Why Study in Canada?
Canada is one of the most welcoming countries for international students. With a stable economy, top universities, and a clear pathway from study to permanent residency, it is a top choice for students from South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Africa.
Canadian universities are globally recognized — the University of Toronto, UBC, and McGill all rank among the world’s top 50. But Canada’s real advantage is what happens after graduation: the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) lets you work for up to 3 years, and Canadian work experience is a direct pathway to permanent residency through Express Entry.
For students from Bangladesh, India, Nigeria, Vietnam, and Malaysia, Canada offers safety, diversity, and a real chance to build a long-term future.
Top Universities
University of Toronto
Canada’s top-ranked university, regularly in the global top 25. Known for computer science, engineering, medicine, and business (Rotman School of Management).
University of British Columbia (UBC)
Located in Vancouver, one of the world’s most liveable cities. Strong programs in environmental science, engineering, forestry, and computer science.
McGill University
Based in Montreal, a bilingual city with a low cost of living. Top-ranked for medicine, law, and natural sciences. One of Canada’s most research-intensive universities.
University of Waterloo
The undisputed leader in co-op (internship) programs. Known globally for computer science, engineering, and mathematics. Graduates are heavily recruited by Silicon Valley companies.
University of Alberta
A top research university in Edmonton with strong engineering, AI/machine learning, and energy programs. Alberta has no provincial sales tax, reducing living costs.
Dalhousie University
Located in Halifax, Nova Scotia — one of Canada’s most affordable cities. Strong programs in ocean sciences, engineering, and health sciences. A growing tech hub with lower tuition than Ontario universities.
Cost Breakdown
| Expense | Monthly Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (shared apartment) | 600-1,200 |
| Food & groceries | 300-450 |
| Health insurance | Varies by province (some included) |
| Public transport | 90-160 |
| Phone & internet | 50-80 |
| Personal expenses | 150-300 |
| Total | 1,200-2,190 |
Tuition fees: 20,000-45,000 CAD/year for international undergraduates. Graduate programs: 15,000-35,000 CAD/year. Some provinces (like Newfoundland and Manitoba) offer significantly lower international tuition.
Proof of funds: You need to show at least 20,635 CAD (or 10,000 CAD for Quebec) plus first year’s tuition to obtain your study permit.
Visa Process (Study Permit)
- Get accepted to a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- Get a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) — required since 2024 for most provinces
- Gather documents: acceptance letter, PAL, proof of funds, passport, photos, and a statement of purpose
- Create a GCKey account on the IRCC website and apply online
- Biometrics appointment at your local visa application centre
- Medical exam if required (mandatory for some countries)
- Processing time: 4-16 weeks depending on your country of residence
- Arrive in Canada and get your study permit stamped at the port of entry
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
This is Canada’s biggest advantage for international students:
- 8-month to 2-year program: Up to 3-year work permit
- Work for any Canadian employer in any field
- Canadian work experience counts toward permanent residency via Express Entry
- Apply within 180 days of receiving your final grades
Scholarships
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships: 50,000 CAD/year for doctoral students. Highly competitive.
- University-specific entrance scholarships: Most major universities offer merit-based scholarships for international students (2,000-40,000 CAD).
- Ontario Trillium Scholarship: 40,000 CAD/year for international PhD students in Ontario.
- Lester B. Pearson Scholarship (U of T): Covers tuition, books, and living expenses for 4 years.
Ready to Study in Canada?
Canada could be the right fit for your future. Use our university matcher to find Canadian programs that match your profile and budget, or talk to an applyportal.ai advisor who can walk you through the entire study permit process and help you choose the right province and university.