Scholarships, Intakes and Cost of Studying in Canada

Canada immigration
Study Abroad > Study in Canada > Scholarships, Intakes and Cost of Studying in Canada

Canada continues to be a preferred study destination for Indian students due to its multicultural cities, world-class universities, and post-study employment opportunities. Whether you’re a Voyager seeking global exposure and the value of an international degree or a Builder aiming to establish a career abroad, understanding scholarships and cost of studying in Canada is essential. Knowing the available scholarships, tuition fees, living expenses, and university intakes helps students plan their finances and choose a study pathway that aligns with their goals and timeline.

Scholarships to Study in Canada

There is no single scholarship that covers everyone. Funding comes from several sources, and most are competitive. Here are the main categories of scholarships to study in Canada:

Government Scholarships in Canada

Supported by provincial or federal governments. These are often merit-based and are more prevalent at the postgraduate and research levels. Examples include the Canada Graduate Research Scholarship – Doctoral (CGRS-D) and the Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS).

University Scholarships in Canada

Provided directly by universities, either automatically upon admission or through a separate application. Example scholarships include the International Leader of Tomorrow Award (UBC) and the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto).

College & Institution Scholarships

Many Canadian colleges offer entrance awards and merit-based awards. These are typically smaller than university awards but worth checking for.

Scholarships for Bachelor’s Students

Typically, entrance scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic performance, extracurricular activities, or leadership. Some are automatic, while others require essays and references.

Scholarships for Master’s Students

Generally, these scholarships are associated with academic excellence, departmental funding, assistantships, or research. Course-based master’s programs typically receive less funding than research-based ones.

What Can a Canada Scholarship Cover?

Coverage varies widely. Some awards are small one-time entrance amounts, while a few are fully funded. Depending on the scholarship, it may cover:

Tuition Fees: partially or, in rare cases, fully

Living Expenses: a monthly or annual stipend, mostly for research and graduate awards

Accommodation: On-campus housing support or a housing allowance

Travel Expenses: airfare or relocation support

Other Study-related Costs: books, health insurance, research costs, or conference funding

How to Apply for Scholarships in Canada

1. Find Eligible Scholarships

Check university websites, government portals, and your program’s funding page. Begin the process prior to submitting an application for admission.

2. Verify the Eligibility Requirements

Be sure to look at nationality, academic level, minimum grades, program, and whether a separate application is needed.

3. Prepare Documents

Typical requirements include transcripts, a statement of purpose or essay, recommendation letters, a CV, and proof of English proficiency.

4. Submit Applications

Some scholarships are considered automatically with your admission application, while others need a separate submission.

5. Meet Deadlines

Scholarship deadlines often fall earlier than admission deadlines. Missing one can mean losing the award for that intake.

Cost of Studying in Canada

Tuition fees, living expenses, and one-time costs such as airfare, health insurance, application fees, and study permit fees determine the overall cost of studying in Canada. Exploring scholarships and cost of studying in Canada can help international students plan their budgets and identify financial support opportunities. The total cost varies depending on the city, institution, and program, with smaller cities generally offering lower living expenses than major cities like Toronto and Vancouver.

Tuition Fees in Canada

Fees below are broad, approximate yearly ranges in Canadian dollars. Always confirm the exact figure on your institution’s website.

  • Bachelor’s tuition fees: roughly CAD 20,000 to 40,000+ per year
  • Master’s tuition fees: roughly CAD 15,000 to 35,000+ per year
  • College program fees (diplomas and certificates): roughly CAD 14,000 to 25,000 per year

Variation by institution and program: The cost of studying in Canada depends on the course, institution, and province. In-demand courses in Canada, such as engineering, medicine, business, and IT, may have higher tuition fees than arts or humanities programs. International students generally pay more than domestic students, and fees vary between universities and colleges.

Cost of Living in Canada for Students

The cost of living in Canada for international students varies by city, lifestyle, and housing choice. Common expenses include:

  • Accommodation: usually the largest expense. On-campus housing, shared apartments, and private rentals all differ widely in price.
  • Food: groceries and eating out. Cooking at home keeps this low.
  • Transportation: monthly transit passes, often discounted for students.
  • Health insurance: required in most provinces. Some universities include it in student fees, and some provinces provide provincial coverage.
  • Personal expenses: phone, internet, clothing, entertainment, and winter gear.

