Cost of Studying in Canada: A Complete Guide

Update 2025: Canada has introduced new financial relief for international students. Manitoba, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland & Labrador now offer tuition waivers for select programs, while some universities have waived or reduced application fees. From September 2024, graduate funding rises to CAD 27,000 for master’s and CAD 40,000 for doctoral awards, benefiting both domestic and international students.

Canada has been one of the favourite study and work destinations for most Indians. A study suggests that 94% of study abroad aspiring students showed interest for studying in Canada. Undoubtedly, Canada ranks in one of the top countries in terms of education, but it is important to know beforehand the cost of studying in Canada in 2025 and beyond.

The study costs in Canada include tuition fees, living expenses, additional fees and sometimes hidden expenses, which may vary by institution and province. There are ways which you can use to manage those costs like scholarships or part-time job opportunities.

We’ll explore all the aspects related to study expenses in Canada and the ways to overcome or help ease financial burden. Come along and explore.

Explore the option availability for Scholarships in Canada

Cost of Studying in Canada: Overview and Key Insights

In 2025, IRCC plans to issue a total of 437,000 study permits, reflecting Canada’s growing appeal as a study destination. Tuition fees vary by program and institution, while living costs like accommodation, food, and transportation can add up quickly. 

Budgeting for these expenses is essential to managing your finances effectively while studying in Canada. 

Let’s explore the top universities in Canada that offer world-class education and are popular among international students from India.

Top 8 Universities in Canada for Indian Students

Canada is home to 223 public and private universities, offering world-class education and diverse opportunities for international students. 

With a growing number of Indian students choosing Canada for higher education, it's essential to explore the top institutions that cater to their academic and cultural aspirations.

Here's an overview of the top 8 universities in Canada, highlighting their QS World University Rankings and their standing within the country:

University	QS Global Ranking (2026)	Popular Courses	Tuition Cost
University of Toronto	29	MA, MIM, MBA, MS, MASc, M.Arch, B.E/B.Tech, BBA, BSc	INR 36.8L (UG) INR 3.7L – INR 18.4L (PG)
University of British Columbia	40	MA, MIM, MS, MBA/PGDM, MASc, ME/MTech, BBA, BSc, BE/BTech	INR 25.5L – INR 28.3L (UG) INR 5.8L (PG)
McGill University	27	MA, MS, MIM, M.Arch, MBA/PGDM, BBA, B.Sc, MBBS, BE/BTech	INR 12.8L – INR 27.7L (UG) INR 10.9L – INR 17.8L (PG)
University of Alberta	94	MEM, MS, MBA/PGDM, MA, BSc, BE/BTech, BBA	INR 20.4L (UG) INR 7.8L (PG)
McMaster University	173	MBBS, MIM, ME/MTech, MBA, MASc, PGDM, BBA, BSc, BE/BTech	INR 26.6L – INR 27.7L (UG) INR 3.8L – INR 10.3L (PG)
Université de Montréal	168	MA, MIM, BA, BSc	INR 17.2L (UG) INR 10.9L – INR 12.6L (PG)
University of Waterloo	119	ME/MTech, MIM, MASc, MTax, M.Pharma, MA, B.Sc., BBA, BE/BTech	INR 25.5L – INR 33.3L (UG) INR 2.9L – INR 9.3L (PG)
University of Ottawa	219	MBA, MA, MEM, MIM, MASc, MS, BBA, BSc, BE/BTech	INR 25.9L (UG) INR 10.6L – INR 17.9L (PG)

Source: QS Global Ranking 

Now that you are clear about the top universities in Canada, let's look into the total cost of studying in Canada in Indian rupees.

Cost of Education in Canada by Course Type

When planning your education in Canada, it’s important to consider the costs associated with popular programs such as Computer Science, Business, Engineering, Health Sciences, and Information Technology. Institutions like the University of Toronto, University of Waterloo, and McGill University are known for these courses.

