How much does it cost to study in Canada?
How Much Does It Cost to Study in Canada
A group of international students studying at a Canadian university, representing affordable education, shared housing, and student life in 2025.
Canada has become one of the most preferred destinations for international education, known for its world-class universities, safe environment, and post-study work opportunities.
But before packing your bags, it’s essential to understand how much it really cost to study in Canada, from tuition and accommodation to food, travel, and daily expenses.
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In this detailed guide, we’ll break down the total cost of studying and living in Canada in 2025 for international students.
Why Study in Canada in 2025?
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World-class education and globally recognized degrees
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Safe and welcoming multicultural environment
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Post-graduation work permit (PGWP) opportunities
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Affordable compared to the USA or UK
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Easy student visa process and PR pathways
Over 2.2 million international students are expected in 2025 – and India leads the list, followed by China, Nigeria, and the Philippines.
Average Tuition Fees and Education Cost in Canada
Tuition fees depend on the course, college, and province. On average:
| Course Type | Average Annual Tuition (USD) |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | $15,000 – $25,000 |
| Postgraduate (Masters) | $18,000 – $28,000 |
| MBA Programs | $25,000 – $45,000 |
| Diploma / Certificate Courses | $10,000 – $18,000 |
Public universities cost to study in Canada less than private institutions. Colleges in smaller provinces (like Manitoba or Newfoundland) are generally cheaper than Toronto or Vancouver.
Accommodation Cost to Study in Canada
Housing is a big part of your budget when studying abroad.
| Type | Average Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| On-campus dormitory | $400 – $800 |
| Shared apartment (2–3 students) | $600 – $1,200 |
| Private rental apartment | $1,000 – $1,800 |
Money-Saving Tip:
Sharing accommodation with friends can reduce your living cost by up to 40%.
Students in Toronto and Vancouver usually spend the most on rent.
Food and Grocery Expenses
Food costs vary by lifestyle. On average, students spend:
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Groceries: $200 – $350/month
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Eating out (once a week): $60 – $100/month
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Coffee and snacks: $30 – $50/month
Budget Hack:
Cooking at home is 60% cheaper than eating out. Try discount stores like Walmart, No Frills, and Costco for groceries.
Transportation and Travel Costs
Public transport in Canada is safe, clean, and reliable.
| City | Average Monthly Transit Pass (USD) |
|---|---|
| Toronto | $100 – $120 |
| Vancouver | $110 – $130 |
| Montreal | $85 – $100 |
| Calgary | $95 – $105 |
If your university is close by, buy a used bicycle (around $100 – $150) or use student transit discounts.
Internet and Mobile Plan Costs
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Internet (home broadband): $50 – $80/month
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Mobile plan (with data): $40 – $60/month
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Shared Wi-Fi among roommates can cut your cost by half.
Pro Tip: Many student residences include Wi-Fi in rent – always check before paying separately.
Other Living Expenses
| Expense Type | Average Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Health insurance | $60 – $100 |
| Entertainment / outings | $70 – $150 |
| Study materials | $40 – $80 |
| Gym / fitness | $20 – $50 |
Estimated Monthly & Yearly Budget Summary (2025)
| Category | Monthly (USD) | Yearly (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (avg.) | — | $20,000 |
| Rent | $800 | $9,600 |
| Food | $300 | $3,600 |
| Transport | $100 | $1,200 |
| Internet + Mobile | $100 | $1,200 |
| Others | $100 | $1,200 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $1,400 – $1,700/month | $25,000 – $35,000/year |
Group Living Tip:
If 3-4 students share an apartment and Wi-Fi, each person’s total monthly expense can drop to around $1,000 – $1,200/month.
Tips to Save Money as a Student in Canada
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Use your student ID card for discounts on food, transport, and entertainment.
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Work part-time (up to 20 hours/week) to cover daily expenses.
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Buy used textbooks or digital versions.
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Use apps like Skyscanner or FlixBus for cheap travel within Canada.
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Choose smaller cities (like Halifax, Regina, or Winnipeg) for lower rents.
Quality of Life & Safety in Canada
Canada consistently ranks among the safest and happiest countries in the world.
Student-friendly cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Ottawa, and Calgary offer vibrant nightlife, clean streets, and excellent healthcare.
Crime rates are low, and students from India, Nigeria, and the Philippines often report positive cultural experiences.
Most Popular Cities for International Students
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Toronto – Big city life, job opportunities, and top universities
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Vancouver – Beautiful climate and multicultural crowd
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Montreal – Affordable living and artsy vibe
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Calgary – High quality of life and work options
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Ottawa – Peaceful and clean with good PR prospects
Travel Cost in Canada for Students
Weekend trips and short travels are common for students.
A short domestic flight (Toronto-Montreal) costs around $100 – $150, while long-distance train tickets start from $60.
Bus travel is the cheapest, with prices around $25 – $50 for intercity routes.
