Explore Canada
Study in Canada.
From vibrant cities to quiet campus towns surrounded by nature, picture a place to grow. Explore Canada through the programmes, places and daily life that suit you.
At a glance
Studying in Canada, at a glance.
Main intakes
September (main), January, and some May starts
Bachelor’s degree
Usually 4 years (some 3)
Master’s degree
1 to 2 years
Teaching language
English and French (Quebec is mainly French-speaking)
Tuition (indicative)
Often around CAD 20,000 to 40,000+ a year
Varies by province, institution and programme. Colleges are often less expensive than universities.
Living costs (indicative)
CAD 23,448 a year
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s minimum living-cost figure for a single study permit applicant outside Quebec, for applications from 1 September 2026. Quebec sets its own amount.
General guidance, reviewed in November 2026 against official and published sources. Fees, living-cost figures and requirements change and differ by institution and course, so always confirm with the institution and official sources such as EduCanada and IRCC (Study in Canada) before making decisions.
Why Canada
What draws students to Canada.
Universities and colleges
Choose between research universities and career-focused colleges, including diplomas and certificates.
Work-integrated learning
Many programmes include co-op terms that combine study with paid work experience.
Multicultural cities
Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal are among the most diverse cities in the world.
Study opportunities
Subject areas with a wide choice of programmes.
Canada offers strong choice across universities and colleges, including co-op programmes. Start with what you want to learn, then check each course’s modules, teaching approach and entry requirements.
- Computer science and IT
- Engineering
- Business and management
- Health sciences
- Environmental studies
- Hospitality and tourism
Where to study
Examples of well-known institutions in Canada.
In no particular order. These are examples to start your research, not rankings or recommendations, and many other excellent institutions exist.
University of Toronto
- City
- Toronto
- Type
- Public research university
McGill University
- City
- Montreal
- Type
- Public research university
University of British Columbia
- City
- Vancouver
- Type
- Public research university
University of Waterloo
- City
- Waterloo
- Type
- Public research university
McMaster University
- City
- Hamilton
- Type
- Public research university
University of Alberta
- City
- Edmonton
- Type
- Public research university
Check programmes, entry requirements and fees on each institution’s official website.
Admission requirements
What applications usually ask for.
Requirements are set by each institution and course. Use this as a starting checklist, then follow the official course page.
Most applications
- Academic transcripts and certificates from your previous study.
- Evidence of your proficiency in the language of instruction.
- A personal statement or statement of purpose, written in your own words.
- One or two academic or professional references.
- A CV, particularly for postgraduate applications.
- A valid passport.
Specific to Canada
- Apply directly to each institution, or through a provincial service such as OUAC in Ontario.
- French-taught programmes need evidence of French.
- Some programmes ask for supplementary applications or portfolios.
- Check whether your programme is offered at a designated learning institution.
Scholarships
Scholarships worth researching.
Public information only. Eligibility, deadlines and amounts are set by each provider; WINAR does not provide or arrange funding.
University entrance scholarships
Most Canadian universities offer merit-based entrance awards to international students.
Government scholarships
EduCanada lists scholarships offered by the Government of Canada and partners.
Student life
Everyday life in Canada.
Prepare for winter
Winters can be long and cold in many regions; budget for warm clothing.
City or campus town
Compare large cities with smaller towns, where housing is often cheaper.
Healthcare
Health insurance arrangements differ by province; check what your institution provides.
Visas and immigration
Visa and immigration rules are set by the government of Canada and change regularly. WINAR does not provide immigration advice or services. Read the official guidance published by IRCC (Study in Canada), and speak to a suitably qualified and regulated adviser if you need advice on your own circumstances.
Questions, answered plainly
Questions about studying in Canada.
What would your Canada chapter need?
Discuss your study goals, the information still to verify and possible next steps with WINAR. Support scope and destination coverage are subject to confirmation.