Canada remains one of the top destinations for Indian students, thanks to its world-class universities, post-study work opportunities, and multicultural environment. However, before planning to study in Canada, it is vital to understand the total cost of studying in Canada in Indian rupees, covering tuition, living expenses, health insurance, and other associated costs.
This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of the cost of university in Canada, including various degrees like MBBS, MBA, engineering, law, and nursing, with current estimations converted to INR for Indian students.
How Much Does It Cost to Study in Canada?
If you're wondering, “how much does it cost to study in Canada?”, the short answer is: it varies by course, university, and location. On average, the cost of studying in Canada for Indian students ranges between INR 15–35 lakhs per year, depending on the program and lifestyle.
Is it Expensive to Study in Canada?
Canada offers relatively affordable education compared to the US, UK, and Australia. With several scholarships and work opportunities available, it may not be as expensive as perceived.
Cost of University in Canada: Tuition Fees Explained
Cost of Bachelor Degree in Canada
The cost of bachelor degree in Canada ranges from CAD 13,000 to CAD 25,000 per year.
In Indian rupees, this equals approximately INR 8–15 lakhs per year. Popular bachelor's courses like commerce, science, and arts fall under this range.
Cost of Engineering Degree in Canada
The cost of engineering degree in Canada is slightly higher, between CAD 20,000 to CAD 35,000 annually, due to lab and technology fees. That’s roughly INR 12–21 lakhs per year for Indian students.
Top institutions like the University of Toronto and UBC have higher fees but also provide access to cutting-edge infrastructure and co-op programs.
Cost of Law Degree in Canada
Pursuing law in Canada costs approximately CAD 17,000 to CAD 40,000 per year, depending on the university.
For Indian students, the cost of law degree in Canada in INR would be INR 10–24 lakhs per year. Law programs like LLB and JD (Juris Doctor) usually span 3 years.
Cost of Nursing Degree in Canada
The cost of nursing degree in Canada is generally affordable, ranging from CAD 12,000 to CAD 22,000 per year.
That translates to INR 7–13 lakhs per year, with several government-funded colleges offering quality education.
Postgraduate Education in Canada: Master’s, MBA, and MBBS
Cost of Studying Masters in Canada
The cost of studying masters in Canada ranges from CAD 15,000 to CAD 30,000 per year, which is INR 9–18 lakhs annually.
STEM fields like computer science or data analytics tend to cost more due to their demand.
Cost of Studying MBA in Canada
The cost of studying MBA in Canada is among the highest, between CAD 30,000 and CAD 55,000 per year, depending on the B-school. This equals INR 18–33 lakhs per year.
Top B-schools like Rotman (University of Toronto), Schulich (York), and Ivey (Western) are popular choices for Indian students.
Cost of Studying MBBS in Canada for Indian Students
Canada does not offer direct MBBS degrees. Instead, students must complete a bachelor's degree followed by a Doctor of Medicine (MD) program.
The cost of studying MBBS in Canada for Indian students can range from CAD 50,000 to CAD 70,000 per year, i.e., around INR 30–42 lakhs per year. Including the pre-med course, the total cost of studying MBBS in Canada may exceed INR 1 crore.
Average Cost of Studying in Canada: Key Figures
|
Program |
Annual Tuition Fee (CAD) |
Approximate Cost (INR) |
|
Bachelor’s Degree |
13,000 – 25,000 |
₹8 – 15 lakhs |
|
Engineering |
20,000 – 35,000 |
₹12 – 21 lakhs |
|
Law |
17,000 – 40,000 |
₹10 – 24 lakhs |
|
Nursing |
12,000 – 22,000 |
₹7 – 13 lakhs |
|
Master’s Degree |
15,000 – 30,000 |
₹9 – 18 lakhs |
|
MBA |
30,000 – 55,000 |
₹18 – 33 lakhs |
|
MBBS (MD + Pre-med) |
50,000 – 70,000 |
₹30 – 42 lakhs per year |
Cost of Living in Canada for Indian Students
Indian students must also plan for living expenses, which include housing, food, transport, internet, and entertainment in addition to Tuition fee.
