Artificial Intelligence Courses in Canada: Top Universities & Fees

Latest Update Admissions for Artificial Intelligence courses in Canada are currently open at Lambton College of Applied Arts and Technology (Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning), Durham College (Artificial Intelligence), and Georgian College (Artificial Intelligence – Architecture, Design, and Implementation). Applications are open for the Fall 2025 intake, with the next available start date being September 6, 2025; the application deadline for international students is July 2025.

Artificial Intelligence (AI) courses in Canada are offered by over 20 top-ranked universities and colleges, including the University of Toronto, the University of Waterloo, the University of Alberta, and McGill University.

The popularity of Artificial Intelligence Courses in Canada is due to the availability of 86 specialized AI programs across undergraduate and postgraduate levels. With over 35,000 new Artificial Intelligence jobs expected in the next five years and more than 800 AI companies operating nationwide, studying AI in Canada offers direct access to research hubs, career opportunities, and international tech giants like Google and Facebook.

This guide provides the latest information on studying in Canada, particularly in AI certification courses in Canada, including top universities, fees, and scholarships.

Artificial Intelligence Courses in Canada: Overview

Artificial Intelligence courses in Canada range from undergraduate certificate programs and diplomas (1–2 years) to bachelor's degrees (typically 4 years), master’s programs (1–2 years), and doctorate (3–5 years), depending on the level and institution. 

Over 800,000 international students chose Canada for higher education, with a significant portion enrolling in STEM and AI-related programs due to the country’s outstanding research, industry partnerships, and post-study work opportunities.

Here’s a detailed overview of artificial intelligence courses in Canada:

Criteria	Details
Course Duration	Certificates/diplomas: 1–2 years Bachelor's: 4 years Master's: 1–2 years PhD: 3–5 years
Intakes	Main intakes: September (Fall) Other intakes: January (Winter) and May (Summer)
Average Tuition Fees	CAD 15,000–35,000 (INR 9L-21L)
Eligibility	Minimum 50% in 10+2 from a recognized institution for bachelor’s and diploma.  Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (science, engineering, computing) for master’s and PhD Minimum GPA: 2.7/4.0 or 64% IELTS: 6.5 TOEFL: 88
Top Universities	University of Toronto University of Waterloo McGill University University of Alberta York University
Scholarships	Master of Data Science and Artificial Intelligence (MDSAI) Graduate Scholarship University of Toronto International Scholar Award Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
Job Prospects	AI Engineer Data Scientist AI Researcher Software Developer Algorithm Developer

Now that we have discussed artificial intelligence courses in Canada, here are some of the top universities that offer complete AI courses and AI certification courses in Canada. 

Top 12 Universities Offering Artificial Intelligence Courses in Canada

Canada is a global leader in Artificial Intelligence education, with more than 1,000 AI companies and over 50 universities and colleges offering specialized AI programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and diploma levels.

Here's a detailed overview of the top 12 universities for Artificial Intelligence Courses in Canada, including their program duration, tuition fees, and QS world rankings where applicable.

University	AI Course Name	QS World Ranking 2025	Annual Tuition Fees (CAD/INR)
University of Toronto	Master of Science in Applied Computing (AI)	25	CAD 33,000–35,000 (INR 20-21L)
McGill University	MSc in Computer Science (AI)	29	CAD 16,000–22,000 (INR 9.8–13.5L)
University of British Columbia	MSc in Computer Science (AI Specialization)	38	CAD 9,500–18,000 (INR 5.8–11L)
University of Waterloo	Master of Mathematics in Computer Science (AI)	115	CAD 15,000–20,000 (INR 9.2–12.3L)
Université de Montréal	MSc in Computer Science (AI)	159	CAD 18,000–23,000 (INR 11–14L)
University of Calgary	MSc in Computer Science (AI)	198	CAD 13,000–19,000 (INR 8–11.7L)
University of Ottawa	MSc in Computer Science (AI)	189	CAD 25,000(INR 15.3L)
Queen’s University	MSc in AI	193	CAD 54,000 (INR 33L)
Simon Fraser University	MSc in Computing Science (AI)	319	CAD 9,000–12,000 (INR 5.5–7.4L)
York University	MSc in Computer Science (AI Specialization)	362	CAD 8,000–53,000 (INR 5–32.5L)
University of Windsor	Master of Applied Computing (AI Specialization)	547	CAD 20,000–24,000 (INR 12.3–14.7L)
Carleton University	MSc in Computer Science (AI)	741-750	CAD 19,000 (INR 11.7L)

Note: Currency conversions are approximate and based on the current exchange rate.

