- International undergraduate tuition in Canada averages CAD 41,746 per year for 2025-2026, with graduate tuition at CAD 24,028 (Statistics Canada)
- A single student outside Quebec must now show CAD 20,635 in proof of funds beyond tuition
- Students can work up to 24 hours per week off campus during term
- The Student Direct Stream ended on 8 November 2024, and the study permit application fee is CAD 150.
Why Should You Study in Canada?
Canada attracts hundreds of thousands of international students with globally ranked universities, comparatively affordable tuition, and generous post-study work rights. Its 31 QS-ranked universities in 2026, safe multicultural cities, and clear pathway from study permit to permanent residence make it one of the top destinations for Indian students after 12th or graduation.
Canada combines high-quality, publicly funded education with a welcoming immigration system. Around 1.16 million full-time students attended Canadian universities in fall 2025, and international students are a large and growing share. Beyond academics, students value the natural landscapes, from the ski slopes of British Columbia to the cities of Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver.
- Home to several of the highest-ranked universities and colleges in the world
- Wide range of programmes across engineering, technology, arts, medicine, and life sciences
- Experienced faculty and strong practical, job-focused learning
- Permission to work part time while studying and after graduation
- Safe, multicultural, and hospitable environment
- Reasonable tuition compared with the United States and the United Kingdom
- Clear pathway from a study permit toward permanent residence
How Much Does It Cost to Study in Canada?
Studying in Canada costs vary by province, level, and institution. For 2025-2026, Statistics Canada reports average international undergraduate tuition of CAD 41,746 per year and graduate tuition of CAD 24,028. Living costs add roughly CAD 20,635 annually, the minimum proof-of-funds now required for a single student outside Quebec.
Your total budget has two parts: pre-arrival costs such as application fees, English test fees, and the study permit, and post-arrival costs such as tuition, accommodation, and daily living. The table below sets out the main annual figures for an international student in 2026.
| Expense (2026) | Approximate Cost per Year (CAD) |
|---|---|
| International undergraduate tuition (national average) | 41,746 |
| International graduate tuition (national average) | 24,028 |
| Living expenses / proof of funds (single, outside Quebec) | 20,635 |
| Study permit application fee | 150 |
| Biometrics fee | 85 |
What Are the Tuition Fees for Indian Students?
Indian students pay the same international tuition as other overseas students, since Canada does not set country-specific fees. Undergraduate programmes average CAD 41,746 and postgraduate programmes CAD 24,028 per year for 2025-2026, though fees range from about CAD 18,867 in Newfoundland to CAD 49,802 in Ontario depending on the province and course.
Fees differ sharply by province and field of study. Professional programmes such as engineering, computer science, and business sit at the higher end, while arts and some science courses are more affordable. The provincial range below, from Statistics Canada, shows how much location affects your budget.
| Province (2026) | Average International Undergraduate Tuition (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Newfoundland and Labrador (lowest) | 18,867 |
| National average | 41,746 |
| Ontario (highest) | 49,802 |
How Do You Apply for a Canada Study Permit?
To apply, first secure an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution, then gather your passport, proof of funds, and a provincial or territorial attestation letter. Submit your study permit application online to IRCC, pay the CAD 150 permit fee plus CAD 85 biometrics, and complete any required medical exam.
- Receive an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- Obtain a provincial or territorial attestation letter where required
- Prove funds: CAD 20,635 for living costs plus first-year tuition and travel
- Create an account and submit the study permit application online to IRCC
- Pay the CAD 150 application fee and the CAD 85 biometrics fee
- Complete a medical exam and provide police clearance if requested
- Wait for a decision, then travel with your permit and supporting documents
What Are the Study Permit Requirements?
To study in Canada you must enrol at a Designated Learning Institution, prove you can pay tuition and living costs, and show ties that you will leave when your permit expires. You also need a clean criminal record, and may need a medical exam and a provincial attestation letter depending on your programme.
- Acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution
- Valid passport or travel document
- Proof of funds of at least CAD 20,635 for a single student, plus tuition
- Provincial or territorial attestation letter where required
- Clean criminal record, with police clearance if requested
- Medical exam if required by IRCC
- Evidence that you will leave Canada when your permit expires
How Many Hours Can You Work While Studying in Canada?
International students in Canada can now work up to 24 hours per week off campus while classes are in session, and full time during scheduled breaks such as summer and winter holidays. You must study full time at a Designated Learning Institution and hold a valid Social Insurance Number to work.
Working while studying helps offset living costs and builds Canadian experience. On-campus work is also permitted for eligible full-time students. Exceeding the 24-hour off-campus limit during term breaches your study permit conditions, so track your hours carefully and keep your enrolment full time.
Best universities in CanadaRead →Which Are the Best Universities in Canada?
Canada has 31 universities in the 2026 QS World University Rankings. McGill University leads nationally at 27th globally, followed by the University of Toronto in the top 30 and the University of British Columbia in the 40s. Other strong choices include McMaster, Alberta, Waterloo, Montreal, and Western University.
- McGill University
- University of Toronto
- University of British Columbia
- McMaster University
- University of Alberta
- University of Waterloo
- University of Montreal
- University of Calgary
- University of Ottawa
- Western University
What Scholarships Are Available to Study in Canada?
Numerous scholarships help international students offset Canadian tuition, ranging from university entrance awards to government and privately funded programmes. Popular options include the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships, the Ontario Trillium Scholarship, and university-specific awards such as the University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson Scholarship, each with its own eligibility criteria and deadlines.
| Scholarship (2026) | Level | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships | Doctoral | Government |
| Ontario Trillium Scholarship | Doctoral | Provincial |
| University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson Scholarship | Undergraduate | University |
| Ontario Graduate Scholarship | Master's or Doctoral | Provincial |
Can You Study in Canada Without IELTS?
Yes, some Canadian institutions admit students without IELTS if you studied in English or take an alternative test such as TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo. Note the Student Direct Stream, which required IELTS, ended on 8 November 2024, so all applicants now use the regular study permit stream regardless of test.
- University of Saskatchewan
- Brock University
- Carleton University
- University of Winnipeg
- University of Regina
- Memorial University of Newfoundland
- Concordia University
- Seneca College
- Cambrian College
What Are the Best Courses to Study in Canada?
Canada is strongest in computer science and IT, engineering, business and MBA, data science, healthcare and nursing, and finance. These fields combine high graduate employability with clear post-graduation work permit pathways. Your choice should match your academic background, budget, and the eligibility criteria set by each university and programme.
- Computer Science and IT
- Engineering and Engineering Management
- Business, MBA, and Management
- Data Science and Business Analytics
- Healthcare, Medicine, and Nursing
- Finance and Accounting
- Media and Journalism
- Agricultural and Earth Sciences