Study in Canada: Courses, Universities, Fees, and Scholarships for Indian Students

Canada's universities are making waves globally! The QS World University Rankings 2025 places 11 Canadian institutions in the top 200. Study in Canada puts you alongside thousands of international students in a country that celebrates diversity with 250 ethnic origins and 200 languages.

Studying in Canada gives you great value. Undergraduate programs range from CAD 15,700 to CAD 53,538, while postgraduate courses cost between CAD 9,364 and CAD 45,800. The work permit after study in Canada lets you stay and work up to three years after graduation. This makes Canada a perfect choice for students looking to kickstart their careers.

Money tight? Don't worry! Several scholarships to study in Canada can help with the yearly living expenses of CAD 20,635. You can also earn while you learn by working 20 hours per week during school terms and full-time during breaks.

Curious about how much it costs to study in Canada or which schools best suit Canada international students? This detailed guide walks you through everything - from leading universities and popular courses to visa processes and job opportunities. Canada stands out as a top education destination, and here's why!
 

Why Study in Canada?

Canada stands as a top choice for higher education. The country welcomed more than 800,000 international students in 2022. The world-class education system and rich multicultural environment make studying in Canada a perfect mix of academic excellence and life-changing experiences. Let's head over to why the Great White North should be your next educational destination.
 

Top benefits for international students

Canadian education's reputation reaches way beyond its borders. Eight universities rank among the top 200 globally in the QS World University Rankings. Students pay less here compared to the US and UK. International graduate tuition costs CAD 17,338 per year on average. This makes it a lot more budget-friendly than other countries.

Study in Canada comes with these practical benefits:

• Work flexibility: Students can work up to 24 hours weekly during semesters and full-time during breaks. This helps cover education costs while building valuable experience.
• Post-graduation opportunities: The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) lets you work in Canada for up to three years after graduation. This opens a path to permanent residency.
• Safety and quality of life: Canada sits at 11th place on the Global Peace Index (2024). This makes it one of the safest places for international students. More than that, it ranks #3 out of 85 countries for quality of life.
• Cultural diversity: The country houses over 200 different ethnicities. Half the population speaks a first language other than English. Students experience a truly global environment during their studies.

Scholarship to study in Canada options are many. Government-funded scholarships, non-government awards, and institutional scholarships make education more available.
 

How Canada compares to other countries

Your options to study abroad in Canada versus other popular destinations deserve a closer look. The US has 40 universities in the top 100 global rankings while Canada has 5. Yet, these numbers match up well when you think over the population size.

Canada international students get better benefits than other countries. All major destinations allow 20 hours of work per week during studies. However, Canada's post-graduation paths are much simpler. The PGWP program helps graduates get valuable Canadian work experience. Other countries have stricter post-study visa rules.

Canadian graduate programs cost less than other English-speaking countries. Canadian universities also lead in research and breakthroughs. The country ranks in the top 10 globally for scientific effect.

Immigration paths in Canada shine through its Express Entry system. Provincial Nominee Programs target international graduates. These well-laid-out paths make Canada perfect for students who want to settle long-term.
 

Is Canada good for Indian students?

The numbers tell the story for those thinking about study in Canada for Indian students. MEA India reports 427,000 Indian students currently study in Canadian universities – more than any other country. Indian students make up about 30% of Canada's international student community.

Canada for Indian students brings special advantages:

Students can gain up to 16 months of real-life work experience during a four-year degree program. This hands-on approach gives them an edge in the job market after graduation.

The rich cultural mix makes settling in easier. Canada celebrates festivals from all cultures. From Christmas to Diwali and Chinese New Year to Holi, everyone feels at home here.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) offers many paths to permanent residency. They know international students understand Canada's culture and work environment well, making them great candidates for immigration.

Canada Student Visa Eligibility rules are clear, but getting approved isn't guaranteed. Canada turned down 40% of study permit applications in 2021. All the same, Canadian immigration policies welcomed nearly 8 million permanent residents by 2021. This shows the country's strong commitment to diversity and inclusion.
 

