Cost of Studying in Canada

Q: Q. How much does it cost to study in Canada?

Ans. The cost of studying in Canada for Indian students ranges from INR 10L to 25L (CAD 16,000 to 40,000) per year for undergraduate programs and INR 12L to 30L (CAD 19,000 to 48,000) for postgraduate courses. Living expenses typically add INR 7L to 10L (CAD 11,000 to 16,000) annually. These estimates can vary by city and institution. Be sure to consider both tuition and living costs in your budget. Scholarships and part-time work can help ease financial stress.

Q: Q. Is Canada costly for Indian students?

Ans. Yes, studying in Canada can be a significant financial commitment. The total cost of studying in Canada (tuition + living) often ranges from INR 18L to 30L (CAD 29,000 to 48,000) per year. Cities like Toronto or Vancouver are more expensive, while Winnipeg or Halifax are more affordable. Despite the cost, Canada offers good ROI through quality education and work opportunities. Budgeting wisely can help manage expenses.

Q: Q. Can I study in Canada with 15 lakhs?

Ans. It’s possible to study in Canada with INR 15L (CAD 24,000), but you’ll need to choose budget-friendly options like community colleges and smaller cities. Opting for a 1-year diploma or certificate program can help reduce the cost of studying in Canada. Affordable housing, part-time work, and shared expenses can help you stay within this budget. Planning and scholarship applications are key to managing finances effectively.

Q: Q. How much is a 4 year degree in Canada?

Ans. A 4-year undergraduate degree in Canada usually costs around INR 40L to 1 Cr (CAD 64,000 to 160,000). This includes tuition and basic living costs across the duration. Costs vary based on course—engineering, business, and medicine are more expensive. Living in metro cities can increase overall spending. You can lower costs through public universities and financial aid. It's important to plan long-term for such programs.

Q: Q. How much Indian money is required to study in Canada?

Ans. On average, Indian students require around INR 18L to 30L (CAD 29,000 to 48,000) annually for tuition and living. This includes INR 10L to 25L (CAD 16,000 to 40,000) for tuition and INR 7L to 10L (CAD 11,000 to 16,000) for living expenses. You’ll also need to budget for visa fees, insurance, and initial travel. A well-planned budget can help cover the full cost of studying in Canada.

Q: Q. How much is the visa fee for Canada?

Ans. The Canada student visa fee is INR 9,000 (CAD 150), and the biometric fee is around INR 5,000 (CAD 85). Additionally, you’ll need to show proof of funds like a GIC worth CAD 10,000 (INR 6L approx.) to cover initial living expenses. These costs are mandatory and part of the total cost of studying in Canada. Always check the latest IRCC guidelines before applying.

Q: Q. What is the minimum living cost in Canada?

Ans. The minimum living cost in Canada is approximately INR 7L to 10L per year (CAD 11,000 to 16,000). This covers rent, groceries, utilities, and transport. Cities like Ottawa, Halifax, and Winnipeg offer lower living expenses compared to Toronto or Vancouver. To save money, many students share accommodations and cook at home. Budgeting helps manage the overall cost of studying in Canada more efficiently.

Q: Q. How much Indian students earn in Canada?

Ans. Indian students working part-time in Canada typically earn between CAD 15 to 22/hour (INR 1,200 to 1,800/hour). With 20 hours per week during semesters, this translates to around INR 50K to 1L (CAD 800 to 1,600) monthly. While this might not cover all expenses, it helps manage daily costs. These earnings can supplement the cost of studying in Canada significantly. Students often find jobs in retail, food service, or campus roles.

Q: Q. Can I study for free in Canada?

Ans. Studying for free in Canada is rare but possible through fully-funded scholarships. Awards like the Lester B. Pearson or Vanier Scholarships can cover INR 20L to 50L (CAD 32,000 to 80,000), including tuition and living. However, these are highly competitive and merit-based. Securing one can eliminate the cost of studying in Canada. Strong academics, extracurriculars, and community service boost your chances.

Q: Q. Can I go to Canada with 50% in the 12th?

