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Studying in Canada Cost Breakdown for Indian Students

Canada has become one of the most sought-after destinations for students aspiring to pursue higher education. When compared to countries like the UK and the USA, studying in Canada offers an affordable and enriching experience. The country boasts stunning natural landscapes, vibrant urban environments, and close-knit campus communities, making it an ideal place for students' personal and academic growth. Renowned institutions like the University of Toronto, the University of Alberta, and the University of Winnipeg offer Indian students a diverse range of academic opportunities.

Let’s look at the expenses associated with studying in Canada, specifically focusing on the costs for Indian students. We'll break down the major expenses, including tuition fees and the cost of living.

 

Average Cost of Studying in Canada for Indian Students

The cost of studying in Canada for Indian students primarily hinges on tuition fees imposed by universities. These costs can vary based on factors such as the program, the institution's reputation, location, and more. In top Canadian universities, the average tuition fees for Indian students can amount to approximately CAD 35,000 (INR 18,84,000).

 

Tuition Fees Breakdown by Course

  • Application fees: These range from $50 (INR 3,707) to $200 (INR 14,831).

Undergraduate Courses:

  • Engineering & Medicine: CAD 22,000 (INR 11,69,000)
  • Humanities, Business & Management: CAD 5,500 (INR 2,96,000) to CAD 6,500 (INR 3,50,000)
  • Law: CAD 14,000 (INR 8,45,597.39)
  • Visual and Performing Arts: CAD 5,000 (INR 3,01,828) to CAD 5,000 (INR 3,01,828.55)

Postgraduate Courses:

  • MBA: CAD 28,000 (INR 14,75,000)
  • Executive MBA: CAD 29,000 (INR 17,51,351)
  • Law: CAD 10,000 to 55,000 (INR 5,50,000-INR 30,00,000)
  • Engineering: 19,301 CAD (INR 11,57,152)
  • Dentistry: 22,472 CAD (INR 13,47,276)
  • Nursing: 47,800 CAD (INR 28,65,568)

 

Undergraduate Courses in Canada span various disciplines, with an average annual cost of around CAD 30,000 (INR 16,15,000). Tuition fees for these programs can range from CAD 12,000 (INR 6,46,000) to CAD 30,000 (INR 16,15,000), depending on the specific course and institution. Engineering and Medicine programs tend to be more expensive, with an average tuition fee of CAD 22,000 (INR 11,69,000), while Humanities, Business, and Management courses are relatively more affordable, with costs ranging from CAD 5,500 (INR 2,96,000) to CAD 6,500 (INR 3,50,000).

While the costs may vary, the high-quality education and vibrant campus life make Canada an attractive choice for Indian students looking for a comprehensive educational experience.

 

For students considering Postgraduate Courses, the average annual tuition fee is around CAD 18,000 (INR 9,54,000). MBA programs, renowned for their quality, may come with a higher price tag. Executive MBA courses can cost approximately CAD 57,000 (INR 30,31,000) per year, while regular MBA programs have a more moderate tuition fee of about CAD 28,000 (INR 14,75,000). Despite the costs, pursuing a postgraduate degree in Canada offers tremendous value, providing advanced knowledge, practical skills, and exposure to diverse perspectives.

 

University & College Application Fees Apart from tuition fees, Indian students interested in studying in Canada need to budget for application fees when applying to colleges and universities. While Canada is known for providing affordable education, it's important to note that most institutions charge application fees ranging from CAD 50 to CAD 250. Only around 5% of Canadian universities and colleges waive the application fee requirement, so prospective students should allocate a portion of their budget to cover these expenses, especially if they intend to apply to multiple institutions.

 

Other Expenses to Study in Canada

Here's a breakdown of various expenses that Indian students should consider when calculating the cost of living and studying in Canada per month and annually:

  • Flight Expense: INR 1,00,000 - 2,00,000 per flight
  • Study Permit Fees: $150 (INR 11,123)
  • Work Permit Fees: $155 (INR 11,493)
  • IELTS Test Fees: INR 14,700
  • Accommodation: CAD 5,000 - CAD 10,000 (INR 2,67,000 - INR 5,39,000) per annum
  • Travel Costs: CAD 80 - CAD 110 (INR 4,300 - INR 6,000) per month
  • Health Insurance: CAD 300 - CAD 800 (INR 17,000 - INR 44,000)
  • Food: CAD 300 - CAD 400 (INR 17,508 - INR 23,344) per month
  • Entertainment: CAD 750 (INR 43,770) per month

 

Flight Cost from India to Canada Flight tickets make up a substantial part of the expenses for international students planning to study in Canada. Several major airlines, including Air India, IndiGo, Vistara, SpiceJet, and GoAir, offer flights connecting India to Canada. The cost of direct flights from India to Canada typically falls within the range of INR 1,000,000 to INR 2,000,000, with variations depending on the season. Keep in mind that flight rates may be higher during peak periods, especially between August and September.

