Introduction: Why Understanding Costs Matters
Canada is one of the top destinations for international students due to its world-class universities, post-study work opportunities, and high quality of life. However, understanding the cost of living and studying in Canada is crucial for financial planning. In this guide, Triospace Overseas breaks down everything you need to know about tuition fees, accommodation, food, transportation, and other student expenses in 2025.
Tuition Fees in Canada for International Students (2025)
Tuition fees in Canada vary depending on the university, program, and province.
| Program | Average Annual Tuition (CAD) |
| Undergraduate | CAD 15,000 – CAD 35,000 |
| Postgraduate (Masters) | CAD 18,000 – CAD 40,000 |
| MBA | CAD 30,000 – CAD 60,000 |
| Diploma/Certificate | CAD 10,000 – CAD 20,000 |
💡 Tip: Public universities are generally more affordable than private institutions.
Cost of Living in Canada for Students (Monthly Estimates)
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (CAD) |
| Rent (Shared Apartment) | CAD 500 – 900 |
| Utilities & Internet | CAD 100 – 150 |
| Food & Groceries | CAD 250 – 400 |
| Transportation (Public Transit) | CAD 80 – 120 |
| Mobile & Internet | CAD 40 – 60 |
| Health Insurance | CAD 70 – 100 |
| Miscellaneous | CAD 100 – 200 |
| Total Estimated Cost | CAD 1,100 – 1,900/month |
🎯 Yearly Living Cost Estimate: CAD 13,000 – 23,000
City-wise Breakdown of Living Expenses
| City | Monthly Cost Range (CAD) |
| Toronto | CAD 1,600 – 2,200 |
| Vancouver | CAD 1,500 – 2,100 |
| Montreal | CAD 1,200 – 1,800 |
| Calgary | CAD 1,100 – 1,700 |
| Halifax | CAD 1,000 – 1,500 |
✅ Tip from our Canada Education Consultants in Hyderabad: Living in smaller cities or choosing on-campus housing can reduce costs significantly.
Popular Scholarships to Reduce Cost of Studying in Canada
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships – up to CAD 50,000/year
- University-specific Scholarships (e.g., UBC, McGill, Toronto)
- Government Scholarships for international students
- Triospace Partner University Waivers
📌 We help eligible students apply for scholarships and tuition discounts.
Hidden Costs Students Often Overlook
- Study materials & textbooks (CAD 500 – 1,000/year)
- Initial setup (furniture, bedding, kitchen – CAD 300 – 600)
- Winter clothing (CAD 200 – 400)
- Flight tickets (CAD 1,000 – 2,000 round-trip)
- Visa & biometrics fees (CAD 150 – 200)
- GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate) for visa: CAD 20,635 (2025 update)
Student Voice: What It’s Really Like
“Living in Toronto is expensive, but part-time work helped me cover my rent. Triospace guided me perfectly through budgeting and GIC setup.”
— Saketh R., Student at University of Toronto
How Triospace Overseas Can Help
As one of the best Study in Canada Consultants in Hyderabad, we provide:
- ✅ Personalized budget planning
- ✅ University shortlisting based on your financial goals
- ✅ Complete visa and GIC support
- ✅ Part-time job guidance and pre-departure sessions
