Canada college fees are an essential factor for international students planning their education at Canadian universities. Compared with the United States, Australia or the United Kingdom, Canada is relatively affordable and has become a popular alternative. The country is home to world-famous universities, including McGill University, the University of British Columbia and the University of Toronto.
- Statistics Canada reports average international undergraduate tuition of CAD 41,746 and graduate tuition of CAD 24,028 for 2025/26
- As of September 1, 2025, a single study-permit applicant must show CAD 22,895 in living funds, excluding tuition and travel
- In the QS World University Rankings 2026, McGill is Canada's top university at 27th, with Toronto 29th and UBC 40th.
What Are Canada College Fees for International Students?
Canada college fees for international students vary by program, province and level. According to Statistics Canada, international undergraduates paid an average of CAD 41,746 in 2025/26, while graduate students averaged CAD 24,028. Fees stay lower than the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia, making Canada a popular, relatively affordable study destination.
Universities in Canada set their own fees, which depend on the program you choose, whether you are an international or domestic student, and whether you are pursuing a bachelor's or master's degree. International undergraduate tuition rose about 2.5% in 2025/26, yet Canada remains more affordable than most other major study destinations.
Check the QS World Ranking and the average fee range for each top university below.
| University | QS World Rank 2026 | Approx. Annual International Fees (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| University of Toronto | 29 | 15-30 Lakh |
| McGill University | 27 | 16-34 Lakh |
| University of British Columbia | 40 | 9-19 Lakh |
| Universite de Montreal | 168 | 11-22 Lakh |
| University of Alberta | 94 | 9-22 Lakh |
| McMaster University | 173 | 20-25 Lakh |
| University of Waterloo | 119 | 11-19 Lakh |
| Western University | 151 | 11-19 Lakh |
| Queen's University | 191 | 9.5-15.5 Lakh |
| University of Calgary | 211 | 9-16 Lakh |
How Much Are Medical College Fees in Canada?
Medical college fees in Canada are among the highest of any field, typically ranging from about CAD 15,000 to over CAD 27,000 per year for international students, depending on the university. Although costly, Canadian medical degrees carry strong global recognition, world-class faculty and excellent career prospects, so many students still consider the investment worthwhile.
If you plan to enter medical school, expect annual fees that are higher than most other courses. Even so, Canadian medical education stays more affordable than in many other countries while offering excellent training and long-term career value.
The following are the top reasons to study MBBS in Canada:
- Many internationally recognised MBBS colleges that rank high on global QS rankings for academic quality.
- A Canadian MBBS degree carries strong brand value around the world.
- Excellent educational infrastructure, world-class faculty and a diverse student population.
- Scholarships and financial aid are available.
- Strong job prospects with competitive pay.
- High living standards.
See the table below for indicative fees at top Canadian universities offering medical programs.
| University | QS World Rank 2026 | Approx. Annual Fees (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| University of Toronto | 29 | 23,835 |
| McGill University | 27 | 19,720 |
| University of British Columbia | 40 | 21,006 |
| University of Alberta | 94 | 12,887 |
| Queen's University | 191 | 27,473 |
What Are Canada College Application Fees?
Application fees differ at every Canadian university and are paid separately from tuition. For most institutions they range from roughly CAD 100 to CAD 180 per program for international applicants. Universities such as Toronto, McGill and British Columbia charge non-refundable fees that cover the cost of assessing each international application you submit.
Canadian universities offer a wide choice of programs for international students, but each application carries an additional, non-refundable charge. Check the typical application fees for the top universities below, in addition to Canada college tuition fees.
| University | Application Fee 2026 |
|---|---|
| University of Toronto | CAD 180 |
| McGill University | CAD 122.52 |
| University of British Columbia | CAD 168.25 |
| Universite de Montreal | CAD 102.50 |
| University of Alberta | CAD 125 |
| McMaster University | CAD 110-150 |
| University of Waterloo | CAD 125 |
| Western University | CAD 125 |
| Queen's University | CAD 150 |
| University of Calgary | CAD 145 |
Which Canada Colleges Have Low Fees?
Several Canadian universities offer comparatively low tuition for international students. Institutions such as the University of Regina, Memorial University of Newfoundland, the University of Saskatchewan and Athabasca University publish programs starting under CAD 5,000 per year. Lower living costs in these provinces make them attractive for budget-conscious students seeking quality Canadian degrees.
College fees in Canada matter most to students who want a quality education abroad without spending heavily. Thanks to low tuition, comfortable living and attractive campuses, many international students choose these universities. Here is a curated table of low-cost colleges for budget-friendly degrees.
| University | Annual Program Fees 2026 (CAD) |
|---|---|
| University of Regina | 1,715-20,050 |
| Memorial University of Newfoundland | 2,150-11,460 |
| Royal Roads University | 3,750-27,600 |
| University of Saskatchewan | 4,110-24,000 |
| Athabasca University | 1,625-17,250 |
What Are Canada Master's Tuition Fees?