Now, let's understand the admission requirements for different artificial intelligence courses in Canada. 

Eligibility Criteria for Artificial Intelligence Courses in Canada

Eligibility for AI programs in Canada typically requires a strong background in computer science or related fields. For bachelor's programs, students need 10+2 with mathematics and 50% marks. Most institutions require IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 88+, along with credential evaluation, a resume, SOP, and references.

Below is a detailed breakdown of the eligibility criteria for pursuing AI courses and AI certificate courses in Canada: 

Academic Qualification

Academic qualifications for Artificial Intelligence courses in Canada typically require a minimum GPA of 2.7–3.3 out of 4.0 (65–78% marks) in a relevant field such as mathematics, computer science, or engineering. 

Applicants must also submit GRE/GMAT scores for graduate programs; SAT/ACT scores may be required for some undergraduate programs.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the academic qualifications required to enroll in artificial intelligence courses in Canada: 

Requirement	Details
Degree	UG/diploma: 10+2 with a minimum of 50%
	PG/PhD: Bachelor’s in relevant field
GPA/Percentage	UG: Minimum 50% in 10+2 (GPA 1.0)
	PG: Minimum 60–75% or GPA 2.7–3.3 in bachelor’s.
Standardized Exams	GRE 300+ GMAT 600+ SAT: 1200+ ACT: 24+
Work Experience	Not mandatory for UG 1–3 years preferred for PG certificates/diplomas
Additional Documents	Statement of Purpose 2–3 Letters of Recommendation Resume/CV Official academic transcripts Proof of funds Copy of passport

English Language Proficiency 

English language proficiency is mandatory for admission to AI courses in Canada, with most universities requiring standardized test scores such as IELTS (minimum 6.5), TOEFL iBT (minimum 83–90), or equivalent.

Here’s a table mentioning the minimum scores required for each test: 

Test Name	Minimum Score Required
IELTS (Academic)	6.5
TOEFL iBT	83–90
PTE Academic	58–61
CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language)	60–70
Cambridge English	180
Duolingo English Test	120–120+ (varies by institution)

Looking to convert your TOEFL score to its IELTS equivalent for university applications? Use upGrad’s TOEFL to IELTS Score Calculator to convert your score and expand your university options!

Visa Requirements

International students in Canada must obtain a study permit by securing admission to a designated learning institution (DLI), providing proof of sufficient funds, and submitting a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) for most programs. 

For 2025, the total number of study permits is capped at 437,000, making timely and complete applications essential.

Below is a detailed breakdown of Canadian study visa requirements: 

Criteria	Details
Visa Type	Canadian student visa
Admission Offer	Letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)	Required for most programs as of 2024–2025
Financial Proof	Evidence of funds for tuition, living expenses (min. CAD 20,635/year), and return travel
Valid Passport	Must be valid for the entire duration of study
Medical Exam	Required for some applicants, depending on the country of residence and program length
Police Clearance	Proof of no criminal record may be required
Visa Application Fee	CAD 150 (INR 9K)

Also Read: Canadian Student Visa Vs. Study Permit

Now that you have covered the eligibility criteria for enrollment in Artificial Intelligence courses in Canada, let's understand the application process to apply for the specific AI program. 

Application Process for Artificial Intelligence Courses in Canada

Applying to Artificial Intelligence courses in Canada typically begins 12–15 months before the intended intake. The September 2025 intake in Canada is nearing its application deadline, generally between February and March 2025. 

The next available intakes in Canada are January (Winter) and May (Summer) 2026. For the January 2026 intake, most university application deadlines fall between July and October 2025. 

The May 2026 intake typically has deadlines from January to February 2026 (Closed). Students interested in these upcoming intakes should begin preparing their applications to meet these timelines.

Here's a step-by-step application process to apply for artificial intelligence courses in Canada; 

1. Shortlist Universities

• Identify AI programs that align with your academic background and career goals. 
• Use university websites, official rankings, and program brochures to compare curriculum, faculty expertise, co-op courses, and research opportunities.

2. Check Eligibility

• Review each program’s specific academic requirements (such as minimum GPA, prerequisite courses in math or computer science), and English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL scores).
• Some programs may require relevant work experience. For example, the Cambrian College Artificial Intelligence Graduate Certificate requires applicants to have five years of related work experience, supported by a resume and cover letter.

