Study Abroad
CanadaStudy Abroad
So when I started looking into studying abroad, Canada really seemed like the dream. Beautiful mountains and beaches, high level of education, friendly people. But once I dug a bit deeper I quickly came across tuition fees. And let me tell you, the number can shock you. Some research I came across is showing that tuition fees can increase by over 50% compared to the initial number by 2026. So how can students really know what they're getting into if they're still years away from making the decision? And more importantly, how can people be fully prepared for the cost of attending university in Canada if they have no idea what those costs are going to be?
The key that's almost always left out of this discussion is that the tuition fees in Canada aren't the same in all cases. They vary depending on type of program, institution and even province. Average undergraduate tuition fees in Canada are expected to be about $33,000 in 2026 – or about $25,000 in the US dollar, or €23,000. Average graduate tuition fees are about $20,000 a year – or $15,000 in the US dollar, or €14,000.
But there's so much more to think about. As we said earlier, the type of program is one of the many things that affect tuition. For example, tuition for engineering and medical programs is typically much higher than tuition for arts and humanities programs. If you've always dreamed of studying a certain discipline, make sure to research the tuition prices for that field. Here's a comparison of the costs for some popular disciplines.
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Okay, so now we get to the really big surprises in terms of cost when you move away to study – living costs. Again, living costs are completely dependent on the city in which you'll be studying. So, costs in a city like Toronto for a relatively modest lifestyle (a very lively and active city) are probably something around $2,000 per month (or $1,500 USD, $1,400 Euros or $1,20,000 Rupees). While in a smaller city like Montreal, these might be more like $1,500 (or $1,125 USD, $1,050 Euros or $90,000 Rupees).
Many students choosing Tante Marie are looking for an alternative to very high rent in a capital city, so are pleased to be able to study in a more affordable suburb or smaller city – and using public transport is more affordable too! It’s only when students do the maths that they work out how the monthly season tickets which on the face of it seem to cost so much more, can actually prove to be better value when used regularly over a term.
Canada is often compared to its southern neighbour, the United States, in relation to the cost of studying. While the US is home to some of the world’s top universities, Canada offers a lower cost of study. Tuition fees in the US are often upwards of USD 35,000 annually, a far cry from the tuition fees in Canada. Health care is also far cheaper for students coming to Canada.
Let's break it down further:
Education in Canada is one of the lowest-cost options in the English-speaking world. At the same time, Canada has some of the lowest cost of living in the English-speaking world, so Canada represents an excellent value education – the most affordable quality education in the English-speaking world.
So you want to talk about scholarships? Well, here’s the deal, scholarships aren't just “nice to have”. Many universities in Canada offer scholarships to international students and almost all of them are on a first come, first serve basis. So, you get the point – the sooner you apply, the better your chances.
Consider starting your education at a community college for the first two years.it can be cost-effective to start with the general education requirements and community colleges have agreements with four-year colleges/universities.
Students dreaming of studying in Canada might inadvertently fall prey to several costly pitfalls in the process of planning their studies abroad. Here are a few surprising things that I learnt while planning my studies in Canada: 1. The cost of living in Canada isn't what it seems. When planning your move to Canada, most students tend to look into accommodation, tuition fees, and other basic costs. What they often miss out is the extra amount that students need to set aside for basic commodities and other unavoidable expenses. It’s very easy to miss calculating something as simple as snow boots or having to get the laptop repaired, especially if you’re moving to Canada from a developing country.
Another mistake that students make when moving to Canada is assuming that their home country health insurance will still cover them. This often proves to be not the case, and Canadians are hit with the huge shock of realizing that the government here wants to charge them up to $1000 per month for new coverage. Networking is also key to your search for employment. it's rare for a job to come available without some sort of informal introduction by someone in your circle of acquaintances, just as it's rare for a job to come available based solely on your qualifications and experience. Networking begins as soon as you arrive in Canada.
One of the big advantages of Canada is that you're allowed to work while studying. As of 2026, you'll be able to work a maximum of 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full time during academic breaks. Many international students enjoy this aspect as it gives them an opportunity to gain work experience in Canada and make more money.
Even after you graduate, you can keep working toward your Canadian dream! With your PGWP, you can stay and work in Canada for up to three years after graduation – a great opportunity to gain some international work experience and learn more about Canada – a great bonus to starting your new life here!
Every few years the policies and costs change, and that's true for the 2026 academic year. Tuition fees will increase by about 3% annually. So you have to be careful with your budget. The government has also changed the work permit for international students recently, so make sure to read the new policies from the Government of Canada and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Indian Students: You aren't alone. Canada has a huge population of Indians. Canada has plenty of resources that would help Indians to settle in Canada. Joining an Indian student association is highly recommended. They usually help in bringing Indians together through cultural events.
Canadians tend to be more indirect in their communication than what we're to in India. Knowing what to expect can help you ease into your new Canadian life. Feel free to contact the Indian Embassy in Canada for any assistance.
These are some things that I have learned no one tells you about when coming to Canada for school.
Undergraduate fees average CAD 33,000/year, while graduate fees are around CAD 20,000/year.
Yes, up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during breaks.
No, students must have health insurance, which can be purchased locally.
Research and apply early through university websites and Canadian scholarship portals.
Monthly living costs range from CAD 1,500 in Montreal to CAD 2,200 in Vancouver.
Canada generally has lower tuition fees and more affordable healthcare for students.
Expect differences in communication styles and a more indirect approach in conversations.
Found this article useful? Share it with friends that are thinking of moving to Canada! Check out other articles on Canada & Immigration in our Guide to Canada.
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Arin Vale