Here's a breakdown of average tuition fees by course type:

Course	Annual Tuition Fees (CAD)	Annual Tuition Fees (INR)
Master’s in MBBS	CAD 18,000	INR 9.5L
MBA (Regular)	CAD 28,000	INR 14.7L
MBA (Executive)	CAD 57,000	INR 30.3L
Master’s in Computer Science & IT	CAD 2,150 – CAD 52,500	INR 1.1L – INR 28.2L
Master’s in Social Sciences	CAD 2,150 – CAD 37,000	INR 1.1L – INR 19.8L
Undergraduate Engineering & Medicine	CAD 22,000	INR 11.6L
Undergraduate Humanities & Business Management	CAD 5,500 – CAD 6,500	INR 2.9L – INR 3.5L
Bachelors in Computer Science & IT	CAD 1,535 – CAD 55,500	INR 8.3L – INR 2.9L
Dentistry (Undergraduate)	CAD 21,717	INR 11.6L
Bachelors in Natural Sciences	CAD 1,780 – CAD 53,000	INR 96K – INR 28.5L

Note: 

• Tuition fees are approximate and subject to change. It's advisable to consult the official university websites for the most current information.​
• All cost values are in CAD, with approximate conversions to INR based on exchange rates.

This table provides a clear breakdown of the tuition fees for various course types in Canada, allowing students to easily compare the costs for different fields of study.

Next, let’s explore the total cost of studying in Canada in Indian rupees based on programs. 

Cost of Education in Canada by Program

Understanding the cost of education in Canada is crucial for international students planning their studies. On average, international undergraduate tuition fees in Canada are approximately CAD 36,100 (INR 22L) per year, while graduate programs average around CAD 21,100 (INR 21.8L) annually. The cost of a master’s is approximately $21,100 (INR 12.8L).

Here are average Tuition Fees by Program: 

Program Name	Average Fee (CAD) &  (INR)	Duration (Years)
PhD	$43,000 per year (INR 43L)	3-6 years
Postgraduate	$21,100 per year (INR 12.8L)	1-2 years
MBA	$30,435-$31,856 per year (INR 18.3L – INR 19.4L)	1 year
Undergraduate	$36,100 per year (INR 21.9L)	3-5 years

Note: 

• Tuition fees are approximate and subject to change. It's advisable to consult the official university websites for the most current information.​
• All cost values are in CAD, with approximate conversions to INR based on exchange rates.

Also read: Top Universities in Canada for PhD

By considering both CAD and INR prices, you can assess the cost of education in Canada based on your preferred location and budget.

Now, let's take a closer look at the living expenses you'll need to consider while studying in Canada. 

Cost of Living Expenses in Canada

Living in Canada as an international student involves several monthly expenses, including rent, food, transportation, and entertainment. 

The cost of living in Canada can vary depending on the city, lifestyle, and housing choices. While Montreal, Calgary, and Winnipeg provide more reasonable student accommodations, cities like Toronto and Vancouver are often more expensive.

Let’s take a look at the cost of living in some major Canadian cities:

City	Average Monthly Cost of Living (CAD)	Average Monthly Cost of Living (INR)
Toronto	CAD 2,167.44	INR 1.31L
Vancouver	CAD 2,260	INR 1.36L
Montreal	CAD 1,258.86	INR 76.4K
Calgary	CAD 1,626	INR 98.7K
Ottawa	CAD 1,507	INR 92.2K

These estimates include accommodation, transportation, and other essentials like electricity and water. The food cost in Canada may be around CAD 300 - 400 (INR 18.4K - 24.5K) per month, depending on your lifestyle.

Keep in mind that actual living costs may vary depending on your lifestyle choices and specific location within the city.

Health Insurance and Support Requirements for Indian Students in Canada

While healthcare in Canada is publicly funded, international students must obtain private health insurance for additional coverage. Many universities in provinces like Quebec offer limited health coverage. Private plans may offer more comprehensive coverage, including dental care and prescriptions.

Here is a quick look at which provinces offer health insurance for international students:

Province	Is Health Coverage Available?	Requirements
Alberta	Yes	Minimum 12-month study permit, 12-month residence, apply within 90 days of arrival.
British Columbia	Yes	Minimum 6-month study permit, apply immediately after arrival (coverage begins after 3 months).
Manitoba	Yes	Minimum 6-month study permit, 6 months residency.
New Brunswick	Yes	Minimum 3 months residency, proof of full-time enrollment.
Newfoundland and Labrador	Yes	Minimum 12-month study permit.
Ontario, Quebec, Prince Edward Island, Yukon	No or with exceptions	Limited agreements with specific countries.

