MS in Computer Science in Canada – Universities, Fees & Scope

Pursuing an MS in computer science in Canada is a good option for those interested in making a global career. In Canada, MS in computer science (CS) is a 1.5-2 year degree for a full-time course. The approximate cost of pursuing MS programs is between $50,000-$62,000 (Rs 46,00,00 approx). More than 40 universities offer MS in CS courses, and admissions to these educational institutions require excellent GPAs, SOPs, LORs, and GRE scores. 

Reasons for Studying Masters in Computer Science in Canada

Here are a few reasons for studying MS in Computer Science in Canada: 

• The Canadian Government has immigration-friendly measures, and the tuition fee is also reasonable. 
• Canada is one of the world’s safest countries, offering a cosmopolitan, welcoming, and multicultural study environment. 
• MS in CS is a lucrative career option in Canada for the ample job opportunities and rising demand for skilled graduates in the field. 
• There is great scope for research and innovation in technological domains. 

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MS in Computer Science in Canada – Eligibility Criteria

Here are the eligibility criteria for MS in computer science in Canada: 

• A 16-year educational system for applicants is necessary. The desired break-up is 10+2+4. Furnishing proof is compulsory. 
• A degree, which is equivalent to a Bachelor’s in Computer Science in Canada, is necessary. 
• A GPA of 3.25 or higher on a scale of GPA 4.0 and a CGPA of 7-8 on a 10-scale is necessary. The percentile equivalent will be 80-85%. 
• Candidates should furnish GRE scores and should not be older than two years. 
• Eligibility for admissions is dependent upon the programming aptitude of the candidate.

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Top Universities in Canada for MS in Computer Science

Here is the list of leading universities in Canada where you can pursue an MS in computer science. 

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Requirements to Study MS in Computer Science at Canadian Universities

Here is a list of the documents required for international students. 

• College and high-school transcripts
• Degrees and mark sheets with conferral date
• SOP (Statement of Purpose) with a two-page personal essay talking about career objectives, research interests, and qualifications of applicants 
• Two to three LORs (letters of recommendation) are crucial. Out of this tally, two academic recommendations will confirm the abilities of applicants to do research.  
• Standardized GRE test scores of at least 260 out of 340 are vital. 
• Scores in English Language Proficiency tests (valid for two years) are also crucial. The minimum scores are 575 (PBT) and 86 (iBT) for TOEFL, along with IELTS 6.5-7.0. PTE scores of 61-66 are necessary, along with 85% or higher MATLAB scores.

Some universities take CPE/CAE or CAEL/CanTest with other tests. 

Admission decisions get published within 40 days of submitting applications at universities in Canada for MS in CS. 

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Admission Deadlines for Masters in Computer Science in Canada 

If you are wondering about how to apply for MS in Canada? Then you should also make a note of the admission deadlines. There are three sessions in winter, summer, and fall for applicants. A full-time MS course may take 16-24 months, including coursework equivalent to four graduate programs. You can apply through the official websites of your chosen universities. You can also talk with our Study Abroad consultants for any further help. 

The official deadline for applying is 1st December for the University of Toronto, while 1st February is the deadline for the University of Waterloo and Simon Fraser University. 10th January is the deadline for the University of British Columbia, while 15th January is the deadline for the University of Alberta and Queen’s University. 1st October is the deadline for Concordia University, while 31st January or 30th April is the deadline for the University of Ottawa. The deadlines are  1st March and 1st April at the McGill and McMaster universities.

Cost of MS in Computer Science in Canada

Annual study costs for MS in Computer Science may hover around $47,779 (INR 35,58,240). There are some pre-arrival costs as well. These include $205 (INR 18,617.60) as GRE test charges, $114 (INR 8,489.63) as university application fees, and $235 (INR17,500.54) as fees for visa applications. Added costs include $607 (INR 45,218.10) in health insurance, $10,000 (INR 7,44,987) in financial statements, and costs like $200-800 (INR 59,598.96 approx) for accommodation after arrival, $45 (INR 3,352.30) in meals each day, and $1,400 (INR 1,04,293.70)  in airfare. 

Eventual living costs include $7,728 (INR 5,75,619.31) for accommodation (off-campus), $980 (INR 72,995.20) in public transportation, and $3,700 (INR 2,75,560.83) in food and beverages. Miscellaneous expenses up to $4,000 (INR 2,97,903.60) may be necessary too. These are approximate estimates, and the final figure may be slightly lower or higher, depending on your institution and location. 

Pre-Arrival Cost for Masters in Computer Science in Canada

Pre-arrival cost for a master’s in Computer Science in Canada includes application fees, Health, test fees, visa applications, accommodation, and other miscellaneous expenses. These costs are not as huge as the tuition fee but are important in the smooth transition from every end. 

Given below is a table that covers all the components of the pre-arrival costs related to a master’s in computer science in Canada: 

Masters in Computer Science without GRE in Canada

Many students have this dilemma in mind that only those with GRE can avail of admission to Canadian universities for an MS in computer science, which is partially true.  Many but not all universities ask for GRE as the admission requirement. Some exceptions welcome international students to pursue MS in Computer Science but without GRE.

In this section, we will unveil some colleges in Canada for MS in computer science that do not demand GRE scores. 

The Educational Testing Service (ETS) conducts the GRE as a Graduate Record Examination General Test. The test is non-subject-specific that assesses the skills developed over time and those that will help you move forward in your career.

Here is a comprehensive list of universities for master’s in computer science in Canada that do not demand the GRE from the candidates for MS in computer science

• University of Manitoba
• Concordia University
• University of Windsor
• Royal Roads University
• Fairleigh Dickinson University
• Trent University
• Capilano University
• Thompson River University
• University of Ontario Institute of Technology

Scholarships for MS in Computer Science in Canada 

Many scholarship options are available for international students willing to pursue MS in CS in the country. Scholarship amounts may vary from $500-23,000 (INR 17,12,999.75 approx) on average. Here’s taking a closer look at the best options: 

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Job Prospects after Masters in Computer Science in Canada

After completing MS in Computer Science, international applicants usually apply for work permits within 90 days. Salaries for trained and experienced graduates in Computer Science may start from $92,000 (INR 68,52,192.20) onwards. There is a huge demand for job roles like developers, software engineers, Java developers, CAD designers, network administrators, senior web developers, and IT managers. Average salaries may hover between $25,000-41,000 (INR 30,53,694.35 approx).

Leading companies in Canada like Sterling Turner, Amazon, Scotiabank, CGI, and others hire computer science degree holders from several universities. Starting salaries may be slightly lower in Montreal, while Vancouver offers the highest salaries. 

Frequently Asked Questions