Many students spend around CAD 15,000 to 25,000 a year on living costs, and even more in expensive cities.

Financial Proof & Study Permit Funds

When you apply for a Canadian study permit, you must prove you can support yourself. Your funds must cover three things:

1. First-year tuition fees

2. Living expenses, at a minimum amount set by IRCC

3. Return travel costs

Along with tuition and return travel, a single student outside Quebec must spend at least CAD 23,448 per year on living expenses. This figure is updated annually, and applications submitted after 1 September 2026 fall under the higher amount. Family members increase the cost, and Quebec has rules. Always check the IRCC website for the current amount before applying. Assist

Keep your documents clear and consistent because IRCC examines where your money came from and its future availability. Be ready to explain how you will fund multi-year programs.

Intakes to Study in Canada

Each year, Canadian institutions conduct numerous intakes. The appropriate option for you is contingent upon your course, institution, and the preliminary timing of your application. There is no inherent superiority between any intake.

1. Fall Intake in Canada (September)

Fall is the main intake with the most programs. Fall semesters at most universities and colleges offer bachelor’s, master’s, diploma, and postgraduate certificate programs. Many fall-only research-based master’s programs offer more scholarships and on-campus housing. Early preparation is important since applications open months in advance.

2. Winter Intake in Canada (January)

Winter intake is the second major period. Many colleges and universities offer it, but the program selection is narrower than in Fall. It’s for students who missed the Fall deadline, need more time to prepare documents or meet language requirements, or have a January-starting course. Check program availability early because some courses aren’t offered in winter.

3. Spring/Summer Intake in Canada (May)

A smaller number of institutions, mostly colleges, offer a Spring/Summer intake. Program choice is limited, and some universities offer only selected courses. If you are considering it, confirm with the institution that your course and scholarships are available for that intake.

Choosing a course, managing immigration paperwork, and budgeting can be overwhelming. Understanding the scholarships and cost of studying in Canada helps students plan their education and manage expenses effectively. CanApprove, a trusted immigration consultant, helps students select courses and universities that match their budget and profile. The team also provides guidance on scholarship opportunities, admissions, financial planning, and study permit applications, including proof-of-funds requirements. For personalized guidance on studying in Canada, contact CanApprove.

Listen to our CEO, Adv. Binoy P.R., share expert insights on immigration and visa pathways in Dhinamalar’s podcast.

FAQs About Scholarships, Intakes & Costs of Studying in Canada

How can I get a scholarship to study in Canada?
Research scholarships offered by universities, colleges, and governments; check eligibility; prepare strong academic and supporting documents; and apply before the deadlines. Start early, since some awards need a separate application.
Are there scholarships to study in Canada for international students?
Yes. Options exist at the government, university, and college levels. They are competitive, and many are merit-based.
Can international students get university scholarships in Canada?
Yes. Many universities offer entrance awards and merit scholarships to international students. Some are automatic on admission, while others require a separate application.
What can a Canada scholarship cover?
It may cover tuition, living expenses, accommodation, travel, or other study costs, depending on the award. Most cover only part of the total cost.
How much does it cost to study in Canada?
Tuition typically ranges from about CAD 14,000 to 40,000+ per year depending on the program and institution, plus living costs. Exact costs depend on your course and city.
What is the average cost of living in Canada for students?
Many students spend roughly CAD 15,000 to 25,000 a year, and more in expensive cities. Accommodation is usually the highest expense.
How much funding is required to study in Canada?
You must show first-year tuition, return travel costs, and the IRCC living-expense amount.
What are the main intakes in Canada?
Fall (September), Winter (January), and Spring/Summer (May). Fall is the largest, and spring/summer is the most limited.
Which intake is available for master’s courses in Canada?
Most master’s programs begin in fall, but some have winter or spring/summer intakes. Whose availability, however, depends on the program and university.

Canada Education

Recent Blogs