Best Places to Study in Canada

If you're planning to study at your preferred university in Canada,it’s equally important to explore best student cities in Canada. According to the QS Best Student Cities Rankings 2024, the top cities in Canada are Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Ottawa, and Quebec. Take a quick look at some of Canada’s most popular and student-friendly cities.

• Toronto: Toronto, situated in the province of Ontario has Canada's most esteemed university, the University of Toronto. It's not only the largest city in Canada but also renowned for its multicultural environment. It is known as the financial center of Canada as it's home to five of the country's largest banks.
• Montreal: As Canada's second-largest city, Montreal stands out with a high concentration of post-secondary students. Montreal offers a thriving academic environment, home to universities like McGill, Université de Montréal, and Concordia University.
• Vancouver: This vibrant Canadian city is the third-largest metropolis and is considered one of the world's most livable cities. With universities like the University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, and the University of Victoria, Vancouver is a great choice for students who want both city life and easy access to the outdoors.
• Ottawa: Ottawa has great universities that welcome foreign students from various fields and offer top-notch teaching and research. The city provides easy transportation, affordable housing, jobs, and scholarships, making it a fantastic place to study in Canada.
• Quebec: Quebec city is known for its friendly locals and holds the lowest unemployment rate among all cities in Canada. It is a French-speaking city, but many universities primarily use English as the medium of instruction. These universities offer outstanding education at affordable rates and also offer plenty of career prospects.

How to Study in Canada?

International students aspiring to study in Canada should follow these five essential steps to begin their journey. Refer to the infographic below for a clear overview of the process.

Intakes to Study in Canada

Canadian colleges and universities differ from Indian institutions by offering three distinct intakes, also referred to as semesters. Understanding the intakes in Canada is essential for students planning to study in Canada, as they determine when applications are accepted. The three intakes available are Fall, Winter, and Summer,. each marking a specific admission period during which international students can apply to various programs across Canadian institutions.

• Fall Intake: Fall intake begins in September. It is the most popular choice among Indian students with a wide range of courses and scholarship availability. In this intake, Canadian universities receive the highest number of applications. Fall intake is also known as September intake and Autumn intake.
• Winter Intake: Winter intake is usually a secondary option that starts in January, suitable for those who missed the Fall deadline. While the course selection may be limited compared to the September intake, students can still expect similar prospects in terms of career opportunities, internships, and scholarships. Winter intake is also known as the January intake.
• Summer Intake: Summer intake, which commences around April and May, is the last option and is offered by only a few universities. It offers diploma and vocational programs. Summer intake is also known as the Spring intake or May intake.

Canada Student Visa Requirements for International Students

International students planning to study in Canada must obtain a study permit, which is a crucial immigration document that authorizes their stay for educational purposes. This permit is typically issued along with a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), allowing legal entry into the country. For Indian students, the study permit is essential as it grants permission to enroll in programs at Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in Canada.

It’s important to understand that a study permit is not the same as a visa. While the study permit allows you to study in Canada, a student visa (or visitor visa/eTA) is what authorizes your entry into the country. To apply for a Canadian Student Visa, you should begin the process 4 to 6 months before your program starts, ideally after receiving an admission offer from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada. Applications can be submitted online through the Government of Canada’s GCKey portal, at a Visa Application Centre (VAC), or directly at the port of entry under specific circumstances. The visa application fee is $150 CAD, with an additional $85 CAD for biometrics and $45 CAD as a service fee.

The study visa processing time will be around 4 to 8 weeks. If you're in a hurry, the Student Direct Stream (SDS) option processes it in just 20 days. Indian students are eligible for the SDS category and can apply by submitting the necessary documents for their student visa.

What are the documents required to apply for a Canadian study visa?

• Letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
• Valid passport or travel document
• Identity proof authorized by the resident’s government
• Financial statement demonstrating the ability to cover living costs, return air tickets, and fees
• Medical information
• Statement of intent and how you contribute to the resources
• No criminal record certificate
• Canadian bank account
• Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC)
• Student or education loan proof
• Bank draft in Canadian dollars
• Proof of payment of Tuition and Housing Fees
• Letter from sponsoring school or individual
• Proof of scholarship
• Attestation of issuance of Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ)
• Letter of explanation/SOP

Documents Required for Studying in Canada for Indian Students

The documents you need to submit while applying for admission to Canadian universities/colleges are:

1. English language proficiency test scores: TOEFL / IELTS / PTE / Duolingo / CAEL
2. Standardized test scores - SAT / GRE / GMAT / LSAT
3. Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
4. Work experience certificate, if any.
5. Academic transcripts (school/bachelor’s/master’s degree certificates)
6. Statement of Purpose (SOP)
7. CV/Resume
8. Essay
9. Copy of your valid passport
10. Proof of finances

Cost of Studying in Canada

The cost of studying in Canada ranges from CAD 13,000 to CAD 35,000 in a year based on the type of degree and institution. Humanities, education, and arts programs tend to be more affordable, while medicine and engineering are pricier. On average, undergraduate studies cost around CAD 6,800 (Rs. 4,16,582/-) per year, and master's programs range from CAD 21,100 annually, as per Statistics Canada (2022). Postgraduate studies have higher tuition fees, with MBA programs being the most expensive, approximately between CAD 30,000 and CAD 42,000. Compared to other developed countries, Canada offers more economical education programs and funding opportunities like scholarships, student loans, bursaries, and assistantships to international students.