Master's tuition in Canada is relatively reasonable compared with other top destinations. International graduate fees averaged CAD 24,028 in 2025/26 according to Statistics Canada, though they vary widely by field. Business, medicine and engineering programs sit at the higher end, while social sciences and many research master's degrees remain considerably more affordable.
Canada is regarded as one of the best countries for higher education thanks to reasonable tuition, strong job opportunities and a high standard of living. Check the different master's courses offered and their typical Canada college fees below.
| Master's Course | Average Annual Fees 2026 (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Masters in Business & Management | 2,150-52,700 |
| Masters in Social Sciences | 2,150-37,000 |
| Masters in Medicine & Health | 2,150-58,300 |
| Masters in Engineering & Technology | 2,150-52,500 |
| Masters in Computer Science & IT | 2,150-52,500 |
How Much Does an MBA in Canada Cost?
MBA fees in Canada span a wide range, from around CAD 30,000 to over CAD 130,000 in total tuition. More than 40 universities offer the degree, and top programs usually expect a GMAT score between 550 and 720. Compared with the United States or United Kingdom, a Canadian MBA remains relatively budget-friendly with strong returns.
A Master of Business Administration is a highly sought-after course offering a diverse range of career options. More than 40 universities and colleges across Canada run MBA programs. Check the table below to estimate Canada college fees for an MBA.
| MBA Program 2026 | Duration | Tuition Fee (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Rotman School of Management | 2 years | 66,210 |
| Queen's Smith School of Business | 1 year | 133,355 |
| York University - Schulich | 2 years | 56,125 |
| McGill Desautels | 20 months | 49,750 |
| University of Alberta | 20 months | 30,000 |
| HEC Montreal | 1 year | 59,000 |
| UBC Sauder | 16 months | 73,642 |
| Ivey Business School | 1 year | 123,500 |
What Is the Cost of Living in Canada?
Living costs in Canada depend on the city, but international students should budget for rent, food, transport, phone and insurance. As of September 2025, IRCC requires a single study-permit applicant to show CAD 22,895 in living funds per year, excluding tuition and travel. Larger cities like Toronto and Vancouver cost noticeably more.
For Indian students, the pre-arrival cost of studying in Canada covers expenses such as language tests, university application fees, flight tickets and the study-permit fee, on top of Canada college fees. Check the tables below to estimate average pre-arrival and post-arrival costs.
| Pre-Arrival Expense 2026 | Approximate Amount |
|---|---|
| IELTS / TOEFL | INR 15,500 / 14,700 |
| Proof of funds (living costs, single student) | CAD 22,895 (approx. INR 13.6 lakh) |
| University application fee | INR 9,000-11,000 or more |
| Study permit application fee | CAD 150 (approx. INR 9,300) |
| One-way flight ticket | INR 50,000-1,00,000 |
| Health insurance | INR 39,000-50,000 annually |
Post-arrival monthly costs in Canada for Indian students:
| Monthly Expense 2026 | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|
| Food (groceries and eating out) | CAD 300 (INR 17,500) |
| Phone & Internet | CAD 50 (INR 2,694) |
| Public Transport | CAD 80-250 (INR 4,300-14,000) |
| Entertainment | CAD 150 (INR 8,000) |
How Can I Study MS in Canada for Free?
Studying an MS in Canada for free usually means winning a full scholarship, which is competitive but achievable. Awards such as the Ontario Trillium Scholarship, Ontario Graduate Scholarship and various university fellowships can cover tuition and living costs. Strong grades, high IELTS or TOEFL scores and a compelling application greatly improve your chances.
Here are some helpful tips for winning a scholarship to study an MS in Canada:
- Track both university admission and scholarship deadlines, as the two often differ.
- Many scholarships are offered by Canada's best universities; check official university and government immigration websites to stay ahead.
- Compare your existing grades against each course's requirements.
- Aim for strong IELTS or TOEFL scores to strengthen your application.
- Prepare academic recommendation letters, publications and certificates to boost your chances of a scholarship.
Check the curated table below for some of the best scholarship options for international students.
| S. No. | Scholarship 2026 | Amount (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Waterloo International Master's and Doctoral Awards | 2,700 per term for two years |
| 2 | Ontario Graduate Scholarship | 19,800 per year |
| 3 | Ontario Trillium Scholarship | 53,000 per year, renewable for 3 years |
| 4 | University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships | 18,500 per year |
| 5 | University of Calgary Graduate Awards | 35,000 per year, up to 2 years |
| 6 | Winnipeg President's Scholarships for World Leaders | 5,000 per year |
| 7 | FINCAD Women in Finance Scholarship | 20,000 per year |
| 8 | PEO International Peace Scholarships for Women | 12,500 per year |
| 9 | Trudeau Foundation Scholarships | 20,000 per year |
| 10 | McGill University Scholarships and Student Aid | Tuition and registration fees deferred for international students |