HEC Montreal

Bank transfers are way too expensive, so your best bet is to use your bank debit card from home and withdraw cash at one of the main banks' ATMs (Banque Nationale, etc., for example at HEC's main building). Withdraw large amounts at once, so you don't have to pay the fixed fee your bank charges you at every withdrawal too often. But be aware that you only get 20-dollar bills, so you might be walking around with a pretty thick wallet.

Sometimes it is cheaper to eat out than do grocery shopping. Forget buying a mobile, you will never use it and they are expensive. NOt many students out there have them.

bank machines other than the one belonging to yoyur bank charge you for making withdrawals-a bit unfriendly! so beware of that. also you have to add 15% tax on to every price you see

Textbooks were expensive as it wasn't easy to get hold of them second hand, and the library does not have copies of the compulsory texts like at home.

French banks charge a lot for Visa Cards withdrewals and in-stores payments. Negociate well with your banker before you leave home country.

Over all, (besides travelling) I spend as much in Canada than in Austria! Don't open a banking account!