Ans. Yes, some colleges accept students with 50% in 12th for diploma or foundation programs. Admission is easier for non-competitive courses in smaller institutions. However, your options may be limited, and the chances of getting scholarships are low. Meeting English proficiency requirements (IELTS) is still essential. While entry is possible, success depends on how well you manage the cost of studying in Canada and your academic plan.

Find Your Preferred University

Introduction

With 9 institutions featured in the QS World University Rankings 2025, Canada provides an academically enriching and culturally inclusive environment. On average, annual tuition fees range from INR 10L to 25L (CAD 16K to CAD 40K), while monthly living expenses lie between INR 60K to 1.2L (CAD 1K to CAD 2K), depending on the city and lifestyle.

To ease financial pressure, several scholarships, like the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship and the Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute awards, are available for Indian students. Post-graduation, international students can benefit from the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), and many go on to secure permanent residency in Canada.

This comprehensive guide covers the total cost of studying in Canada, helping you plan effectively for your education and future. Read on to make informed decisions about your Canadian study journey.

Key Highlights

Particulars	Description
Cost of Tuition to Study in Canada	UG: INR 10L to INR 22L (CAD 16K to CAD 35K) PG: INR 11L to INR 25L (CAD 18K to CAD 40K)
Tuition Fees by University Type	Public Universities: INR 9L to INR 22L (CAD 15K to CAD 35K) Private Colleges: INR 6L to INR 18L (CAD 10K to CAD 28K)
Cost of Living in Canada for Indian Students	Major cities (Toronto, Vancouver): INR 1.2L (CAD 2K) Smaller cities/towns: INR 60K to 90K (CAD 1K to CAD 1.5K)

Cost of Studying in Canada: Top Universities

Canada continues to be a preferred destination for Indian students, with over 320,000 international enrolments recorded in 2023. While education in Canada is relatively affordable compared to other top study-abroad destinations, the cost varies significantly based on the university, program, and location. For Indian students, understanding tuition trends across top-ranked universities is crucial for effective financial planning.

Top University Tuition Fees Overview

Best Universities in Canada for Indian Students	QS World University Rankings 2025	Average Tuition Fee INR (CAD)
University of Toronto	25	INR 20L – 42L (CAD 33K – 70K)
McGill University	29	INR 14L – 35L (CAD 23K – 58K)
University of British Columbia (UBC)	38	INR 17L – 38L (CAD 28K – 62K)
University of Alberta	96	INR 12L – 29L (CAD 20K – 48K)
University of Waterloo	115	INR 15L – 32L (CAD 25K – 52K)
Western University	=120	INR 13L – 31L (CAD 22K – 50K)
Université de Montréal	=159	INR 10L – 25L (CAD 17K – 41K)
McMaster University	=176	INR 14L – 30L (CAD 23K – 49K)
Queen’s University	193	INR 13L – 28L (CAD 21K – 46K)

Please note: The amounts mentioned above may vary depending on the currency exchange rate.

Most Affordable Universities in Canada

For Indian students looking to study abroad without breaking the bank, Canada offers several budget-friendly universities that maintain strong academic standards. These institutions are known for their reasonable tuition fees and a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, making them ideal for cost-conscious students.

A few of them are as follows:

University	Undergraduate Fees	Postgraduate Fees
Memorial University of Newfoundland	INR 6L – 9L (CAD 10K – 15K)	INR 7L – 11L (CAD 11K – 18K)
University of Prince Edward Island	INR 7L – 10L (CAD 12K – 17K)	INR 9L – 12L (CAD 15K – 20K)
Brandon University	INR 6.5L – 9L (CAD 11K – 15K)	INR 7.5L – 10L (CAD 12K – 16K)
University of Winnipeg	INR 8L – 10.5L (CAD 13K – 17K)	INR 9L – 11.5L (CAD 15K – 18K)
Thompson Rivers University	INR 8L – 11L (CAD 13K – 18K)	INR 9.5L – 12L (CAD 16K – 20K)

Please note: The amounts mentioned above may vary depending on the currency exchange rate.

Affordable Living Cities for Students in Canada

While tuition is a major factor, day-to-day expenses can significantly impact your overall budget. Fortunately, several Canadian cities offer affordable living costs without compromising on student amenities, quality of life, or access to top educational institutions.