 

Accommodation Cost In addition to tuition fees, accommodation expenses are a significant factor in the cost of living for Indian students in Canada. Many universities offer on-campus residences, but students also have the option to live off-campus. The cost of accommodation can vary depending on the type of room or apartment, ranging from approximately CAD 5,000 (INR 2,67,000) to CAD 10,000 (INR 5,39,000) per year. Major cities like Toronto and Montreal may have higher accommodation costs compared to other cities in the country.

 

Travel Cost Canada boasts an extensive cross-continent transportation network, with roads stretching to the far ends of the United States. However, it's important to note that travel expenses in Canada, whether for short or long distances, can be relatively high. As a result, many students prefer utilizing public transportation options such as subways, trains, and buses. On average, the monthly cost for these modes of transportation may range from approximately CAD 80 (INR 4,300) to CAD 110 (INR 6,000).

 

Health and Insurance Cost Medical insurance is a crucial component of the overall cost estimates for studying in Canada, as it is mandatory for students to be insured before starting their programs. The total cost of insurance can vary depending on the type of policy chosen, ranging from approximately CAD 300 (INR 17,000) to CAD 800 (INR 44,000) per year.

 

GPRS for International Students 

Apart from tuition fees, accommodation, and travel expenses, Indian students planning to study in Canada should also consider communication costs. GPRS offers a tailored solution by providing Canada SIM cards specifically designed for Indian students. GPRS's pricing plan offers 25 GB of high-speed LTE data for $40, along with no-contract flexibility, unlimited Canada-wide calls, unlimited local and international text messaging (SMS), no set-up fees, and convenient features like Caller ID and Voicemail. With GPRS, international students can stay connected, access essential information, and enjoy seamless communication throughout their academic journey in Canada.

 

Student Visa and Application Cost 

Students interested in studying in Canada will need to obtain a Canadian study permit, which is necessary for courses lasting longer than 6 months. Even for courses under 6 months, students are advised to apply for the study permit in case they plan to extend their stay. The Canadian student visa fees in Indian rupees are 8,542 (CAD 150), but the application fees may vary based on nationality and the chosen university. In addition to the letter of admission and other required documents, students must provide proof of funds, with a minimum bank balance of INR 6,00,000 or more for one year, to be eligible for a Canadian student visa.

 

Taxes in Canada 

As an international student studying in Canada, you are obligated to file Canadian income tax returns based on your residency status. Even though you may not be a Canadian citizen, filing taxes can be advantageous in terms of accessing benefits such as GST credits, the Child Tax Benefit, or claiming a tax refund. If you receive income from teaching, research assistantships, employment in Canada, or investments, you are required to file an income tax report. Additionally, students who earn income from outside of Canada must also report it. Complying with tax regulations ensures you remain in good standing and can avail of potential benefits available to you as an international student in Canada.

 

Scholarships for Studying in Canada 

2023 Scholarships play a crucial role in facilitating Indian students' pursuit of education in Canadian universities in 2023. These funding opportunities and waivers alleviate the financial burden of studying abroad, making the dream of studying in Canada more accessible. Scholarships are often awarded based on merit, academic achievements, or exceptional skills. It is essential for students to carefully review the eligibility criteria for each scholarship and apply accordingly. 

 

Here is a list of scholarships available in Canada for Indian students, presenting a pathway towards academic excellence and enriching experiences in the vibrant Canadian educational landscape:

  • Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
  • Ontario Graduate Scholarship
  • Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Program
  • President's Scholarship for World Leaders
  • International Leader of Tomorrow Award
  • University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship (UMGF)
  • The Seneca Renewable Entrance Scholarship of Merit for International Students
  • Assist-on Scholarship
  • Trudeau Foundation Scholarships

 

Cost of Studying and Living in Canada: City-Wise

Here is the average cost of living in Canada for Indian students in various cities:

  • Toronto: 37,000 CAD yearly (INR 22,18,460)
  • Vancouver: 38,484 CAD yearly (INR 23,08,210)
  • Montreal: 25,000 CAD yearly (INR 14,99,845)
  • Ottawa: 20,000 CAD yearly (INR 11,99,301)
  • Calgary: 26,904 CAD yearly (INR 16,13,865)

 

Cheapest Universities in Canada

For Indian students looking to manage the cost of studying in Canada, here are some of the cheapest universities in the country:

  • University of Montreal
  • McGill University
  • McMaster University
  • University of British Columbia
  • University of Brandon
  • Université de Saint-Boniface
  • University of Guelph
  • Memorial University of Newfoundland
  • Simon Fraser University

 

In conclusion, studying in Canada offers numerous opportunities for Indian students. The country's reputation for providing quality education, diverse campuses, and a welcoming environment make it a top choice for higher education. However, the decision to pursue studies in Canada involves careful financial planning. Understanding the various costs, such as tuition fees, accommodation, travel, health insurance, and visa application expenses, is crucial for preparing a comprehensive budget. 

 

Additionally, exploring scholarships and funding options can significantly ease the financial burden and open doors to a rewarding academic journey. As prospective students embark on this exciting adventure, adequate preparation, research, and the utilization of available resources will pave the way for a fulfilling and successful experience studying in Canada.