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. More than 40 universities in Canada offer MS in CS courses. Also, students must note that some universities may use different nomenclature for this degree and award an MSc or MEng in computer science.

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 reasonable when compared to educational hubs like the USA. 
• 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.

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 or aligned disciplines 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. The percentile equivalent will be 80-85%. 
• Candidates should furnish GRE scores not older than two years. 
• Eligibility for admissions is dependent upon the programming aptitude of the candidate.
• There may be some additional requirements as per the chosen university.

Top Universities in Canada for MS in Computer Science

Some top institutes that students can view are as follows-

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.

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. 

-Fall is the primary intake and admission cycle for the same begins around September and ends in December. Most seats are filled during this admission period. Deadlines for individual universities as well as courses may vary. 

-Next is the Winter intake. This secondary intake admits students between January and May every year. 

-The Spring intake takes place between May-July.

Cost of MS in Computer Science in Canada

Cost of MS in Computer Science in Canada

To understand the cost of pursuing MS in Computer Science in Canada, we must understand the different types of costs involved. Broadly, these are-

-Pre-arrival costs

-Tuition and other administrative costs

-Living costs

Annual study costs for MS in Computer Science may hover around CAD 47,779 (INR 35,58,240).

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, fee for standardised tests, visa applications fee, health insurance cost, airfare, and other miscellaneous expenses. 

Living Cost in Canada for Indian Students

The living cost will be heavily influenced by the city one lives in. For example, Vancouver, Toronto, and Mississauga are some of the costliest cities. 

-An on-campus accommodation with utilities may cost around CAD 800-1000/per month. Renting an apartment will be costlier. 

– An UPass (Public Transit Pass) will cost CAD 44/per month.

– Estimated money spent on groceries and food is CAD 450.00/per month.

– For a phone bill you may spend around CAD 60.

So, the basic monthly cost of living in Canada is around CAD 1600. 

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 CAD 500-23,000 (INR 17,12,999.75 approx) on average. Here’s taking a closer look at the best options: 

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 CAD 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 CAD 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.