Study in Canada — cost, visa & intakes
Canada combines affordable, high-quality education with the clearest post-study immigration pathway of any major destination — the Post-Graduation Work Permit followed by Express Entry.
Cost of studying in Canada
| Expense | Indicative cost |
|---|---|
| Tuition — universities | ₹12–25 lakh / year |
| Tuition — public colleges | ₹8–14 lakh / year |
| Living expenses | ₹7–11 lakh / year |
| GIC (proof of funds)Refunded to you monthly after arrival | CAD 20,635 |
| Study permit fee | CAD 150 + biometrics |
Indicative ranges for Indian students. Actual costs vary by university, city and exchange rate.
Visa process overview
- 01
Accept your Letter of Acceptance
From a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and pay the tuition deposit.
- 02
Get the Provincial Attestation Letter
Most applicants now need a PAL/TAL from the province.
- 03
Buy a GIC and pay first-year tuition
The standard proof-of-funds route.
- 04
Medical examination
Complete with an IRCC panel physician.
- 05
Submit the study permit application
Upload documents and a strong statement of purpose online.
- 06
Biometrics and decision
Give biometrics at VFS; a port-of-entry letter follows approval.
Work rights: Up to 24 hrs/week off-campus during term, unlimited in scheduled breaks, plus PGWP up to 3 years. Detailed visa guidance →
Popular courses among Indian students in Canada
Computer Science & IT
Waterloo, Toronto and UBC lead; strong co-op culture.
Business & Supply Chain
College PG diplomas are cost-effective and PGWP-eligible.
Healthcare & Nursing
High demand and provincial nomination advantages.
Engineering
Mechanical, civil and electrical with strong employer links.
Hospitality & Tourism
Practical, placement-heavy programmes.
Intake months
September
Fall intake
Largest intake, most scholarships. Apply Dec–Mar.
January
Winter intake
Strong second intake. Apply Jun–Sep.
May
Summer intake
Limited programmes, mainly at colleges.
Scholarships for studying in Canada
Canadian scholarships are mostly entrance awards applied automatically at admission, plus a small number of large named awards you must apply for separately.
- Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (Toronto)
- UBC International Leader of Tomorrow Award
- McGill Entrance Scholarships
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (doctoral)
- Provincial and departmental entrance awards
Let's map your scholarships
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