Check the following table to know the program level and the estimated tuition fee.

Scholarships to Study in Canadian Universities

Scholarships are financial awards given to eligible students in recognition of their academic achievements, and they do not need to be repaid. Students with strong academic records and notable extracurricular involvement can apply for these opportunities. Offered by both the Canadian government and various external organizations, these scholarships help reduce the financial burden of studying abroad. In addition to merit-based options, need-based scholarships are also available to support students from diverse financial backgrounds.

Check out the table below for a selection of top scholarships in Canada fically available for Indian students.

Education Loan for Studying in Canada

The overall cost of studying in Canada depends on several factors such as the selected program, university, course duration, and the cost of living in the chosen city. For students who may find it challenging to finance their education and stay in Canada, numerous banks and financial institutions offer education loans for Canada. Before applying for a loan, it’s essential to review the eligibility requirements to increase your chances of approval. As loan schemes vary, each may cover different types of expenses—so it's important to consult with banks directly to understand what’s included. Typically, education loans help cover a range of expenses, including:

• Admission fees
• Tuition fees
• Transportation charges
• Books, stationery, and other study materials
• Laboratory fees
• Hostel fees including food
• Purchase of a laptop with the necessary configuration (If required for the course)
• Expenses for project work or study tours

Cost of Living in Canada

The cost of living in Canada typically ranges from CAD 15,000 to CAD 20,000 per year,. depending on your lifestyle and location. This can be significantly higher compared to living expenses in many students' home countries, making it important to plan and understand the financial aspects of living in Canada. Quebec is considered one of the more affordable cities in Canada, offering lower living costs compared to other major cities. Key expenses contributing to the cost of living in Canada include housing, food, clothing, books, transportation, and recreation, with an average annual estimate of around CAD 19,000 (INR 11,62,173). Additionally, Canada provides free healthcare services to its residents—a major advantage for permanent migrants and a factor to consider when planning your long-term stay.

Post-Study Work Opportunities in Canada

Canada presents a broad range of job opportunities for international students, recent graduates, and skilled professionals. Each year, the country issues approximately 300,000 work permits to international students, making it a promising destination for those seeking both education and work experience. Students can explore various work-study options such as on-campus and off-campus jobs, co-op programs, and internships, which not only support their finances but also enhance their practical skills. After completing their studies, students can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows them to work in Canada and gain valuable industry experience. The application fee for a PGWP is $255 CAD. A post-graduation work permit in Canada up to a maximum of 3 years. This work permit can also act as a stepping stone toward Permanent Residency (PR) through Canada's Express Entry immigration system, making it an attractive option for students planning a long-term future in the country.

To be eligible for a Canadian Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), securing a job offer can significantly enhance your prospects, although it is not a mandatory requirement for the initial permit application. Having a job offer, however, opens up several advantages for international graduates. These benefits include the ability to work without restrictions anywhere in Canada, the opportunity to sponsor family members under a Dependent Visa, earning in Canadian dollars, and the freedom to travel within the country. Graduates with a job offer can also apply for Permanent Residency (PR) after gaining at least one year of work experience, and benefit from exposure to Canada’s world-class companies and professional work culture. Students who receive a job offer are eligible for an Open Work Permit, which allows them to work for any employer across Canada for up to 3 years. This permit also offers the flexibility to switch jobs without the need for a new authorization.

The documents required to apply for the open work permit are:

• Proof of identity
• Proof of employment
• Proof of relationship
• Valid visa with a six-month duration
• Letter from your Designated Learning Institution (DLI) confirming study completion
• Certificate of degree completion
• Recent passport-size photographs (2)
• Academic transcripts
• Medical certificate

Job Prospects in Canada

In recent years, Canada has emerged as a top destination for international students, not only for its quality education but also for the wide range of work opportunities available during and after studies. Recognized by Forbes and US News as the best G20 country for business operations, and ranked by The Economist Intelligence Unit as the third-best G7 country for business (2018–2022), Canada continues to attract students aiming for global career prospects. According to Statistics Canada (2021), approximately 60% of international students who worked during or after their studies became landed immigrants within 10 years of receiving their first study permit—highlighting strong pathways to permanent residency.

With a Canadian student visa, students can work up to 20 hours per week in paid jobs while studying. Part-time jobs in Canada roles typically pay between $13 to $16 per hour. Additionally, students can work full-time during scheduled breaks such as winter or summer holidays. As per recent updates, international students with off-campus work authorization are no longer limited to 20 hours per week, offering greater flexibility to support themselves financially.

Explore some of the highest paying jobs in Canada. and discover where your career path could lead. On average, graduates in Canada earn $74,819 per year or approximately $38.37 per hour. Check the table below to see various job roles along with their corresponding average annual salaries.