How much does it cost to study in Canada in 2025?

Undergraduate programs cost between CAD 20,000–41,000 per year, master's programs range from CAD 17,000–30,000, and living costs average CAD 12,000–24,000 annually.

What are the living expenses for international students in Canada?

Living expenses vary by city: Toronta and Vancouver are higher, while Atlantic Canada and Prairie cities are more affordable.

Study in Canada

(2026 Guide)

Canada is one of the world’s most popular destinations for international students, high-quality universities, practical career pathways, and work-permit routes after graduation. This guide gives up-to-date, practical information on tuition, living costs, study permits, work rights and scholarships so you can plan confidently.

Key fact line: Nearly 1 million international students studied in Canada at the end of 2024, find what that means for applications, costs, and work options.

The Student Experience in Canada

The Student Experience

Why choose Canada?

Canada blends globally ranked universities with affordable options, safe, multicultural cities and strong work-study pathways. It had nearly one million international students in 2024, and recent policy updates aim to balance growth with student welfare.

High-quality, career-focused education
Post-study work routes (PGWP up to 3 years) and paid work while studying.
Safe, multicultural campuses and city life
Regional options with lower living costs and faster local hiring

World-class universities

Canada boasts some of the world’s top-ranked universities, including the University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, and McGill University (QS World University Rankings 2026). Canadian institutions emphasize research, innovation, and hands-on learning, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for global career opportunities.

Cultural & outdoor adventure

Canada’s multicultural cities offer a welcoming environment for international students, while its breathtaking landscapes, from the Rocky Mountains to Niagara Falls provide endless opportunities for adventure. Students enjoy a high standard of living, inclusive communities, and a strong focus on work-life balance.

Outstanding student experience

Studying in Canada comes with post-graduation work permits (PGWP) of up to 3 years, part-time work rights (20 hours/week during studies, full-time during breaks),, and access to universal healthcare in some provinces. With affordable tuition (compared to the US/UK), safe cities, and a strong job market, Canada ensures a rewarding and enjoyable student experience.

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Cost of studying in Canada for international students

Costs vary widely by program and city. Below are typical annual ranges (tuition + living). Use the currency selector to view CAD or USD.

Select Currency:

Program Type	Annual Cost
Undergraduate Degrees	CAD 20,000 - 41,000
Master's Programs	CAD 17,000 - 30,000+
Vocational/College (Diploma/Cert)	CAD 8,000 - 20,000
Living Expenses (Annual)	CAD 12,000 - 24,000

Living costs vary by city, Toronto & Vancouver are at the top of the range; smaller provinces (Atlantic Canada, Prairie cities) are cheaper.

🎓 Estimate Your Annual Budget

Select Program Type Estimated Living Cost

For more details, explore our resources: Cost Calculator, Student Visa Guide, and Scholarships.

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Study and work in Canada

Pathways to skills and employment

💼 Work Whilst Studying

Eligible international students may work off-campus without a separate work permit up to 24 hours per week during regular term-time (policy updated Nov 2024).

These work opportunities enable students to gain Canadian work experience, develop professional networks, and potentially qualify for skilled migration programs.

📍 Study Locations

 Toronto for Energy/Engineering
Vancouver (film/tech)
Montreal (research & arts, bilingual)
Calgary/Edmonton (energy/engineering)
Halifax (affordable, growing services)

Each study destination combines modern urban amenities with easy access to Canadian's stunning beaches, national parks, and unique wildlife, offering an enviable study-life balance.

🎯Post-graduation work:

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) can be valid from 8 months up to 3 years, depending on program length. Apply within 180 days of program completion.

The country's focus on practical skills and work-integrated learning ensures graduates are job-ready and competitive in the international workforce.

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Top Universities in Canada

Canada is globally known for academic excellence, research-driven learning, and high employability outcomes. Here are the leading universities attracting international students worldwide.

