Cost Of Living In Canada For Indian Students 2025

Is Canada still the affordable study abroad dream? With tuition fees often lower than in the US and UK, it certainly has a reputation for value.

As of September 2025, the Canadian government (IRCC) has set the minimum living expense requirement for a single student at CAD 22,895 per year ( ₹14.6 L), which works out to over CAD 1,900/month just for housing, food, transit, and other basics (Government of Canada). In cities like Toronto or Vancouver, the actual monthly spend can be even higher if you rent privately or eat out often. That’s why understanding the real cost of living in Canada is crucial before you move. 

We’ll cut through the rumors to give you a clear, honest breakdown of the costs from rent to groceries so you can budget with confidence.

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Average Cost of Living in Canada 2025

On average, international students in Canada spend CAD 1,900-CAD 2,700 per month (₹1.2-₹1.7) on living expenses, excluding tuition fees. These costs cover housing, food, transport, health insurance, and other personal expenses.. For example, living in Toronto can cost around CAD 2,300-CAD 3,450 (₹.4L-₹2.2L) per month, while Calgary is comparatively cheaper at CAD 2,000-CAD 2,700 (₹1.2L-₹1.7).

Similarly, the cost of groceries and transportation can also be higher in major cities compared to smaller ones.

Cost of Living in Canada for Indian Students

Studying in Canada is exciting, but the expenses can quickly add up if you’re not prepared. From rent and groceries to transport and health insurance, every cost affects your monthly budget. To help you plan realistically, here’s a clear breakdown of what Indian students typically spend each month in Canada.

Below is a category-wise estimate in both CAD and INR, so you can see exactly where your money will go and how much you’ll need to manage your lifestyle in Canada.

Estimate Monthly Cost Breakdown

Breakdown by Category

Accommodation

• Shared off-campus/shared apartments typically cost CAD 600-1,500/month, depending on city & type of sharing. In major cities (Toronto, Vancouver), it tends toward the upper end. Smaller cities like Halifax, Winnipeg, or Saskatoon are usually more affordable.
• On-campus residences/dorms generally cost CAD 600–1,000/month, but the exact rent depends on the type of room and facilities:

• Shared Dorm Rooms (CAD 600–750/month): Usually, 2–3 students share a room, with common washrooms and study areas. This is the most affordable option and is often chosen by first-year students.
• Private Rooms in Shared Suites (CAD 750–900/month): Each student gets a private bedroom but shares kitchen and living spaces. Slightly higher in cost but offers more privacy.
• Single Studio Rooms (CAD 900–1,000+/month): Independent rooms with attached bathroom and sometimes a kitchenette. These are limited and costlier but preferred by students who want privacy and convenience.
• One-bedroom off-campus apartments in prime locations can be CAD 1,200-2,500/month in expensive cities.

Transportation

• Public transit / monthly pass: CAD 80-150/month depending on city. Students often get discounts. 
• If you live close to campus, costs may be lower; if commuting from the suburbs or across the city, higher.

Utilities

• Utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage) typically cost CAD 100-250/month if not included in rent. Winter heating can push the high end.
• Internet and phone: CAD 40-100/month depending on data plan, speed, sharing, etc.

Health Insurance

• Normally CAD 600-1,200/year, depending on province & coverage. That works out to CAD 50-100/month approx.
• Some provinces allow international students to join provincial health plans; others require private or university insurance. Coverage often excludes dental, vision, etc, unless added.

Food & Groceries

• Cooking at home: Expect to spend around CAD 200–400/month on groceries if you mostly cook yourself. On average (Numbeo, 2025):
  
  • 1 litre milk – CAD 2.60 (₹166)
  • 1 dozen eggs – CAD 4.20 (₹268)
  • 1 kg rice – CAD 5.00 (₹319)
  • 1 kg chicken breast – CAD 14.00 (₹893)
  • 1 kg apples – CAD 5.50 (₹351)
• Eating out/meal plans:
  • A basic meal at an inexpensive restaurant: CAD 25 (₹1,595).
  • Mid-range restaurant (for two): CAD 80 (₹5,102).
  • Many universities also offer meal plans, which can push monthly food expenses to CAD 300–600, depending on frequency and city.