These cities are ideal for Indian students who want to manage their expenses wisely while enjoying a fulfilling academic and cultural experience.

Top Affordable Cities for Students in Canada

City	Average Monthly Living Cost (INR/CAD)	Key Highlights
Sherbrooke, Quebec	INR 52K – 65K (CAD 850 – 1,050)	Low rent, student-friendly community, close to Université de Sherbrooke
Moncton, New Brunswick	INR 55K – 67K (CAD 900 – 1,100)	Affordable housing, part-time job opportunities, vibrant campus culture
Abbotsford, British Columbia	INR 58K – 70K (CAD 950 – 1,150)	Lower rent than Vancouver, home to University of the Fraser Valley
Winnipeg, Manitoba	INR 60K – 75K (CAD 1,000 – 1,200)	Public transport discounts, diverse food options, strong Indian community
Regina, Saskatchewan	INR 57K – 70K (CAD 950 – 1,150)	Low rental rates, growing tech sector, access to University of Regina
Halifax, Nova Scotia	INR 63K – 78K (CAD 1,050 – 1,300)	Coastal living, cultural events, home to Dalhousie and Saint Mary’s Universities

Please note: The amounts mentioned above may vary depending on the currency exchange rate.

Program-wise Cost of Studying in Canada: Popular Programs

The cost of studying in Canada varies based on the level of study, university reputation, and course demand. For Indian students, popular programs like business, engineering, and healthcare tend to be more expensive, especially at top-tier institutions. However, Canadian universities are generally considered more affordable than those in the US or the UK, making Canada a preferred study destination.

Here’s an overview of average tuition fees for Indian students by program type:

Program Type	Annual Tuition Fees
Undergraduate Programs	INR 9L – INR 25L (CAD 15K – CAD 42K)
Postgraduate Programs	INR 11L – INR 27L (CAD 18K – CAD 45K)
PhD Programs	INR 8L – INR 20L (CAD 14K – CAD 33K)

Please note: The amounts mentioned above may vary depending on the currency exchange rate.

Course-wise Cost of Studying in Canada

Canadian institutions are globally recognised for offering career-focused courses across disciplines. Programs such as business, technology, healthcare, and law attract thousands of Indian students annually. The cost varies based on course intensity, research requirements, and the city of study.

Course	Undergraduate Fees	Postgraduate Fees
Business Management	INR 14L – 30L (CAD 23K – CAD 50K)	INR 17L – 36L (CAD 28K – CAD 60K)
Engineering and Technology	INR 15L – 32L (CAD 25K – CAD 52K)	INR 18L – 35L (CAD 30K – CAD 58K)
Medicine	INR 30L – 52L (CAD 50K – CAD 85K)	INR 28L – 48L (CAD 48K – CAD 80K)
Law	INR 13L – 28L (CAD 22K – CAD 45K)	INR 20L – 35L (CAD 34K – CAD 58K)
Social Sciences	INR 11L – 25L (CAD 18K – CAD 42K)	INR 13L – 28L (CAD 22K – CAD 46K)

Please note: The amounts mentioned above may vary depending on the currency exchange rate.

Additional Costs for International Students in Canada

When planning to study in Canada, it’s important to account for more than just tuition and living expenses. Several additional costs, such as visa processing, English proficiency tests, health insurance, and initial setup, can significantly affect your overall budget.

Proper planning for these pre-arrival and post-arrival costs ensures a smooth and financially prepared transition to life in Canada.

Pre-Arrival Costs

Pre-arrival expenses are those incurred before departing for Canada. These costs include visa fees, biometrics, health insurance, language tests (IELTS/TOEFL), flight charges, and initial tuition or housing deposits. Understanding and budgeting for these is essential when estimating the full cost of studying in Canada.

Pre-Arrival Costs Overview

Expense	Cost (INR & CAD)
University Application Fees	INR 4K – 9K (CAD 75 – 150)
Student Visa (SDS) Application Fee	INR 9K (CAD 150)
Biometric Fee	INR 4.9K (CAD 85)
IELTS/TOEFL Test Fee	INR 16K – 17K (CAD 270 – 290)
Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC)	INR 6.3L (CAD 10K)
Flight Tickets	INR 65K – 95K (CAD 1.1K – CAD 1.6K)

Please note: The amounts mentioned above may vary depending on the currency exchange rate.

