Best cities to study in Canada
Student cities in Canada
Toronto
Canada's largest and most diverse city, home to the University of Toronto, Toronto Metropolitan University, York and several major colleges.
Vancouver
Mountains, ocean and two world-class universities, UBC and Simon Fraser, in Canada's mildest climate and most expensive housing market.
Montreal
A bilingual city with McGill and Concordia teaching in English, lower rents than Toronto and Vancouver, and a famous cultural life.
Compare rents
| City | Room rent | Transport |
|---|---|---|
| Toronto | CA$1,000 to CA$1,600 for a room | TTC subway, streetcars and buses with a post-secondary pass. |
| Vancouver | CA$1,000 to CA$1,700 for a room | SkyTrain and buses with the U-Pass BC. |
| Montreal | CA$600 to CA$1,000 for a room | Metro and buses with a student OPUS card. |
Figures are indicative for the 2026/27 cycle, change with exchange rates and policy, and should be confirmed with the university or the relevant government before you decide.
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Talk to a counsellorRelated questions
Is a study gap accepted in Canada?
Yes, up to about two years for undergraduate study and five for postgraduate, with documents to explain it. Longer gaps are harder for a study permit unless you have relevant work experience.
How much money do I need to show for a Canadian study permit?
First-year tuition, plus CA$22,895 for living costs for a single applicant outside Quebec, plus travel. A GIC from a Canadian bank is the cleanest evidence. Add roughly CA$5,000 to CA$6,000 for each accompanying family member.
How long is the Post-Graduation Work Permit?
It matches programme length for programmes between 8 months and 2 years, and is 3 years for programmes of 2 years or more and for all master's degrees. You must apply within 180 days of your final results.