Cost of Studying in Canada

Are you planning to study in Canada? If yes, then you might be wondering - what does it cost to study there? The country is a popular overseas study destination. The cost of studying in Canada is much more affordable than in other top countries like the USA, UK, and Australia.

Besides its inexpensiveness, Canada is also known for its beautiful campuses, lively cities, and close campus communities. So, if you have decided to study over there, you must consider its pre-arrival expenses, tuition fees, housing, transportation, and other basic utilities.

Let’s go through with simplifying your finances so that you can apply to your dream Canadian program and university without worry!

Cost of Studying in Canada: Key Highlights

Before we discuss the specifics of the overall costs, let's examine the average cost of studying in Canada.

Type of Expense Cost (INR) Cost (CAD)
IELTS (one-time) 17,000 277.15
Purchase of GIC (one-time) 12,67,525 12 20,635
Tuition fee (per annum) 1228520.40 - 1842780.60 20000 - 30000
Application Fee (one-time) 3000 - 15000 50 - 250
Application for student visa 9,200 150+85 for biometrics (these two amounts are deducted at the same time)
Flight tickets (to Canada) 131000 - 221000 2100 - 3547
Living expenses (per year) 614260.20 - 122852 10000 - 20000

Cost of Studying in Canada for Top Courses

From tuition to living costs to application fees, expenses mainly depend on the course and university you choose. Understanding these factors are paramount for preparing yourself before going to Canada.

The table below explains undergraduate, postgraduate, and other fees as per first-year costs. Fees are payable in instalments; the first is due at the time of admission, and the remaining is due when you arrive in Canada.

Levels of Degree Average Fee (INR) Duration (years)
Undergraduate 1842780.60 3-5 years
Postgraduate 12 Lakh - 15 lakh 1-2 years
MBA 18 lakh - 30 lakh 1-2 years
PhD 4 lakh - 8 lakh 3-6 years

List of Popular Courses to Study in Canada

Below is the average tuition fee for full-time international students at Canadian universities.

Study in Canada Cost by Field of Study
Field of Study Undergraduate Graduate
Education $23,630 $21,111
Visual and performing arts and communications technologies $46,980 16,895
Humanities $34,186 $15,406
Social and behavioural sciences and legal studies $33,776 $17,127
Law $42,224 $19,442
Business, management and public administration $33,901 $27,875
Executive MBA Not Available $76,687
Regular MBA Not Available $41,767
Physical and life sciences and technologies $37,411 $17,138
Mathematics, computer and information sciences $39,000 $19,865
Engineering $39,562 $23,708
Architecture $55,875 $27,550
Agriculture, natural resources and conservation $32,462 $16,521
Dentistry $59,515 $27,712
Medicine $58,790 Not Available
Nursing $26,203 $18,425
Pharmacy $42,323 $15,317
Veterinary medicine $68,256 $9,726
Optometry Not Available $15,092
Other health, parks, recreation and fitness $26,837 $21,868
Personal, protective and transportation services $27,325 $11,765

University Fees in Canada

When considering the cost of studying in Canada, it's essential to note that tuition fees vary depending on the university, program, and level of study. However, compared to other countries, Canada offers competitive tuition rates and numerous scholarship opportunities to help offset costs for international students. The table below shows the average tuition costs at Canada's best universities.

University Average University Fees Canada (in lakhs)
University of Toronto 38
University of Ottawa 36
McGill University 30
McMaster University 26.50
University of British Columbia 25.04

List of Affordable Universities in Canada

Below, we have highlighted the complete list of affordable universities to study in Canada where you might not face high tuition fees without compromising the quality of education.

  • Memorial University of Newfoundland

  • Brandon University

  • University of Winnipeg

  • Simon Fraser University

  • University of Calgary

  • University of Saskatchewan

  • University of Guelph

  • Canadian Mennonite University

  • Concordia University

Living Expenses in Canada for Students

The total expenses for Indian students studying in Canada include not just tuition fees but also living expenses. Well, it again depends on the course and university chosen. After receiving the university's offer letter, you must pay the tuition fees in Canadian dollars for your course.

