Get a clear, step-by-step overview of everything you need to study in Canada. Top universities, in-demand programs, scholarships, and visa requirements.
Canada is one of the best places to study if you’re looking for quality education, global career opportunities, and a diverse culture.
Earn a degree that’s recognized worldwide.
Work while you study and after graduation.
Find scholarships to lower your costs.
Enjoy a high quality of life.
Get a clear path to permanent residency.
Top Universities to Study in Canada
Canada has some of the best universities in the world. They offer strong academics, cutting-edge research, and globally recognized degrees.
University
QS World Ranking
Approximate Annual Tuition Fees
Key Highlights
Harvard University
#1
$55,000
Ivy League, Strong Research, Global Reputation
Stanford University
#3
$56,000
Tech & Innovation Hub, Silicon Valley Ties
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
#2
$57,000
Leading in Engineering & Technology, Cutting-Edge Research
University of California, Berkeley
#10
$45,000
Public Ivy, Strong STEM & Business Programs
Columbia University
#12
$60,000
Ivy League, Top Business & Journalism Programs
University of Chicago
#13
$58,000
Renowned Economics & Law Programs
California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
#7
$56,000
Small & Elite, Strong in Science & Engineering
Popular Canada College Courses and Fields of Study
Canada has some of the best universities, but what you study matters just as much. Here are some of the most popular courses international students choose.
Business
Engineering
Medicine
Astronomy
After 12th
Best Business Courses in Canada
Best Engineering Programs in Canada
Study MBBS in Canada
Where Can I Study Astronomy in Canada
Study in Canada for Indian Students After 12th
BCom Commerce – University of Toronto – Rotman Commerce
BASc Mechanical Engineering – University of Toronto
MD Medicine – University of Toronto
BSc Astronomy & Physics – University of British Columbia
BSc Computer Science – University of Waterloo
BCom International Management – McGill University – Desautels Faculty
BASc Civil Engineering – University of British Columbia
MD Medicine – McGill University
BSc Astronomy – University of Toronto
BBA Business Administration – University of Toronto
BBA Business Administration – York University – Schulich School of Business
BASc Electrical & Computer Engineering – McGill University
MD Medicine – University of British Columbia
BSc Physics with Astrophysics – McMaster University
BASc Mechanical Engineering – University of British Columbia
BCom Business – University of British Columbia – Sauder School
BASc Chemical Engineering – University of Waterloo
MD Medicine – University of Alberta
BSc Astronomy – University of Alberta
MD Medicine (Pre-Med Pathway) – McMaster University
BCom Finance – University of Alberta – Alberta School of Business
BASc Software Engineering – University of Alberta
MD Medicine – McMaster University
MSc Astronomy – Western University
BSc Biotechnology – University of Alberta
BCom Accounting – Queen’s University – Smith School of Business
BASc Aerospace Engineering – Ryerson University (Toronto Metropolitan University)
MD Medicine – University of Ottawa
BSc Astrophysics – Saint Mary’s University
BSc Psychology – McGill University
BCom Accounting – University of Manitoba
Tuition Fees and Cost of Living in Canada
Tuition Fees
International undergraduate tuition typically falls between CAD 20,000 and CAD 30,000 per year, with graduate fees varying based on the field of study.
Living Expenses
Students should budget around CAD 15,000 annually for rent, groceries, transport, and miscellaneous expenses.
Budgeting Tips
Use public transportation, buy textbooks second-hand, and consider part-time campus jobs to help manage expenses.
Scholarships and Financial Aid for International Students in Canada
With the right scholarship to study in Canada, you can cut down your costs significantly.
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
$50,000/year for 3 years; fully funds PhDs in health, sciences, engineering, social sciences.
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
Full tuition, books, fees, residence for 4 years; top international undergraduates at Toronto.
UBC International Leader of Tomorrow (ILOT)
Covers tuition, living costs based on need; for outstanding undergrads at UBC.
McGill University Scholarships for International Students
Partial/full tuition for undergrads; graduate awards include stipends, department-based funding.
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)
$10,000–$15,000 for master’s/PhDs at Ontario universities; merit-based, renewable.
University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship
Up to CAD 20,000; renewable for 4 years; merit-based for new international undergraduates.
Visa Requirements and Stay Back Options in Canada
If you’re wondering how to study in Canada as an international student, getting the right visa is the first step.
Get an offer letter from a university that’s approved by the Canadian government.
Apply for a study visa.
Work while you study.
Stay back after graduation with a Post-Graduation Work Permit.
Build a long-term plan.
How to Apply for Higher Studies in Canada?
Applying to study in Canada is simple if you follow the right steps.
What are the basic requirements to study in Canada?
You’ll need an offer letter from a recognized university, proof of funds, a valid passport, and English proficiency test scores (IELTS/TOEFL). Some programs may have additional requirements like entrance exams or work experience.
Can I study in Canada without an IELTS score?
Yes, some universities accept alternatives like TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo English Test. Others may waive the requirement if you’ve studied in an English-speaking environment.
How much study gap is accepted for studying in Canada?
Most universities accept a study gap of up to 2–5 years for undergraduate programs and even longer for postgraduate studies, provided you have a valid reason such as work experience or additional certifications.