Cost of Studying in Canada for Indian Students
Canada has earned a reputation as one of the top destinations for students seeking higher education. Compared to countries like the UK and the USA, studying and living in Canada comes at a more affordable cost. Beyond its financial advantages, the country offers a picturesque backdrop, a vibrant city atmosphere, and a tight-knit campus community, providing an ideal environment for students’ overall growth and development. Notably, prestigious institutions like the University of Toronto, the University of Alberta, and the University of Winnipeg are among the many outstanding options available to students.
In this blog, we will delve into the details of the expenses associated with studying in Canada, specifically examining the costs for Indian students. Additionally, we will provide a breakdown of the major expenses encompassing both tuition and living expenses.
Average Cost of Studying in Canada for indian Students
The cost of studying in Canada for Indian students is influenced significantly by tuition fees charged by universities. This cost varies depending on several factors, such as the type of course, the institution’s international reputation, the location of the university, and other related considerations. In some of Canada’s top colleges, the average tuition fees can amount to approximately CAD 35,000 (INR 18,84,000) for Indian students.”
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| Course | Average Tuition Fees per annum |
| Application fees | $50 (INR 3,707) to $200 (INR 14,831) |
| Undergraduate Courses | CAD 12,000 – CAD 30,000 (6,46,000 INR -16,15,000) |
| Engineering & Medicine Courses (UG Level) | CAD 22,000 (INR 11,69,000) |
| Humanities, Business & Management (UG Level) | CAD 5,500 (INR 2,96,000) to CAD 6,500 (INR 3,50,000) |
| Law | CAD14,000 (INR 8,45,597.39) |
| Visual and Performing arts | CAD 5,000 (INR 3,01,828) to CAD 5,000 (INR 3,01,828.55) |
| Postgraduate Courses | CAD 18,000 (INR 9,54,000) |
| MBA | CAD 28,000 (INR 14,75,000) |
| Executive MBA | CAD 29,000 (INR 17,51,351) |
| Law | 10,000 CAD to 55,000 CAD (5,50,000 INR-30,00,000 INR) |
| Engineering | 19,301 CAD (INR 11,57,152) |
| Dentistry | 22,472 CAD (INR 13,47,276) |
| Nursing | 47,800 CAD (INR 28,65,568) |
Undergraduate Courses
Undergraduate courses in Canada offer diverse opportunities across various disciplines, with an average cost of approximately CAD 30,000 (INR 16,15,000) per annum. The tuition fees can range from CAD 12,000 (INR 6,46,000) to CAD 30,000 (INR 16,15,000), depending on the specific program and institution.
Engineering and Medicine programs are among the slightly more expensive options, with an average tuition fee of CAD 22,000 (INR 11,69,000). On the other hand, Humanities, Business, and Management courses are relatively more affordable, with costs ranging from CAD 5,500 (INR 2,96,000) to CAD 6,500 (INR 3,50,000). Students have the flexibility to choose from a wide range of fields to suit their interests and budget.
It’s worth noting that while the cost of studying in Canada may vary, the country’s high-quality education and vibrant campus life make it an attractive choice for indian students seeking a well-rounded educational experience
Postgraduate Courses
In addition to pursuing undergraduate studies, many students also choose to further their education by enrolling in various postgraduate or master’s degree programs in Canada, such as MBBS. For indian students, the average annual tuition fee for postgraduate programs is around CAD 18,000 (INR 9,54,000).
Among the postgraduate options, management programs, particularly MBA courses, are known for their quality and reputation. However, they come with a higher price tag. Executive MBA courses, on average, can cost approximately CAD 57,000 (INR 30,31,000) per year, while regular MBA programs have a more moderate tuition fee of about CAD 28,000 (INR 14,75,000).
Despite the cost, pursuing a postgraduate degree in Canada offers immense value, providing students with advanced knowledge, practical skills, and exposure to diverse perspectives. The investment in higher education here opens doors to rewarding career opportunities and personal growth.
University & College Application Fees
In addition to other expenses, indian students interested in studying in Canada must also budget for application fees when applying to colleges and universities. While Canada is renowned for providing affordable education, it’s important to note that most institutions charge application fees ranging from CAD 50 to CAD 250. Only a small percentage, approximately 5% of Canadian universities and colleges, waive the application fee requirement. As a result, prospective students should be prepared to allocate a portion of their budget to cover these application expenses, especially if they plan to apply to multiple institutions.
Other Expenses to Study in Canada
Given below is a breakdown of the different expenses which are important to consider while calculating the cost of living and studying in Canada per month and yearly.
| Living Costs in Canada | Cost |
| Flight Expense | INR 1,00,000- 2,00,000/- per flight |
| Study Permit Fees | $150 (INR 11,123) |
| Work Permit Fees | $155 (INR 11,493) |
| IELTS test Fees | INR 14,700 |
| Accommodation | CAD 5,000 – CAD 10,000 (INR 2,67,000-INR 5,39,000) per annum |
| Travel Costs | CAD 80 – CAD 110 (INR 4,300-INR 6,000) per month |
| Health Insurance | CAD 300-CAD 800 (INR 17,000-INR 44,000) |
| Food | CAD 300- CAD 400 [17,508 INR-23,344] (monthly) |
| Entertainment | CAD 750 [43,770 INR] (monthly) |
Flight Cost From India to Canada
Flight tickets constitute a significant portion of the expenses for international students planning to study abroad in countries like Canada. Several major airlines, including Air India, IndiGo, Vistara, SpiceJet, and GoAir, offer flights connecting India to Canada. The cost of direct flights from India to Canada typically falls within the range of INR 1,000,000 to INR 2,000,000, varying depending on the season. It’s worth noting that flight rates may be higher during peak periods, especially between August and September.