University of Toronto

Toronto, Ontario

Canada

980+

Courses

1827

Founded

Ranked in top 100 globally

97,000+ students

160+ nationalities

World-leading research institution

Engineering, Business, Life Sciences, Computer Science, Social Sciences

Explore more

McGill University

Montreal, Quebec

Canada

680+

Courses

1821

Founded

Ranked in top 100 globally

39,000+ students

150+ nationalities

Highly ranked Medical Faculty

Medicine, Engineering, Business, Arts, Law

Explore more

University of British Columbia (UBC)

Vancouver, British Columbia

Canada

850+

Courses

1908

Founded

Ranked in top 100 globally

66,000+ students

160+ nationalities

Strong in sustainability research

Forestry, Engineering, Business, Health Sciences, Arts

Explore more

University of Waterloo

Waterloo, Ontario

Canada

620+

Courses

1957

Founded

Ranked in top 200 globally

42,000+ students

Top in innovation and co-op education

Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Business

Explore more

McMaster University

Hamilton, Ontario

#4-5

Canada

480+

Courses

1887

Founded

Ranked in top 200 globally

37,000+ students

Top-tier Medical School

Health Sciences, Engineering, Business, Social Sciences

Explore more

University of Alberta

Edmonton, Alberta

Canada

700+

Courses

1908

Founded

Ranked in top 100 globally

40,000+ students

Energy & environment studies

Engineering, Environmental Science, Business, Medicine

Explore more

Western University

London, Ontario

Canada

480+

Courses

1878

Founded

Ranked in top 200 globally

35,000+ students

Strong MBA & Law programs

Business, Law, Engineering, Health Sciences

Explore more

Queen’s University

Kingston, Ontario

Canada

450+

Courses

1841

Founded

Ranked in top 200 globally

28,000+ students

Business, Engineering, Arts, Health Sciences

Explore more

Explore All Top Universities in Canada

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Scholarships for International Students in Canada

Many universities and government bodies offer merit-based and need-based scholarships for international students. Awards range from partial tuition fee waivers to full-ride funding. Explore opportunities by study level and field.

Canada Scholarships 2025 Guide→

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Frequently Asked Questions – Study in Canada

Have questions? Let us help you

We’ve compiled the most common questions students ask about studying in Canada. Click below to expand each answer.

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+ Why choose Canada for higher education in 2025?

Canada is a top global study destination with:

3 universities in QS Top 50 (2025) - University of Toronto (#21), McGill University (#30), University of British Columbia (#34)
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allowing graduates to work for up to 3 years
Affordable tuition compared to US/UK (30-50% lower costs)
Multicultural society with excellent quality of life (Vancouver and Toronto ranked in top 10 most livable cities)
Pathway to permanent residency through various immigration programs
Safe and welcoming environment for international students

+ What are the requirements for a Canadian study permit in 2025?

Key requirements for a Canadian Study Permit:

Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
Proof of financial support (CAD$20,635/year for living expenses + tuition)
English/French proficiency (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent for degree programs)
Medical exam (if staying more than 6 months)
Police certificate (if required)
Statement of purpose explaining study plans

Application fee: CAD$150 (study permit) + CAD$85 (biometrics). Processing time: 8-16 weeks.

+ What are the 2025 tuition fees for international students in Canada?

Annual tuition fees (CAD) for 2025:

Program	Range	Average
Undergraduate	$15,000 - $40,000	$28,000
Postgraduate	$17,000 - $45,000	$30,000
PhD	$7,000 - $20,000	$15,000
MBA	$30,000 - $90,000	$50,000
Diploma/Certificate	$10,000 - $25,000	$18,000

Note: Medicine and dentistry programs can reach $65,000/year at top universities.

+ What are the living costs in Canadian cities (2025)?

Monthly living cost estimates (CAD):

City	Accommodation	Food	Transport	Total
Toronto	$1,000-$1,800	$350-$550	$120-$150	$1,800-$2,800
Vancouver	$1,100-$2,000	$400-$600	$100-$140	$1,900-$3,000
Montreal	$700-$1,300	$300-$450	$85-$120	$1,300-$2,100
Calgary	$800-$1,400	$350-$500	$90-$130	$1,500-$2,300

Smaller cities can be 20-35% cheaper. Students should budget an additional $500-$800 for books, health insurance, and personal expenses.

