The Royal Institution for the Advancement of Learning (McGill University) is a publicly funded institution and holds a Royal Charter dated 1821 (amended in 1852) as well as being incorporated under the laws of the Province of Quebec.

McGill University was a founding member of the organization that evolved into Universities Canada and remains an active member university to this day. In addition, McGill University is a member of the American Association of Universities (A.A.U.). It is also a member of the Association of Commonwealth Universities and the International Association of Universities. Its undergraduate, professional, and graduate degrees—including doctorates in a full range of disciplines—have been recognized by educational, government, and private organizations worldwide for decades.

All of McGill’s degree programs are approved by the Government of Quebec.