May 17, 2025
Canada is among the most popular study destinations in the world for international students who wish to study abroad. In comparison to other big countries the cost of education and living is fairly affordable. It is one of the most liveable and safest countries with many top institutions offering best of the courses for international students to choose from.
The best part is that the cost of education might be on the lesser side as compared to other big countries. So, let’s check out the amount you will need for your higher education in Canada.
Combining the cost of education and living in Canada, the annual cost of tuition & living is a minimum of INR 21 lakhs to a maximum of INR 28 lakhs for Indian students. This total cost will depend on the level of degree and course you will be pursuing. This amount could be easily covered through a loan, various banks and financial institutions are offering education loans for students aiming to pursue higher studies in Canada.
In this article we’ll do a step-by-step analysis of the expenses to be borne by international students for studying in Canada. Once you know the details you can be financially prepared to embark on your study abroad journey in Canada.
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Tuition fees in Canada vary depending on the institution, program, and level of study. Below is an overview of the average tuition costs for international students:
It's important to note that tuition fees can vary significantly based on the field of study. Programs in business, engineering, and medicine often have higher tuition fees compared to humanities and social sciences.
Which university you land in, decides majorly the cost that will be required by you to complete your studies in Canada. Also, there is no single amount that can be stated, it all depends on your preferences, lifestyle, location of the university and so many other factors. University fees in Canada for international students therefore depends on where you get admitted. Consider the following universities that offer education at affordable costs.
When applying to Canadian universities and colleges, international students are typically required to pay application fees. These fees cover the administrative costs of processing applications and can vary depending on the institution and program.
Some universities may offer application fee waivers or have no application fees at all, especially for certain programs or applicants from specific countries. It’s advisable to check the specific requirements of each institution before applying.
The cost of education in Canada fluctuates according to the provinces in Canada. Having a basic idea of this can help you navigate better when considering to study in Canada.
| Province | Bachelor’s (CAD/Year) | Master’s (CAD/Year) |
| Ontario | 15,000 – 66,000 | 17,000 – 65,000 |
| British Columbia | 16,800 – 44,000 | 10,000 – 42,000 |
| Quebec | 14,420 – 22,350 | 20,000 – 30,000 |
| Alberta | 14,000 – 48,000 | 20,000 – 50,000 |
| Manitoba | 13,700 – 24,000 | 17,500 – 40,000 |
These figures are averages, and actual tuition fees can vary depending on the specific university and program.
Apart from tuition fees, international students should consider additional expenses, such as accommodation, transportation, and healthcare, which significantly contribute to the overall cost of studying in Canada.
Finding the right accommodation is crucial for international students. The cost varies depending on the type of housing chosen:
Canada offers several transportation options for students, and costs vary by city:
To study in Canada, international students must obtain a study permit. The associated costs include:
Additionally, some students may need to provide a medical exam, which can incur extra costs.
Knowing the city-wise cost of education in Canada will help you make an informed decision while selecting a university for higher education in Canada. Below is a general overview of tuition and living expenses in the top five cities for international students:
| City | Tuition Fees (CAD/year) | Living Cost (CAD/year) |
| Toronto | 30,000 – 65,000 | 18,000 – 30,000 |
| Vancouver | 17,000 – 35,000 | 18,900 – 32,220 |
Montreal Calgary | 13,000 – 32,000 15,000 – 30,000 | 16,900 – 20,400 16,800 – 30,600 |
| Ottawa | 14,000 – 42,000 | 18,000 – 20,000 |
Please note that the costs mentioned are estimates and may fluctuate based on the program, university, and other factors.
While focusing on securing admission to a Canadian university, many students tend to overlook additional expenses beyond tuition fees. From pre-arrival costs like application fees and visa charges to post-arrival expenses such as accommodation, transportation, and daily living, these costs can add up significantly. A simple breakdown of these expenses can help you plan your budget effectively and avoid any financial surprises.
| Expense | Cost |
| Language Proficiency & Subject Tests | |
| IELTS | 18,000 INR |
| TOEFL | 16,900 INR |
| PTE | 18,000 INR |
| GRE General | 23,452 INR |
| GRE Subject | 14,500 INR |
| GMAT | $ 275 (24,000 INR) |
| Application Process | |
| Application Fees (University/College) | 50 – 250 CAD |
| Document Charges (Certificate of Acceptance) | Around 130 CAD approximately |
| Study Permit & Visa | |
| Study Permit Application Fee | 150 CAD |
| Biometrics Fee | 85 CAD |
| Additional Expenses | |
| Medical Test | Varies (as per designated medical practitioner fees) |
| Tuition Fees (Including Health Insurance) - As per Visa Requirement | Varies by program & university/college |
| Living Expenses Proof (As per Visa Requirement) | CAD 20,635 for 1 year |
| Flight Tickets (One-Way from India to Canada) | 1,500 – 3,500 CAD |
Since students prepay tuition fees (including health insurance) and show proof of around CAD 20,635 for one year for living expenses as part of the visa process, most major expenses are already covered before arrival. However, students should still budget for additional personal expenses such as entertainment, shopping, and unforeseen costs.
Note: Costs are approximate and can vary based on factors such as city, lifestyle, and specific program requirements. Exchange rates are subject to change.
To get a better idea of these expenses as per your university, place of stay, etc. you can connect with KC’s Canada experts. We will resolve all your queries right from answering how to get admission in Canada to assisting you through the actual admission process.
We have just given you an overview of the cost to study in Canada so that you will be well prepared. But do not allow these financial nuances to deter you from your study abroad dreams. You can cover the same with Overseas Education Loans or reduce your financial burden by applying for Scholarships. Scholarships will surely depend on your eligibility, but Loans can be obtained quite easily, and our Elan Overseas Education Loan Experts will guide you for the same.
This is an investment which will give you returns in multiple folds and a promise of global career options, so good luck with it.
You can cut down study costs in Canada by applying for scholarships, choosing affordable universities, and working part-time. Opt for shared housing, use student discounts, and budget smartly. Some provinces even offer lower tuition fees. Plan ahead and explore financial aid options to ease your expenses!
The most affordable yet student-friendly cities in Canada include Montreal, Edmonton, Winnipeg, Ottawa, and Halifax. These cities offer relatively lower tuition fees, affordable housing, and good public transport, making them budget-friendly options for international students without compromising on quality education and student life.
To study in Canada, you can apply for an education loan from banks or financial institutions. Many lenders offer loans covering tuition, living expenses, and more. Elan Loans simplifies this process by connecting you with the best loan options tailored to your needs.