Canada is a top choice for international students, thanks to its renowned universities in Canada, vibrant student life, and high-quality living standards. In 2024, tuition fees for international students vary widely, reflecting the range of opportunities available. You can find both high-end and affordable universities, making Canada a flexible option for many.
Choosing the right designated learning institute (DLI) requires considering many factors, especially tuition costs. Statistics Canada reports that full-time international undergraduate students pay an average annual tuition fee of $40,115 in 2024.
How much does it cost to study in Canada?
The tuition fee you pay depends on the type of qualification and the university or school you choose. To cover this expense, you should budget between CAD 13,000 and 40,000 per year.
| Study program | Average annual fee in CAD |
| Undergraduate program | $13,000 to $20,000 |
| Postgraduate master’s degree | $17,000 to $25,000 |
| Doctoral degree | $7,000 to $15,000 |
| MBA | $30,000 to $40,000 |
Most commonly, courses in humanities, education and arts are a little cheaper, while subjects such as medicine and engineering are likely to be more expensive. Check out below the cost of some of these subjects at the undergraduate level:
| Subject | Average cost in CAD |
| Business & Management | $29,000 |
| Engineering | $34,000 |
| Medicine | $33,000 |
| Pharmacy | $41,000 |
| Dentistry | $57,000 |
| Veterinary Medicine | $63,000 |
*Please note that all figures are indicative
If you want to bring down your educational expenses, it is best to apply to various scholarships in Canada.
What’s the cheapest university in Canada for international students?
If you’re wondering about this, the answer varies based on several factors, including your field of study, type of program or qualification, and the university you choose. However, some universities do offer more affordable tuition fees compared to others.
These are the top 5 most affordable Canadian universities for international students:
| University | Average Annual Fees in CAD |
| University of Prince Edward Island | $10,000 |
| Cape Breton University | $18,000 |
| University of Canada West | $21,000 |
| University of the Fraser Valley | $21,000 |
| University of Northern British Columbia | $22,000 |
Accommodation costs in Canada
Most universities in Canada provide on-campus accommodation, known as the Halls of Residence, for international students. Living on-campus is often a budget-friendly option, but it’s important to apply early to secure a spot. The average cost typically ranges between CAD 8,000 and CAD 10,000 per year.
There are also other popular accommodation options in Canada for international students:
| Accommodation type | Average cost per month in CAD |
| Hostels | $300 – $600 ($10 – $20 per night) |
| Private apartment | $400-$1500 |
| Shared rental | $250 – $700 |
| Homestay | $400 – $800 |
All prices are indicative only. You can explore more about the accommodation options available to you in Canada here.
What’s the cost of living in Canada?
You need to keep a little money aside for your grocery shopping, social activities and emergency situations. You should also consider these common expenses when creating your budget:
| Expenses | Average cost per month in CAD |
| Internet/phone | $50- $76 |
| Food and groceries | $1200- $1500 |
| Electricity/gas | $200 |
| Transport | $100 – $150 |
.Check out the complete guides of these top Canadian cities: Ottawa, Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver.
Remember! When living in a foreign country as a student, it is better to keep a track of your expenditures so that you don’t overspend.
Here are some tips to help you save your money when living abroad!
What’s the cost of health insurance?
All students traveling to Canada must have medical insurance before their program starts. The cost for international student health insurance generally ranges from $600 to $900 per year. If you’re studying in British Columbia, Quebec, Alberta, Newfoundland, Manitoba, Labrador, or Saskatchewan, you’ll be covered under the provincial health plans based on how long you stay.
Can I work in Canada while studying?
Yes. In fact, this is a good way to earn some money for your expenses and get valuable work experience while studying in Canada. As an international student in Canada with a study permit of full-time enrolment in a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), you can work for a total of 20 hours per week during academic year, and full-time during the summer break. You can work for any employer in any occupation anywhere in Canada.
Kick start your journey to Canada! Book your free counselling session now with Lebizcanada to turn your study ambition into action!
For more details about health and support services in Canada, click here to read more.