For many international students, studying in Canada is their dream, but there are some serious concerns about the cost to live in Canada as a student.
Understanding these costs is necessary for organizing and allocating funds to guarantee an easy and golden academic path.
Is it Expensive to Live in Canada as a Student?
- Tuition Fees
Depending on the institution and the area of study, overseas students’ tuition costs in Canada might vary significantly.
Undergraduate courses typically cost between CAD 20,000 and CAD 30,000 annually, while postgraduate courses may cost between CAD 15,000 and CAD 35,000.
Higher tuition usually comes with prestigious universities and specialized programs.
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Accommodation Costs
- One of the biggest costs for students in Canada is accommodation, with options ranging from renting an apartment to living on campus.
- The cost of on-campus housing varies by university and type of residence, ranging from CAD 3,000 to CAD 8,000 per academic year.
- The cost of off-campus housing varies by city; in Toronto and Vancouver, the monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment might range from CAD 1,200 to CAD 2,000, whereas smaller towns might have cheaper rental costs.
Food and Grocery Expenses
To live in Canada as a student, food expenses in Canada can go up rapidly, so students frequently need to set aside specific funds for both eating out and groceries.
Students may spend anywhere from CAD 200 to CAD 400 on groceries on average each month.
Students frequently go out to eat, with dinners at budget eateries typically costing about CAD 15.
Transportation Costs
- In Canada, transportation costs, which include both private and public transportation, can make up an important part of a student’s budget.
- The majority of cities have dependable public transit systems; monthly passes range in price from CAD 80 to CAD 150.
- If a student decides to drive, there are extra expenses for parking, petrol, and insurance.
Read: Can Indians apply for Canada tourist visa from USA?
Health Insurance
International students to live in Canada as a student are required to purchase health insurance, the price of which varies based on the province and type of coverage.
Some provinces, including British Columbia and Alberta, offer international students health insurance coverage, while other governments mandate that students obtain private health insurance.
Private health insurance typically costs between CAD 600 and CAD 900 a year.
Study Materials and Supplies
- Academic success depends on having the right books, stationery, and other study materials, which can get expensive over time.
- The average student will spend between CAD 500 and CAD 1,000 on materials and textbooks annually.
- You can lower these costs by renting, purchasing used textbooks, or getting digital copies.
- Also, a few universities provide textbook exchange programs to help students budget their expenses.
Personal Expenses and Entertainment
- While maintaining a social life and academic schedule is important for students also need to be economical with their entertainment and personal expenses.
- Mobile phone plans, clothing, personal care, and leisure expenses should all be included in monthly budgets.
- The cost of entertainment varies; movie tickets run about CAD 13 while monthly gym memberships range from CAD 30 to CAD 70.
- Managing these costs can be made easier by taking advantage of student discounts and free or inexpensive activities.
Part-Time Work Opportunities
To live in Canada as a student during academic sessions, international students having a valid study permit are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week, and during designated breaks, they can work full-time.
Retail, hospitality, and on-campus positions are common places to find part-time work.
Part-time job earnings can make a big difference in controlling living expenses.
Bottom Line
Since live in Canada as a student can be costly, it can also be a pleasant and doable experience with proper planning and budgeting.
