Cost of Studying in Canada
5000+
3,00,000+
International Students study in the U.K. every year
2 Yrs PSWV
Scholarships
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For Indian students planning to study abroad, cost transparency is key to choosing the right destination. Canada offers a compelling mix of quality, affordability, and post-graduation opportunities.
Tuition Fees (by level of study)
| Level | Typical Annual Tuition (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate (UG) | 15,000 – 30,000 |
| Postgraduate (PG) | 17,000 – 45,000 |
| MBA | 30,000 – 40,000 (plus living costs of 18,000–20,000) |
| Diploma / PG Diploma | 11,600 – 25,000 |
Note:
- Statistics Canada reports average university tuition for international UG students at ~CA$36,100 and PG students at ~CA$21,100 per year — which aligns with the ranges above.
- Costs vary by field—medical, engineering, business tend to be at the top end; arts and humanities lower.
Living Costs (Annual / Monthly)
| Expense Category | Approx. Annual Cost (CAD) | Monthly Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Rent, food, insurance, transport, books | 15,000 | ~1,250 |
| Comprehensive Living Estimate (including utilities, supplies, personal expenses) | 35,000 - 37,500 | ~2,900 - 3,125 |
Pro Tip: Budgeting closer to CA$15,000/year (~CAD 1,250/month) is realistic in smaller cities or shared housing, while living in Toronto or Vancouver can push expenses much higher (~CAD 3,000/month).
Application Fees & Other Costs
- Visa application fee for Indian students: approximately ₹48,884 (~CA$800-850)
- Additional costs: study materials (~CAD 150–400/year), health insurance, air fare, biometrics, and police clearance.
- Many universities charge application fees (usually CAD 100–200). Always check the university’s admissions page.
Canada vs UK vs USA: Cost Comparison
| Country | UG Tuition (Intl.) | Living Costs | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Canada | CAD 7,000 – 29,000 | Affordable across smaller cities—overall cheaper than UK/USA | Affordable options + generous immigration-friendly policies |
| UK | £10,000 – 38,000/year | High, especially in London | Cheaper than USA; scholarships more common |
| USA | US$20K – 60K/year | Very high in metros | High tuition + complex visa/OPT systems |
Note: Canada offers a flexible tuition range, lower living costs, and strong post-study work and immigration pathways—a smart option for budget-conscious Indian students.
Smart Budgeting Tips
- Apply to colleges or smaller cities (like Quebec or Newfoundland) for lower tuition and rent. (e.g., Memorial University has the lowest fees—due to tuition freeze)
- Work part-time (up to 20 hrs/week during semester, full time in breaks). Helps offset about 10–20% of living costs.
- Use scholarships and bursaries—many institutions offer merit/need-based awards; government scholarships are also available
- Pick shorter programs or PG Diplomas—they cost less and help you enter the job market faster.
- Opt for shared housing or homestays to keep rent below CAD 600/month vs higher figures in downtown areas.
Quick Summary Table
| Category | Cost Range (CAD per annum) |
|---|---|
| UG Tuition | 15,000 – 30,000 |
| PG Tuition | 17,000 – 45,000 |
| MBA Tuition | 30,000 – 40,000 |
| PG Diploma Tuition | 11,600 – 25,000 |
| Living Costs (shared/modest city) | ~15,000 |
| Living Costs (metro, full lifestyle) | Up to 37,500 |
| Visa Application | ~CA$800–850 |
Every dream deserves a chance to shine. Whether you see yourself in the buzzing streets of London, the cultural charm of Paris, or the innovation hubs of Berlin, Eleevate Overseas makes sure your journey isn’t just about studying abroad—it’s about transforming your life. Let’s not just plan your next move, let’s shape the future you’ve always imagined.
Want a personalised first-year budget (with exact tuition + living estimate for your course & choice of city)?