Some universities in Canada charge tuition on a term-by-term basis, while others require payment for the full first year. The city you live in and the lifestyle you choose will determine the cost of living in Canada.

Look at the table below for more information about what influences the average and overall cost of studying in Canada.

Expense Type Average Annual Expense (CAD) Cost for Indian Students (INR)
Accommodation 8000 - 10000 4.90 Lakh - 6.10 Lakh
Meal 2500 1.53 lakhs
Transportation 1000-1800 61,457 - 110407
Mobile Phone and Internet 900 55,203
Personal Expenses 15,000 9.18 lakhs
Electricity 2,388 1.46 lakhs
  • Housing Costs for Canada - Housing options in Canada include both on-campus and off-campus housing. On-campus housing typically costs between CAD 8,000 and 10,000 per year, while off-campus shared accommodation costs between CAD 400 and CAD 800 per month. Apartment rental prices vary by location, with a two-bedroom unit averaging CAD 1,167 per month.

  • Transport in Canadian Cities - Environmental concerns have led to the preference for public transportation in major Canadian cities. Monthly subway passes cost between CAD 65 and CAD 99, while bus tickets cost between CAD 100 and CAD 150. A one-way ticket on local transit costs around CAD 3.35, and gasoline costs about CAD 1.59 per litre. A car's average price is $66,288.

  • Food Expenses in Canada - In Canada, excluding housing, international students typically spend between CAD 200 and CAD 300 per month on food and daily expenses. Milk (1 litre) costs C$2.76; rice (1 kg) costs C$4.40; eggs (12) cost C$4.29; and chicken fillets (1 kilogram) cost C$14.86. These prices ensure a reasonable cost of living for students.

  • Other Expenses in Canada- You must also bear various other extra expenses. Some of these miscellaneous expenses are explained below.

Occasional Expenses Average Cost (CAD)
Long-distance Phone Calls C$75/month
Clothing (average) C$45 - C$150
Basic Utilities (average apartment) C$199.25/month

Cost of Living in Canada Per Month

After you have understood the total expenditures, you should also explore monthly expenses. Take a look at the table below.

Factors Cost of Living in Canada per Month (CAD) Cost of Living in Canada per Month (INR)
Accommodation CAD 400 - CAD 800 INR 24,810 - INR 49,070
Food and Grocery CAD 200 - CAD 300 INR 12,400 - INR 18,600
Transportation CAD 100 - CAD 250 INR 6,200 - INR 15,500
Internet CAD 30 - CAD 50 INR 1,860 - INR 3,100
Miscellaneous CAD 600 - CAD 700 INR 37,210 - INR 43,410

Pre-Arrival & Post-Arrival Costs in Canada

This section will provide the expenses that must be paid before and after arriving in Canada. Let us consider the costs involved.

Pre-Arrival Expenses in Canada

The pre-arrival expenses in Canada include the costs incurred prior to applying to universities and travelling over there.

Entrance Exams

International students from non-English-speaking countries must demonstrate English proficiency through exams assessing reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills. Some universities may also require subject-specific exams. The overall cost of studying in Canada from India includes these exam fees, detailed in the table below.

Test Registration Fee
IELTS INR 17,000
TOEFL USD 240 (INR 19,900)
GMAT USD 250 (INR 20,000)
GRE GRE General: INR 22,500 GRE Subject: USD 150 (INR 12,430)
CAEL CAD 280 (INR 23,330) + tax

Air Tickets

The cost of flight tickets from India to Canada varies based on factors such as flight type, boarding and destination cities, ticket class, booking and boarding dates. Prices range between INR 1,31,000 - INR 2,21,000.

Medical Tests

You must pay for any medical examination costs associated with Canadian immigration. This includes tests, investigations, treatments, and physician and radiology costs. You must also comply with Canadian immigration authorities' medical testing guidelines.