3. Prepare Required Documents

• Gather official transcripts, English language proficiency level (TOEFL/IELTS/PTE), GRE/GMAT scores (if required), Statement of Purpose, resume/CV, and 2–3 Letters of Recommendation.

4. Complete Online Application

• Fill out the application form on the university's official portal and upload all required documents.

5. Pay Application Fee

• Pay the non-refundable application fee (varies by university, typically CAD 100–150 or INR 6k-9k 

6. Submit Application

• Upload all required documents and submit your application before the program’s deadline. Double-check that all files are clear, complete, and meet the institution’s format requirements.

7. Await Admission Decision

• Monitor your email and university portal for admission updates and respond promptly to any additional requests.

8. Accept Offer & Pay Deposit

• If admitted, accept the offer through the portal and pay the tuition deposit (amount varies by institution, usually CAD 500–2,000/INR 30K-1.2L) to secure your seat.

9. Apply for Study Permit

• Use your official admission letter to apply for a Canadian study permit online via the IRCC portal. Prepare supporting documents such as proof of funds, Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL, if required), passport, medical exam, and biometrics.

10. Prepare for Arrival

• Arrange accommodation, book flights, attend pre-departure orientations, and ensure you have all necessary documents for travel and entry to Canada.

Tip: Start the process at least 12–15 months before your intended intake to ensure you meet all deadlines and have ample time for visa processing.

Let's now explore the details of the artificial intelligence courses in Canada, including the specializations and their total duration.

Artificial Intelligence Programs in Canada: Course Details & Specialization

Artificial Intelligence courses in Canada are diverse, with over 86 specialized AI courses available for international students across undergraduate, postgraduate, diploma, and certificate levels. 

More than 20 top universities, including the University of Toronto, McGill, Waterloo, and Alberta, offer dedicated AI programs, while 78 Canadian universities conduct significant AI research and teaching.

Here’s a list of popular artificial intelligence courses in Canada: 

Program Type	Duration	Key Specialization(s)
Master's Degree	1–2 years	Artificial Intelligence Mathematical Modelling Algorithms
	1–2 years (Co-op)	Data Science Artificial Intelligence Machine Learning
	1 year	AI Management Business Analytics
	1–2 years	Artificial Intelligence Deep Learning Computer Vision
Postgraduate Diploma	2 years	Artificial Intelligence Machine Learning Algorithms
	3 years (Co-op)	Software Engineering Artificial Intelligence Application Dev
	1–2 years	Artificial Intelligence Machine Learning Data Analytics
PhD	3–5 years	AI Theory Research Advanced ML
Bachelor’s	4 years	Artificial Intelligence Machine Learning Data Science
	4 years (Co-op)	Automation Robotics Artificial Intelligence
	4 years	Artificial Intelligence Machine Learning Smart Systems
Certificate	1 year	AI System Design Implementation
	1–1.5 years (Co-op)	Artificial Intelligence Machine Learning Big Data
	1–2 years	Artificial Intelligence Data Analytics Machine Learning
	6–12 months	Artificial Intelligence Machine Learning Fundamentals
	3–6 months	Machine Learning Applied AI

Now, let's take a closer look at the costs of doing artificial intelligence courses in Canada. 

Cost of Pursuing Artificial Intelligence Courses in Canada

The cost of pursuing AI certification courses in Canada includes tuition and living expenses, with annual living costs ranging from CAD 15,000 to 20,000 (INR 9–12L). In 2025, IRCC requires proof of funds of at least CAD 20,635 (INR 12.7L) for living expenses. Financial planning is crucial for international students.

Below is the breakdown of cost of living in Canada for international students: 

Cost Category	Details	Estimated Cost (CAD/INR)
Tuition Fees	varies by university/program	CAD 18,000–40,000 (INR 11L–24L)
Accommodation	On/off-campus housing, utilities	CAD 7,200–18,000 (INR 4.4L–11L)
Living Expenses	Food, transport, utilities, and personal	CAD 6,000–10,000 (INR 3.7L–6.1L)
Health Insurance	Mandatory, varies by province/university	CAD 600–1,000 (INR 37K–61K)
Pre-arrival Costs	Visa, flight, and application fees	CAD 2,000–3,000 (INR 1.2L–1.8L)
Public Transit	Monthly pass or student discounts	CAD 480–1,000 (INR 29K–61K)
Miscellaneous	Entertainment, clothes, and personal expenses	CAD 960–1,500 (INR 59K–92K)

Note: Cost estimates are annual and may vary by city and university.

