As per a recent IDP survey, Canada is one of the top destinations preferred by international students planning their studies abroad. Canada offers numerous opportunities for Indian students to study and develop, ranging from high-quality education to experiential learning.
Recently, STEM courses and MBA programs have attracted Indian students’ attention. The best cities for Indians to study are Quebec, Ottawa, Vancouver, Montreal and Toronto. Indian students prefer Canada because of its student-friendly cities, experience of multicultural diversity, Affordable living and study costs and many more reasons.
According to Indian Express, in the first few months of 2023, 1L Indian students will be studying in Canada. Canada, known for its excellent education system (ranked fourth globally), has top-ranking universities and colleges that attract international students. Many Canadian universities are listed among the top universities in the QS World Rankings for 2024.
Top 10 Reasons to Study in Canada
Canada has a robust higher education system with several characteristics that make it an attractive destination for international students. Here are some key facts about higher education in Canada:
The top reasons to study in Canada:
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| World’s No. 3 Education System | Top-class Universities |
| Education on Priority by the Govt. | Student-friendly Nation |
| Wide Range of Courses & Programs | Scholarships for Indian Students |
| Reputed Faculties | Excellent Career Opportunities |
| Recognition of Canadian Degree | Safe & Peaceful Country |
| Favourable Immigration Policies (PGWP) | Multicultural Society |
Studying in Canada is a popular choice for international students due to various factors. Here are ten reasons why students often choose Canada as their preferred study destination.
Let us elaborate on some of the major reasons for students choosing Canada:
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- Academic Excellence: The excellent level of education in Canada is one of the reasons you should study there. A degree from a Canadian university is considered a symbol of quality and reliability.
- Affordable Education: Canada’s tuition is relatively less expensive than in the US and the UK. Canada presents a desirable choice for Indian students when considering the return on investment. The tuition fee expense depends on the province in which you are enrolled, and Ontario is considered to have the highest fees in Canada.
- Immigration Opportunities: Canada has favourable immigration policies for international students who wish to stay in the country after completing their studies. Programs such as the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allow students to gain Canadian work experience, potentially leading to permanent residency.
- Cultural Diversity: People from several ethnic groups with distinct customs and lifestyles may be found in Canada, and they are all incredibly friendly and hospitable. Canada’s multicultural climate encourages friendliness and harmonious living like no other country. There are indeed many Indians who come here to live, work, and study. Universities encourage students to participate in cultural exchange and celebrate festivals to experience different cultures.
- Ease of Immigration: A study permit is required for Indian students to study in Canada. For Indian students who have completed their education abroad, the Canadian government has made it simpler for them to immigrate to Canada. After graduation, you need a work permit to work in Canada after three years.
- Quality of Life: With first-rate public services, social security, and healthcare, Canada delivers a high standard of living. Indian students at high rates are currently based out of major cities and are working in highly skilled jobs. Canada is considered one of the best countries to study because of affordable study and living costs, career opportunities, environmental protection and individual freedom.
- Earn while you study: Canada offers Indian students the ability to work part-time for up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during summer and winter breaks due to particular laws. Your study permit will help you obtain part-time employment, so you won’t need a second one to work on campus or as an intern for any business.
- Student-friendly cities in Canada: The best cities in Canada can defined by the quality of life provided to the Indian student. The preferred cities also offer part-time job opportunities to Indian students, which adds to the benefit of the students. The best student-friendly cities in Canada are Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa, Quebec, Edmonton, Calgary, Ontario, British Columbia and Waterloo.
- Affordable cost of living: The cost of living in Canada is relatively cheaper than in countries like the USA, UK and Australia. Most Canadian universities provide a cost of living expense to Indian Students. Living expenses in Canada include- housing and accommodations, food and groceries, travel health insurance, transportation, clothing, and entertainment. You can also apply for an International Student Identification Card for additional benefits.
- Access to innovative courses: Canada is known for its innovative courses in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, aerospace and environmental sectors. According to the Global Innovation Index, Canada ranks in 9th position in innovation in 2022.
Demanding Courses to Study in Canada
Here are some of the demanding courses for Indian students to study in Canada:
| Course Name | Average Tuition Fees in INR |
| Computer Science & Information Technology | 49L |
| Business & Finance | 43L |
| Healthcare & Life Science | 50L |
| Data Analytics | 44L |
| Media & Journalism | 35L |
| Psychology | 70L |
Source: Indeed, Glassdoor
For Indian students, these courses are ideal because they provide great opportunities for employment in Canada. Furthermore, these courses are relevant to the modern work market, and businesses in Canada are particularly interested in hiring graduates of these programmes.