It’s essential to research and choose the most suitable health insurance plan based on the province you’ll be studying in. 

How to Apply for Free Healthcare in Canada: 

• Some provinces (Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta) offer free healthcare to international students.
• Apply for a provincial health card to access public healthcare services.
• For private insurance, enroll through your university or employer for additional coverage.

Now that you have an understanding of the total cost of studying in Canada, it's essential to consider the expenses related to obtaining a student visa and immigration requirements for studying in Canada.

Have a quick look at the Universities in Ontario, if you are looking for studies in Ontario Province.

Update: New Brunswick launches New Immigration Pilot program

Student Visa and Immigration Costs for Indian Students

Indian students make up 35-40% of Canada's international student population, highlighting the growing presence of Indian students in Canadian institutions. 

When applying for a study permit, it's important to consider the cost of student visa application, biometrics fee, and the Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) required for managing living expenses in your first year. 

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the student visa costs for Indian students:

Fee Type	Amount (CAD)	INR Equivalent
Visa Application Fee	CAD 150	INR 9K
Biometrics Fee	CAD 85	INR 5K
GIC Requirement	CAD 20,635	INR 12L

Important Notes: 

• Processing Time: The visa application process can take several weeks, so it's advisable to apply well in advance.
• GIC Refund: The GIC reduces the financial burden during your first year of study by helping students manage living expenses in Canada and is refunded to you in installments after arrival. 

By following the above guidelines, you can drastically reduce your chances of being rejected for a Canada visa. Now, let's explore the various scholarships and financial aid options available to Indian students.

Scholarships and Financial Aid for Indian Students in Canada

The Canadian government has allocated $825 million over five years to fund scholarships for international students. This includes prestigious programs like the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship. 

Indian students can also apply for university-specific awards like the University of Toronto International Scholar Award and external options like the Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute grants.

Below are some partial and fully funded scholarships available to Indian students planning to study in Canada:

Scholarship	Type	Details
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship	Merit-based, Government-funded	Eligibility: Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and international students.  Benefits: CAD 50,000 (INR 30.6L) per year for three years for doctoral studies.
Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute Scholarships	Merit-based, Government-funded	Eligibility: Indian students pursuing higher education in Canada.  Benefits: Covers research funding, travel expenses, tuition fees, and living costs.
Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program	Merit-based, Government-funded	Eligibility: International students enrolled in graduate programs at eligible Ontario universities. Benefits: Up to CAD 15,000 (INR 9.2L) per year.
Quebec Merit Scholarship Program for Foreign Students	Merit-based, Government-funded	Eligibility: International students enrolled in postgraduate studies at eligible universities in Quebec.  Benefits: CAD 25,000 (INR 15.3L) per year
Lester B Pearson Scholarship (Scholarship by University of Toronto)	Merit-based, University-specific	Eligibility: Exceptional academic achievements and leadership skills. Benefits: Full tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence support for four years.
Major Entrance Scholarships (McGill University)	Merit-based, University-specific	Eligibility: Students entering a full-time undergraduate program at McGill University. Benefits: Financial award between CAD 12,000 and CAD 48,000 (INR 10.1L - INR 40.6L) for up to 4 years.

In addition to financial aid and study abroad scholarships, part-time work is a fantastic option for managing living expenses while studying in Canada. Let's explore the ways that international students can earn money while funding their studies. 

Part-Time Jobs to Help Manage the Cost of Studying in Canada

Studying in Canada can be costly, and many international students struggle to cover living expenses. Part-time jobs can help ease this burden, but finding a job, securing work permits, and balancing it with studies can be challenging.

International students are allowed to work off-campus up to 24 hours per week without a work permit, providing an opportunity to earn while studying. 

Here’s a quick overview of some of the best part-time jobs for international students in Canada.

Which can help you reduce the total cost of studying in canada in indian rupees.