Post-Arrival Costs

After arriving in Canada, international students should prepare for post-arrival expenses, including airport pickup, groceries, utilities, internet, and furnishings, especially if renting private accommodation.

Initial Setup Costs

You may need to purchase bedding, cookware, furniture, and personal electronics if your accommodation isn’t furnished. These can cost around INR 20K – 40K (CAD 350 – 700).

Essentials & Utilities

Basic monthly expenses like phone plans, Wi-Fi, and household supplies can add up quickly. Set aside at least INR 8K – 15K (CAD 130 – 250) for initial and recurring essentials.

By planning ahead for these costs, students can ensure a stress-free start to their journey in Canada. Up next, we’ll explore scholarships for Indian students that can ease these financial pressures.

Scholarships to Reduce Cost of Studying in Canada

Canada offers a wide array of scholarships that can significantly reduce the overall cost of studying in Canada. These financial aids are available at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels and can be awarded based on academic merit, leadership, community involvement, or financial need.

For Indian students, many Canadian universities and government bodies offer exclusive scholarships to encourage international enrolment.

According to the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE), international students contributed over CAD 23 billion to Canada’s economy in recent years, underlining their significant role in the country’s education sector.

Major Scholarships in Canada are:

Scholarship Name	Approx. Award Amount
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships	INR 37L/year (CAD 50K/year)
Ontario Graduate Scholarship	INR 9L – 15L (CAD 15K – 25K)
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (UG)	Full tuition + living expenses
University of British Columbia (UBC) International Leader of Tomorrow Award	Full tuition + living expenses
University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships	INR 9.3L/year (CAD 15K/year)
Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute Fellowships	INR 5L – 11L (CAD 8K – 18K)

Please note: The amounts mentioned above may vary depending on the currency exchange rate.

How to Budget and Save While Studying in Canada?

While the study in Canada cost ranges from INR 10L to 30L annually (CAD 16K to 45K), strategic planning can help reduce financial strain. These practical budgeting tips can help you manage your expenses while enjoying your time in Canada.

1. Choose Cost-Effective Institutions

Consider enrolling in public universities or community colleges, which often have lower tuition fees and offer equally reputable programs. Cities like Winnipeg, Halifax, or Saskatoon also offer more affordable tuition and living costs.

2. Take Advantage of Part-Time Work Opportunities

As an international student with a study visa in Canada, you're allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during breaks. Jobs on campus, in retail, or hospitality can help you earn CAD 1K–1.5K/month to offset living expenses.

3. Live Frugally

Opt for shared housing or university residences. Cook meals at home, buy used textbooks, use student discounts on transport and entertainment, and shop during sales to keep monthly costs low.

4. Apply for Scholarships and Financial Aid

Use resources like the EduCanada scholarship database, individual university portals, and government-funded opportunities to apply for scholarships to study in Canada. Many universities also offer entrance bursaries for international students.

5. Use a Budgeting App

Apps like Mint Canada or YNAB help track your expenses, set goals, and manage monthly budgets. Keeping track of where your money goes can make a big difference.

FAQs

Q. How much does it cost to study in Canada?

Ans. The cost of studying in Canada for Indian students ranges from INR 10L to 25L (CAD 16,000 to 40,000) per year for undergraduate programs and INR 12L to 30L (CAD 19,000 to 48,000) for postgraduate courses. Living expenses typically add INR 7L to 10L (CAD 11,000 to 16,000) annually. These estimates can vary by city and institution. Be sure to consider both tuition and living costs in your budget. Scholarships and part-time work can help ease financial stress.

Q. Is Canada costly for Indian students?

Ans. Yes, studying in Canada can be a significant financial commitment. The total cost of studying in Canada (tuition + living) often ranges from INR 18L to 30L (CAD 29,000 to 48,000) per year. Cities like Toronto or Vancouver are more expensive, while Winnipeg or Halifax are more affordable. Despite the cost, Canada offers good ROI through quality education and work opportunities. Budgeting wisely can help manage expenses.

