Millions of students often leave the shores of their country and travel to other countries to further their studies. Some of the reasons why they take this step are to enjoy a conducive learning atmosphere, lower cost of living, better career opportunities, and cheaper tuition fees.
More so, the certificates offered by most Canadian institutions are globally recognized.
What does it take to study in Canada
Although international students pay a higher tuition fee than citizens, they tend to pay lesser compared to studying in countries such as Australia or the UK. This applies to both undergraduate and postgraduate studies.
One of the first things that will be considered by officials when you’re applying for a student visa is your financial strength. Canadian authorities are eager to know if you can afford all academic expenses throughout the program.
Your preferred program of study and the city you are moving to will influence your tuition fees.
Undergraduates tend to spend around $20,000 – $26,000 per year while postgraduates can spend over $30,000 each year. These figures will cover the cost of your tuition, transportation, accommodation, health insurance, basic package for mobile phone, and feeding.
Getting your visa
It’s imperative to get a study permit if you’re planning to study in Canada. This document will enable you to live and study in the country without legal issues throughout your stay.
Your application fee will likely be waived if you’re an international student from a developing country. The study permit application fee is around CA$150 (~US$115).
Accommodation
Some students prefer living off-campus because this option offers so much flexible. However, you will be saving extra money if you decide to live on campus. It should be noted that you will share a social area, bathroom, clean washing room, and kitchen with other students.
On-campus accommodation costs around 3000-$7500 every year.
Accommodation fees for students who wish to stay off-campus vary from city to city.
Here are the average costs of living in 3 bedroom apartments for different Canadian cities:
- Calgary: CA$1,600
- Edmonton: CA$1,500
- Ottawa: CA$1,300
- Vancouver: CA$1,950
- Montreal: CA$1,050
- Toronto: CA$1,900.
Check the prices of some food items, although they may vary slightly:
- Boneless chicken breasts (1Kg): CA$12.47
- Milk (1L): CA$1.77
- Potatoes (1Kg bag): CA$1.98
- Rice (one bag): CA$3.07 12 eggs – CA$3.17
- 1 loaf of bread: CA$2.57
- Water (1L bottle): CA$1.63.
Transportation
Toronto’s TTC (Toronto Transit Commission) is a dual bus system that moves around the city. Their service costs around CA$99.75 per month and varies from city to city.
Health insurance
Health insurance is a must for every foreign undergraduates and postgraduates students moving to Canada. It must be valid throughout your program.
There are some regions that offer health insurance to international students. Such regions include Alberta, Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Newfoundland.
