June 7, 2023

An Expenses Guide for the Cost of Studying and Living in Canada for International Students

The cost of studying in Canada can be a source of discomfort for a lot of students who want to pursue their education at Foreign Universities and colleges. Canada houses a significant population of international students.

 It is one of the most popular student destinations because of three things. The advanced education system, the high ranking of universities and colleges and affordable tuition fees.

What is the cost of studying in Canada as an International Student?

The cost of studying in Canada varies and is based on several factors such as the university, the province and whether a student resides off-campus or on-campus. Apart from that students should also consider transportation, food, utilities and taxes and insurance while calculating their cost of study.

  • Cost of Study for Undergraduates: – When it comes to studying in Canada the most preferred choice of degree is the undergraduate degree.

Canadian colleges and universities offer students co-op bachelor options which allow students to study for 4 months in an institute and spend the rest of their stay working for an organization.

The fee structure for Popular courses such as computer science, natural sciences and engineering technology starts from $1300 and goes up to $56,000. Whereas for business courses it ranges from 500$ to 55,000$.

  • Cost of Study for Postgraduates: – Canada is equally famous for its postgraduate courses. Students from all around the world travel to Canada to pursue their careers at some of the best universities.

The fee structure for courses such as computer science and IT, Medicine as well as health, Business, social sciences and engineering range from 2100$ to 58,000$

  • Cost of pursuing higher education from a public university: – The best part about the education system of Canada is the uniformity of the quality of education in both its public colleges as well as private colleges.

There aren’t that many differences between the services provided by private colleges and public colleges. The major differences can be seen in the tuition fees.

Where private universities can often be an expensive option, public universities are affordable. Thus, pursuing higher education in Canada for Indian students can be slightly easier.

The fee structure of public universities can range from $3000 to $66,000. A minimum IELTS score of 6 is required to be eligible for these universities.

  • Cost of pursuing higher education from a private university: – Private universities are an excellent option for applicants with an IELTS score of 5.5 or above. They also allow students to pay off their fees portion-wise.

There aren’t that many private universities in Canada. Private Universities in Canada do not accept monetary aid of any kind from the Canadian federal government or other sectors of the government.

Charges might be slightly higher and can range from $550 (per semester hour or credit) to $6000 for undergraduates and  $540( per semester or hour course) to $51000 for postgraduates.

What is the average cost of living in Canada?

  • For Accommodation: – International students can choose from a variety of accommodations based on their financial condition and preferences. Students can choose to stay at student residences which can cost around $3600 to $8400 per year, at on-campus accommodations which can cost around $7200 to $9600 per year, and at one-room apartments which can cost over $1200 per month. 
  • For Utilities: – Students that prefer to live in one-room apartments and share apartments have to pay for basic utilities such as electricity, heating, water, garbage, internet and phone bills. These can cost around $250 to $300.
  • For Food: – Canada offers a variety of options when it comes to affordable food options. Students can choose to shop from local markets or supermarkets that are easily available in all cities and towns.

The average monthly expenditure for food can be around $350 to $450. Students can also choose to eat from restaurants where the average cost of a meal ranges from $20 -$35 per meal.

  • For Transportation: – Public transportation is commonly used by students as well as by working professionals.  International students and Canadian citizens alike belonging to the age group of 18 to 25 years of age can make use of student discounts to use public transportation.

International students can purchase a monthly pass which can cost around $85 to $ 120 per month. A one-way ticket usually costs around $3.50 to $4.50. Taxi fares can range from $ 2 to $6 per mile.

  • For Insurance: – To study in Canada all international students have to pay for health insurance. Health insurance can be a very beneficial aid during difficult times. The average annual premium for health insurance can range from $550 to $900.The cost can vary according to location as well as insurance providers.

What are some tips that can help international students cut back on their expenses?

  • Students who are under a tight budget can choose affordable solutions such as public universities to complete their education.
  • Airfares and health insurance can be significantly cheaper online and help students decrease expenses.
  • Students should make sure that the fees mentioned in their offer letter are fixed. Additionally, Students can choose to pay their tuition fees in advance if their college or university is offering a discount
  • International students can choose to share accommodations with fellow students from their home country or from their university to save up costs on accommodations, utilities and bills.
  • Canada offers discounts on public transportation and therefore students can live in areas where they can make use of this facility to save up costs.
  • Choosing to cook and eat at home can be an excellent way for students to decrease their expenses.
  • Students can make use of sales as well as discount coupons to shop at supermarkets. Splitting bulk buys can also be a great way to save up expenses while buying necessary items.

If you are planning to complete your higher education in Canada and require more information, make sure to contact a certified educational consultancy.

FAQ
  • How much does it cost to study in Canada for international students?

On average, the tuition fees may cost up to $36,100 per year for undergraduate students. And it is $21,100 per year for graduate students.

  • Can an international student work in Canada while studying?

Yes, international students are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week.

  • How much can an international student earn in Canada per month?

An international student can earn an average salary of $62,290 per year or $31.94 per hour. 

  • Which is the cheapest city to study in Canada for international students?

Cities like Quebec, Ontario, Alberta, New Brunswick, and British Columbia offer cheaper means of expenses while studying in Canada.

  • What are the living expenses in Canada for international students per year?

The total expenses for an international student on average can go up to $37,247 depending on the tuition fees, rent, health insurance, textbooks, transportation, groceries, etc.