Understanding the Canadian Education System

The Canadian education system ranks among the world's best. Each province and territory manages its own educational framework. Students planning to study in Canada need to understand how institutions work to make smart decisions about their academic trip.
 

Types of institutions: Colleges vs Universities

Canadian colleges and universities have a clearer difference than many other countries. This is vital information for Canada international students who need to pick the right educational path.

Universities focus on academic and theoretical knowledge. They offer undergraduate and graduate degrees including bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs. Research activities and scholarly work are the foundations of their programs. Students can get detailed education in a variety of disciplines. A bachelor's degree takes 3-4 years to complete, and universities have higher academic entrance requirements than colleges.

Colleges focus on career-oriented, practical training for specific jobs or trades. Programs include diplomas, certificates, and some applied degrees. Most programs last from a few months to two years. These programs give you the hands-on skills you need at work. Classes are smaller, so students receive more personal attention.

This setup helps Canada for Indian students make better choices. Many pick universities for traditional academic paths, while others choose colleges to start their careers faster.
 

Study levels and durations

Students can choose from several qualification levels in Canadian post-secondary education:

• Certificates: Take 3-8 months of specialized post-secondary study
• Diplomas: Need two years of specialized study
• Associate Degrees: Cover two-year, 60-credit foundational undergraduate programs
• Bachelor's Degrees: Take four years of full-time study
• Master's Degrees: Need 1-3 years of specialized post-graduate study
• Doctoral Degrees: Require 2-3 years of coursework plus an independent dissertation

Students thinking about why study in Canada should plan for at least four years to finish a bachelor's degree. Many educational paths exist, including credit transfers between schools. Students can start at a college and move their credits to a university to complete a bachelor's degree.
 

Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs)

Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is vital for study in Canada requirements. Provincial or territorial governments approve these schools to accept international students.

Your Canada Student Visa application needs an acceptance letter from a DLI. Applications without this letter face rejection. All primary and secondary schools automatically qualify as DLIs. Post-secondary schools must apply for this special status.

Remember that not all DLIs offer programs qualifying for the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP). Check if your chosen school and program qualify for PGWPP before applying if you want to get a work permit after study in Canada.

PGWP eligibility rules change on November 1, 2024. New language proficiency or program requirements may apply based on when you submit your study permit application.

Each DLI has its own identification number starting with 'O'. You'll need this for your study permit application. Picking the right DLI shapes your education, post-graduation options, and possible paths to permanent residency when studying in Canada.
 

Top Universities and Best Courses to Study in Canada

Your choice of institution and program shapes your educational trip and career future a lot when you study in Canada. More than 250,000 international students study at Canadian institutions, so you need to know about the best universities and programs to make smart choices.

Top QS World Ranking Universities in Canada

The following are the Top universities in Canada as per QS World Ranking 2024.  

QS World University Rankings – Top Universities in Canada
Serial No.	Global Rank	University
1	#26	University of Toronto
2	#27	McGill University
3	#46	University of British Columbia
4	#111	Université de Montréal
5	#126	University of Alberta
6	#140	McMaster University
7	#149	University of Waterloo
8	#170	Western University
9	#230	University of Ottawa
10	#235	University of Calgary
11	#240	Queen's University at Kingston
12	#272	Dalhousie University
13	#298	Simon Fraser University
14	#334	University of Victoria (UVic)
15	#414	Université Laval
16	458	University of Saskatchewan
17	#494	York University
18	521-530	Concordia University
19	581-590	University of Guelph
20	591-600	Université du Québec
21	601-650	Carleton University
22	601-650	University of Manitoba
23	651-700	University of New Brunswick
24	701-750	University of Windsor
25	751-800	Memorial University of Newfoundland
26	751-800	Université de Sherbrooke
27	801-1000	Ryerson University

Source: QS World University Rankings 2024

For Admission Assistance to Canadian universities, consult Y-Axis! 

