Cost of Studying in Canada
Cost of Studying in Canada for International Students
Understand tuition fees, living expenses, and budgeting tips for Indian students planning to study in Canada.
Why Know the Cost of Studying in Canada?
Planning your education abroad is not just about choosing the right university—it’s also about financial preparation.
Canada is a top destination for Indian students because of its globally recognized degrees, affordable tuition, and flexible post-study options.
Tuition Fees – A Breakdown by Program Type
Tuition in Canada varies based on institution type, course level, and program specialization.
Tip: Colleges are generally more affordable than universities.
| Program Type | Average Annual Fee (CAD) | INR Equivalent (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Diploma / Certificate | $10,000 – $18,000 | ₹6 – ₹11 Lakh |
| Undergraduate (UG) | $13,000 – $22,000 | ₹8 – ₹14 Lakh |
| Postgraduate (PG) | $15,000 – $25,000 | ₹9 – ₹15 Lakh |
| MBA / Executive Programs | $25,000 – $40,000+ | ₹15 – ₹24 Lakh+ |
| Doctoral (PhD) Programs | $7,000 – $15,000 | ₹4 – ₹9 Lakh |
Public vs Private Institutions: Fee Differences
Public Institutions: Lower tuition; offer PGWP eligible programs
Private Institutions: Often higher fees, some may not qualify for PGWP
Always choose a DLI (Designated Learning Institution).
Application & Administrative Fees
Application Fee (per university): CAD $100 – $150
Transcript Evaluation Fee (WES, ICES): CAD $200 – $250
Study Permit Application Fee: CAD $150
Biometrics Fee: CAD $85
Medical Test (Panel Physician): CAD $200 – $300
Cost of Living in Canada for Students
Living costs depend heavily on city and lifestyle. Here's a breakdown:
| Expense | Monthly Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (shared apartment) | $500 – $800 |
| Food & Groceries | $250 – $400 |
| Transport | $80 – $120 |
| Phone/Internet | $60 – $100 |
| Miscellaneous | $100 – $200 |
| Total Monthly | $1,000 – $1,600 |
| Annual Estimate | $12,000 – $20,000 |
Top Budget-Friendly Colleges in Canada
- Cambrian College – Tuition: ~$11,000/year
- Humber College – Tuition: ~$14,000/year
- George Brown College – ~$13,000/year
- Conestoga College – ~$12,000/year
- Seneca College – ~$13,500/year
Many of these colleges are PGWP-eligible and offer in-demand programs.
City-Wise Cost Comparison (Living + Tuition)
| City | Annual Tuition Avg. | Living Costs Avg. |
|---|---|---|
| Toronto | $20,000 | $18,000 |
| Vancouver | $22,000 | $19,000 |
| Montreal | $18,000 | $14,000 |
| Calgary | $16,000 | $13,000 |
| Halifax | $15,000 | $12,000 |
Can You Work While Studying to Cover Costs?
Yes! International students can work up to 20 hours/week during academic sessions and full-time during breaks.
- Average hourly wage: CAD $15–$20
- Estimated monthly income (part-time): CAD $800–$1,200
- Annual earnings: CAD $9,600 – $14,000
Scholarships and Financial Aid
Indian students can apply for merit-based and need-based scholarships:
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- Ontario Graduate Scholarships (OGS)
- University-specific scholarships (Toronto, McGill, etc.)
- Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute Awards
Sample Budget: UG Student in Toronto
| Category | Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Tuition | $18,000 |
| Living Expenses | $16,000 |
| Health Insurance | $800 |
| Books & Supplies | $1,200 |
| Miscellaneous | $1000 |
| Total (1 Year) | $37,000 (₹22–24 Lakh) |
Visual: Tuition + Living Cost Breakdown
Would you like me to prepare an infographic or bar chart showing side-by-side comparisons?
✅ Example: Toronto vs Montreal vs Vancouver – Total Annual Cost for UG & PG
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