Cooking at home is always more budget-friendly for Indian students, while frequent eating out can nearly double the monthly spend.

Personal & Miscellaneous

• Mobile phone plan, internet (if separate), streaming subscriptions, etc: CAD 40-100+ depending on plan.
• Clothing, entertainment, books & supplies, laundry, etc: CAD 100-300/month depending on how much you socialise or buy new items, etc. 

City-wise Cost of Living for Canada

Living expenses in Canada vary depending on the city. Toronto and Vancouver consistently rank as the most expensive due to higher rents, dining, and transit costs, while cities like Calgary, Ottawa, and Halifax are comparatively affordable. The trade-off is clear: bigger cities often bring better job opportunities and networking, but students must budget for significantly higher monthly expenses.

Montreal offers budget-friendly rent and public transport. Edmonton provides lower food and housing costs, making it ideal for students. While not as affordable as Montreal, these cities balance affordability and job opportunities, along with quality transit. For more insights, below is a comparison table of estimated monthly costs (excluding tuition), followed by notes on what’s contributing to those estimates.

• Choose housing wisely: Living in on-campus dorms or shared off-campus apartments can save CAD 500–800/month compared to renting a one-bedroom apartment in city centres.
• Look beyond city centres: Suburban areas in Toronto or Vancouver can reduce rent by up to 30%, though commuting costs may rise slightly.
• Budget for winters: Heating and utilities can add CAD 100–250/month in colder provinces like Quebec, Alberta, or Manitoba. Planning for this seasonal spike avoids surprises.
• City trade-offs: While Toronto and Vancouver offer stronger job markets, cities like Ottawa, Winnipeg, and Halifax balance affordability with good student amenities.

(Source: Statistics Canada(living costs, rent data), Numbeo 2025(city comparisons)).

Average Cost of Studying in Canada for Indian Students

Studying in Canada is a big investment. Costs vary widely depending on degree level (undergraduate, master’s, PhD), university type (high-ranking vs smaller, research vs teaching), province, and program ( like engineering, medicine costs more). Below is a table of average tuition fees for Indian students in Canada.

Average Annual Tuition Fees

(Source: Statistics Canada, 2025)

Mandatory Additional Costs (Beyond Tuition)

These fees are often overlooked but are compulsory at most universities:

• Student union & ancillary fees: CAD 1,000 – 2,000/year (₹63,780 – ₹1,27,560)
• Health insurance (UHIP/Provincial): CAD 600 – 1,200/year (₹38,268 – ₹76,536)
• Books & supplies: CAD 500 – 1,000/year (₹31,890 – ₹63,780)
• Application fees: CAD 100 – 200 per application (₹6,378 – ₹12,756)

What Drives Costs Up or Down?

• Program choice: Engineering, medicine, and MBA programs cost more than the humanities or social sciences.
• University type: High-ranking research universities charge more than smaller or teaching-focused institutions.
• Location: Cities like Toronto and Vancouver come with higher tuition and living expenses compared to cities like Halifax or Winnipeg.
• Residency status: International students pay significantly higher fees than Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
• Scholarships & aid: Merit- or need-based scholarships can offset a significant part of tuition.

Understanding GIC & Proof of Funds (PoF)

A Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) is a mandatory financial requirement for Indian students applying under the Student Direct Stream (SDS) visa category. It is a secure investment account with a Canadian bank where you deposit money to show you can cover your living expenses.

• As of 2025, the minimum GIC amount is CAD 20,635 (₹13,15,000).
• This money is deposited before you travel, and the bank releases it back to you in monthly or quarterly installments once you arrive in Canada.
• It acts as proof of funds (PoF) for your visa, ensuring the Canadian government that you can pay for rent, food, transport, and other living costs.

(Source: Government of Canada)

Best Banks for Student GICs

When exploring the best banks for Student Guaranteed Investment Certificates (GICs), it’s important to consider factors such as interest rates, fees, and overall customer service.