Top-Ranked Universities in Canada You Should Choose

Canada international students can choose from several world-class institutions. The University of Toronto leads Canadian education at 21st place globally in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025. The university scores high in research quality (93.4) and industry connections (94.9).

The University of British Columbia and McGill University hold strong positions at 41st and 45th respectively. Other outstanding institutions excel in specific fields:

• University of Waterloo - Known for computer science and engineering programs
• McMaster University - Ranks 4th nationally with excellent research quality (93.0)
• University of Alberta - Shares 4th place nationally with strong international outlook (90.4)

Studying in Canada offers great value. All but one of these universities rank in the top 50 globally according to QS World University Rankings 2025, and 30 Canadian institutions make the list. This explains why many students call Canadian education world-class yet more affordable than other popular destinations.
 

Most in-demand courses for international students

Best courses to study in Canada include several fields that attract international students because of quality education and job prospects. Computer Science and Information Technology programs are popular choices at the University of Toronto, University of Waterloo, and University of British Columbia.

Business and Management programs also attract many Canada international students. Leading business schools include the University of Toronto (Rotman School of Management), McGill University (Desautels Faculty of Management), and Queen's University (Smith School of Business).

Students who study abroad in Canada often choose these popular fields:

1. Engineering - Programs with strong industry connections
2. Health Sciences - Programs in nursing, pharmacy, and medicine
3. Finance and Accounting - Paths to high-paying careers
4. Environmental Science - Growing field due to sustainability focus

Canadian education focuses on practical learning. Students get real-life experience through internships, co-op opportunities, and hands-on projects.
 

Popular programs for Indian students

Indian students who want to study in Canada often choose engineering programs. Canada has some of the world's best engineering schools. Students love the practical approach and research opportunities these programs offer.

Information Technology and Computer Science rank high for Indian students checking their Canada Student Visa Eligibility. The University of Toronto, the University of British Columbia, and the University of Waterloo offer advanced curriculum and research facilities.

Business courses remain a top choice. QS MBA Rankings (2023) lists 17 Canadian universities in the top 500 globally for MBA programs. These degrees help students develop analytical, organizational, and management skills that global employers value.

Healthcare programs attract more Indian students looking at why study in Canada options. Canada's healthcare system ranks among the world's best, creating more jobs for skilled professionals. Universities like Toronto, British Columbia, McGill, and Dalhousie offer excellent health science education.

This knowledge about educational opportunities helps students arrange their career goals with the right institution and program when planning to get a Canada study visa.
 

Study in Canada Requirements and Eligibility

Meeting the study in Canada requirements is a key step in your educational experience toward higher education in this popular destination. Canadian government and educational institutions set specific standards to help international students prepare for academic success.
 

Academic qualifications

Canada international students face different academic requirements based on their chosen program level. Canadian universities ask for a high school diploma or equivalent with at least 70% in 12th grade for undergraduate admissions. Most programs have specific subject prerequisites. Math is a must for technical and business courses.

Master's programs need a four-year bachelor's degree with a minimum "B" average (around 70-75%) in the final two years. Many graduate programs ask for 2-3 years of relevant work experience. Your professional background becomes part of your eligibility assessment in these cases.

Diploma programs take one to three years and need at least 60% in 12th grade. These programs give practical, career-focused education and can lead to further degrees.

Each institution and program has its own specific academic requirements. You should check your chosen university's requirements for your program before applying.
 

Language proficiency tests (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)

English proficiency tests are mandatory for study in Canada for Indian students and other international applicants who don't speak English as their first language, since English is the main language at most Canadian institutions.

Accepted English proficiency tests include:

• IELTS Academic: Most universities need an overall band of 6.5 with no band below 6.0
• TOEFL iBT: Minimum scores usually range from 80-100, with specific subscores needed for speaking and writing (typically 22)
• Duolingo English Test: Most schools accept a minimum overall score of 120 (tests after July 2024 need a Production score of 120 too)
• Cambridge English C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency: Minimum overall score of 180 with at least 170 in each component
• Canadian Academic English Language Assessment (CAEL): Overall score of 70 with no part below 60

Language requirements might not apply if you've studied full-time for at least four years in English-speaking countries like the UK, USA, Australia, or certain African nations.