Post-Arrival Expenses in Canada

Once you're in Canada, there will be some additional costs to pay. These include living expenses in Canada and college tuition.

Canada College Fees

This is not applicable after arrival if you paid the tuition, supplies, books, and other fees before travelling to Canada. This only applies if you need to make payments after you've signed up for your term.

Cost of Living in Canada - Accommodation Cost

Throughout the blog, housing costs have been highlighted as a significant portion of Canadian study expenses. Rental prices vary according to housing type and location. Let's look at the various rental prices included in the total cost of studying in Canada, as expressed in Indian rupees.

Accommodation Type Cost per Month
Dormitory CAD 400 - CAD 800 (INR 24,535 - INR 49,070)
Townhouse CAD 650 - CAD 800 (INR 39,870 - INR 49,070)
Shared apartment CAD 700 - CAD 1000 (INR 42,936 - INR 61,338)
Unfurnished apartment CAD 300 - CAD 1000 (INR 18,600 - INR 61,338)

Living off-campus can offer cost savings but requires thorough inquiry. Ensure all living needs are met, watch for hidden costs, and scrutinise lease agreements meticulously before committing.

Other Essential Living Expenses in Canada for Students

You might wonder how much studying in Canada costs besides Canada college fees. You will also incur additional costs while studying in Canada. Now, let's look into it!

  • 1. Canada Study Visa Fees - The cost of a student visa to Canada is CAD 150, equivalent to INR 9,300. In addition to the visa fees, providing biometric information (photos and fingerprints) costs CAD 85 (INR 5,270).

  • 2. Application Fees in Canadian Universities - Every university or college charges an application fee, depending on your program. It ranges from CAD 50 (INR 3,067) to CAD 250 (INR 15,335). When applying, you must submit your language proficiency test scores and academic or work experience transcripts to each university.

  • 3. Certificat d’acceptation du Quebec (CAQ) - To study at a university in Quebec, you must obtain permission from both the Quebec and Canadian governments. It is possible to apply for a certificate of acceptance based on the duration of the course. This requires you to pay a CAD 114 (INR 7,070) application fee as well as shipping charges to Quebec (approximately 2,000 INR).

  • 4. Overseas Student Health Cover - You must also get health insurance, either through provincial coverage or private plans. It's a legal requirement and essential for the student visa application, and it costs CAD 600 to CAD 900 annually. However, you must check provincial guidelines for eligibility. Insurance must be obtained before the term starts.

  • 5. Proof of Funds - When applying for a Canadian student visa, you must provide proof of sufficient funds for living expenses and tuition fees. These expenses vary according to the family situation. The total amount must cover both tuition and living expenses, which is CAD 20635 (12,67,925.83 INR).

  • 6. Purchase of GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate) - You must pay CAD 20,635 (INR 1265702.72) for a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) from specific banks, such as Nova Scotia, ICICI, SBI Canada, or CIBC, in order to meet the financial requirements for a student permit. Bank administrative fees amount to around CAD 200 (INR 12,400) except SBI Canada (CAD 150 only).

  • When you reach Canada, you will receive CAD 2,000 (INR 1,24,050), with the remaining CAD 8,000 (INR 4,96,200) divided into 12 monthly instalments for living expenses.

Scholarships for International Students in Canada

Scholarships, awards, grants, and bursaries are available for international students pursuing undergraduate/postgraduate studies in Canada. Universities offer various scholarships for academic achievements, sports, and specific subjects. Eligibility criteria must be reviewed for each scholarship. Here's a list of scholarships in Canada:

Scholarship Amount Awarded Eligibility Criteria
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships Up to 50,000 CAD
  • Enrolled in a PhD program in a specific field of study

  • Exceptional academic performance in undergraduate and graduate degrees

  • Demonstrated potential for research, leadership, and academic excellence

Ontario Graduate Scholarships INR 9,09,790
  • Minimum 80% average in each of the last two full-time academic years

Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Covers study in Canada cost, including housing, books and incidental fees
  • Mid-January

