Cost of Living in Canada for Indian Students 2024-25: Know All Expenses

Cost of Living in Canada for Indian Students 2024-25: Know All Expenses

Edited By Prabhjyot Kaur | Updated on Jun 15, 2024 02:49 PM IST

Canada is a popular choice and is among the 5 most popular countries for studying abroad in the world. The beautiful landscape, top-notch universities, and high-quality student life are some of the major reasons why Canada is so popular among students who wish to study outside the country.

However, before making the move, it's important to understand the cost of living in Canada for international students 2024.

Accommodation in Canada is one of the most significant expenses among the cost of living in Canada for international students per month 2024. The cost of accommodation Canada for students varies depending on the city and the type of accommodation. Major cities like Toronto and Vancouver tend to have higher rents compared to smaller cities. One must also consider the fact that monthly expenses in canada for single person varies from the indian family of 4.

On average, renting a one-bedroom apartment in a city center can cost between CAD 1,500 to CAD 2,500 per month, while outside the city center, the cost can range from CAD 1,200 to CAD 2,000 per month.

How much money is required to study in Canada? Living expenses in Canada for international students range from CAD 10,000 - 20,000 depending on the city, university, and level of study. This amount includes all necessary expenses such as rent, food, transportation, clothing, and so on.

For candidates who wish to study in Canada it is always better to have a fair idea about the living expenses before they go. Additionally, students can look for various scholarship opportunities in Canada before planning their budget for living in the country. Read the complete article to learn more details about the cost of living in Canada 2024 for Indian students.

Cost of Living in Canada for International Students

What is the living expense in Canada for international students? The average cost of living in Canada 2024 is around 206.8% higher than the cost of living in an Indian city. The expenses may vary depending on the Canada lifestyle of the students and their study requirements. The overall budget includes living expenses in canada for international students such as accommodation, food, grocery, utensils, clothing, healthcare, and other significant expenses. A vivid review of the major cost of living in Canada for international students is given below:

1. Education cost in Canada

The tuition fees in Canadian universities are 27% more economical than in the USA. This since Canada universities offer some of the best financial aid in the world to their international students. The average tuition fees in Canadian universities are CAD 15,700 to 53,538 per annum.

Education Expenses in Canada:

Course Level

Annual Tuition Fee in Canada (CAD)

Undergraduate

15,700 to 53,538

Post Graduate

13,742 to 45,800

MBA

33,424

PhD Course

7,000 to 15,142


2. Accommodation costs in Canada

In Canada, on average, rent is approximately 503.0% higher than in India. The rent and residential costs are the most substantial aspect of the cost of living in Canada for Indian students. Rental costs are in the range of 3000 to 7,500 CAD per year for student accommodation on the university campus. Students who want to study in Canada can save up on accommodation expenses by sharing flats or applying for university accommodation. The rent or the accommodation cost is one of the major living expenses in canada for international students per month/

Cost of Living in Canada Rent:

Accommodation

Cost

Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre

1,917

Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre

1,730

Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre

3,131

Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside of Centre

2,638

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2. Food costs in Canada

The cost of living in Canada in terms of food and groceries is inexpensive but not precisely cheap especially when eating out at a restaurant or a bar. The cost of living in Canada for Indian students towards food can be saved up by cooking at home instead of frequenting local cafes and eateries daily. The average monthly expenses in Canada for food are usually around CAD 150-250 per month.

Food Expenses in Canada

Particulars

Costs

Milk

CAD 2.93

Rice

CAD 5.06

Eggs

CAD 4.73

Apples

CAD 5.73

Banana

CAD 1.95

Oranges

CAD 5.19

Tomato

CAD 5.70

Potato

CAD 3.57

Onion

CAD 3.59

Water

CAD 2.45


3. Clothing expenses in Canada

Clothing is considerably affordable in Canada but considering the severe winter in Canada, one may have to invest in winter clothing in order to stay in Canada. Clothing costs are between CAD 70 to 100 per year.

Clothing Expenses in Canada:

Items

Cost in CAD

1 Pair of Jeans

79.96

1 Summer Dress in a Chain Store

56.76

1 Pair of Running Shoes

121.48

1 Pair of Men Leather Business Shoes

150.85


4. Transportation Costs in Canada

The average for transportation in the top Canadian cities comes to CAD 100-150 per month. It is around 8% of the total cost of living in Canada for Indian students. In Canada, most cities have a well-connected public transport system. Students can apply for student passes and discounts to cut down their average cost of living in Canada. Transportation must be considered as one of the living expenses in canada for international students 2024.

Transportation Costs in Canada:

Particulars

Cost in CAD

One-way Ticket (Local Transport)

3.50

Monthly Pass (Regular Price)

105.00

Taxi Start (Normal Tariff)

4.50


5. Medical Expenses in Canada

International students living in Canada should have a health insurance policy. It is one of the primary requirements for Canada student visa applications for international students. Some provinces offer the facility of covering the expenses under the provincial health plan. The cost of a health insurance policy can range from 300 to 800 CAD per year based on the policy that you have chosen.