Your language test results must be less than two years old when you apply for Canada Student Visa Eligibility. Some programs might need higher language scores than the school's minimum requirements.
 

Other documents needed for admission

Studying in Canada needs several more documents to complete your application:

You need a valid passport that covers your planned study period. Most institutions ask for a detailed Statement of Purpose (SOP) that explains your academic goals and program choice.

Letters of Recommendation (usually 2-3) from teachers or employers (for graduate programs) add credibility to your application. Graduate applications also need your updated resume or CV showing relevant experiences and achievements.

Financial documents play a crucial role. You must show you have enough money for tuition and living costs through bank statements and sometimes an affidavit of support from your sponsor.

After a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) accepts you, your Canada study visa application needs an acceptance letter and proof of financial support. You might also need a medical exam and police certificate depending on your home country.

Different institutions, program levels, and citizenship status have their own document requirements. You should check with your institution and the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website to get a full picture of what you need for admission and visa processes.
 

How Much Does It Cost to Study in Canada?

Understanding everything in studying in Canada is a vital step in your educational planning. Canada provides an attractive mix of quality education and reasonable costs that makes it a smart financial choice for international students.
 

Average tuition fees by program level

Canada international students pay tuition fees that vary by a lot based on their program, field, and choice of institution. Statistics Canada reports the weighted average tuition for international undergraduate students in 2024 stands at CAD 36,100 (INR 3,384,921) per year. This shows a 7.6% rise from previous years.
 

Students can expect these program costs:
 

Program Level	Annual Tuition Range (CAD)	Annual Tuition Range (INR)
Undergraduate	CAD 15,700-53,538	INR 9.54-32.52 Lakhs
Postgraduate	CAD 13,742-45,800	INR 8.35-27.82 Lakhs
PhD	CAD 7,000-15,142	INR 4.46 lakh – INR 12.74 lakh
MBA	CAD 30,000-42,000	INR 25.31-33.75 Lakhs

Humanities and education programs cost less, while medicine, engineering, and business programs demand higher fees. Dentistry programs cost around CAD 19,500 (INR 1,832,490). Engineering programs at leading universities range from CAD 38,378 (INR 3,837,825) at University of Alberta to CAD 61,597 (INR 6,159,772) at University of Waterloo.
 

Cost of living in major cities

The cost of living in Canada changes based on your location. Single students spend about CAD 880 (INR 53,034) monthly without rent. Housing costs take up the largest part of expenses and differ between cities.

Toronto and Vancouver lead as the most expensive cities, with monthly costs between CAD 1,945-3,713. Montreal and Edmonton provide more budget-friendly options ranging from CAD 1,386-1,580 monthly.

Housing options and their costs:

• On-campus housing: CAD 8,000-10,000 annually
• Shared off-campus housing: CAD 400-700 monthly
• Homestay arrangements: CAD 400-800 monthly

Canada international students should budget monthly for:

• Food and groceries: CAD 300-400
• Transportation: CAD 80-110
• Phone and internet: CAD 118-158
• Health insurance: CAD 50-75 per month

How much money is required to study in Canada?

The Canadian government raised financial requirements for study in Canada for Indian students and others starting January 1, 2024. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) now asks students to prove funds of CAD 20,635 (INR 1,741,190), not counting tuition.

Students bringing family members need more funds:

• Two people (including student): CAD 25,690 (INR 2,167,733)
• Three people: CAD 31,583 (INR 2,664,987)

First-year costs for a Canada study visa usually total between CAD 35,000-50,000 (INR 21-30 Lakhs), combining tuition and living expenses. This makes careful financial planning necessary for future Canada international students.

Students can show their funds through Canadian bank accounts, Guaranteed Investment Certificates (GICs), four months of bank statements, or student loan proof.
 

