Student visa requirements for Canada

To study in Canada students require a study permit. While a student visa authorises your entry into Canada, a study permit validates your stay in Canada. It is a mandatory immigration document for an international student. 

If you hold a study permit, you must remain enrolled and make reasonable and timely progress toward completing your course.

Your study permit is always accompanied by a visitor visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Please note that a study permit is a document that allows you to study in Canada while a visitor visa or ETA allows you to enter Canada. Your expert will help you access the latest information and connect you with authorised migration experts.

Read more about Canada Student Visa.

Cost to study in Canada

Your expenditure on tuition fees depends on the type of qualification and institution you opt for. To cover this, you will need approximately between CAD 13,000 – CAD 35,000 a year. 

Most commonly, courses in humanities, education, and arts are a little cheaper, while subjects such as medicine and engineering are likely to be more expensive. If you wish to study at a postgraduate level, the tuition fee is typically higher, and the costs vary depending on the program. As with most other countries, MBA programs are often the most expensive. The average cost for these programs ranges between CAD 30,000-42,000. 

*Please note all fee figures are indicative

You can apply to various Canadian scholarships as well to bring down your educational expenses.

Read more about Cost of studying in Canada.

Scholarships to study in Canada

Here are some popular government-funded scholarships available for Indian students to study in Canada:

Learn more about Canada scholarships for Indian students

Intakes in Canada

Unlike a single intake in Indian universities, Canadian colleges and universities offer three intakes. In some universities, intakes may also be referred to as a semester. The three intakes available in Canada are:

• Fall: A popular intake among Indian students, The Fall intake starts in the month of September

• Winter: Starts in January; it’s best if you miss the September intake

• Summer: Available for limited programs and colleges, the Summer intake usually starts around April and May  

Know more about Intakes to study in Canada

Top courses to study in Canada

Here are the popular courses that you can choose for studying in Canada: 

• Computer science

• Business

• Engineering

• Health sciences

• Physiotherapy

• Information technology

• Animation and gaming 

• Hospitality

Explore top courses in Canada 

Top universities to study in Canada

When deciding which university to study at, it is crucial that you also look at the world university rankings. 

Check where these Canadian universities rank on the Times Higher Education charts.

Job prospects in Canada

Canada, over the past few years, has seen an abundance of international students from around the world and has provided various work opportunities to both, students and working professionals. As per Forbes and US News released rankings, Canada is considered as the best country amongst G20 countries for establishing business operations. Moreover, it’s also predicted by The Economist Intelligence Unit, that the country will be ranked as the 3rd best country amongst G7 for doing business over the 5 years i.e., 2018 to 2022, which only implies that ample job opportunities await an international student during and after completion of their studies in the time to come.     

Cost of living in Canada

Indeed, there exists a substantial difference between living in Canada and your home country. It is important to explore the Canadian lifestyle and cost of living of the place where you plan to stay. Quebec makes one of the most affordable Canadian cities with the cost of living far less compared to other cities. 

Also, while applying for your student permit, you have to prove to the Canadian government that you have enough money to meet the financial expenses. So, keep that in mind! 

When planning your budget, do include the following expenses:

• Communication costs: Always set aside money in your budget for phone and data bills as you’d be calling your friends and family back home frequently. Look for low-cost calling plans as well as student discounts. The average monthly cost will be around CAD 20.

• Textbooks and supplies: Buying textbooks can be costly. Books for engineering courses, for example, might cost anywhere between CAD 250 and CAD 350. The value of courses like law, medicine, and pharmacy can be even higher. You may keep this within your budget by buying used books, purchasing digital versions, or even enrolling in a library membership.

• Personal expenses and incidentals: Laundry, toiletries, clothing, dining out, and so on will be part of your everyday spending. This is largely dependent on the type of lifestyle you select.

FAQs related to Canadian education

We know you have a lot of questions in your mind, so we have answered common questions students as you raise about studying and living in Canada. 

What are the academic exams required to study in Canada?

Here’s a list of other tests you may have to take in order to seek admission in a Canadian institution: 

• Graduate Management Aptitude Test (GMAT)
• Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) 
• Law School Admission Test (LSAT)
• Scholastic Assessment Test (SAT)
• Medical College Admission Test (MCAT)

Are Canada qualifications recognised worldwide?

Yes, degrees from Canadian institutions are accepted worldwide and known for their quality of education.

Can students work during studies in Canada?

Indian students are allowed to work for 20 hours per week during an ongoing session and full-time during vacations. You can also get up to three years of extension post completion of your studies depending on your program duration.