Healthcare Expenses in Canada:

Name of the Plan

Approximate Costs

iMED

CAD 225

AMS/GSS Health and Dental Plan

CAD 176

BC MSP Programme

CAD 74


Factors Affecting the Cost of Living in Canada

The study in Canada cost is comparatively higher than the majority of Indian cities. However, there are a number of factors that can impact the cost of living in Canada for international students. Meanwhile, the following are some of the significant factors responsible for the high living costs in the country:

  • Location: The location of the universities and cities influences the overall average expenses of the students. For instance, Canada's major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal have higher living costs compared to the smaller cities and towns in Canada.

  • Accommodation: Living on campus can be more convenient and cheaper than an apartment or shared house off campus. The choice of accommodation can influence the overall Canada price for international students.

  • Lifestyle Choices: The choice of lifestyles of the students and their personal expenses are among the major determinants of the cost of living in Canada. Eating outside more frequently and social activities can significantly impact your budget.

  • Transportation: Major Canadian cities offer public transportation facilities for students with student discounts. Students can avoid using personal transportation including private cars to reduce the maintenance costs.

  • Health Insurance: All international students studying in Canada are required to have mandatory health insurance. This might add an additional cost to the monthly expenses in Canada.

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Living Costs in Top Canadian Cities

The cost of living in Canada for international students will vary with some cities being costlier than others. The average cost of living in Canada in cities such as Vancouver and Toronto is more expensive when compared to cities such as Quebec. Living costs in Canada for international students are highly dependent on lifestyle choices as well. The average cost of living in Canada is around CAD 18,000 per year. A rough idea of living expenses in Canada for different cities is given below:

Cost of Living in Canada for International Students:

Top cities in Canada

Cost of living in Canada per month

Montreal

CAD 15,000

Vancouver

CAD 17,000

Toronto

CAD 22,000

Ottawa

CAD 15,000

Quebec

CAD 17,000


Cost of Living in Canada vs India

On average, the cost of living in Canada is 206.4% higher than in India. House rents in Canada are around 502.2% higher than in India. Meanwhile, the average salaries earned in Canada after completion of degrees are quite high and nowhere comparable to salaries in India. To help candidates get a vivid idea of the cost of living comparisons between Canada and India, we have covered a comparative analysis of both countries.

Living Costs in Canada vs India:

Expense Item

Cost of living in Canada per month

Costs in India per Month

Accommodation

CAD 1,917

Rs 5,000-15,000

Food expenses

CAD 150-250

Rs 500-2000

Transportation

CAD 100-150

Rs 1,000-3,000

Utility costs

CAD 220

Rs 8,000

Healthcare

CAD 250

Rs 2,000

Miscellaneous

CAD 200

Rs 1000


Top 5 Tips for Saving Money in Canada

Canada offers a fantastic student experience, but managing your money can be tricky. Here are some tips to help international students save on living costs: The cost of education together with living expenses can be a hard task to manage. So, in order to make these things affordable the students can work part-time jobs and apply for scholarships.

  • Scholarships and Education Loans

Students can apply for scholarships in Canada and grants based on their academic performance. These scholarships cover expenses like travel, tuition costs, health, and other significant aspects of studying in Canada. Students can also apply for different education loans to reduce their cost of living Canada.

Also Read: MBA scholarships for International Students in Canada

  • Part-time job in Canada

Students can consider working while studying in Canada to manage their Canada lifestyle. The Canadian government allows up to 20 hours/per week for part-time jobs in Canada for international students. However, it must be noted that it is not possible to cover the total cost of living in Canada for international students through part-time jobs alone as every earned income in Canada is subject to tax deductions.

  • Student Cards in Canada

Canada offers an internationally recognised card for international students to maintain their Canada lifestyle while studying. This card offers 150,000 discounts that can be used by students in Canada and while traveling abroad in over 130 countries. The discounts are available in departmental stores, bookstores, restaurants, and other public organisations.

  • Use Public Transporation

Students can minimise their living expenses in Canada by avoiding private transportation. Most Canadian cities have efficient public transportation for international students. Students can also apply for monthly passes and student discounts to reduce their expenses in transportation. Students can also walk or use cycles to cover short distances.

  • Be mindful of spending

Students can reduce their average cost of living in Canada by managing their personal expenses carefully. Canada offers numerous low-budget entertainment activities for students. However, students can minimise their overall budget by spending low on food, accommodation, transportation, and other miscellaneous expenses.