Scholarships to Study in Canada

You can get financial support to achieve your academic goals through many scholarships to study in Canada. Canadian universities charge between CAD 15,700-53,538 for undergraduate programs. Getting scholarships is a big deal as it means that you can reduce your costs and boost your academic profile.
 

Types of scholarships available

Scholarships for international students in Canada come in three main categories:

1. Government-Funded Scholarships: The government gives these merit-based awards to outstanding students. The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (CAD 50,000 per year for three years), Ontario Trillium Scholarships, and Canada-ASEAN Scholarships are great examples.

2. Non-Government Scholarships: Private companies, charities, and foundations provide these awards. The Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute Scholarships and Anne Vallee Ecological Fund (CAD 1,500 for two years) are available. These awards target specific fields or student groups.

3. Institution-Specific Scholarships: Canadian universities have their own scholarship programs. The University of Toronto's Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship, to name just one example, covers tuition, books, and residence support for four years. This makes studying in Canada more affordable.
    

Top scholarships for Indian students

Several prestigious scholarships help Canada for Indian students:

• Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute Scholarships: These scholarships give various fellowships from graduate to post-doctorate levels. The Shastri Research Student Fellowship supports students in Bachelor's, Master's, or M.Phil programs.

• Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan: This plan picks bright students from Commonwealth countries and pays for travel, living costs, and tuition fees. Graduate Students Exchanges provide INR 843,804 for 5-6 months in Canada.

• Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships: The Government of Canada awards these to exceptional doctoral students. They're worth CAD 50,000 yearly for three years (non-renewable).

• Ontario Trillium Scholarship: Students can get INR 3,375,218 yearly. The scholarship runs up to four years with 75 awards each year.
   

How to apply for a scholarship to study in Canada

Your chances of getting a Canada study visa and scholarship funding will improve if you:

1. Look at all options through universities, government programs, and private organizations.

2. Get your documents ready - academic transcripts, recommendation letters, CV, and personal statements.

3. Check the eligibility criteria - good grades, leadership skills, and community work matter.

4. Send applications early - deadlines vary, so apply 6-12 months before your program starts.

5. Keep your grades high - Canadian scholarships need at least 80% GPA.

6. Show your leadership skills and extra activities in applications.

A winning scholarship application for study in Canada for Indian students needs good preparation and attention to detail. Make sure you highlight your achievements and strengths. Good research and dedication will help you get financial support to study in Canada.
 

Canada Student Visa and Application Process

A Canada study visa is essential to your educational experience if you plan to study in Canada. This visa differs from tourist permits and gives you legal permission to enroll in designated educational institutions throughout your program duration.
 

Canada study visa eligibility

Several key requirements must be met to qualify for a Canada student visa. You need an acceptance letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). You must also prove you have enough money to cover tuition fees and living expenses for yourself and any family members coming with you.

Your country of origin might require you to undergo medical examinations to prove good health. Canada international students need to provide police verification certificates to show they have no criminal record.

You must prove to immigration officers that you maintain strong ties to your home country through jobs, property, or family. This shows you will return after your studies end. Therefore, your application needs to clearly show your genuine intent to go back once your educational program finishes.
 

Canada student visa processing time

Canada student visa processing time changes significantly based on various factors. Applications usually take several weeks to months. These timelines depend on:

• How complete your application is
• How complex your information verification becomes
• How fast you respond to additional requests
• Current application volumes

Your country of residence plays a role in processing duration. People applying from outside Canada and the USA should add 3-4 months for mailing time if they submit through a Canadian embassy. Applications for minors might take 6-8 months if sent directly to processing centers in Nova Scotia.
 

Documents required for visa application

A detailed study in Canada for Indian students application package needs:

• Valid passport
• Original letter of acceptance from your DLI
• Proof of financial support (bank statements, GICs)
• Immigration Medical Examination results if applicable
• Statement of Purpose explaining your educational goals
• Passport-sized photographs meeting specified standards
• Language proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL)
• Provincial attestation letter for undergraduate programs

You'll receive either an electronic travel authorization (eTA) or visitor visa based on your citizenship. Border services officers will issue your study permit after they review your letter of introduction when you arrive in Canada.
 

