Ready to study in Canada from India? We will guide you through the entire process — from admission and scholarships to visas and pre-departure. Our counsellors make your study abroad journey simple, transparent, and achievable.
Canada is one of the most preferred destinations among Indian students for higher education abroad. Studying in Canada gives you access to globally recognized universities like the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia, known for their research excellence and innovative learning environments. The country’s practical and career-oriented education system helps Indian students gain real-world experience and stand out in the global job market.
Canada is ranked among the world’s safest and most livable countries. With low crime rates, political stability, and friendly communities, Indian students can enjoy a comfortable and secure life. Whether it’s walking home from class at night or using public transport, safety and peace of mind come naturally in Canada.
According to Canadian immigration rules, international students can work while studying — up to 24 hours per week off-campus during semesters and full-time during scheduled breaks. With an average pay of CAD 13–17 per hour, you can cover living expenses, gain valuable work experience, and build professional connections for your future career.
Canada is one of the most immigration-friendly countries in the world. Thousands of Indian students successfully transition to Permanent Residency each year through programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), and Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Studying in Canada opens doors not just to global education but also to long-term settlement opportunities.
From the spectacular Niagara Falls to the Rocky Mountains, Canada’s natural beauty is unmatched. Ranked among the top 5 countries in the world for quality of life (Forbes, 2024), Canada offers excellent healthcare, clean cities, and a welcoming environment.
Students enjoy a perfect balance of academics, safety, and lifestyle — whether they love skiing, hiking, or simply exploring scenic cities like Toronto and Vancouver.
Compared to other English-speaking countries, studying in Canada is more affordable. Tuition fees and living expenses are reasonably priced, and there are plenty of scholarship options for Indian students. Many public universities and colleges also offer part-time jobs and co-op programs to support students financially.
Canada embraces diversity and inclusivity. People from every background are welcomed equally — making it easy for Indian students to adapt and feel at home. With large Indian communities in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary, students enjoy cultural familiarity along with global exposure.
After graduating from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), international students can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) — allowing them to work in Canada for up to three years. This valuable work experience helps build a strong career foundation and often leads directly to Permanent Residency.
If you are planning to study abroad in Canada from India, it is important to understand the visa requirements and the steps involved in the application process. Below is a checklist of documents and requirements that Indian students must prepare before applying for a Canadian study permit.
Required Documents
Note: These are the general requirements for obtaining a Canadian study visa from India. Additional documents may be required depending on your university, province, or program type.
It is strongly recommended to consult a Search Education counsellor for personalized guidance and updated visa requirements before applying.
Canada is one of the top destinations chosen by international students for higher education. However, studying abroad can be expensive, especially for middle-class families. To make education more accessible, Canadian universities and government bodies offer a wide range of scholarships and funding options to deserving and talented students.
Indian students can apply for scholarships at the undergraduate, master’s, and doctoral levels. These scholarships are funded by the Canadian government, universities, and private organizations to help reduce tuition costs and living expenses while studying in Canada.
The Government of Canada provides numerous scholarships and research awards to international students pursuing higher education. These programs support students financially through tuition assistance, living cost coverage, and travel allowances.
Some popular government scholarships include:
These opportunities allow international students to focus on their academic and research goals without financial stress.
Several private foundations, corporations, and charitable organizations in Canada offer scholarships for international students based on merit, need, or field of study.
Some well-known options include:
These scholarships aim to promote diversity, innovation, and academic excellence across various disciplines.
Many Canadian universities provide merit-based and need-based scholarships for international students, including Indian applicants. These awards recognize academic achievements, leadership skills, community involvement, and outstanding performance in specific study areas.
For example:
Canada offers three major intakes for international students — Fall, Winter, and Summer. Each intake provides unique opportunities depending on the program, university, and student preferences. Understanding the right intake helps you plan your application timeline effectively.
| Intakes | Application Deadline | Program Availability |
| Fall Intake (September Intake) | December – March | The primary and most popular intake in Canada. A wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs are available across all major universities. |
| Winter Intake (January Intake) | September - November | The second major intake with limited program options. Ideal for students who missed the Fall deadlines. |
| Summer Intake (May Intake) | January - February | A smaller intake offering short-term programs, diplomas, and specialized certifications. |
Studying in Canada is an exciting opportunity for Indian students who wish to pursue world-class education and global career exposure. The Canadian student visa (study permit) process is a crucial step in making this dream a reality. While it may seem complex, with the right guidance and preparation, you can complete each step with confidence.
