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Study in Canada for Indian Students 2027: Fees, Visa & Admission

An Indian student on his graduation day after studying in Canada.

Canada 2027 is a good choice for Indian students. In recent times, the Canadian government has come up with a target of having 150,000 new international student intakes in the year. In the latest 2027-2029 Immigration Levels Plan, there is consistency in the target, which provides a lot of clarity to both the institutions and the students.

Moreover, Canada has discontinued the Direct Stream pathway; hence, Indian students have to go through the usual procedure for a study permit. However, the encouraging factor here is that while a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) is still acceptable as proof of funds, it is not mandatory for all.

Why do Indian students choose Canada as their study destination?

There are several reasons why Indian students choose to study in Canada. These include the best Canadian universities, a variety of trending programmes and courses, a diverse Indian community in the country and job opportunities to create careers.

Canada offers undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral programmes in such areas as business, engineering, computer science, health care, finance and social sciences. Moreover, you can choose between universities and colleges depending on your academic background and career plans.

Another reason is the Post-Graduation Work Permit. If you meet the requirements, applying for a Post-Graduation Work Permit lets you build professional work experience in Canada.

What are the best universities to study in Canada?

Canada has 10 universities ranked among the top 230 institutions worldwide in the QS World University Rankings 2027. These universities offer undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across business, engineering, computer science, healthcare, science and other disciplines.

Here are the top 10 Canadian universities, their global QS rankings and some popular courses you can explore.

UniversityQS WUR 2027 (World Rank)Popular courses and study areas
McGill University30Management, Finance, Computer Science, Engineering, Medicine and Life Sciences
University of Toronto32Business, Computer Science, Engineering, Life Sciences, Data Science and Economics
University of British Columbia45Business, Engineering, Computer Science, Environmental Sciences and Psychology
University of Alberta96Engineering, Business, Computing, Nursing, Agricultural and Life Sciences
University of Waterloo=113Computer Science, Mathematics, Software Engineering, Data Science and Business
Western University=142Business, Engineering, Health Sciences, Psychology and Economics
Université de Montréal=162Computer Science, Engineering, Business Administration, Life Sciences and Social Sciences
McMaster University=174Engineering, Computer Science, Health Sciences, Business and Life Sciences
Queen's University=179Commerce, Engineering, Computer Science, Health Sciences and Economics
University of Ottawa=228Computer Science, Engineering, Business Administration, Finance and Health Sciences

How much does it cost to study in Canada from India in INR?

Studying in Canada can vary in cost depending on which university you attend, what course you take, where in the province you live and your lifestyle. You should budget for your first year, including tuition fees, living expenses, travel and personal expenses.

Average tuition fees per year are:

Study levelAverage annual tuition (CAD)Approx. INR
UndergraduateCAD 41,746₹27.45 lakh
GraduateCAD 24,028₹15.80 lakh

Living costs and proof of funds

You will need to show IRCC that you can pay your tuition, living expenses and transportation without depending on employment in Canada.

For study permit applications, you need to show CAD 23,448 for one year's living expenses as proof of financial support, excluding tuition and transportation.

ExpenseCADApprox. INR
Annual living funds23,448₹15.42 lakh
Undergraduate average tuition41,746₹27.45 lakh
Graduate average tuition24,028₹15.80 lakh

Based on these averages, if you are doing a bachelor’s, you would need approximately ₹42.87 lakh for tuition and the prescribed first-year living funds. A graduate student would need approximately ₹31.22 lakh.

How can you study in Canada after high school?

Before you apply:

  1. Check whether you need a study permit.

  2. Select a school, college, or university. You can use GradCheck to match your profile with 850+ universities across popular destinations. It is free and do not ask for sign up. 

  3. Find out about student life in Canada.

While you apply:

  1. Meet the requirements for obtaining a study permit.

  2. Gather the required documents.

  3. Make electronic copies of your documents.

  4. Have a valid card available to pay the fees.

After submitting your application:

  1. Schedule an appointment to have your biometrics collected

  2. Check your application status using your unique client identifier (UCI) and application number.

  3. If your application is approved, you’ll receive a port of entry letter of introduction confirming that you’re permitted to study in Canada. Please note that this document is an introductory letter, not an official study permit.

  4. You must bring the letter with you and present it to a border services officer when you arrive in Canada. If necessary, they’ll also issue you an electronic travel authorisation (eTA) or a visitor visa (temporary resident visa) for entry into Canada. That works as a Canada student visa.

