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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:

Schools may also charge small fees for activities, such as:

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:

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:

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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:

On average, living costs are around $15,000 per year for university students (Universities Canada, 2019).

Find a program and calculate costs:

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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.

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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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