n system, high-ranking institutions, and highly safe and secure thriving environment. Along with these essential reasons, students head towards Canada because of its pocket-friendly tuition fee structure for all the educational programs.
But before you depart from India, ensure that you consider expenses like accommodation, food, health coverage, and travel along with your tuition fee when calculating the estimated cost of studying in Canada. This will help you plan your budget more effectively.
Expense on Tuition Fees
Your expenditure on tuition fees depends on the type of qualification and institution you opt for.
Most commonly, humanities, education, and art courses are cheaper, while subjects such as medicine and engineering are likely to be more expensive. If you wish to study at a postgraduate level, the tuition fee is typically higher, and the costs vary depending on the program. As with most other countries, MBA programs are often the most expensive.
The following table will give you an overview of tuition fees in Canada:
| Program | Average Annual Fee |
| Undergraduate program | CAD 13,000 to 20,000 |
| Postgraduate master’s degree | CAD 17,000 to 25,000 |
| Doctoral degree | CAD 7,000 to 15,000 |
| MBA | CAD 30,000 to 40,000 |
Off- Campus & On-Campus Accommodation
Most universities in Canada offer on-campus residence facilities to international students. You can also opt for off-campus accommodation, wherein you can share apartments with other students from India.
Costs for on-campus accommodation may range anywhere from CAD 8,000 to CAD 10,000 (annually), whereas living in a shared apartment can cost you around CAD 400 to CAD 700 per month, depending upon your location and time of the year.
Another option is a homestay where you stay with a host family in Canada. In this, you will have to pay a placement fee of CAD 200 and a monthly fee of CAD 750 – 950 in return for meals and a room. However, you’ll be able to participate in local activities with the host and learn about the culture closely.
Remember, the rentals vary from city to city.
The following table will give you an overview of accommodation costs in Canada:
| Type of Accommodation | Price (CAD) |
| Dormitories | 350 CAD – 600 |
| Townhouses | 250 CAD – 650 |
| Shared Apartment | 400 CAD – 800 |
| Unfurnished Apartment Rentals | 300 CAD – 500 |
How to Get Canadian Study Permit?
To study in Canada, you will need to obtain a Canadian study permit, which serves as a student visa for the duration of your stay.
If your course or program lasts six months or less, you do not need a Canadian study permit. Applying for a study permit costs CAD 150.
Always refer to the official website of IRCC for the latest updates and information on the visa application process and related costs.
How to Track your Expenditure in Canada?
1. Living expenses
You need to save a little money for your grocery shopping, social activities, and emergencies. When living in a foreign country, it is better to keep track of your expenditures so that you do not overspend. Considering various expenses and living costs, a single student budget in Canada comes out to be approx. CAD 15,000. Have a look at these common expenses:
2. Communication expenses
As a student from India, you’d frequently call your friends and family back home. Therefore, always keep a section of your budget for phone bills and data expenses. Look for cost-effective calling plans and student discounts to stay connected with your loved ones within your monthly budget. The average cost is approx. CAD 20 per month.