Also Read: Cost of Living in Toronto: Transportation, Food, Rent Expenses & More

Want to estimate the total cost of your education journey in Canada? Use upGrad's Cost Calculator to get an accurate breakdown of your tuition, living expenses, and other fees.

Next, let's explore the various scholarships and financial aid opportunities available to help support your Artificial Intelligence courses in Canada.

Scholarships for pursuing Artificial Intelligence Courses in Canada

Canada offers over 200 scholarships for international students in AI and STEM fields, including the Vector and MDSAI Graduate scholarships. For the 2025/26 academic year, top applicants at the University of Waterloo can receive entrance scholarships up to CAD 17,500 (INR 10.71 L) for graduate studies.

These scholarships provide substantial benefits, including full or partial tuition coverage and living expenses, helping you to study in Canada for free. 

Below is the list of scholarships that you can avail while taking admission in Artificial Intelligence courses in Canada: 

Scholarship Name	Eligibility	Benefits
Vector Scholarship in Artificial Intelligence	Full-time master’s in AI at Ontario University. First-class standing	CAD 17,500 (INR 10.71L  ) mentorship, career support
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship	International undergraduate, academic excellence, leadership	Full tuition, books, and residence for 4 yrs
MDSAI Graduate Scholarship	Enrolled in MDSAI program, academic merit	CAD 17,500 (INR 10.71L )
Fulbright Foreign Student Program	Citizens of eligible countries Master’s/PhD in AI-related fields; academic merit	Full tuition, flights, living expenses, insurance
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)	International and domestic students enrolled in Ontario universities minimum GPA 3.7/90 %+ in the last two years of study	CAD 5,000–15,000/INR 30 K- 92 K (per session or annually)

Next, move ahead and see the job options you will have after completing your Artificial Intelligence course in Canada. 

Job Opportunities After Artificial Intelligence Courses in Canada

Canada’s AI sector is experiencing strong, data-driven growth, with the number of AI professionals rising by 38% annually. The professional, scientific, and technical services sector leads AI hiring. 

However, opportunities are rapidly expanding into finance, healthcare, and manufacturing, with average salary in Canada in the AI field starting at CAD 82,000 (INR 50L) and reaching up to CAD 160,000 (INR 97.6L) for senior roles.

Here’s a detailed look at some of the potential job opportunities after doing Artificial Intelligence courses in Canada: 

Job Role	Avg Annual Salary (CAD / INR)	Job Description
AI Engineer	CAD 120K (INR 73.2L)	Designs, develops, and implements AI models and algorithms for automation and intelligent systems.
Data Scientist	CAD 110K (INR67.1L)	Analyzes complex data sets using machine learning and statistical techniques to inform business decisions.
Machine Learning Engineer	CAD 115K (INR70.2L)	Builds and deploys machine learning models and optimizes algorithms for real-world applications.
Software Developer (AI)	CAD 100K (INR61L)	Develops AI-powered software solutions, integrating AI modules into existing platforms.
Database Analyst	CAD 90K (INR54.9L)	Designs and manages AI-driven databases, ensuring efficient data storage and retrieval.
Computer Vision Engineer	CAD 125K (INR76.25L)	Specializes in image and video analysis using AI for applications in robotics, healthcare, and security.
NLP Specialist	CAD 115K (INR70.2L)	Develops AI systems for language processing, chatbots, and automated translation tools.
Robotics Engineer	CAD 105K (INR64.05L)	Designs and programs AI-driven robotic systems for manufacturing and automation.
AI Research Scientist	CAD 130K (INR79.3L)	Conducts advanced research in AI, publishes findings, and develops new algorithms and models.
Business Intelligence Analyst	CAD 85K (INR51.85L)	Uses AI tools to analyze market trends and help organizations make data-driven decisions.

Note: Salaries and roles may vary based on experience, location, and employer.

Also Read: Jobs After MS in Canada - Opportunities, Salary & Recruiters

Next, let’s have a look at some of the top recruiters for AI graduates in Canada. 

Top Recruiters for Artificial Intelligence Degree Holders in Canada

Canada’s AI job market is on the rise, with leading tech hubs like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver hosting over 800 AI firms.

Major industries recruiting AI graduates include technology, finance, healthcare, manufacturing, and logistics, with both startups and global enterprises. 

1. ServiceNow (Element AI) 

Hires AI Engineers, Machine Learning Engineers, and AI Research Scientists to develop AI-driven enterprise software solutions, focusing on automation, intelligent workflows, and business transformation across sectors like IT, HR, finance, and customer service.

