Study costs for international students in Canada
Find out about tuition costs for your level of study. Canada’s post-secondary tuition fees are generally lower than colleges and universities in Australia, the U.K. and the U.S. (QS Top Universities, 2022).
All costs are in Canadian dollars. Find exchange rates with the currency converter from the Bank of Canada.
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Primary and secondary school costs
International students must pay annual tuition fees at elementary and high schools in Canada. There are different fees at different types of schools. For example:
- Public schools can range from $9,500 to $17,000 per year
- Private or independent day schools can range from $15,000 to $30,000 per year
- Private or independent boarding schools can range from $63,000 to $83,000 per year
Schools may also charge small fees for activities, such as:
- sports teams
- clubs
- field trips
Most students bring their own lunch to school. Some schools offer cafeterias or hot lunch programs where a student may purchase a meal.
For more details about studying in the Canadian province you’re interested in, please visit:
- Canadian Association of Public Schools - International (CAPS-I)
- Canadian Accredited Independent Schools (CAIS)
Language school costs
Language school courses are often based on a certain number of weeks. The cost of tuition varies by each school. Typically, tuition costs can range between $340 to $425 per week.
Find a language program from Languages Canada.
College and vocational school costs
Tuition fees for colleges and vocational schools vary depending on the program and school you choose. College programs vary in length. Some programs may only take a few months or others a few years. Typically, tuition can range from approximately $7,000 to $22,000 per year.
Many college programs also include a work placement or apprenticeship, so you may earn an income while you study.
On average, living costs are around $15,000 per year for college students (Universities Canada, 2019).
Find a college program and calculate what it will cost:
Tuition in Quebec
In Quebec, tuition costs vary based on your home country, your field of study and the institution you choose. Find out more at: Tuition fees and cost of living | Gouvernement du Québec (quebec.ca).
Starting in 2023, some international students in Quebec could be eligible for lower tuition. Students who qualify for the program will pay the same annual tuition as students from Quebec. Find more information about the exemption from additional fees from the government of Quebec.
University costs
Tuition fees for universities vary depending on the program and school you choose. On average in Canada, university tuition costs around:
- $36,100 per year for international undergraduate students (Statistics Canada, 2022)
- $21,100 per year for international graduate students (Statistics Canada, 2022)
On average, living costs are around $15,000 per year for university students (Universities Canada, 2019).
Find a program and calculate costs:
Tuition in Quebec
Starting in 2023, some international students in Quebec could be eligible for lower university tuition. Students who qualify for the program will pay the same annual tuition as students from Quebec. Find more information about the exemption from additional fees from the government of Quebec.
Scholarships to study in Canada
You may be eligible for a scholarship, fellowship or grant to study in Canada. The Government of Canada, our provinces and territories and many educational institutions offer funding for international students.
Many colleges and universities also offer scholarships. For more information, please contact your institution directly.
Discounts for students
Many airlines, bus companies and trains in Canada offer discounts to students. Find out about the international student identity card from the Canadian Federation of Students.
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