Job Type	Hourly Wage	Monthly Earnings
On-Campus (Library Assistant, IT Support, Admin Jobs)	CAD 11.45 – CAD 16 (INR 690 – INR 960)	CAD 1,280 – CAD 1,600 (INR 76K – INR 96K)
Barista	CAD 13.26 (INR 800 – INR 1,000)	CAD 1,060 (INR 63K)
Tutoring (Math, Science, English, Coding)	CAD 25.15 (INR 1,500 – INR 2,000)	CAD 2,010 (INR 1.2L)
Sales Assistant	CAD 17 (INR 1,000 – INR 1,200)	CAD 1,360 (INR 81K)
Server	CAD 12.20 (INR 740 – INR 900)	CAD 980 (INR 59K)

Note: INR values are approximate and based on the current exchange rate. Please check the current rates as they may fluctuate.

Here are some tips on practical ways to find a part-time job in Canada. 

• Start Early: Begin your job search at least 2-3 months before arriving in Canada. For example, the University of Toronto offers a dedicated job portal for students where you can apply for part-time positions even before you land in Canada.
• Use University Resources: Many universities provide career counseling and job boards to help students find part-time work. For instance, McGill University’s Career Planning Service hosts weekly job fairs and workshops to connect students with potential employers.
• Check Online Job Portals: Websites like Indeed, Monster, and Glassdoor are excellent resources. For example, you can easily find part-time positions in retail or tutoring by filtering results to show only student-friendly jobs in your location.
• Network: Networking is key to landing a good part-time job. Attend university-hosted networking events or speak with professors. At the University of Waterloo, many students have secured part-time positions through faculty connections, especially for roles in research labs.

Also read: High-Paying Online Part-Time Jobs for Students

Now, you know the various expenses related to the total cost of studying in canada in indian rupees, let's look at some practical tips to help you maximize your budget and efficiently manage your spending while studying abroad.

Tips for Managing the Cost of Studying in Canada

Canada ranks among the top three study destinations worldwide, hosting students from over 200 countries. With an average annual tuition of CAD 30,000 (INR 18.3L) for international students and living costs around CAD 15,000 (INR 9.1L), budgeting smartly is essential. Here’s how you can manage expenses during student life in Canada without compromising your study experience.

• Apply for Scholarships and Financial Aid: Scholarships from institutions like the Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program can ease financial burdens.
• Share Accommodation: In cities like Ottawa, shared housing reduces rent costs from CAD 1,200 (INR 73K) to roughly CAD 600 (INR 36.6K) monthly.
• Use Student Discounts: Many businesses offer up to 20% discounts with student ID cards.
• Take On-Campus Part-Time Jobs: Working up to 20 hours weekly, students can earn around CAD 13–15 (INR 700-900) per hour.
• Buy Second-Hand Textbooks: Students save about 50% by purchasing used or digital versions.
• Use Public Transport Instead of Taxis: Student monthly transit passes in Vancouver cost about CAD 98 (INR 5.9K), a fraction of typical taxi fares.

Following these strategies helps keep your finances on track so you can focus on your academic and personal growth in Canada.

Knowing why Canada attracts so many international students will guide you as you plan your journey. Let’s look into the key reasons that make Canada an excellent study destination.

Conclusion

In conclusion, understanding the cost of studying in Canada for Indian students involves more than just tuition, it includes living expenses, scholarship opportunities, and part-time work prospects. By selecting affordable universities and courses, applying for top scholarships, and making use of permissible work hours, students can significantly reduce their overall financial burden. With recent funding boosts and tuition waivers in certain provinces, Canada remains an attractive destination, offering quality education alongside practical ways to manage expenses effectively.

How Can upGrad Support Your Study Abroad Journey?

upGrad offers personalized guidance for Indian students to help them understand their study abroad journey, from selecting the right university to securing career opportunities after graduation. They assist with university selection, application document preparation, visa and relocation processes, and provide valuable career support through networking opportunities. 

Struggling to decide the best path for your study abroad journey? Book a personalized career counseling session with an upGrad expert today and get guidance on university selection, application strategies, and post-graduation opportunities!