Cost of Studying in Canada

Canada is one of the world’s most popular destinations for international students, offering a diverse variety of experiences and opportunities in a country known for its vast expanses, multicultural cities, and natural beauty. If you want to study in Canada, the good news is that tuition fees are generally less expensive than in other major Anglophone destinations (the US, UK, and Australia), although they are still quite high in comparison to other countries.

Tuition fees for international students vary across provinces and programs. Universities in Canada set their own fees, and these vary depending on several factors: what program you’re studying, whether you are an international or home student, and whether you’re studying at undergraduate or postgraduate level. Tuition fees are currently most expensive in the province of Ontario, according to a recent report from Stats Canada.

 Undergraduate tuition fees in Canada

Average tuition fees in Canada for international undergraduate students start at about CA$14,000 (BDT 882000) per year. Arts and humanities courses tend to be cheaper, while subjects such as engineering and medicine are among the more expensive.

 Postgraduate tuition fees in Canada

If you want to study at a postgraduate level, the tuition fees are generally higher, and again vary depending on your program. As is the case worldwide, executive MBA programs are generally the most expensive, averaging around CA$42,000 (BDT 26,46,000).

Depending on whether you are on campus or off-campus, whether you are in a bigger city or a smaller one, whether you are a 5 minute walk from campus, or a 20 minute walk, and of course on the quality of the place and, finally, on how careful you are to make most of your meals at home. Rent for an apartment in Canada can range from approximately $400 to $1,500 or BDT  32800 – 123000 per month depending on the city or neighborhood and the type of accommodation.

Depending on where you live, you may be able to walk or bike to campus. Many students, particularly those in larger cities, choose public transportation: buses, subways, commuter trains, or ferries. One-way public transit fares typically cost a few dollars, and monthly passes around $90 or BDT 7400 per month, although many transit providers offer student discounts.

All international students in Canada must have health insurance. Medical coverage available to international students varies from province to province. The provinces of Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Saskatchewan cover international students under their provincial health care plans, but coverage generally depends on the length of your stay.

However, international students planning to study in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island or Quebec must arrange for private health insurance.

You can find out more details about health coverage through the university websites and those of the provin­cial ministries of health.

Don’t forget about laundry or movies, or cell phone or other costs you may have. This cost will vary depending on your lifestyle and budget. Don’t forget! If you are an excellent student you may qualify for scholarships and there are many ways to earn money while in Canada.