Below is a simple, step-by-step guide to help Indian students apply for a Canadian study visa.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Canada Student Visa
Note: Some colleges provide the Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) along with the offer letter, while others issue it after the tuition deposit. Always check with your university before submitting your visa application.
Many students feel overwhelmed during the visa filing process, but with expert guidance, it becomes easy and stress-free. At Search Education, our counsellors have successfully guided hundreds of Indian students through every stage of the Canada student visa process, ensuring a smooth and successful outcome.
The cost of studying in Canada for Indian students depends on the university or college, course type, location, and available scholarships. After completing Class 12, students can choose from a variety of programs such as 2-year Diplomas, 3-year Advanced Diplomas, or 4-year Bachelor’s Degrees.
On average, tuition fees range from CAD 15,000 to CAD 30,000 per year, depending on the level and field of study. After completing a Bachelor’s degree, students can pursue a 1-year or 2-year Postgraduate Diploma or a 1- to 2-year Master’s program.
Postgraduate diploma fees are generally similar to undergraduate costs, while Master’s programs tend to be slightly higher.
Education Types | Tuition fees in CAD |
PG Diploma, Diploma & Certificate Program | CAD 15,000 – 25,000 per year |
Undergraduate programs / bachelor's degree | CAD 15,000 – 30,000 per year |
Graduate programs / master's degree | CAD 17,000 – 35,000 per year |
PhD / Doctoral Programs | CAD 8,000 - 20,000 per year |
According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), international students applying for a study permit must show proof of funds of at least CAD 20,635 per year (excluding tuition fees) to support their living expenses in Canada.
However, actual costs vary based on factors like city, accommodation type, and lifestyle.
On average, Indian students spend between CAD 1,200 and CAD 3,000 per month, which includes rent, food, transportation, utilities, and health insurance.
Average Monthly Living Expenses in Canada
Expenses Type | Average Cost in CAD |
Accommodation | 400 - 1500 per month |
Transportation | 80 - 120 per month |
Food | 200 - 600 per month |
Insurance | 50 - 75 per month |
Books and other materials | 50 - 200 per month |
Internet | 50 - 100 per month |
Phone Subscription | 30 - 50 per month |
Laundry | 20 - 30 per month |
Entertainment | 100 - 120 per month |
Weekend Activities | 50 - 100 per month |
Groceries | 200 - 400 per month |
Canada is home to over 220 universities and 200+ public colleges and institutes, offering a wide range of programs designed to meet the academic goals and career ambitions of international students.
Whether you’re planning to pursue a Diploma, Undergraduate, Postgraduate, or Doctoral degree, Canadian institutions provide globally recognized qualifications that prepare you for success in today’s competitive world.
Here are some of the most popular and in-demand courses among Indian students:
These programs are available across Canada’s top universities and colleges, many of which also offer co-op programs that combine academic learning with practical work experience.
Canada offers a welcoming and safe environment for international students, with several cities ranking among the best in the world for education, lifestyle, and career opportunities.
Top student-friendly cities include:
Each of these cities is known for its academic excellence, high standard of living, and vibrant multicultural communities — making them ideal destinations for Indian students pursuing higher education abroad.
Canada is home to some of the world’s most prestigious universities, known for their high-quality education, research excellence, and multicultural learning environments. Institutions such as the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia consistently rank among the top universities globally.
These universities attract thousands of Indian students every year who seek academic excellence, career development, and international exposure.
Top-Ranked Universities in Canada (QS World University Rankings 2025)
Universities | QS World Ranking 2025 |
University of Toronto | 25 |
McGill University | 29 |
University of British Columbia | 38 |
University of Alberta | 96 |
University of Waterloo | 115 |
Western University | 120 |
Université de Montréal | 159 |
McMaster University | 176 |
University of Ottawa | 189 |
Queen's University at Kingston | 193 |
Why Choose a Canadian University?
Tip:
Each university has its own admission requirements and deadlines. Our counsellors at Search Education can help you shortlist the right universities in Canada based on your academic background, course preferences, and career goals.