Monthly Living Costs:
-
Accommodation: CAD 400 – 800 (shared apartment)
-
Food & Groceries: CAD 200 – 300
-
Public Transport: CAD 100 – 150
-
Utilities & Internet: CAD 100
- Miscellaneous: CAD 100
Annual Living Cost: CAD 10,000 – 12,000
In Indian Rupees: INR 6 – 7.5 lakhs
Total Cost of Studying in Canada in Indian Rupees
So, what is the total cost of studying in Canada in Indian rupees?
Here’s a rough calculation:
Total Annual Cost = Tuition Fee + Living Expenses
|
Degree Type |
Total Cost/Year in INR |
|
Bachelor’s |
₹14 – 22 lakhs |
|
Engineering |
₹18 – 28 lakhs |
|
Master’s |
₹15 – 25 lakhs |
|
MBA |
₹25 – 40 lakhs |
|
MBBS |
₹35 – 50 lakhs |
Hence, the total cost of studying in Canada depends on both your program and lifestyle.
Cost of University in Canada per Year
If you're budgeting by year, the cost of university in Canada per year usually falls between CAD 15,000 to 30,000, which is INR 9–18 lakhs, excluding living costs.
Top-ranked universities like the University of British Columbia, McGill, and McMaster charge higher fees but offer excellent ROI and global exposure.
Cost of University Tuition in Canada: By Province
Tuition fees can vary based on the province. Here's a quick snapshot:
-
Ontario: Ontario is popular for Law and MBA programs and is one of the most expensive provices in Canada.
-
Quebec: While Ontario is most expensive, Quebec comes to be more affordable, especially for French-speaking students.
-
British Columbia: Expensive but home to top-ranked schools.
- Alberta & Manitoba: Relatively affordable; ideal for budget-conscious students.
Scholarships and Funding Options:
To reduce the cost of studying in Canada for Indian students, many universities and government bodies offer scholarships:
Popular Scholarships:
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
- University-specific entrance awards
- Indian government scholarships (e.g., National Overseas Scholarship)
Many students also work part-time (up to 20 hours/week) to offset expenses.
How Much Does a 4-Year Degree Cost in Canada?
If you're pursuing a bachelor's or engineering degree, you're likely looking at a 4-year commitment.
So, how much does a 4-year degree cost in Canada?
-
Tuition: CAD 60,000 – 100,000
- (INR 36 – 60 lakhs)
-
Living: CAD 40,000 – 48,000
- (INR 24 – 28 lakhs)
Total for 4 Years: INR 60 – 90 lakhs
This estimate can reduce significantly with scholarships and intelligent financial planning.
Final Thoughts
Studying in Canada is a dream for many, and understanding the complete breakdown of the cost of university in Canada helps Indian students make informed decisions. Whether you’re aiming for a bachelor’s degree, a postgraduate course, or a professional program like MBA or MBBS, the total cost of studying in Canada varies by institution, city, and lifestyle.
But with proper budgeting, scholarships, and part-time work, it is possible to manage these expenses effectively and make the most of your international education.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q. How much does it cost to study in Canada?
A. The cost to study in Canada typically ranges from CAD 15,000 to CAD 35,000 per year, depending on the program and institution you choose.
Q. Is it expensive to study in Canada?
A. Studying in Canada can be considered moderately expensive, especially when you factor in tuition fees, accommodation, food, and other living expenses.
Q. How much does a 4-year degree cost in Canada?
A. A four-year undergraduate degree in Canada may cost between CAD 60,000 and CAD 140,000 in total, depending on the field of study and the university.
Q. Is Canada costly for Indian students?
A. Yes, Canada can be costly for Indian students, particularly due to the high tuition fees, living costs, and exchange rate differences between the Indian Rupee and Canadian Dollar.
Q. Can I study for free in Canada?
A. While studying for free in Canada is not common, it is possible to receive full scholarships or grants from universities, the Canadian government, or private organizations that may cover tuition and living expenses.
