Study in Canada
Tuition, visas, work rights, and settlement options explained.
Book free consultationWhy You Should Study In Canada
Canada does not work the same way for every student. Two people can both hold Canadian degrees and have completely different post-graduation outcomes depending on which province they chose, which type of programme they enrolled in, and whether that programme qualifies them for the Post-Graduation Work Permit.
That matters because the PGWP is not just a visa. It is the bridge between your degree and the Canadian experience you need to qualify for permanent residency. Without it, you graduate and you leave. With the right programme in the right province, you graduate, stay, build experience, and have a realistic pathway to building your life in Canada.
This page helps you decide:
- Whether your programme type is generally eligible for the PGWP under the current 2026 rules
- Which province fits your budget, career goals, and family situation
- What the real monthly cost of living looks like across different cities
- How to structure your proof of funds correctly before you apply
- Whether Canada is genuinely the right long-term pathway for you
Who Canada is best for
Solo students
Solo students who want a strong post-study work route and real job-market options
Students with dependants
Students with dependants who want clearer family planning (schools, housing, childcare, budgets)
Career switchers
Students interested in co-op or internship programmes who want practical experience alongside their degree
Long-term settlement seekers
Long-term planners considering immigration pathways after study
What it actually costs
Tuition range
Typically from CAD $13,000 per year. Some programmes such as MBA, engineering, and specialised courses may be significantly higher depending on the institution.
Proof of funds
Your first-year tuition as per your letter of acceptance, plus minimum living expenses set by immigration authorities. For a single applicant, this is currently CAD $22,895 for one year (excluding tuition and travel). Higher amounts are required if dependants are included. You must also show how you plan to fund the full duration of your studies.
Visa fees
Study permit fee: CAD $150. Other costs to consider: biometrics fee, medical examination if required, health insurance which varies by province, flight costs, initial accommodation deposit. Visa processing times: processing times vary by country and can take several weeks to a few months. Apply as early as possible.
Living cost estimates
CAD $1,200 to $2,800 per month depending on city and family size. Toronto and Vancouver are the most expensive. Halifax, Winnipeg, and Calgary are significantly more affordable.
Note: We'll confirm your exact budget based on your city, school, and family size during your consultation.
Key things to note
- PGWP eligibility: University students at bachelor's, master's, and PhD level are generally eligible for the PGWP. Students in college diploma or certificate programmes need their specific programme to appear on a government-approved list. Not all institutions qualify for post-study work, so programme selection is important for long-term plans.
- Provincial Attestation Letter: Most undergraduate and college applicants now require a PAL from their province as part of the study permit application. Students applying for master's or PhD programmes at public universities from January 2026 are exempt.
- Work while studying: Students can typically work part-time during term time. Do not build a budget that depends on this.
- Dependants: Spouses or common-law partners of eligible students may apply for an open work permit. Eligibility depends on programme type and level of study, so course selection is important.
Schools / regions
Provinces matter in Canada. We'll help you decide based on:
Ontario
Ontario is Canada's economic centre. Toronto is the country's financial and business capital with the highest concentration of corporate employers, internship opportunities, and professional networks. It is also the most expensive city in Canada. Ottawa is quieter, more affordable, and strong for public sector, government, and technology careers.
British Columbia
Vancouver is one of the most internationally diverse cities in Canada. It is particularly strong for technology, film, environmental sciences, and Asia-Pacific business connections. Costs are high but the career access and quality of life attract students who want both urban opportunity and extraordinary natural surroundings.
Alberta
Calgary gives students a strong major-city experience without Toronto or Vancouver prices. Alberta has no provincial sales tax. The city has solid industry across energy, engineering, finance, and logistics, and a growing tech sector.
Atlantic Canada
Halifax has one of the most welcoming and affordable student environments in Canada. Living costs are noticeably lower than central and western cities, and Atlantic provinces have their own immigration pathways that can make the route to permanent residency more accessible for graduates who remain in the region.
How Shuri supports you end-to-end
Timeline:
Profile review (budget, background, dependants, timelines)
Country and school pathway planning
Document and application support
Visa readiness and submission guidance
Pre-departure planning (housing, guidance and initial plan)
Profile review (budget, background, dependants, timelines)
Country and school pathway planning
Document and application support
Visa readiness and submission guidance
Pre-departure planning (housing, guidance and initial plan)
Are you ready to plan this properly?
We help you choose the right country, school and pathway based on your real situation.
Book a Free Consultation