of fundamental writing skills using real examples of college essays. The focus is on practical tips for writing a great college essay, including finding your voice, brainstorming essay ideas, understanding the prompts, focusing on a theme and the importance of editing and proofreading.

Available for students who don’t require accommodations. Commuter students join for class days. Actual schedule varies depending on the week and is listed below. Commuter students arrive on campus in time for the start of their 10:00 AM morning class and depart campus after their afternoon course, generally between 4:00 – 4:30 PM. They will join any out-of-class site visits or field trips that are part of their course. In addition, we welcome commuter students to join our optional college admissions workshops.

Commuter Tuition – $2,599

Class Schedule:

Week 1: July 2, 3, 4
Week 2: July 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
Week 3: July 15, 16, 17

College Admissions Workshops are on Saturday, July 5 and Saturday, July 12 from 10:00 – 11:30 AM.

How to Enroll: To enroll on the Commuter Option please complete this online application.

Note: Commuter students will have limited access to McGill’s recreational facilities. Supplementary course fees may apply on select courses. Meals not included.

International Jazz Festival
A summer in Montreal is not complete without taking in this premiere event, featuring thousands of artists and hundreds of free outdoor performances. Join the rest of the city (and the world) in the celebration.

Old Montreal
Explore the charming cobblestone streets and unique European flare of the city’s most famous landmark: the Old Port. From street performers and beautiful architecture to local cafes in hidden alleys, you will discover something new every visit.

La Ronde – Six Flags Amusement Park
Enjoy thrilling roller coasters and other exciting rides, including La Ronde’s famous Monster, the world’s tallest wooden double roller coaster. In the evening, you will delight in a breathtaking firework display.

Jet Boating
View the Montreal skyline from your cruise along the St. Lawrence River – and get soaked! This exhilarating ride through the Lachine Rapids is more exciting than you could imagine.

“Just For Laughs” Comedy Festival
Laugh the night away at the world’s largest international comedy festival! This two-week event, featuring hundreds of artists and performances, will be a highlight of your summer.

The Tam-Tams
A weekly impromptu weekly free festival in the middle of the city? Only in Montreal! “The Tams” is a colorful gathering of drummers, dancers, vendors and their admiring audiences that takes place every Sunday at the foot of Mount Royal.

The Food!
Montreal bagels, smoked meat and their famous poutine! Understand for yourself what all the fuss is about. Everything else is just an imitation.

Atwater Market & Lachine Canal
Bike along the water of the Lachine Canal and wind your way through the city’s Old Port until you reach the Atwater Market, a farmers’ market offering the best of Montreal and Quebec delicacies.

Saint-Laurent & Sainte-Catherine
Each with its own personality, discover what makes these streets famous Montreal destinations. From one-of-a-kind shops and funky cafes with streetside terraces to multilevel street art murals, there’s something for everyone!

Mount Royal
The heart and pride of Montreal, Mount Royal comes alive during the summer with the weekly “Tam-Tams”, hiking and biking trails, street vendors and food trucks. Choose to sunbathe, enjoy a picnic lunch or join a beach volleyball game.

Bell Centre Tour
Explore the home of the Montreal Canadiens and discover the ins and outs of the NHL’s most winning team.

Montreal Urban Zipline
Enjoy a thrilling experience as you fly over Bonsecours Island in the Old Port.

Ice Skating
Enjoy and evening at the Patinoire Atrium Le 1000 indoor skating rink in downtown Montréal.

Water Park
Shoot down the slides at the Super Aqua Club Waterpark featuring 46 attractions and water slides.

La Grande Roue de Montreal Observation Wheel
Ride Canada’s tallest observation wheel, standing at 60 meters tall, with breathtaking 360-degree views of Montreal. Marvel at vistas stretching 28 kilometers, showcasing the city’s vibrant neighborhoods and historic landmarks.

Dragon Boating
From the Olympic Basin, site of the 1976 Olympic Games collaborate and synchronize in a race competition with your friends.

McGill University Campus Visit
Founded in 1821, McGill has developed a renowned international reputation for academic excellence. This tour shows you around the main downtown campus.

Located 90 minutes from Montreal, in the Laurentian Mountains, the modern, picturesque Mont-Tremblant village is the sister of its West Coast affiliate, Whistler Blackcomb, and offers shops, luxury accommodations and amazing restaurants. No wonder it has been voted Best Ski Resort in eastern North America by Ski Magazine for 12 years running. Make sure to sample a delicious crepe and a Canadian “BeaverTail”. Other activities include: Luge ride and beach club.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will attending one of your programs help me get into college?

Attending a summer program is an incredible opportunity to learn and grow into a more well-rounded, mature individual. No matter what type of program you choose, the personal development and experience gained over the course of the summer are valuable resources that could help you with your college essays and applications. If your goal for the summer is to get a head start on college prep, a Career Experience or Pre-College Enrichment program could be just what you need. So while attending any particular summer program will not necessarily get you into your choice school, what you get from it can make a difference!
Who are the staff and what are their qualifications?

Our staff are educators, guidance counselors, coaches, college and university students, former camp counselors, residence life coordinators, community volunteers, world travelers, and other leaders with diverse backgrounds. Many are former participants themselves who couldn’t get enough of the Westcoast experience! Learn more about our summer leaders.
When do I choose my courses?

For fall enrollments, we will send you a course choice preference form around November 10. You will be able to select your first and second course preferences. Your course choices will be confirmed in the spring.

For enrollments after November 10, we will send you a course choice preference form upon receipt of your application for enrollment. Your course choices will be confirmed in the spring.

See All FAQs

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