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A Complete Guide to Masters in Canada for International Students

Sep 10, 2025

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Canada truly shines as a top destination for international students aiming for a Masters degree. It brings together world‑class universities, a safe and welcoming society, and lower overall costs compared to other popular study destinations. Canadian campuses are known for celebrating cultural diversity, with students from all over the world sharing traditions, ideas, and meals.

Institutions consistently rank among the best globally, offering rigorous academic standards, ideal resources, and strong connections to fields like technology, healthcare, and business. Whether you’re looking for top‑tier research, practical learning, or simply a welcoming, grounded environment, Masters in Canada brings a balanced blend of opportunity and belonging, all without compromising on any educational aspect that study abroad aspirants look for. This blog covers everything that you need to know about masters in Canada, from eligibility, cost, to post-study opportunities and more.

Table of Content

  1. Why Study Masters in Canada?
  2. Top Universities in Canada for Masters
  3. Top Courses for Masters in Canada
  4. Eligibility Requirements for Masters in Canada
  5. Cost to Study Masters in Canada
  6. Scholarships to study MS in Canada
  7. Work Permit After MS in Canada
  8. Average Salary After Masters in Canada
  9. Top Recruiters
  10. Map your Masters Journey in Canada with KC Overseas
  11. FAQs

Why Study Masters in Canada?

Before we jump into the details regarding Masters in Canada, it is best to know why it's worth choosing this country for your higher education. Here are a few substantial reasons for the same –

  • Globally ranked institutions: 4 Canadian universities are ranked in the top 100 globally as per QS World University Rankings 2025, and the other universities are globally renowned as well, which means your degree carries real international weight
  • Cost-effective education: Studying in Canada generally costs less than in other study destinations, making it a smart option for students mindful of value and outcomes.
  • Part‑time work opportunities: While studying, you can work up to about 25 hours per week, with flexibility to earn and learn at the same time.
  • Post‑study work for up to 3 years: After your Master’s, you will qualify for a Post‑Graduation Work Permit that allows you to stay and work in Canada for up to 3 years, helping you gain valuable experience and explore your next steps.
  • Pathway to permanent residency: Canadian work experience from a PGWP can support your application for programs like Express Entry or Provincial Nominee pathways, paving the way to residency.
  • Inclusive and diverse environment to learn and grow: Universities in Canada bring together people from many nations, creating a supportive and culturally rich space to broaden your worldview and grow personally.

Top Universities in Canada for Masters

The university you pick for your Masters can shape your career in a big way. Canada offers several standout universities known for quality education, future-focused programs, and strong student support networks. Here are a few names that you may consider –

University Indicative Average Annual Tuition FeesQSWR
University of WaterlooCAD 64,000115
University of OttawaCAD 36,000189
University of Calgary Continuing EducationCAD 24000198
Dalhousie UniversityCAD 16,000 – CAD 31,000275
University of VictoriaCAD 23,000 – CAD 349
York University, School of Continuing EducationCAD 15,000 – CAD 20,000362
University of GuelphCAD 20,000 – CAD 48,000456
University of WindsorCAD 24,000547
University of ManitobaCAD 20,000 – CAD 37,000661-670
Memorial University of NewfoundlandCad 17,000661-670

Note: Tuition fees are indicative and can vary widely based on the university, type of program, and your specialisation.

Top Courses for Masters in Canada

Choosing the right subject for an MS in Canada plays a big part in shaping both your educational experience in Canada and your career path. Below are some of the most popular and future proof masters programs that international students are choosing:

  • Computer Science
  • Data Science and Analytics
  • Artificial Intelligence / Machine Learning
  • Engineering (Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Chemical, Computer Engineering, Applied Computing)
  • Business Administration and Management
  • Finance and Accounting
  • Environmental Science & Sustainability
  • Public Health / Global Health
  • Biotechnology and Biomedical Engineering
  • Nursing and Health Sciences
  • Biology and Life Sciences

Eligibility Requirements for Masters in Canada

To apply to a university for a Masters in Canada, it’s important to meet certain eligibility criteria. While specific requirements vary by university and program, here are the general boxes you’ll typically need to tick:

  • Valid passport: This is a crucial aspect to be eligible for MS courses in Canada.
  • Academic transcripts: Official mark sheets from your 10th, 12th, and undergraduate studies.
  • GMAT or GRE scores: Standardized test results required by many programs, especially in business, engineering, CS, IT, etc. fields.
  • English language test results: Proof of language ability through IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, etc. usually mandatory for non-native English speakers.
  • Letter(s) of Recommendation: 2-3 LORs from professors or employers which can confirm to your skills, character, and readiness for graduate study.
  • Statement of Purpose: A personal essay outlining your goals, background, and reason for choosing the program.
  • Work experience (if asked): Especially for professional or MBA programs, you may need to show relevant work experience.
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)/resume: A clear summary of your academic achievements, work experience, and any extracurricular involvements.
  • Portfolio (for certain fields): Portfolios are required for design-based or creative disciplines like architecture, fine arts, or multimedia.

