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Cost of Studying in Canada – Tuition Fees, Visa Fees, etc.

Updated on 16 October, 2024

Rakhee Talukdar

Rakhee Talukdar

Global Education Expert

Canada is a sought-after higher education destination offering undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral, and vocational courses to students worldwide. Per the Canadian Bureau of International Education, Canada is ranked 3rd for hosting the highest percentage of international students globally. Moreover, Canadian universities offer undergraduate and postgraduate certificates along with short-term courses. Students can choose to opt for private, public, or community colleges. 

The idea of opting for overseas education in Canada has now become one of the most preferred decisions for students globally, owing to the affordability of the cost of studying in Canada. The primary reason for choosing Canada is its advanced education system, high-ranking institutions, and extremely safe and secure thriving environment. Along with these essential reasons, students head toward Canada because of its pocket-friendly tuition fee structure for all the educational programs. 

Compared to many countries, studying in Canada is affordable for international students. Students will likely need between CAD 20,000 and CAD 30,000 annually to cover tuition fees. Moreover, the cost of studying in Canada will vary depending on the institution, program chosen, and students’ lifestyle. However, a student can expect CAD 21,000 in expenses annually. 

Pre-Arrival Cost of Studying in Canada for Indian Students

Tests 

Registration Fees 

TOEFL iBT

₹14,500

IELTS

₹16,250

GRE (General/Subject)

₹16,300/ ₹11,500

GMAT

₹21,000

CAEL

₹10,845 

Purchase of GIC (One time)

₹ 6,00,000

Flight Tickets (One way)

₹1,00,000

Study Permit 

₹8,900

Biometric fee

₹5,000

University Tuition Fees in Canada: Program-Wise

Scouring the right college can be a tedious task for students. So, their task can be easier with an approximate tuition fee. If they decide to pursue a bachelor's degree, the tuition fee would range from CAD  1,800 per year to CAD  33,623  per year. The average tuition fee has increased by 4.9% compared to last year. 

Average Tuition Fee for Masters Program

The cost of a Graduate program in Canada varies based on the province. For instance, the average fee for an executive MBA program is CAD 13,719 in Quebec to CAD 93,985 in Ontario, Moreover,  the average tuition fee for a regular MBA program varies in Newfoundland and Labrador, CAD 2,564 and CAD 42,707, respectively. 

Tuition Fee for International Students: Province-Wise 

Based on their budget and the approximate average tuition fee for an undergraduate and postgraduate program, students can make a prudent choice about which university to select. 

Province-Based Tuition Fee for International Students

Province 

International Undergraduate (CAD)

International Graduate (CAD)

Nova Scotia 

20,397

23,048

New Brunswick 

16,458

13,123

Quebec

27,406

18,577

Ontario 

42,185

26,236

Alberta 

28,014

15,167

British Columbia 

30,903

20,295

Source: Statistics Canada. Table 37-10-0045-01 Canadian and international tuition fees by level of study

Canada College Application Fee for International Students 

It is vital that students apply for a study permit if they intend to study in Canada. The application cost varies based on the university to which they are applying. Moreover, they should apply for a study permit, costing them CAD 150.

Top Universities in Canada and Popular Courses 

Canada hosts many international students for undergraduate, postgraduate, short-term courses, and undergraduate and postgraduate certifications. The duration for diploma courses ranges from 1 year to 3 years whereas, for PG Diploma courses, it ranges from 1 year to 2 years. Apart from these, a student can enroll in vocational training courses (1 year).  

Popular Bachelor’s Degree in Canada 

In recent years, bachelor’s degrees have gained popularity. Universities in Canada offer students co-op bachelor’s options. It enables students to spend four months in the institute and the subsequent ones working with an organization. 

