Why study in Canada?
- Well-ranked universities and career-focused colleges.
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) of up to three years after eligible programmes.
- Canadian work experience can help with permanent residence applications.
- Safe, multicultural cities with large Indian communities.
Approximate costs
| Item | Local currency | Approx. in INR |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition, university master's (per year) | CAD 20,000–45,000 | ≈ ₹13–28 lakh |
| Tuition, college programme (per year) | CAD 15,000–25,000 | ≈ ₹9.5–16 lakh |
| Living costs required for the permit (per year) | CAD 23,448 | ≈ ₹15 lakh |
Approximate, as of 2026. INR figures use about ₹63 per CAD; exchange rates move. Fees depend on the university and course, so we confirm exact numbers for your shortlist.
- For study permit applications submitted on or after 1 September 2026, a single applicant outside Quebec must show CAD 23,448 for living costs, plus first-year tuition and travel.
- Quebec sets its own funds requirement.
- Immigration officers increasingly check where your funds come from, so documents need to be clear.
Intakes
September is the main intake. January has a good range of programmes, and some colleges also offer May. Start applications 8–12 months before your intake, as study permit processing and attestation letters take time.
Visa and application steps
- Choose a programme at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). For work rights later, check that the programme is PGWP-eligible.
- Take an English test (IELTS, PTE, CELPIP or TOEFL, as accepted by your institution).
- Receive your letter of acceptance and pay your deposit.
- Get a provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL/TAL), which most applicants now need.
- Arrange proof of funds (tuition plus CAD 23,448 for living costs for applications from 1 September 2026).
- Apply online for the study permit and give biometrics; complete a medical exam if required.
Working during and after your studies
- Eligible full-time students can work off campus up to 24 hours per week during academic sessions, and full-time during scheduled breaks.
- After graduating, you can apply for a PGWP within 180 days. Its length depends on your programme, up to 3 years.
- University bachelor's, master's and doctoral graduates have no field-of-study requirement for the PGWP; college programmes do. A language test result is needed (CLB 7 for university graduates, CLB 5 for college graduates).
Popular universities
A selection of well-known options, not a ranking. The right university depends on your profile, course and budget.
Scholarships
Many universities give automatic awards based on your academic results.
Research master's and PhD students often receive funding packages through their department.
Some provinces offer graduate scholarships open to international students.
Frequently asked questions
How much money do I need for a Canadian study permit? +
For applications submitted on or after 1 September 2026, a single applicant outside Quebec must show CAD 23,448 for living costs, plus first-year tuition and travel costs.
What is a PAL? +
A provincial or territorial attestation letter confirms you have a place within that province's study permit allocation. Most new study permit applicants need one.
How long is the PGWP? +
Up to 3 years, depending on the length and type of your programme.
Can I work while studying in Canada? +
Yes. Eligible students can work up to 24 hours a week off campus during term and full-time during scheduled breaks.
Last reviewed: October 2026. Visa rules and fees change often; we check the current official requirements with you during counselling.
Official sources: IRCC – Study permit · IRCC – PGWP eligibility