Top 10 Universities in Canada
Canada has an excellent educational system and is known for having some of the best universities in the world. Globally renowned Canadian colleges draw students with a wide array of programmes. These universities are well-known for their cutting-edge research, outstanding academic programmes, and robust student support systems.
The top universities to study in Canada are mentioned below:
| Top Universities | QS Ranking 2023 | Average Annual Tuition Fee (INR) |
| McGill University | 31 | 17L |
| University of Toronto | 34 | 36L |
| University of British Columbia | 47 | 90K – 1L |
| University of Montreal | 116 | 2L – 15L |
| University of Alberta | 110 | 12L – 15L |
| McMaster University | 152 | 16L – 18L |
| University of Waterloo | 154 | 16L – 33L |
| Western University | 172 | 36L |
| University of Ottawa | 237 | 15L |
| University of Calgary | 242 | 4L |
Source: Official website of Universities
*Note- All the expenses mentioned above are approximate figures per existing data and are subject to change. Your expenses will vary based on factors like the university you attend, its location, and the type of university it is. The expense numbers provided are meant to give you a general idea and can vary. Conversion rate- 1 CAD = 60.37 INR
Best 5 Universities for Masters
In Canada, master’s degree programmes typically cost between 20,000 CAD and 40,000 CAD in tuition each year. A master’s degree at a Canadian university might cost Indian students anywhere from 12,00,000 INR to 24,00,000 INR. Canadian universities typically hold master’s degree application deadlines in October and January, with admissions decisions being made by May. Here are some of the best universities for master’s programmes for Indian students in Canada:
- University of Toronto
- University of British Columbia
- Queens University
- University of Alberta
- McGill University
Cost of studying in Canada
The expense of tuition fees in Canada varies based on the degree programme and school you select. Generally considering, annual expenses should range from 7L INR to 21L INR. While humanities, education, and arts programmes are typically more inexpensive, those in STEM courses like sciences and engineering are probably more expensive.
| Study Programme | Average Annual Tuition fee (INR) |
| Undergraduate | 7L – 12L |
| Postgraduate | 10L – 15L |
| PhD | 4L– 9L |
| MBA | 18L – 24L |
Source: IDP
Note- All the expenses mentioned above are approximate figures per existing data and are subject to change. Your expenses will vary based on factors like the university you attend, its location, and the type of university it is. The expense numbers provided are meant to give you a general idea and can vary. Conversion rate- 1 CAD = 60.37 INR
Apart from the above-mentioned tuition fees for different study programmes in Canada, you should also know that other expenses include accommodation, meals, and transportation. According to numbeo, Canada’s average cost of living is 88K monthly without rent.
Mentioned below is a detailed breakout of the living expenses in Canada
| Expenses | Cost in INR |
| Accommodation | On campus: 4L – 6LShared Flats: 24K – 42K Homestay: 45K – 57K |
| Food | INR 1,410 |
| Transportation | Monthly Pass: 8K |
| Health Insurance | 36K – 60K |
Required Exams to Study in Canada
As an Indian student, you must fulfil specific exam requirements to study in Canada. The tests you take will depend on your level of study (undergraduate or graduate) and the university or programme to which you are applying. Here are some common test requirements:
| Exam Name | Minimum Score Required |
| IELTS | 5.5 |
| GRE (Science, Engineering &Business) | 320-340 |
| GMAT(MBA) | 550 |
| MCAT(Medical Schools) | 515 |
| LSAT (Law Schools) | 160 |
Scholarships for Indian Students
According to CIC news, Canada has remained expensive for Indian students, and it indicates that the cost of living will remain high in Canada, though some inflation is slowing. To reduce the financial burden, Indian students can always apply for scholarships. Scholarships are designed to help students pay for their degree. Scholarships can be fully funded or partially funded, which includes living costs. Scholarships are provided by universities or even by external resources.
Canada’s federal and provincial/territorial governments are represented by the Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials (CICIC). They are regarded as a reliable resource that Indian students can utilise to discover their choices for financial help. Indian students can get loans, bursaries, and scholarships to help themselves financially.