Top Universities in Canada - Estimated Costs of Living 2024

Al living expenses in canada for international students 2024 is a major consideration before applying to any of the universities in that nation. One must check the estimated living costs of some of the top universities in Canada. So, here is the list tabulated below:

Top Universities in Canada:

University

QS World University Ranking 2025

Estimated Living expenses in Canada

University of Toronto

25

CAD 76,000 - 86,000 (annual)

McGill University

29

CAD 1300-1800 (monthly)

University of British Columbia

38

CAD 5500-10,200 (monthly)

Université de Montréal

159

CAD 1,500-3,000 (monthly)

University of Alberta

96

CAD 21,320 - 28,640 (annual)

McMaster University

176

CAD 43,000 (annual)

University of Waterloo

115

CAD 19000-23700 (annual)

Western University

120

CAD 20,960-26,600 (annual)

University of Ottawa

189

CAD 62,341 (annual)


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Canada costly for living?

Yes, Canada is considered to be an expensive country to live in for international students. The cost of living in Canada for international students per month ranges from CAD 10,000 - 20,000. Additionally, the range may increase depending on the personal expenses of the students.

2. How much money do you need in Canada to live?

The average living expenses in Canada for international students per month range from CAD 10,000 - 20,000. Therefore, students who are planning to study in Canada must need a minimum budget to maintain their living expenses in Canada.

3. Is Canada costly than India?

Yes, Canada is considered costlier than India. The cost of living in Canada is, on average, 206.8% higher than in India.

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Questions related to

Get answers from students and experts

Hello there,

NEET (National Eligibility cum Entrance Test) is primarily an entrance exam for medical courses in India. If you're considering studying medicine in Canada, here are some key points to consider:

NEET and Medical Studies in Canada:

  1. Not Required for Admission : NEET is not required for admission to medical schools in Canada. Canadian medical schools have their own admission criteria, which typically include undergraduate degree requirements and standardized tests like the MCAT (Medical College Admission Test).

  2. Eligibility for International Students : To apply to medical schools in Canada, you usually need to complete a bachelor's degree (often with a focus on science) and achieve a good score on the MCAT.

  3. Application Process : Each Canadian medical school has specific admission requirements. It's important to research individual schools to understand their criteria, including GPA requirements, volunteer experience, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.

  4. Recognition of Indian Medical Degrees : If you complete your medical studies in Canada, your degree will be recognized, but if you study medicine in India, you’ll need to go through the Medical Council of Canada (MCC) exams to practice in Canada.

    Recommendations:

  • Research Canadian Medical Schools : Look into the specific requirements for the medical schools you are interested in.

  • Prepare for MCAT : If you're aiming for medical school in Canada, focus on preparing for the MCAT and meeting the prerequisite courses for admission.

    Conclusion:

NEET is not necessary for studying medicine in Canada. Instead, focus on completing an undergraduate degree, taking the MCAT, and meeting the admission requirements of Canadian medical schools.


I hope this answer helps you. If you have more queries then feel free to share your questions with us we will be happy to assist you.

Thank you and wishing you all the best for your bright future.


Hello Aspirant

Foreign Universities require a candidate to have a 4-year Bachelor's degree from a recognized University/college with enough credits. The problem that many Indian students face is that they have a degree in bachelor's but in a 3-year course. This stops them from pursuing further studies at a foreign university. Still, some universities offer bridge courses for such students. For this, they need to reach their universities 2-3 months prior and do the Bridge course. But all of this depends on the university. This is why NEP introduced the new 4-year bachelor's course.

The best course of action is to go to the Canadian Universities' websites that you wish to join and contact their admissions office via mail and talk to them about your situation, they'll help you out with it. Also, when you sit for their interviews and have a valid answer for your gap year after your Bachelor's, it would be great if you have work experience for that duration.

Hope this helps.

The eligibility criteria for MHCET (Maharashtra Common Entrance Test) can be based on domicile rather than place of birth.

MHCET often considers domicile, not necessarily the place of birth, for exam eligibility. Since your son has completed his entire school education in Maharashtra, this might strengthen his case for domicile in the state.

Overall, while being born in Canada might not be a direct disqualifier, having completed his schooling in Maharashtra strengthens his case for domicile in the state. By gathering documents to prove his residence and referring to the official MHCET website or helpline, your son can get a clearer picture of his eligibility for the exam.

https://www.careers360.com/exams/mht-cet

I hope it helps!


Hello aspirant,

Canada offers ample opportunities in the field of radiology. With a B.Sc in Radiology, you can explore various career paths in Canadian healthcare institutions, including hospitals, diagnostic imaging centers, and clinics. It's advisable to research the specific requirements and licensing procedures for radiology professionals in the province where you plan to settle, as regulations may vary. Pursuing further certifications or examinations recognized by Canadian authorities can enhance your prospects in the field of radiology in Canada.

Thank you

Hope this information helps you.

Dear aspirant !!

Hope you are doing good !!

Indian students must have an MBBS and clear USMLE tests to gain admission to post graduation after MBBS abroad in USA . It is important to understand that an MD/Doctor of Medicine (USA equivalent of MBBS in India) degree alone is not enough to practise medicine. A Medical PG in any specialisation is necessary..

Hope it helps you !!

Thanking you !!

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