Tuition fees to study in Canada can be cheap or expensive depending on the options you choose. The cost of living is also relative, depending on various factors such as location, institution, and lifestyle choices of individuals.
Canada can be considered an education hub, especially for international students. The country has high education standards. Coupled with the high living standards, cultural diversity, and natural beauty, it is an attractive destination for immigrants, especially international students.
International students need to know the cost involved in studying in Canada to be able to make adequate preparations. Students may also seek scholarships and financial aid to ease the financial burden of studying abroad.
What is the Primary and secondary tuition fees in Canada?
International students studying in Canadian primary and secondary schools are required to pay tuition. The fees paid usually depend on the type of school.
The table below gives an overview of primary and secondary school tuition t fees in Canada for international students. All costs are listed in Canadian dollars. Check exchange rates using the Bank of Canada’s currency converter.
| Types of primary and secondary schools in Canada | School fees range for international students |
| Public Schools | $9,500 to $17,000 per year |
| Private or independent school day schools | $15,000 to $30,000 per year |
| Private or independent boarding schools | $63,000 to $83,000 per year |
Undergraduate and Postgraduate tuition fees to study in Canada
Tuition fees to study in Canada vary depending on many factors. These factors include the program of study and your choice of school. Some of the cheapest universities can be found in Newfoundland, while Ontario has some of the most expensive universities.
On average, domestic students at the undergraduate level may pay CA$ 6,463 per year. While at the graduate level, it may cost CA$7,056 per year.
The table below shows a broad average of tuition fees to study in Canada
| Course | Undergraduate | Postgraduate |
| Business Management | CAD 18,000
| CAD 19,000
|
| Medicine | CAD 32,400 | |
| Engineering | CAD 33,700 | CAD 19,300
|
| Dentistry | CAD 56,600 | CAD 22,400
|
| Nursing | CAD 21,900 | CAD 16,100
|
| Social Sciences | CAD 27,600 | CAD 15,000 |
| Humanities | CAD 28,600 | CAD 13,600 |
| Veterinary medicine | CAD 63,300
| CAD 10,000
|
Universities with Cheaper Tuition Fees in Canada.
| University | Average Annual Fees in CAD
|
| University of Prince Edward Island
| $10,000
|
| Cape Breton University
| $18,000
|
| The University of Canada West
| $21,000
|
| University of the Fraser Valley | $21,000
|
| University of Northern British Columbia
| $22,000
|
| Athabasca University | 1,625 – 17,250 |
| University of Regina | 1,715 – 20,050 |
| Memorial University of Newfoundland | 2,150 – 11,460 |
| University of Saskatchewan | 4,110 – 24,000 |
| Royal Roads University | 3,750 – 27,600 |
What are the Student Living costs in Canada
Aside from tuition, other expenses to study in Canada should be considered. This includes books, travel and living expenses, and accommodations. You may need up to 1,500 CAD/month if you choose provinces, such as Ottawa, Montreal, and Quebec, and about 2,000 CAD/month in provinces such as Vancouver and Calgary.
Campus accommodation is usually cheaper than off-campus accommodation. However, you will need to apply early for on-campus accommodation.
| Accommodation Type | Average cost per month in CAD
|
| Student residences | 250 – 625 CAD/month |
| University-arranged homestays: | 400 – 800 CAD/month |
| Rent & share an apartment | 300 – 700 CAD/month |
| Other Living Expenses | Average cost per month in CAD |
| Basic utilities (electricity, water, heating, garbage) | 150 CAD/month
|
| Internet | 50-70 CAD/month
|
| Food and groceries | 1200- 1500 CAD/month
|
| Transport
| 100 – 150 CAD/month
|
| Health insurance | 600 -900 CAD/month |
| Study permit | CAD 150 |
You can use online tools such as the education and living cost calculator for students at educanada.ca. Or The Council of Ministers of Education, Canada (CMEC) online tool
What are the Financial Aid available to Study in Canada.
There are financial aids available in Canada for international students to help you pay for your tuition fees to study in Canada. This includes scholarships, grants, and bursaries. There are also subject-specific scholarships and other specific scholarships for sporting and academic achievements. Scholarship funding is limited and highly competitive; as such, it is advisable to apply for them as early as possible.
There are also scholarship opportunities offered by organizations which you can research and apply for. One of such scholarships is the Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program. This organization offers scholarships to students from other Commonwealth countries.
Other financial assistance opportunities are available on the website of the Canadian Information Centre for International Credentials
More useful scholarship information to study in Canada can be found here.
Can I get Student Jobs in Canada
You can get a work permit while studying in Canada. This can help you settle some of your tuition fees and living expenses. With the work permit, you can work up to 20 hours per week off-campus.
You will need to be enrolled in a university and have a study permit to be able to work in Canada as a student.