Here are some banks that are often recognised for their student GIC offerings:

GIC Process, Delays & Workarounds

• Deposit amount in the home country
• The bank issues a GIC certificate
• Submit it during the visa process
• Receive CAD 2,000 (INR 1.2L) upfront
• The remaining amount is paid monthly

Tip: Always keep backup financial documents. IRCC accepts family bank statements, education loan letters, and official scholarships.

Cost of Living in Canada vs India

Comparing Canada vs India costs can get confusing, but seeing concrete numbers helps you understand how much more (or less) you’ll spend. Below is a table comparing typical non-rent living expenses for students in both countries. After that, I explain what drives the differences and what to watch out for when budgeting.

Here is a table for a better understanding:

What Drives the Difference

• Housing & Rent: Housing cost in Canada tends to push up other costs (utilities, transport) because housing tends to be more spread out, meaning more transit, heating, etc.
• Utilities & Climate: Colder climates in Canada mean higher heating costs; summers can bring cooling costs, too. Utility rates (electricity, heating) are higher per unit.
• Quality, Standards & Imports: Many goods, foods, and electronics are either imported or subject to stricter safety/health/energy standards; this raises prices.
• Labour Costs & Taxes: Wages are higher (so services cost more), and in many places, taxes & VAT / GST / HST add to costs.
• Public Systems & Insurance: Some health services are publicly funded in Canada, but international students often need private or supplementary insurance. Private clinics, dental, vision etc, tend to cost more.

Tips for Students to Save Money in Canada

Living in Canada as an international student can feel expensive, especially in cities like Toronto and Vancouver. But small, smart choices can make a big difference in your monthly budget. Here are some proven ways to save without cutting back on essentials:

• Choose Shared Housing
  Rent is the single biggest expense. Opting for a shared apartment or basement unit with other students can cut housing costs by 30-40%. Look beyond the city centre areas, which are well-connected by transit and often cost far less.
• Use Public Transit Passes
  Monthly student passes offered by most transit systems (like TTC in Toronto or STM in Montreal) are much cheaper than buying single tickets. Many universities also bundle transit passes into student fees, making them almost “pre-paid.”
• Cook at Home
  Eating out in Canada can drain your wallet quickly. Cooking meals at home and sharing groceries with roommates helps you save big. Indian students especially find bulk stores like Costco, No Frills, and Walmart useful for affordable groceries.
• Take Advantage of Student Discounts
  Always carry your student ID. From movie tickets to software, public transit to restaurants, students often get 10–30% discounts. Check the ISIC (International Student Identity Card) for global deals.
• Buy Used or Digital Textbooks
  University bookstore prices can be shockingly high. Look for used copies, rent books online, or use digital/ebook versions. Many professors also place reference copies in the library for free access.
• Work Part-Time Legally
  As of 2025, international students in Canada are allowed to work part-time during semesters and full-time during scheduled breaks. On-campus jobs or flexible off-campus shifts (cafés, retail, tutoring) not only earn you extra money but also Canadian work experience.
• Plan for Winters Smartly
  Instead of splurging on brand-new winter gear, look for thrift stores or seasonal sales. Many Canadian cities have second-hand shops and student groups that sell quality jackets and boots at a fraction of the price.
• Manage Utilities Carefully
  Heating is a big cost in winter. Simple steps like sealing windows, turning off unused lights, and setting thermostats smartly can cut utility bills significantly.
• Leverage Campus Facilities
  Most universities include gyms, counselling, health clinics, and career services in student fees. Using them instead of paying extra outside saves money and provides reliable support.

With discipline, an Indian student can realistically save ₹15,000-₹30,000 per month in Canada just by making better choices on housing, food, and transport. Over the course of a degree, that adds up to lakhs in savings.

Final Thought

So, how much is the cost of living in Canada? The answer depends on your location, lifestyle, and smart budgeting. Compared to the cost of living in Australia vs Canada, Canada often provides better PR pathways and healthcare. With careful financial planning, you can manage the cost of living in Ontario, Calgary, or even Montreal and thrive as a student.

Whether you're looking at the cost of living in Alberta or wondering what the average cost of living in Canada is, make sure to align your finances with IRCC expectations for a stress-free student journey.

Leap Scholar is proud to have a highly qualified team of counsellors with 50+ years of combined experience in helping students study abroad. 

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