Course 

University 

Average Fees 

BSc (Agricultural and Environmental Sciences) McGill University

$30,000

Bachelor of Science in Health Studies University of Waterloo

$24,000

Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry Carleton University

$30,400

BSc Chemistry University of Northern British Columbia

$22,460

Types of Master’s Degree in Canada 

Masters degree is also referred to as grad programs in Canada. Students can select a suitable program based on their choice and niche for specialization. Popular courses that students opt for their Masters in Canada are listed below: 

  • Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
  • Master of Technology (MTech)
  • Master of Arts (MA)
  • Master of Business Administration (MBA)
  • Master of Science (MSc)
  • Master of Engineering (MEng)
  • 1-year masters in Canada
  • 2-year PG Diploma

Popular Master’s Degree in Canada 

In Canada, a master’s degree is not confined to lectures and tutorials. It also encapsulates field trips and group work. Students should also look for placement and ranking to make a prudent decision. 

University 

Popular Course 

Tuition Fee 

University of Toronto Masters of Medium Studies 

$37,500

Westford University College Masters of International Business  
University of British Columbia MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering 

$23,000

McGill University Masters of Management in Analytics

$58,000

Apart from these options, students can look for courses and certifications from a community college in Canada

Cost of Studying in Canada: Private Universities 

The private universities of Canada allow the students to finance a portion of their payment corresponding to the final total registration amount. The English proficiency requirement by private institutions is an IELTS score of around 5.5 or 5.6.

Apart from these, private universities are divided into provisional departments. There are limited private colleges in selected provinces such as Manitoba, Alberta, New Brunswick, Ontario, and British Columbia. These colleges don’t get any monetary aid from the central (federal) or provincial governments and rely entirely on tuition fees for functioning. So, before a student applies for a popular program or university, they should know the cost of studying in Canada.

University 

Undergraduate Tuition Fee (CAD)

Graduate Tuition Fee (CAD)

 

The King’s University 

$6,851

-

St. Mary’s University 

$1,966.00 - $2,118.00 

$1,486 - $3,649

Trinity Western University

$742 (per semester hour)

$535 - $1000 (per semester hour)

Fairleigh Dickinson University 

545- 1460 (per credit)

$51,000

Canadian Mennonite University 

$1,192.00 - $596.00

(3 credit-hour course)

$616.90

-$1,233.80

(3 credit-hour course)

Source: Official university website

Cost of Studying in Canada: Public Universities 

Some of the top-most public universities of Canada and an approximation of their fees structure are listed below. 

University 

Tuition Fee (CAD)

University of Toronto 

$58,160 - $66,110 

University of British Columbia

$5,616.90 - $9,051.30 (Full-time course load) (UG)

$3,259.84 - $24,087.09 (per installment)  (Graduate)

Brandon University 

$4,013 - $18,151

University of Regina 

$10,708-$11,338

University of York 

$30,349 - $37,345 

University of Winnipeg  

$15,240.00 - $18,360.00 (30-credits)

Source: University’s Official Website  

Scholarships for International Students in Canada 

Scholarships 

Amount (CAD)

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

$50,000 per year

Humber College International Entrance Scholarship

$2000 (waived from their first two semesters)

Ontario Trillium Scholarship

$40,000

Waterloo Merit Scholarship

$1,000

Ontario Graduate Scholarship

$5,000 (per session)

Average Cost of Living in Canada 

Living costs in Canada are already above average compared to other countries. The reason for this remains the high quality of life guaranteed here. To calculate how much money is required to study in Canada, students should consider the cost of living in tandem with the university's tuition fees.

The students would need between  CAD 800 – CAD 1,500 (monthly) for provinces like Quebec, Montreal, and Ottawa. But if the students study in provinces like Vancouver and Calgary, the most expensive cities in Canada, the living costs can reach even CAD 2,000 (monthly). 

Factors

Average Monthly Cost (CAD)

Accommodation

$400 – $600 

Food & Grocery

$200 – $300 

Transportation

$100 –  $250 

Internet

$30 – $50 

Miscellaneous

$600 – $700 

Other Essential Cost Of Studying In Canada

Students should do their homework evaluating the cost of studying in Canada. The fee structure varies based on the university and the province. Moreover, the cost would fluctuate if the student decides to study on campus.

Apart from the academic costs, several other factors like transportation, basic utilities (electricity, water, heating, garbage), taxes, and insurance affect the overall cost of studying in Canada. 