Canada is one of the most popular destinations for Indian students, not only for its high-quality education but also for its strong and diverse job market. The country continues to offer excellent employment opportunities across sectors such as technology, healthcare, engineering, finance, and business management. On average, Indian students spend about CAD 12,000 per year on living expenses, many of which can be managed through part-time work during studies.
In 2025, over 76,000 new jobs were created in Canada, reducing the national unemployment rate to 6.6%. Despite global slowdowns, Canada’s tech industry has grown by over 11% since 2020, and the healthcare sector continues to expand due to an aging population and increased demand for skilled professionals.
After completing their studies at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), Indian students can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) — valid for up to three years.
This work experience is a major advantage for those looking to apply for Permanent Residency (PR) under the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or other immigration pathways.
Indian students generally need a minimum of 60% or a 2.8 GPA to apply for universities and colleges in Canada. Some institutions may accept lower scores if you have strong performance in other areas such as English proficiency tests (IELTS, PTE, TOEFL), standardized tests (GRE/GMAT), or relevant work experience and extracurricular achievements.
The total cost of studying in Canada depends on your program type and level of study. Below is an approximate breakdown:
Education Types | Average Annual Tuition Fees (CAD) |
PG Diploma, Diploma & Certificate Program | CAD 12,000 – 25,000 per year |
Undergraduate programs / bachelor's degree | CAD 15,000 – 30,000 per year |
Graduate programs / master's degree | CAD 17,000 – 35,000 per year |
PhD / Doctoral Programs | CAD 8,000 - 20,000 per year |
In addition, students should budget around CAD 10,000 – 12,000 per year for living expenses.
The student visa application fee for Indian students is as follows:
For dependents, an additional CAD 170 will be charged per person.
Applicants must book a biometric appointment at the nearest VFS Global Canada Visa Application Centre (available in major Indian cities like New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Ahmedabad).
Medical examinations must be completed through a panel physician approved by IRCC.
Yes, absolutely. Canada is among the most popular and trusted destinations for Indian students looking to study abroad. It offers:
With excellent job opportunities and strong student support services, Canada remains one of the best choices for higher education for Indian students.
To apply for a Canada student visa from India, you must show proof of sufficient funds to cover your first-year tuition fees and living expenses.
So, the minimum required bank balance is around CAD 35,635 (15,000 + 20,635), equivalent to approximately ₹22–23 lakh INR, depending on the exchange rate.
This proof can include bank statements, education loans, GIC certificates, or sponsor letters.
As of 2025, the Canada student visa approval rate for Indian students is approximately 60–65%, depending on the application quality and study stream.
You can improve your visa success rate by ensuring strong documentation, a well-written Statement of Purpose (SOP), and clear proof of financial capacity.
At Search Education India, our visa experts help you prepare a strong file that meets the latest IRCC standards.
Indian students can carry up to USD 2,500 (or equivalent) in cash when traveling abroad.
If you plan to carry more, you must declare it to Indian Customs at the airport before departure. Most students use international forex cards or wire transfers to manage funds once in Canada.
Yes, you can apply to some colleges and diploma programs in Canada with a minimum of 50% marks in Class 12.
However, for admission into top universities, a score of 70% or above is generally preferred.
Strong English proficiency (IELTS/PTE) and a good Statement of Purpose (SOP) can strengthen your application even with lower grades.
Yes, IELTS is the most widely accepted English language test for admission to Canadian universities and colleges.
Alternatively, many institutions also accept PTE Academic or TOEFL scores as proof of English proficiency.
Some universities may waive IELTS if you completed schooling in an English-medium institution and can provide supporting documents.
International students are allowed to work up to 24 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during semester breaks.
Students usually earn between CAD 13 to 25 per hour, which amounts to approximately CAD 1,000 to 1,440 per month depending on location, job type, and experience.
Some of the most common and flexible part-time jobs for students include:
On-Campus Jobs:
Off-Campus Jobs:
Finding a part-time job is generally manageable for students, especially in larger cities like Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal, where opportunities are higher.
Smaller towns may have fewer job openings, but with strong communication skills and networking, students can easily find work in retail, hospitality, or campus roles.
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