Are you afraid of the cost to study in Canada? This is so obvious for an international student. However, tuition fees in Canada vary significantly, but on average, expect to pay between CAD 21,100 and CAD 36,100 per year for undergraduate programs and postgraduate programs.
However, education costs also include living and other expenses in Canada. In this blog, we will discuss the tuition fees in Canada for international students for bachelor’s and master’s programs. We will also discuss another mandatory cost, like living expenses, accommodation, etc., to study in Canada.
How Much Does It Cost to Study in Canada?
As an international student, you might be curious about how much it costs to study in Canada. Tuition fees at Canadian universities are generally lower compared to other developed countries. According to the Educanada, the average tuition fees for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs in Canada ranges between CAD 21,100 and CAD 36,100 per year.
However, the cost can vary depending on the university, whether you’re an international or local student, and if you’re doing an undergraduate or postgraduate course. Programs like medicine and engineering tend to cost more, while education and arts programs are usually less expensive.
📌 Note: Before planning your budget, explore the September, January, and May intakes in Canada to align your tuition fees with your preferred start date.
Tuition Fees at Primary and Secondary Schools in Canada
According to Educanada, international students must pay annual tuition fees at elementary and high schools in Canada. There are different fees at different schools. For example:
- Private or independent boarding schools fee can range from $63,000 to $83,000 per year
- Public schools fee can range from $9,500 to $17,000 per year
- Private or independent day schools fee can range from $15,000 to $30,000 per year
Tuition Fees at College and vocational school in Canada
Tuition fees for colleges and vocational schools vary depending on the program and school you have selected. College programs vary in length too. Some programs may only take a few months while others can take a few years. Typically, tuition fees at College and vocational school in Canada can range from approximately $7,000 to $22,000 per year.
Tuition Fees at Language school in Canada
The duration of Language school courses are often based on a certain number of weeks. The cost of tuition at Language school in Canada varies by each school. Usually, tuition costs can range between $340 to $425 per week.
Tuition Fees for Different Courses in Canada
Previously we have discussed the average cost of studying in Canada, let’s explore the assumption of the tuition fees for different courses in Canada.
| Field of Study | Undergraduate Tuition Fee (CAD) | Postgraduate Tuition Fee (CAD) |
| Dentistry | $58,222 | $26,192 |
| Veterinary medicine | $66,503 | $9,705 |
| Law | $38,110 | $18,852 |
| Pharmacy | $41,398 | $14,139 |
| Engineering | $37,377 | $22,480 |
| Business, Management, and Public Administration | $32,460 | $27,296 |
| Mathematics, Computer, and Information Sciences | $37,040 | $19,088 |
| Architecture | $32,285 | $26,061 |
| Nursing | $24,283 | $16,774 |
| Education | $23,591 | $17,583 |
Tuition Fees in Canada for International Students in Different Provinces
Canada has lower tuition fees compared to other English-speaking countries, but the cost depends on the province. The most expensive provinces to study in Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, and Quebec. The more affordable provinces are Newfoundland and Labrador, New Brunswick, and Manitoba. Let’s explore the approximate tuition costs of different provinces in Canada.
| Province | International Undergraduate Tuition | International Graduate Tuition |
| Ontario | $42,185 | $26,236 |
| British Columbia | $30,903 | $20,295 |
| Alberta | $28,014 | $15,167 |
| Quebec | $27,406 | $18,557 |
| Saskatchewan | $22,197 | $7,583 |
| Prince Edward Island | $20,417 | $10,564 |
| Nova Scotia | $20,397 | $23,048 |
| Manitoba | $17,786 | $11,887 |
| New Brunswick | $16,458 | $13,123 |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | $12,037 | $4,082 |
What is Included in the Tuition Fees for Canadian Universities?
Tuition fees for Canadian universities typically cover a range of academic and support services, but they vary depending on the institution and program. Here’s a general breakdown of what is commonly included in tuition fees:
- Course Instruction
- Access to University Facilities
- Student Services
- Extracurricular Activities
- Administrative Costs
- Technology and Online Learning Platforms
Living Expenses In Canada
According to the canada.ca the average cost of living in Canada for an individual can range from CAD 15,000 to 20,000 per year, depending on lifestyle and location. However, a budget of around CAD 12,000 per year for living expenses (excluding tuition) is often recommended for international students.
| Accommodation | Expenses |
| Homestays | $350 – $2,000 per month |
| Dormitory | $3,000 – $7,500 per school year |
| Renting | $400 – $1,500 per month |
| Other Living Costs | |
| Food | $300 – $400 |
| Transportation | $100.00 – $150.00 |
| Clothing | $25.00 – $80.00 |
| Utilities | $92.00 – $322.00 |
Food costs in Canada
You shouldn’t spend too much on food bills, just around 300 CAD/month for shopping from the local supermarkets and groceries. There are some cheapest supermarkets in Canada such as: Canadian Superstore, Walmart, No Frills. Pair this with a degree at one of the cheapest colleges in Canada, and you might get yourself a budget-friendly Canadian degree! However, if you eat in a restaurant, you will have to pay around 10 – 25 CAD. A three-course meal for two will cost 50 – 65 CAD in a mid-range restaurant.
Transportation costs in Canada
International students enrolled in a Canadian university, aged between 18 and 25, will benefit from discounts when purchasing a monthly transport pass.
The total cost of a transport pass is 90 CAD/month, while a one-way ticket is worth 3 CAD. Taxis are also a common way of transportation in Canada and fares are between 2 and 6 CAD/km.
Can You Get Scholarships in Canada?
Yes, you can get scholarships in Canada as an international student. Many Canadian universities and the government offer scholarships to help students with their tuition and living costs. Scholarships can be based on academic achievement, financial need, or other factors like community involvement or specific talents. It’s important to check the specific scholarships available at the universities you’re interested in and apply early, as they can be competitive.
Final Words
Canada is one of the most chosen countries for studying abroad. Though higher education in Canada is not so expensive, as an international studen,t it can seem costly for you. However, a perfect budget plan can help you to bear your education expenses in Canada. So, if you are worrying about the university tuition fees in Canada for international students, you can always contact AIMS Education, as we can help you secure scholarships.
So, ready to connect with AIMS Education? No worries, just submit the eligibility form with the required information or you can simply send us a callback request.