Work and Placement Opportunities in Canada

Canada not only provides excellent education but also gives you great work opportunities that improve your student experience and future career. Students who study in Canada can work part-time during their studies and have many options after graduation.
 

Part-time work options while studying

Starting November 8, 2024, Canada international students can work up to 24 hours per week during school terms. This is more than the old limit of 20 hours. You can work as much as you want during summer and winter breaks, which helps you manage your finances throughout your student trip.

You need to be a full-time student at a Designated Learning Institution in a post-secondary program that runs for at least six months to work off-campus. You can still work even with a part-time course load in your final semester if that's all you need to graduate.

Students studying in Canada often work in these roles:

• On-campus jobs (research assistants, library employees, campus bookstore staff)
• Off-campus jobs (baristas, sales associates, tutors, translators)
   

Work permit after study in Canada

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is the life-blood of opportunities for Canada international students. This open work permit after study in Canada lets you work for any employer and build valuable Canadian experience.

Your program length determines your PGWP duration:

• 8 months to under 2 years: PGWP matches program length
• 2+ years: 3-year PGWP
• Master's programs (8+ months): 3-year PGWP

The PGWP opens doors to permanent residency. Graduates can apply through Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs using their Canadian work experience.
 

Job sectors and average salaries

Canada's job market looks promising in several sectors. Healthcare, food services, retail, manufacturing, and construction have the most job openings.

Annual salaries differ by industry:

• Mining and oil extraction: CAD 113,506 (₹69.23 Lakhs)
• Utilities: CAD 101,531 (₹61.93 Lakhs)
• Finance and insurance: CAD 76,843 (₹46.87 Lakhs)
• Technology: CAD 80,000-110,000 for Software Developers

Your location affects your pay. Toronto's average salary reaches CAD 70,000 (₹43.23 Lakhs) while Montreal offers CAD 60,000 (₹37.06 Lakhs).
 

Conclusion

Studying in Canada gives students exceptional opportunities that go way beyond the reach and influence of classroom education. Canada stands out as a premier destination with its world-class universities, diverse course offerings, and welcoming multicultural environment. Quality education combined with reasonable tuition costs compared to other English-speaking countries makes Canada an excellent choice for academic goals.

Students can manage their finances through many scholarships to study in Canada, part-time work options, and clear budget planning approaches. Work allowance of 24 hours weekly during academic terms helps Canada international students balance their living expenses while they gain valuable experience.

Post-Graduation Work Permit lets graduates work anywhere in Canada for up to three years. This benefit substantially outweighs what other popular study destinations offer. Many graduates use this pathway as a stepping stone toward permanent residency through Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs.

The Canada Student Visa process follows a clear structure when students prepare their documents and show genuine intent. Students should plan their application 6-12 months before their intended start date. This timeline will give them enough time to meet all requirements.

Without doubt, study in Canada for Indian students and international applicants offers the perfect mix of academic excellence, cultural immersion, and career growth opportunities. Research institutions that match your career goals and start your application process to begin your Canadian education journey today.

How can Y-Axis help you study in Canada?

Y-Axis can assist by giving more vital support to aspirants who wish to study in Canada. The support process includes,  

• Free Counseling: Professional counseling for your selection of appropriate course and university.
• Campus Ready Program: Navigate to study in Canada with the best and ideal course. 
• Course Recommendation: Y-Path gives unbiased advice on choosing the right path for successful career growth. 
• Coaching: We assist you with IELTS live classes to improve your score. 
• Canada Student Visa: Our expert team helps you in all steps to get a Canada student visa. 

Read More: 

• Can I study in Canada for free?
• What are the top 10 courses to study in Canada?
• Can I study in Canada with six bands of IELTS?