Listed below are some of the scholarships to study
The following well-known government-funded scholarships are offered to Indian students who want to study in Canada:
- Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute: It provides a range of fellowships, including training and research fellowships, at different levels, from graduate to post-doctorate.
- National Research Council of India: It offers research associateships to people with a Ph.D. in natural science or engineering or a master’s degree in engineering.
- Partnership Grants by The Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada: It helps Ph.D. candidates who are pursuing research in the humanities and social sciences.
- Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan: It recognises Commonwealth-based students who want to study for Master’s and PhD degrees in Canada and have outstanding academic credentials.
Wrapping Up
Canada provides pleasant surroundings, various cultural activities, and excellent education. There are also lots of funding and scholarship options available. It’s an opportunity to further your academic objectives while widening your horizons and developing a global viewpoint.
If you are ready to take the first step, further guidance to study in Canada is just a click away on LeapScholar.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. Why should I choose Canada for study?Â
Ans. The same freedoms and privileges that safeguard Canadian citizens are extended to indian students: equality, diversity, human rights respect, and a stable, peaceful society. In the world’s rankings for highest quality of life, Canada comes in third.Â
Q. What documents are required to study in Canada after the 12th?Â
Ans. The documents mentioned below will be handy while applying for courses in Canada after the 12th:
a. Class 10th and 12th transcriptsÂ
b. PassportÂ
c. English proficiency test scoresÂ
d. ResumeÂ
e. Letter of RecommendationÂ
f. Statement of PurposeÂ
Q. Is Canada good for Indian student?
Ans. For Indian students wishing to pursue higher education, Canada is a popular choice. Canada is renowned for providing excellent education at reasonable tuition costs and internationally recognised degrees. Along with a great standard of living, the nation provides a wealth of post-study employment options and immigration chances.
Q. How much an Indian student can earn in Canada?
Ans. In Canada, Indian students usually receive hourly wages ranging from $13 to $25. In Canada, however, foreign students can earn anywhere from $30 to $75 per hour depending on their area of expertise and type of job; the minimum wage is between $11.45 and $22.50.
Q. What are some best universities in Canada for MBA?
Ans. Canada is home to some of the best universities in the world for MBA programs. Here are some of the top universities in Canada for MBA programs:
1. Rotman School of Management (University of Toronto)
2. Sauder School of Business (University of British Columbia)
3. Schulich School of Business ( York University)
4. Smith School of Business (Queen’s University)
Q. Can student work 40 hours in Canada?
Ans. During the usual semesters/terms of school. A workweek may consist of up to 20 hours. As long as you maintain your compliance with the terms of your study permit, you may work multiple jobs to make up these hours.
Q. What is a good salary for Indians in Canada?
Ans. In Canada, the average wage for an Indian is 18.85 CAD per hour/ 1,135 INR, or 36,758 CAD per year/ 2,216,726 INR. Most experienced workers earn up to 50,703 CAD annually/ 3,055,448 INR, while entry-level occupations start at 31,200 CAD/ 1,880,165 INR.
Q. How long can Indian student stay in Canada after graduation?
Ans. The Postgraduate Work Permit is one of the best features of studying in Canada. After graduating, international students are permitted to remain in Canada for a maximum of three years under the terms of an open work permit.
Q. Is Canada cheap for Masters?
Ans. Universities in Canada aren’t exactly cheap. Even though tuition is less than in the USA, the cost of a bachelor’s programmes can range from 650 to 30,000 CAD/ 1,807,851 INR every academic year. 1,000 CAD/ 60,261 INR and 65,000 CAD/ 3,917,010 INR for Master’s courses per academic year.
Q. Which intake is best for Canada?
Ans. Study abroad applications are mostly submitted in the autumn or in September. September through December/January is when Canada accepts its autumn intake. For the Autumn admission, most courses are offered by all Canadian universities.
Q. How does Canada benefit from International students?
Ans. Annually, a considerable number of overseas students are drawn to Canadian institutions and colleges. In addition to being a significant source of export earnings, the money spent by foreign students and their guests also boosts the GDP and tax collections of the country.
Q. What is important for Canada student visa?
Ans. You need to score at least 5.5 bands in each of the four IELTS sections for undergraduate courses, totaling 6.0 or above, in order to be eligible for a Canada student visa. To study in Canada for graduate courses, one must receive a least of 6.0 in each of the four sections, or a score of 6.5 bands.