Cost to Study Masters in Canada

When you’re thinking about pursuing a Masters in Canada, it's essential to understand the cost upfront. Studying in Canada tends to be more affordable than in many leading study destinations. Here’s a clear snapshot so you know what to expect and avoid surprises:

  • Average tuition fees: Tuition for Masters programs usually falls between around CAD 9600 to CAD 65,000 per year, though exact amounts depend on the university, course, and specialisation
  • Living expenses: Your cost of living - covering rent, food, transport, utilities, and personal items- will cost CAD 22,895 annually, depending on the city and your lifestyle.

Scholarships to study MS in Canada

Funding could never be a hurdle in your pursuit to study in Canada when there are numerous scholarships and funding aid available to reduce your cost of education substantially. From government and university-specific to private and external scholarships, the pool is wide and full of possibilities.

Here are a few scholarships that students can consider –

Scholarship Name Offered By Amount
University of Waterloo Graduate ScholarshipUniversity of WaterlooCAD 1,000 per term (up to 3 terms)
Academic ScholarshipsVarious Universities in Canada CAD 2000 to CAD 11000

There are many more scholarships available depending on your background and chosen university. To know which ones fit you best, connect with us today!

Work Permit After MS in Canada

Completing a Masters in Canada makes you eligible to apply for a Post‑Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which lets you work in Canada for three years after graduating, as long as you meet eligibility criteria and apply within 180 days of completing your course. This permit allows you to build valuable Canadian work experience, which in turn can support your application for permanent residency programs like Express Entry or provincial nominations.

Average Salary After Masters in Canada

Pursuing a Master's in Canada doesn’t just give you a quality education, it also sets you up for solid career prospects. International graduates can expect competitive starting salaries that vary based on industry and role.

Field of StudyExpected Salary Range (CAD/year)Remarks
Technology and Engineering75,000 – 100,000High demand across software, AI, data, and core engineering sectors
Business and Finance65,000 – 95,000Roles in banking, consulting, and corporate sectors
General Average (All Fields)Around 70,000Varies by role, industry, and individual experience

Note: Salary figures are indicative and may vary based on job role, location, experience level, and employer.

Top Recruiters

Once you complete your Masters in Canada, several well-known companies frequently hire international graduates, often offering competitive roles and supporting pathways to longer-term work or residency.

Top recruiters for Masters graduates in Canada include:

  • Amazon
  • Microsoft Canada
  • Deloitte Canada
  • RBC (Royal Bank of Canada)
  • WSP Global Inc.
  • Shopify
  • IBM Canada
  • Accenture Canada
  • Bombardier

Map your Masters Journey in Canada with KC Overseas

Navigating a Masters in Canada can feel complex with so many details to take care of, but with the right guidance, it becomes achievable and clear. At KC Overseas, we support your entire journey - from evaluating your profile and matching you with the best-fit programs and universities, to polishing your SOP, CV, and visa application. We help you explore scholarships or loan options and stay with you through pre-departure planning and settling in Canada. With KC Overseas, you’re not just guided - you’re supported every step, leaving you free to focus on learning and growing.

FAQs

1. Is pursuing a Masters in Canada worth it?

A well‑recognized Canadian Master’s often leads to strong job prospects, a post-study work permit, and a pathway to permanent residency, making it worth considering for many international students

2. When should I apply for a Masters program and visa?

Start at least 6–8 months before your intended start date. University deadlines often fall 6–9 months in advance, and your visa takes time to process too.

3. What English test scores do I need for a Masters in Canada?

Most universities require a minimum IELTS band of 6.5 (with 6.0 in each section) or equivalent scores in TOEFL or PTE.

4. Is pursuing a Masters in Canada better than studying it in other countries?

Canada offers more affordable tuition and living costs, clearer post-graduation work options like a three-year PGWP, and smoother paths to permanent residency, which makes it a practical choice for many international students.

5. What is the typical duration of a Masters degree in Canada?

Master’s programs in Canada generally take 1 to 2 years to complete. Course-based programs are often shorter, while thesis-based or research-oriented programs may extend to 2 years. The exact duration can vary depending on the university, program structure, etc.

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