In a nutshell, the cost of studying for international students comes under the following range: 

Expected Cost of Study in Canada 

Cost (CAD)

Incidental Fees 

$1,885.60

Application Fee 

$45 –$200

Travel Costs

$80 – $110/month

Parking on Campus

$644.35 and up

Tuition Deposit 

$500

Accommodation

$5,000 – $16,000

Health Insurance

$300 – $800

Books & School Supplies 

$1,000 – $2,000

Laptop

$1,600 – $2,000

  • Proof of funds 

Along with the university fees for international students in Canada, one needs to show proof of enough funds. This is a part of obtaining your study permit. The minimum amount of funds you should have to support yourself as a student is summarized in the table below. 

Region Funds required for one year (CAD) Funds required for one month (CAD)
Outside Quebec $20,625 $1,800 (approximately)
Inside Quebec

Less than 18 years of age: 

$ 7,176

18+ age: $14,349

Less than 18 years of age: $598

18+ age: $1,196 

Students can manage these funds by purchasing a Guaranteed Investment Certificate, taking an education loan or having a sponsor who can support them. 

  •  Taxes on Part-time Jobs 

Students can earn from part-time jobs in Canada. To check if they are subject to residency taxes in Canada, they must determine their residency status. 

The average tax rate ranges from around 10% to over 15% and varies from province to province. For example, with an earning of CAD 17.25 per hour or CAD 21,562.50 per year, and an average tax rate of 12.65 % in Ontario, the after-tax income would be CAD 18,833. This amounts to an annual deduction of CAD 2,729.

Conclusion 

For students, choosing Canada for higher studies can be crucial, as it significantly changes their lifestyle and future. They get an exclusive and world-class education with lots of privileges in the safest and most wonderful environment. 

Therefore, being rightly informed about studying in Canada requirements will help them choose the right institution, course, and even further educational programs and career paths. But the students should remember to set proper goals and objectives to achieve their best in Canada. This will help them define the path they should follow to benefit the most from the opportunities that this country offers them. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Which are the cheapest universities in Canada?

The list of the cheapest universities in Canada includes Brandon University, Memorial University of Newfoundland, University of Guelph, Dalhousie University, and Laval University.

Are there part-time jobs available in Canada for students?

If the students require working part-time along with studying in Canada, they must get special permission from the university they are enrolled in and then pursue the job.

Which source is the best to help Indian students pursue higher education in Canada?

There are several higher education providers in India to help students prepare and pursue higher education in countries like Canada, but upGrad Abroad is the best source that provides ease of assistance to the students and helps them in their exams like IELTS and even secures better opportunities to enroll in the great universities of countries like Canada.

How much bank balance is required for a Canadian student visa?

It is indispensable for a student to furnish proof of minimum funds for a Canadian visa. They should have a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from a participating Canadian financial institution. Furthermore, CAD 20,625 is the required bank balance for a Canadian student visa.

How can I reduce my expenses to study in Canada?

To get some relaxation in tuition fees in Canada for international students, they can avail for the scholarships offered by Canadian universities such as Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships, Ontario Trillium Scholarship, Waterloo Merit Scholarship, and more. Moreover, students should get an International Student Identification Card to avail of additional benefits.

Can I work while studying in Canada?

A student would be eligible to work in Canada if their study permit includes a condition that states they can work on and off-campus.

How many hours can I work in Canada while studying?

International students are allowed to work unlimited hours off campus until April 30,2024 despite being in class sessions. This is true only when a student is able to meet certain criteria. In other situations, they can work up to 20 hours/week while attending classes. 

Did you find this article helpful?

Rakhee Talukdar

Global Education Expert

Rakhee Talukdar is an edtech expert with five years of experience in the education technology sector, focusing on K-12 and higher education systems in various countries, including Canada, USA, Finland, France, and Germany. Her background includes founding a startup and working with early-stage educational ventures, giving her a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities within these educational landscapes. Additionally, Rakhee specializes in helping students craft compelling Statements of Purpose (SOPs) for studying abroad, leveraging her insights into different education systems to guide students in articulating their academic and professional goals effectively. Her comprehensive knowledge and strategic approach make her a valuable resource for students navigating their educational journeys and financial planning.

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