How Much Does It Cost to Study in Canada? A Clear Breakdown for International Students

 Hello there! If you're reading this, you're probably dreaming of studying in Canada—one of the most welcoming and multicultural countries in the world. As a study abroad consultant at Superb Study Abroad, I work with students every day who are planning their educational journey to Canada. One of the most common (and important) questions I get is:

"How much will it cost to study in Canada as an international student?"

Let’s walk through the key expenses so you know exactly what to expect and how to plan for it.

📚 1. Tuition Fees (The Big One)

Tuition varies widely depending on your program, level of study, and the university or college you choose.

Average Annual Tuition (in CAD):

• Undergraduate programs: $15,000 – $35,000

• Postgraduate/Master’s programs: $13,000 – $40,000

• MBA programs: $30,000 – $60,000 (sometimes more depending on the school)

➡️ Pro tip: Public universities are generally more affordable than private ones, and programs in humanities or education usually cost less than engineering, medicine, or business.

🏠 2. Living Expenses (Monthly & Annual)

Your cost of living will depend on where in Canada you live. Toronto and Vancouver are more expensive, while cities like Halifax, Winnipeg, or Saskatoon can be significantly more budget-friendly.

Average Monthly Living Cost:

• Housing (shared): $500 – $1,200

• Food & groceries: $300 – $600

• Transportation: $80 – $150

• Internet & phone: $50 – $100

• Miscellaneous: $100 – $200

➡️ Estimated Total (per year): $10,000 – $18,000 CAD

💼 3. Health Insurance

Health insurance is mandatory for international students in Canada.

• Annual health insurance cost: $600 – $1,000

Some provinces like British Columbia and Alberta offer public healthcare coverage to international students, while others require private plans. Always check what applies in your province.

✈️ 4. Flight Tickets & Travel

Airfare depends on where you're flying from, but on average:

• One-way ticket from Asia or Europe: $800 – $1,500

➡️ Tip: Book your flights well in advance and watch for student discounts.

📑 5. Visa & Application Costs

• Study Permit (visa): $150

• Biometrics fee: $85

• University application fees: $100 – $250 per school

Some schools waive application fees during promotions, so keep an eye out for those with your consultant (that’s where we can help!).

 6. Total Estimated Annual Cost

Category	Estimated Cost (CAD)
Tuition	$15,000 – $35,000
Living Expenses	$10,000 – $18,000
Health Insurance	$600 – $1,000
Travel (1x/year)	$800 – $1,500
Visa & Admin Fees	$300 – $600
Total	$26,700 – $56,100

🧠 Final Thoughts from Superb Study Abroad

Studying in Canada isn’t exactly cheap, but it’s also one of the most valuable investments you can make in your future. The quality of education, safety, post-graduation work opportunities, and immigration pathways make it worth every dollar—especially if you plan smartly.

And remember: you don’t have to navigate this alone. At Superb Study Abroad, we guide students like you through every step—from choosing the right course to securing scholarships and budgeting wisely.