+ What are the work rights for international students in Canada?

Current work regulations (2025):

On-campus: Unlimited hours without work permit
Off-campus: 20 hours/week during studies, full-time during breaks
Co-op/internship: Requires separate work permit
Post-study work: PGWP valid for 8 months to 3 years depending on program length
Minimum wage: Varies by province ($15.50-$16.75/hour)

Popular student jobs include retail (CAD$15-$20/hr), food service (CAD$15-$18/hr plus tips), and campus jobs (CAD$16-$25/hr).

+ What scholarships are available for international students in Canada?

Major scholarship programs:

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships ($50,000/year for PhD)
Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships ($70,000/year)
University-specific scholarships:
- University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson Scholarship (fully funded)
- UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award (up to full tuition)
- McGill University Entrance Scholarships ($3,000-$12,000)
Provincial scholarships (varies by province)
EduBridge Global Excellence Awards (up to $8,000 for select programs)

Most deadlines are 8-12 months before program start date. Early applications strongly recommended.

+ How do I apply through EduBridge Global?

Our streamlined 7-step Canadian application process:

Free assessment: Academic evaluation and profile analysis
Institution matching: Recommend best-fit universities/colleges
Document preparation: SOPs, references, portfolios, translations
Application submission: Direct to our partner institutions
Offer management: Help with conditions and deadlines
Study permit guidance: Complete documentation support
Pre-departure services: Accommodation, banking, orientation

Key intake deadlines for 2025:

Fall intake (September): Apply by January-March 2025
Winter intake (January): Apply by June-September 2025
Summer intake (May): Limited programs, apply by October-December 2024

+ What accommodation options are available in Canada?

2025 accommodation options (monthly costs in CAD):

Type	Cost	Pros	Cons
University Residence	$800-$1,500	Convenient, social	Limited privacy
Off-campus Shared	$500-$1,000	More independence	Longer commute
Homestay	$700-$1,200	Meals included	House rules
Private Apartment	$1,000-$2,000+	Complete privacy	Higher cost

Most universities guarantee housing for first-year international students if applied by their deadlines.

+ How does health insurance work for international students?

Health coverage requirements:

Provincial health plans: Available in some provinces after 3-6 months (BC, AB, SK, MB, QC, NS, NL)
University health plans: Mandatory where provincial coverage isn't available ($600-$900/year)
Private insurance: Required before provincial coverage begins ($100-$200/month)
Covers: Doctor visits, hospital care, some medications
Excludes: Dental, vision, pre-existing conditions (usually)

We help students arrange appropriate health coverage as part of the admission process.

+ What is student life like in Canada?

Canadian student life features:

Diverse campus communities with students from 180+ countries
Four distinct seasons with winter activities (skiing, ice skating)
Active student unions organizing events and clubs
Strong focus on work-life balance
Excellent sports and recreation facilities
Co-op and internship opportunities with major companies
Comprehensive support services for international students

Universities host orientation weeks, cultural festivals, and career fairs throughout the year.

+ What are the pathways to permanent residency after studying?

Common PR pathways for international graduates:

Canadian Experience Class (CEC): 1 year skilled work experience in Canada
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP): Each province has specific streams for graduates
Quebec Experience Program (PEQ): For graduates from Quebec institutions
Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP): For Atlantic Canada graduates
Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): Points-based system valuing Canadian education

Most programs require:

Canadian post-secondary credential
At least 1 year skilled work experience in Canada
Language proficiency (English/French)
Proof of funds (varies by program)

Need help navigating your study options?

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Study in Canada

(2026 Guide)

The Student Experience

World-class universities

Cultural & outdoor adventure

Outstanding student experience

Cost of studying in Canada for international students

🎓 Estimate Your Annual Budget

Study and work in Canada

💼 Work Whilst Studying

📍 Study Locations

🎯Post-graduation work:

Top Universities in Canada

University of Toronto

McGill University

University of British Columbia (UBC)

University of Waterloo

McMaster University

University of Alberta

Western University

Queen’s University

Scholarships for International Students in Canada

Frequently Asked Questions – Study in Canada

Have questions? Let us help you

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