Study in Canada
Co-op degrees, a post-graduation work permit of up to three years, and a clear route to permanent residence.
Why Canada
Canada links study to settlement more openly than any other destination: graduates of eligible programmes can work for up to three years, and Canadian experience counts towards permanent residence under Express Entry. Colleges and universities are publicly funded and consistent in quality, cities are safe, and co-op programmes let you earn during the degree. Since 2024 the government caps study permits and requires a provincial attestation letter, so the right college choice matters more than ever.
Strong subjects
Intakes and deadlines
| Intake | What to know |
|---|---|
| September | Main intake for universities and colleges. Apply by January to March. |
| January | Second intake with good choice at colleges and many universities. |
| May | Summer intake, mostly colleges and some master's programmes. |
Working while you study
24 hours a week off campus during term, full time in scheduled breaks. Minimum wage CA$15.00 to CA$17.60 an hour depending on the province.
What it costs
Indicative figures for 2026/27. CA$1,300 to CA$2,300 a month depending on the city
| Tuition | A year |
|---|---|
| Undergraduate | CA$20,000 to CA$40,000 |
| Postgraduate | CA$17,000 to CA$35,000 |
| Living cost | A month in CA$ |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | CA$700 to CA$1,500 (Toronto and Vancouver at the top) |
| Food and groceries | CA$300 to CA$450 |
| Transport | CA$80 to CA$160 with a student pass |
| Utilities and phone | CA$100 to CA$180 |
| Health insurance | CA$60 to CA$90, provincial or university plan |
Student visa
- Accept your offer and pay the tuition deposit so the college can issue your PAL
- Open a GIC with a participating Canadian bank and transfer the funds
- Apply online through the IRCC portal, upload documents, pay fees
- Give biometrics; complete a medical exam if instructed
- Processing takes 4 to 12 weeks depending on country; the Student Direct Stream closed in November 2024
Visa rules change without much notice. Everything here is checked against the official guidance, but confirm the current position before you apply. We do that with you as part of the application.
Universities in Canada
Open one to see courses, fees, entry requirements and intakes.
Questions students ask
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.
Thinking about Canada?
Send us your results and your budget. We will tell you what you can get into, and what it will really cost.