Cost of Studying in Canada – Tuition Fees, Visa Fees, etc.

Canada is a sought-after higher education destination offering undergraduate, postgraduate, doctoral, and vocational courses to students worldwide. Per the Canadian Bureau of International Education, Canada is ranked 3rd for hosting the highest percentage of international students globally. Moreover, Canadian universities offer undergraduate and postgraduate certificates along with short-term courses. Students can choose to opt for private, public, or community colleges. 

The idea of opting for overseas education in Canada has now become one of the most preferred decisions for students globally, owing to the affordability of the cost of studying in Canada. The primary reason for choosing Canada is its advanced education system, high-ranking institutions, and extremely safe and secure thriving environment. Along with these essential reasons, students head toward Canada because of its pocket-friendly tuition fee structure for all the educational programs. 

Compared to many countries, studying in Canada is affordable for international students. Students will likely need between CAD 20,000 and CAD 30,000 annually to cover tuition fees. Moreover, the cost of studying in Canada will vary depending on the institution, program chosen, and students’ lifestyle. However, a student can expect CAD 21,000 in expenses annually. 

Pre-Arrival Cost of Studying in Canada for Indian Students

University Tuition Fees in Canada: Program-Wise

Scouring the right college can be a tedious task for students. So, their task can be easier with an approximate tuition fee. If they decide to pursue a bachelor's degree, the tuition fee would range from CAD  1,800 per year to CAD  33,623  per year. The average tuition fee has increased by 4.9% compared to last year. 

Average Tuition Fee for Masters Program

The cost of a Graduate program in Canada varies based on the province. For instance, the average fee for an executive MBA program is CAD 13,719 in Quebec to CAD 93,985 in Ontario, Moreover,  the average tuition fee for a regular MBA program varies in Newfoundland and Labrador, CAD 2,564 and CAD 42,707, respectively. 

Tuition Fee for International Students: Province-Wise 

Based on their budget and the approximate average tuition fee for an undergraduate and postgraduate program, students can make a prudent choice about which university to select. 

Province-Based Tuition Fee for International Students

Source: Statistics Canada. Table 37-10-0045-01 Canadian and international tuition fees by level of study

Canada College Application Fee for International Students 

It is vital that students apply for a study permit if they intend to study in Canada. The application cost varies based on the university to which they are applying. Moreover, they should apply for a study permit, costing them CAD 150.

Top Universities in Canada and Popular Courses 

Canada hosts many international students for undergraduate, postgraduate, short-term courses, and undergraduate and postgraduate certifications. The duration for diploma courses ranges from 1 year to 3 years whereas, for PG Diploma courses, it ranges from 1 year to 2 years. Apart from these, a student can enroll in vocational training courses (1 year).  

Popular Bachelor’s Degree in Canada 

In recent years, bachelor’s degrees have gained popularity. Universities in Canada offer students co-op bachelor’s options. It enables students to spend four months in the institute and the subsequent ones working with an organization. 

Types of Master’s Degree in Canada 

Masters degree is also referred to as grad programs in Canada. Students can select a suitable program based on their choice and niche for specialization. Popular courses that students opt for their Masters in Canada are listed below: 

• Master of Fine Arts (MFA)
• Master of Technology (MTech)
• Master of Arts (MA)
• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Master of Science (MSc)
• Master of Engineering (MEng)
• 1-year masters in Canada
• 2-year PG Diploma

Popular Master’s Degree in Canada 

In Canada, a master’s degree is not confined to lectures and tutorials. It also encapsulates field trips and group work. Students should also look for placement and ranking to make a prudent decision. 

Apart from these options, students can look for courses and certifications from a community college in Canada. 

Cost of Studying in Canada: Private Universities 

The private universities of Canada allow the students to finance a portion of their payment corresponding to the final total registration amount. The English proficiency requirement by private institutions is an IELTS score of around 5.5 or 5.6.

Apart from these, private universities are divided into provisional departments. There are limited private colleges in selected provinces such as Manitoba, Alberta, New Brunswick, Ontario, and British Columbia. These colleges don’t get any monetary aid from the central (federal) or provincial governments and rely entirely on tuition fees for functioning. So, before a student applies for a popular program or university, they should know the cost of studying in Canada.

Source: Official university website

Cost of Studying in Canada: Public Universities 

Some of the top-most public universities of Canada and an approximation of their fees structure are listed below. 

Source: University’s Official Website  

Scholarships for International Students in Canada 

Average Cost of Living in Canada 

Living costs in Canada are already above average compared to other countries. The reason for this remains the high quality of life guaranteed here. To calculate how much money is required to study in Canada, students should consider the cost of living in tandem with the university's tuition fees.

The students would need between  CAD 800 – CAD 1,500 (monthly) for provinces like Quebec, Montreal, and Ottawa. But if the students study in provinces like Vancouver and Calgary, the most expensive cities in Canada, the living costs can reach even CAD 2,000 (monthly). 

Other Essential Cost Of Studying In Canada

Students should do their homework evaluating the cost of studying in Canada. The fee structure varies based on the university and the province. Moreover, the cost would fluctuate if the student decides to study on campus.

Apart from the academic costs, several other factors like transportation, basic utilities (electricity, water, heating, garbage), taxes, and insurance affect the overall cost of studying in Canada. 

In a nutshell, the cost of studying for international students comes under the following range: 

• Proof of funds 

Along with the university fees for international students in Canada, one needs to show proof of enough funds. This is a part of obtaining your study permit. The minimum amount of funds you should have to support yourself as a student is summarized in the table below. 

Students can manage these funds by purchasing a Guaranteed Investment Certificate, taking an education loan or having a sponsor who can support them. 

•  Taxes on Part-time Jobs 

Students can earn from part-time jobs in Canada. To check if they are subject to residency taxes in Canada, they must determine their residency status. 

The average tax rate ranges from around 10% to over 15% and varies from province to province. For example, with an earning of CAD 17.25 per hour or CAD 21,562.50 per year, and an average tax rate of 12.65 % in Ontario, the after-tax income would be CAD 18,833. This amounts to an annual deduction of CAD 2,729.

Conclusion 

For students, choosing Canada for higher studies can be crucial, as it significantly changes their lifestyle and future. They get an exclusive and world-class education with lots of privileges in the safest and most wonderful environment. 

Therefore, being rightly informed about studying in Canada requirements will help them choose the right institution, course, and even further educational programs and career paths. But the students should remember to set proper goals and objectives to achieve their best in Canada. This will help them define the path they should follow to benefit the most from the opportunities that this country offers them.