It is every student’s dream come true moment to receive high quality education from an internationally recognized university. Canada is one such favourite destination of many students, turning dreams into reality. It is known for being the country with one of the highest literacy rates. Canada embraces cultural diversity with open arms creating a student friendly environment. Moreover, students are left with a wide variety of choices when it comes to undergraduate courses, postgraduate studies, as well as professional degree programmes. While making a careful decision about which university to enroll into, students consider the cost of studying in Canada as a major parameter. It should be noted that apart from the tuition fees, students should also consider other components like accommodation costs, travel and transportation costs, living expenses, insurance and other expenses.
Tuition Fees | Cost Of Studying In Canada
The first and the foremost expense that is looked into while evaluating costs is the tuition fee. The fee depends on several factors like the nature of the course chosen and the University selected. Courses pertaining to medicine and engineering are likely to be more expensive than humanities, arts, and education. Moreover, the fees are comparatively higher for international students than for the domestic students. According to Statistics Canada, here’s a breakdown of the fee structure for the undergraduate and graduate programs.
| Level of Study | Fees (CAD) |
| Canadian undergraduate | 6,580 |
| Canadian graduate | 7,304 |
| International undergraduate | 32,019 |
| International graduate | 19,252 |
Accommodation Costs | Cost Of Studying In Canada
Accommodation costs take up a good percentage of the expenditure. Students can opt for either on campus accommodations or off campus accommodations. Cost for on-campus accommodation may range anywhere from CAD 8,000 to CAD 10,000 per year whereas living in a shared apartment can cost you around CAD 400 to CAD 700 per month depending upon your location and time of the year. If your accommodation is located at one of the hot spots of Canada, the costs are comparatively higher.
Staying with host families in Canada is another accommodation option for international students. A monthly payment of CAD 750 – CAD 950 is to be made in return for meals and a room. However, staying with host families implies adhering to the family and house policies and co-operating accordingly.
Student Visa and Study Permit | Cost Of Studying In Canada
A study permit is provided by the Canadian government to international students along with a temporary student visa. A student/visitor visa enables you to enter Canada whereas a study permit allows you to study in Canada. The cost of getting your study permit is approximately CAD 150. Before applying for a student permit, make sure that you carry the following documents
- A valid passport or a travel document
- Proof that you are capable of supporting yourself during your stay in Canada
- An acceptance letter from your respective university
Living Expenses | Cost Of Studying In Canada
According to Numbeo, the cost of living in Canada is approximately CAD 1,110 without the rent. Here’s a list of a few of the average living expenses.
| Expense | Cost (CAD) |
| A restaurant meal | 17 |
| Local Public Transport | 3.25 |
| Cinema ticket | 14 |
| Monthly gym fee | 50.53 |
Health Insurance | Cost Of Studying In Canada
Free Canadian health care services are only available to Canadian citizens and permanent residents. International students should register for private insurance plans. Purchasing a health insurance will cost approximately CAD 600 – CAD 800. Students can either
- Purchase a private insurance from an insurance company, or
- Register for insurance through their institutions.
Scholarships | Cost Of Studying In Canada
Scholarships play a vital role in helping the students to cover their expenses. The cost of studying in Canada increases by a certain percentage every year. This is directly proportional to the increase in number of students who wish to study in Canada. There are different scholarships available for students to overcome their financial burdens. They could be government funded, non-government funded or university specific scholarships. A few of the scholarship schemes are mentioned below.
- University of British Columbia Scholarships for International Students
- Lester B. Pearson International Scholarships
- York University International Student Scholarship Program
- Carleton Prestige Scholarships
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships
You can also explore from a wide range of over hundreds of scholarships at UniScholars.
Steps to be followed | Cost Of Studying In Canada
Step 1
A thorough research on the list of universities accepting international students is to be done. Understanding the requirements and prepping accordingly is necessary before taking a decision. It is necessary for candidates to go through the rules and regulations applicable before applying.
Step 2
Once you have done your bit of research and have grasped a basic understanding of the rules and regulations, you can go ahead and start looking at different universities that are offering you the programs of your choice.
Step 3
Taking the Language Proficiency test like IELTS or TOEFL is mandatory for students wishing to study in Canada. The test can be taken in either English or French. Book your test dates, pay the fees, take the test, and submit your score to the respective universities.
Step 4
Shortlist the top universities of your choice and fill in the necessary application forms. You might have to pay an additional fee for the application form. Provide accurate information along with the documents that you need to submit.
Step 5
If your application is shortlisted, you will receive an email from the respective University sharing an invite link. Start planning your travel, accommodation, and other expenses and make a budget plan.
Step 6
Apply for a student permit that makes you eligible for studying in Canada. Note that the student permit has a start date before which you will not be allowed in Canada. Once the immigrant officer verifies your student permit, you can go ahead with commencing your journey.
We hope you enjoyed reading this blog. Managing expenses all by yourself could be a difficult task. Check out this blog on Top 10 Ways to Save Money as a Student written for you by UniAcco.
1 thought on “Top PGDM Courses In Canada: Universities, Specialisations & Eligibility”
I have done Bachelor’s in Culinary Arts from India and completed my graduation in the year 2022 .I am 22 years old. After graduation, I have done 1 year paid internship from USA .Now, I would like to take occupational experience and learn culinary skills and also do masters in Culinary arts.How can I find the college n best course / country where I can persue studying further