Q. Can I study in Canada with 15 lakhs?

Ans. It’s possible to study in Canada with INR 15L (CAD 24,000), but you’ll need to choose budget-friendly options like community colleges and smaller cities. Opting for a 1-year diploma or certificate program can help reduce the cost of studying in Canada. Affordable housing, part-time work, and shared expenses can help you stay within this budget. Planning and scholarship applications are key to managing finances effectively.

Q. How much is a 4 year degree in Canada?

Ans. A 4-year undergraduate degree in Canada usually costs around INR 40L to 1 Cr (CAD 64,000 to 160,000). This includes tuition and basic living costs across the duration. Costs vary based on course—engineering, business, and medicine are more expensive. Living in metro cities can increase overall spending. You can lower costs through public universities and financial aid. It's important to plan long-term for such programs.

Q. How much Indian money is required to study in Canada?

Ans. On average, Indian students require around INR 18L to 30L (CAD 29,000 to 48,000) annually for tuition and living. This includes INR 10L to 25L (CAD 16,000 to 40,000) for tuition and INR 7L to 10L (CAD 11,000 to 16,000) for living expenses. You’ll also need to budget for visa fees, insurance, and initial travel. A well-planned budget can help cover the full cost of studying in Canada.

Q. How much is the visa fee for Canada?

Ans. The Canada student visa fee is INR 9,000 (CAD 150), and the biometric fee is around INR 5,000 (CAD 85). Additionally, you’ll need to show proof of funds like a GIC worth CAD 10,000 (INR 6L approx.) to cover initial living expenses. These costs are mandatory and part of the total cost of studying in Canada. Always check the latest IRCC guidelines before applying.

Q. What is the minimum living cost in Canada?

Ans. The minimum living cost in Canada is approximately INR 7L to 10L per year (CAD 11,000 to 16,000). This covers rent, groceries, utilities, and transport. Cities like Ottawa, Halifax, and Winnipeg offer lower living expenses compared to Toronto or Vancouver. To save money, many students share accommodations and cook at home. Budgeting helps manage the overall cost of studying in Canada more efficiently.

Q. How much Indian students earn in Canada?

Ans. Indian students working part-time in Canada typically earn between CAD 15 to 22/hour (INR 1,200 to 1,800/hour). With 20 hours per week during semesters, this translates to around INR 50K to 1L (CAD 800 to 1,600) monthly. While this might not cover all expenses, it helps manage daily costs. These earnings can supplement the cost of studying in Canada significantly. Students often find jobs in retail, food service, or campus roles.

Q. Can I study for free in Canada?

Ans. Studying for free in Canada is rare but possible through fully-funded scholarships. Awards like the Lester B. Pearson or Vanier Scholarships can cover INR 20L to 50L (CAD 32,000 to 80,000), including tuition and living. However, these are highly competitive and merit-based. Securing one can eliminate the cost of studying in Canada. Strong academics, extracurriculars, and community service boost your chances.

Q. Can I go to Canada with 50% in the 12th?

Ans. Yes, some colleges accept students with 50% in 12th for diploma or foundation programs. Admission is easier for non-competitive courses in smaller institutions. However, your options may be limited, and the chances of getting scholarships are low. Meeting English proficiency requirements (IELTS) is still essential. While entry is possible, success depends on how well you manage the cost of studying in Canada and your academic plan.

Q. Is 50k enough in Canada?

Ans. INR 50,000 (CAD 800) per month is a tight budget for major cities like Toronto or Vancouver. Rent alone can exceed CAD 700 (INR 43K). However, in smaller cities or with shared housing, it's more manageable. Students need to follow a frugal lifestyle—cook at home, use public transport, and avoid unnecessary spending. It's not ideal, but with smart choices, you can manage the living portion of the cost of studying in Canada.

Q. What is the cheapest course in Canada?

Ans. Diploma and certificate programs in areas like hospitality, early childhood education, and office administration are among the cheapest, costing INR 6L to 10L (CAD 10,000 to 16,000) per year. These are offered mostly by public or community colleges. While they may not offer the prestige of a university degree, they lead to good job prospects. Choosing such programs significantly reduces the cost of studying in Canada.