Cost of living in Canada
Find out how much it costs to live in Canada as an Indian student
Canada offers excellent opportunities for international students aspiring for a bright future. Renowned academic institutions, globally recognized degrees, and exposure to diverse cultures make it an attractive study destination. However, if managing the expenses of studying in Canada seems daunting, it is advisable to create a well-organized financial plan before embarking on your journey to your desired institution.
Here is a brief summary of the factors to consider when creating a budget for studying in Canada:
Accommodation cost
Most Canadian universities provide on-campus housing options for international students. Alternatively, you can explore off-campus housing options such as sharing an apartment with other Indian students. On-campus accommodations typically range from CAD 8,000 to CAD 10,000 per year, while the cost of a shared apartment can vary from CAD 400 to CAD 700 per month, depending on the location and time of year. It’s important to note that rental prices vary by city.
Another housing option is a homestay, where you live with a Canadian host family. For a homestay, you would typically pay a placement fee of CAD 200 and a monthly fee of CAD 750 to CAD 950, which includes meals and a room. Opting for a homestay allows you to engage in local activities and gain a deeper understanding of Canadian culture.
As part of our Student Essential Services, we assist you in finding suitable accommodations in Canada. We take into account your age, type of course, and budget to help you find a place that meets your specific needs.
Transport costs
Canada, being a developed country, boasts a well-established public transportation system with a wide range of commuting options such as trains, buses, and taxis. Additionally, walking and cycling are safe and popular alternatives that offer cost savings and contribute to a healthy lifestyle. However, the availability of these transportation options may vary depending on the distance to be traveled.
To provide you with a better understanding, let’s consider some examples. Toronto features the TTC (Toronto Transit Commission), which operates a comprehensive dual bus and subway system covering the entire city. Montreal, on the other hand, has the STM (Société de transport de Montréal), which manages a four-line subway network that spans across the city. In Vancouver, you’ll find the unique SkyTrain, a railway line that offers an affordable day pass for around CAD 9. This day pass allows for unlimited travel throughout the city for 24 hours.
These public transportation systems ensure convenient and efficient ways to navigate Canadian cities, providing easy access to various destinations and facilitating the mobility of residents and visitors alike.
Health insurance costs in Canada
Having health insurance is mandatory when studying in Canada, but the coverage will depend on the province in which you choose to study. For example, if you opt to study in Quebec, Manitoba, British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Labrador, or Newfoundland, you will be covered under the provincial government’s health plans, which will be tailored based on the duration of your stay. However, if you decide to study in any other province, you will need to arrange for private health insurance.
While the cost of studying in Canada is undoubtedly an investment, the opportunities and quality of life make it worthwhile. Rest assured, there are ways to manage your expenses effectively. One option is to work part-time while studying. This not only allows you to take control of your finances but also enhances your personal and professional skills.
If you need guidance and support in planning your studies in Canada, our team of international education specialists at Urvi Technologies is always available to assist you. Feel free to reach out to us, and we will be more than happy to help you navigate the process.
Living cost
Living in Canada can bring about significant differences compared to your home country. It is crucial to familiarize yourself with the Canadian lifestyle and the cost of living in the specific city where you plan to reside. Quebec, in particular, stands out as one of the more affordable cities in Canada, with a lower cost of living compared to other cities.
During the student permit application process, you will need to demonstrate to the Canadian government that you have sufficient funds to cover your financial expenses. This requirement should be kept in mind when planning your budget.
When creating your budget, it is important to consider the following expenses:
Communication costs: Allocate funds for phone bills and data plans, as you will likely be in frequent contact with friends and family back home. Look for affordable calling plans and student discounts. On average, you can expect to spend around CAD 20 per month.
Textbooks and supplies: Purchasing textbooks can be expensive, especially for specialized courses such as engineering, where prices can range from CAD 250 to CAD 350. Fields like law, medicine, and pharmacy may have even higher costs. To manage this expense, consider buying used books, opting for digital versions, or utilizing library resources.
Personal expenses and incidentals: This category includes expenses like laundry, toiletries, clothing, dining out, and other everyday items. The amount spent will depend on your chosen lifestyle.
By carefully considering and budgeting for these expenses, you can better manage your finances while studying in Canada.