Studying in Canada: costs, requirements, and how to apply in 2026

July 11, 2026 · Gradsy Team · 9 min read

Canada is one of the most popular places in the world to study abroad, and for good reason: strong universities, a clear path to work after graduation, and a reputation for being welcoming to international students. Here is a straight guide to what it costs, what you need, and the order to do it in.

All figures below are approximate and in Canadian dollars (CAD). Always confirm the exact numbers on the university's own page, because they change year to year and vary a lot by program.

What a year actually costs

Tuition. For international students, undergraduate tuition commonly runs about CAD 20,000 to 40,000 a year, and many masters programs sit in a similar range. Some professional programs cost more, and some colleges cost noticeably less. Program matters more than city.

Living costs. Budget roughly CAD 15,000 to 20,000 a year for rent, food, transport, and the rest, more in Toronto or Vancouver, less in smaller cities. Your study permit application will also ask you to show you can cover living costs, so this number does double duty.

One time costs. Application fees, the study permit fee, biometrics, flights, and health insurance. None are huge on their own, but they add up, so keep a small buffer.

What you need to get in

Academics. A solid academic record in your previous studies. Competitive programs ask for higher grades, but there is a genuinely wide range of universities and colleges, so strong and average profiles both have real options.

English. Most programs accept IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. Typical undergraduate requirements land around IELTS 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0, though this varies by program.

Documents. Your own genuine transcripts, your statement of purpose, letters of recommendation from your teachers or employers, and proof that you can fund your studies. The university issues your official letter of acceptance once you are admitted, and that letter is what your study permit application is built on.

The order to do things in

  1. Shortlist programs that fit your grades, budget, and goals. Aim for a mix: a couple of reach options, a few solid matches, and one safe backup.
  2. Sit your English test early, so a low section score does not derail your timeline.
  3. Prepare your documents while you wait for results. Draft your statement of purpose now, not the night before.
  4. Apply to your shortlist. Watch the deadlines, which differ by intake and program.
  5. Accept your offer and get your official letter of acceptance.
  6. Apply for your study permit with your acceptance letter and proof of funds.

After you graduate

Canada's post graduation work options are a big part of why students choose it. Eligible graduates can often apply to work in Canada for a period after finishing an eligible program, which is a real head start on experience. Rules change, so check the current requirements before you rely on them, and choose an eligible program if this matters to you.

A calmer way to shortlist

The hardest part is usually step one: turning hundreds of universities into a shortlist that actually fits you. Our free 2 minute match ranks Canadian (and 22 other countries') universities by your grades, budget, and field, so you start from a short, sensible list instead of a spreadsheet. It is free for students, and you can compare everything in one place before you apply.

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