International Leader of Tomorrow Award Not specified
  • International students currently in the final year of their secondary school or have graduated no earlier than 2021 June

University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship Master’s: INR 8,25,340 Doctoral: INR 10,61,150
  • Minimum admission GPA of 3.0

Trudeau Scholarships and Fellowships 15 scholarships of INR 36,39,420
  • End of December

Quebec Provincial Government Scholarship Postdoctoral: INR 21,22,990/year Doctoral: INR 15,16,270/year
  • Merit-based awards

  • Master's students studying at Quebec Canadian universities

York University's President's International Scholarship of Excellence Up to CAD 45,000 (INR 27,36,985) annually
  • Completion of 12th grade

  • Minimum 80% final average admission

  • English language proficiency (PTE 60, IELTS 6.5, TOEFL 88)

  • Application to York within 2 years of high school graduation

  • Exclusion if already awarded a free bursary elsewhere

University of British Columbia's (UBC) International Leader of Tomorrow Award CAD 35,000 (INR 21,12,640) annually
  • Completion of high school

  • Applying for a bachelor's degree

  • Exceptional academic performance

  • Demonstrated financial need

  • English proficiency (IELTS 6.5, PTE 65, TOEFL 90)

How to Reduce the Financial Burden of Study in Canada?

Studying abroad has many benefits, but not everyone can bear the expenses of a country like Canada. Thus, the financial burden of studying there can be reduced in several ways. Check them out below.

Student Loan for Canada

Although there are various financial institutions and banks, you can get several offers of education loans to study over there. Scholarships are one thing to save money, yet not all students can afford them.

You need to do some careful planning to get an education loan. You must commence the process of applying for the loan as soon as you get an offer letter from your desired university. First, calculate the total amount of expenses on an approximation and examine the banks to see which offers the best deal.

You should compare interest rates, fees, and the expenses covered by the loan. Once you've decided on a bank, complete the application form and be sure you meet all of their requirements. It's a good idea to apply to several different banks to increase your chances of approval.

Part-Time Job Opportunities in Canada

There are plentiful part-time job opportunities that can help you support your expenses while studying in Canada. Both on-campus prospects and off-campus opportunities have different eligibility standards, although both require a valid study permit and a Social Insurance Number.

On-campus occupations provide convenience and integration with campus life, whilst off-campus positions broaden the spectrum of prospects. Co-op placements and internships provide essential job experience that aligns with program requirements.

You can earn an average of $19 CAD per hour as a part-time remuneration in positions like private tutor, teaching assistant, and freelance work. Understanding these choices helps students manage their finances while pursuing an education in Canada.

FAQ's

Ans. Canada provides more affordable education than other top countries, such as the United States, United Kingdom, and Australia. It has stunning campuses, vibrant cities, and tight-knit campus communities.

Ans. Various expenses are to be borne in Canada, but the major ones are tuition fees, living expenses, application fees, visa fees, flight tickets, medical examination costs, and proof of funds.

Ans. The total cost of studying in Canada varies depending on your chosen course and university, as well as other expenses like housing, tuition, pre-arrival expenses, and more. But on an average, the total estimate is INR 32,69,800.

Ans. You can apply for various scholarships from universities, governments, and private organisations, including merit-based grants, bursaries, and scholarships.

Ans. The eligibility requirements differ for each scholarship. You can usually apply directly through the university's website or scholarship portals.

Ans. In addition to tuition, you must pay for housing, food, transportation, internet, and other miscellaneous expenses.

Ans. Yes, students with a valid study permit may work part-time (up to 20 hours per week) during academic studies and full-time during scheduled breaks.

Ans. Most universities require students to demonstrate English proficiency through tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, or CAEL.

Ans. You must submit a full application and all necessary supporting documentation, such as proof of funds, proof of acceptance, and the results of your medical examination, in order to apply for a student visa (study permit).

Ans. Living expenses in Canada for students vary based on location and lifestyle. Monthly lodging, food, transportation, internet, and miscellaneous expenses range between CAD 1,380 and CAD 2,200.

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