Documents required for a study permit

  1. Proof of payment

  2. A photocopy of the information page of your valid passport

  3. Two photographs that meet the specified requirements

  4. A letter of acceptance from the institution where you intend to study

  5. A PAL/TAL for a bachelor’s degree

  6. Proof of financial support

  7. A medical fitness report

  8. A police clearance report

  9. A photocopy of your marriage licence or certificate, if applicable

Are work permits available in Canada?

Yes. Eligible international graduates can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) as a work permit after study in Canada to gain work experience.

How much can international students work while studying?

You can work:

  • Up to 24 hours weekly away from campus while classes are ongoing.

  • Unlimited hours during breaks.

Official authorisation must be included on your study permit before you can legally work.

Canada scholarships 2027

You can study in Canada with many funding options like merit-based scholarships, scholarships for Master’s degree courses at universities or departments, and doctoral-level scholarships through assistantships and fellowship programs.

Are there any student loans to study in Canada?

Yes. As an Indian student, you can receive international student loans to study in Canada from banks or financial institutions. The lender will look at your admission, academic history and financial situation. IRCC also accepts education loans from banks as proof of funds. As long as you have enough money available, this will be accepted.

How can Gradstar help?

Numerous alternatives exist for studying in Canada, and the process can be made much easier with the correct support. Gradstar can help with that. Our study abroad in Canada consultants help you at every stage so you can proceed with confidence.

Gradstar assists you with end-to-end services:

  • Select educational programs and establishments that follow PGWP regulations.

  • Recognise exemptions, PAL or TAL requirements, and study permission caps.

  • Create compelling applications with the appropriate proof of financing.

  • Verify your eligibility for a dependant.

  • Keep abreast of any changes to IRCC policy that may impact your preparations.

We also offer support with IELTS, visa guidance, accommodation bookings and orientation sessions. We are free, provide unbiased information, offer a tailored service and have vast experience globally.

Tips for international students studying in Canada

1. Always say please, thank you and sorry.

2. Try your best to be on time for any social occasions, appointments or classes.

3. When you are in a café, on the bus or at a college office, always queue properly.

4. Keep an open mind because Canada is a very cosmopolitan country where people from all over the world coexist and study together. 

5. Take out the bins and help to keep public and communal areas clean and well maintained.

6. Improve your soft skills by attending and taking part in events and clubs around campus.

7. Always leave your door open. In Canada, little things like this are really valued and common.

8. Try some Canadian food and, in return, offer your own!

9. Take part in outdoor activities. Go hiking, skiing, and animal viewing in the Rocky Mountains, which straddle British Columbia and Alberta.

10. Recognise the educational system. Discussions, proactive assignment management, idea sharing, and original work submission are all required of you.

Wrapping Up

In short, if you wish to pursue higher education in Canada by 2027, be proactive with your research. Be aware of the requirements and seek help from experts to avoid rejection.

Take time to prepare all your documentation and to follow the entire admission and visa process.

For any study abroad after 12th assistance, Gradstar’s professional study in Canada consultants can walk you through the process. Book your end-to-end free consultation with Gradstar's counsellors now.

FAQs

  1. Can I study in Canada without IELTS?

    Yes. IELTS is not a universal requirement set by IRCC for every study permit applicant. However, Canadian universities have their own English language requirements. Some accept alternatives such as TOEFL, PTE Academic or Duolingo English Test.
  2. What academic exams are required to study in Canada?

    There is no single entrance examination for all Canadian universities. Undergraduate applicants generally need Class 12 qualifications. Master's applicants need a recognised bachelor's degree. Depending on the programme, universities may request GRE, GMAT or other subject-specific assessments.
  3. How can I justify a gap after Class 12 when applying to Canada?

    You should explain what you did during the gap and provide supporting evidence where available. Employment records, internships, training certificates and other relevant documents can help explain how you spent this time. The acceptability of a study gap depends on the university and the individual study permit application.
  4. What is the scope of diploma courses after Class 12 in Canada?

    Diploma courses can prepare you for careers in business, information technology, hospitality, engineering technology and other applied fields. But you should compare course content, industry relevance and employment opportunities before applying. You should also verify whether the particular programme qualifies for a PGWP.
  5. What is a PAL for studying in Canada?

    A Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) is a document issued through a province or territory to confirm that a student is included within its allocated study permit spaces. Most undergraduate and college applicants need one. Eligible Master's and PhD students at public DLIs do not need it.