2. MindBridge AI 

Recruits Data Scientists, AI Product Managers, and Ethical AI Specialists to build AI-powered financial auditing and fraud detection tools, leveraging advanced analytics to enhance trust and transparency in the finance and banking industry.

3. MongoDB

Employs AI Engineers, Software Developers (AI), and Machine Learning Engineers to create scalable, AI-driven database solutions and integrate machine learning models for advanced data management and analytics in technology and SaaS sectors.

4. GENIE AI

Seeks NLP Specialists, AI Research Scientists, and AI Engineers to develop natural language processing applications and AI solutions for legal, business intelligence, and enterprise automation.

5. Textlayer

Offers roles for Machine Learning Engineers and AI Developers, focusing on building AI models for automated content analysis, information extraction, and document processing across digital publishing and media.

6. GitLab

Hires AI Software Developers and DevOps Engineers with AI expertise to embed AI into DevOps pipelines, automating software development, deployment, and project management in cloud-based environments.

7. PathPilot

Recruits AI Engineers and Robotics Engineers to design AI-powered autonomous navigation and robotics systems, driving innovation in manufacturing, logistics, and industrial automation.

8. VoyceMe

Employs AI Engineers and Data Scientists to create AI solutions for voice recognition, customer interaction analytics, and speech-driven applications, supporting advancements in communications and customer service.

9. Medsender

Hires AI Engineers and Machine Learning Engineers to apply AI in healthcare, automating medical data processing, patient communication, and clinical workflow optimization for hospitals and clinics.

10. Nuron.AI

Recruits AI Research Scientists and Machine Learning Engineers to advance neural network research and develop cutting-edge AI applications for a range of industries, from tech to healthcare and beyond.

With all the top employers and diverse career paths, it's clear that Canada offers good opportunities for AI graduates. But what makes Canada itself the ideal destination for pursuing artificial Intelligence courses? Let's find out. 

Why Pursue Artificial Intelligence Courses in Canada?

Canada’s AI sector is expanding at an annual rate of 33.9%, with the market projected to reach CAD 28.2 billion by 2028, and over 15,000 AI-related jobs currently available nationwide.

This figure highlights Canada's leadership in AI adoption, its student life, and the wealth of opportunities for students interested in this rapidly developing field.

Here are some more reasons to study in Canada and enroll in Artificial Intelligence courses in Canada: 

1. Global AI Research Hubs

Canada is home to globally recognized AI research centers and institutions, such as the Vector Institute and Mila, which collaborate with top universities and industry partners to drive innovation and offer students direct access to cutting-edge research.

2. Stable Job Market and Career Growth

The Canadian AI job market is projected to grow by 15–20% in demand for AI specialists, data scientists, and machine learning engineers, with over 15,000 open positions and more than 800 AI companies operating nationwide.

3. Industry Integration and Practical Experience

AI programs in Canada emphasize hands-on learning, with most universities offering co-op, internship, or industry project opportunities that connect students directly to employers in sectors like technology, finance, and healthcare.

4. Supportive Immigration and Work Policies

International students benefit from Canada’s post-graduate work permit (PGWP) program, making it easier to gain Canadian work experience and qualify for permanent residency after completing an AI course.

5. High Earning Potential and Job Security

AI roles in Canada offer competitive salaries and strong job security, with data scientists and AI engineers among the top earners in the technology sector, and 70% of AI job postings focused on high-skill, high-complementarity roles.

Now, if you're ready to take the next step in pursuing your Artificial Intelligence degree in Canada, upGrad can provide you with the support and resources to guide you through the process. 

How Can upGrad Help You Study Artificial Intelligence Courses in Canada?

upGrad offers comprehensive support for students pursuing Artificial Intelligence courses in Canada by providing personalized counseling and guidance on university and course selection. upGrad also assists with application documentation personalized to each institution’s requirements.

Here are some of the key pointers worth noting about upGrad Abroad and why it makes for a good choice:

• upGrad ensures guidance and support from well-trained and skilled instructors. Get the best preparation modules for examinations like GMAT, GRE, TOEFL, SAT, and IELTS, among others.
• Interactive courses, mentorship, visa and scholarship assistance, and admission preparation are other services available. 
• The upGrad team also helps you with documentation, essays, education loans, expenditure, and all other process steps.

Enroll in your choice of AI course in Canada. Book a free one-on-one counselling session with upGrad's experts today and improve your chances of selection in top Canadian universities.