Accommodation Cost
Besides tuition fees, accommodation expenses are a significant factor in the cost of living in Canada for indian students. Many universities offer on-campus residences, but students also have the option to live off-campus. The cost of accommodation can vary depending on the type of room or apartment, ranging from approximately CAD 5,000 (INR 2,67,000) to CAD 10,000 (INR 5,39,000) per year. Notably, major cities like Toronto and Montreal may have higher accommodation costs compared to other cities in the country.
International students in Canada have two primary choices for accommodation: living on-campus or off-campus. Within these categories, students can choose from various options, including dormitories and townhouses available on-campus, or off-campus choices such as shared apartments, single apartments, condominiums, homestays, or living with host families.
Travel Cost
Canada boasts an extensive cross-continent transportation network, with roads stretching to the far ends of the United States. However, it’s important to note that travel expenses in Canada, whether for short or long distances, can be relatively high. As a result, many students prefer utilizing public transportation options such as subways, trains, and buses. On average, the monthly cost for these modes of transportation may range from approximately CAD 80 (INR 4,300) to CAD 110 (INR 6,000).
Health and Insurance Cost
Medical insurance is a crucial component included in the overall cost estimates for studying in Canada, as it is mandatory for students to be insured before starting their programs. The total cost of insurance can vary depending on the type of policy chosen, ranging from approximately CAD 300 (INR 17,000) to CAD 800 (INR 44,000) per year.
CanadianSIM for International Students
Besides tuition fees, accommodation, and travel expenses, Indian students planning to study in Canada must also consider communication costs. CanadianSIM offers a tailored solution by providing Canada SIM cards designed specifically for indian students. CanadianSIM pricing plan offers 25 GB of high-speed LTE data for $40, along with no-contract flexibility, unlimited Canada-wide calls, unlimited local and international text messaging (SMS), no set-up fees, and convenient features like Caller ID and Voicemail. With CanadianSIM, international students can stay connected, access essential information, and enjoy seamless communication throughout their academic journey in Canada.
Student Visa and Application Cost
Students interested in studying in Canada will need to obtain a Canadian study permit, which is necessary for courses lasting longer than 6 months. Even for courses under 6 months, students are advised to apply for the study permit in case they plan to extend their stay. The Canadian student visa fees in Indian rupees are 8,542 (CAD 150), but the application fees may vary based on nationality and the chosen university. In addition to the letter of admission and other required documents, students must provide proof of funds, with a minimum bank balance of INR 6,00,000 or more for one year, to be eligible for a Canadian student visa.
Taxes in Canada
As an international student studying in Canada, you are obligated to file Canadian income tax returns based on your residency status. Even though you may not be a Canadian citizen, filing taxes can be advantageous in terms of accessing benefits such as GST credits, the Child Tax Benefit, or claiming a tax refund. If you receive income from teaching, research assistantships, employment in Canada, or investments, you are required to file an income tax report. Additionally, students who earn income from outside of Canada must also report it. Complying with tax regulations ensures you remain in good standing and can avail of potential benefits available to you as an international student in Canada.
Scholarships for Studying in Canada 2023
Scholarships play a crucial role in facilitating Indian students’ pursuit of education in Canadian universities in 2023. These funding opportunities and waivers alleviate the financial burden of studying abroad, making the dream of studying in Canada more accessible. Scholarships are often awarded based on merit, academic achievements, or exceptional skills. It is essential for students to carefully review the eligibility criteria for each scholarship and apply accordingly. Here is a list of scholarships available in Canada for Indian students, presenting a pathway towards academic excellence and enriching experiences in the vibrant Canadian educational landscape.
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- Ontario Graduate Scholarship
- Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Program
- President’s Scholarship for World Leaders
- International Leader of Tomorrow Award
- University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship (UMGF)
- The Seneca Renewable Entrance Scholarship of Merit for International Students
- Assist-on Scholarship
- Trudeau Foundation Scholarships
Cost of Studying and Living in Canada: City-Wise
Here is the average cost of living in Canada for indian students:
| City | Average Cost of Living |
| Toronto | 37,000 CAD yearly (INR 22,18,460) |
| Vancouver | 38,484 CAD yearly (INR 23,08,210) |
| Montreal | 25,000 CAD yearly (INR 14,99,845) |
| Ottawa | 20,000 CAD yearly (INR 11,99,301) |
| Calgary | 26,904 CAD yearly (INR 16,13,865) |
Cheapest Universities in Canada
Here are the cheapest universities in the country to manage the cost of studying in Canada for Indian students:
- University of Montreal
- McGill University
- McMaster University
- University of British Columbia
- University of Brandon
- Université de Saint-Boniface
- University of Guelph
- Memorial University of Newfoundland
- Simon Fraser University
Conclusion
In conclusion, studying in Canada offers a plethora of opportunities for indian students, particularly those from India. The country’s reputation for providing quality education, diverse campuses, and a welcoming environment make it a top choice for higher education. However, the decision to pursue studies in Canada involves careful financial planning. Understanding the various costs, such as tuition fees, accommodation, travel, health insurance, and visa application expenses, is crucial for preparing a comprehensive budget. Additionally, exploring scholarships and funding options can significantly ease the financial burden and open doors to a rewarding academic journey. As prospective students embark on this exciting adventure, adequate preparation, research, and the utilization of available resources will pave the way for a fulfilling and successful experience studying in Canada.
