How Much Does it Cost to Go to College in Canada?

Renowned for its quality education system, diverse campuses, and welcoming environment, Canada attracts students from all over the world. However, the costs associated with attending college or university in Canada can be a significant consideration for prospective students and their families.

Let’s dive into how much it costs to go to college in Canada, including the average costs for both public and private four-year universities, as well as the financial implications for international students.

Average Costs for Public 4-Year Universities

Public universities in Canada are funded by the government and generally offer more affordable tuition rates for Canadian citizens and permanent residents compared to international students. However, tuition fees can still vary significantly between provinces and institutions.

On average, tuition fees for domestic students in public four-year universities in Canada range from CAD $6,000 to $9,000 per year, depending on the program and province. According to Statistics Canada, Canadian students enrolled full-time in undergraduate programs paid an average of $6,693 in tuition fees for the 2021/2022 academic year.¹

International students typically pay higher tuition fees than domestic students. On average, international undergraduate students can expect to pay between CAD $20,000 and $40,000 per year for tuition at public universities in Canada, depending on the institution. On average, university tuition costs around $36,100 per year for international undergraduate students.²

Average Costs for Private 4-Year Universities

Private universities in Canada operate independently and rely on tuition fees, donations, and other sources of funding. As a result, tuition fees at private institutions tend to be higher than those at public universities.

On average, domestic students may expect to pay between CAD $15,000 and $30,000 per year for tuition at private universities.² Because international students are not eligible for public university rates for residents, attending public or private universities in Canada costs about the same. International tuition at private universities ranges from CAD $25,000 to $50,000 per year or more, depending on the institution and program.

Additional Expenses

Aside from tuition fees, there are several other expenses that students should consider when budgeting for colleges in Canada:

Accommodation
The cost of housing can vary depending on whether you choose to live on-campus, off-campus, or with family. On-campus housing typically includes residence fees, while off-campus options may include rent, utilities, and other expenses. The average cost for dormitory rooms ranges from CAD $3,000–$7,000 per school year.³

Food and Groceries
Budgeting for meals and groceries is essential. Costs can vary based on dietary preferences, location, and whether you choose to cook at home or dine out.

Transportation
Factor in the cost of transportation, including public transit, parking fees, or vehicle maintenance, if you plan to own a car.

Books and Supplies
Don’t forget to budget for textbooks, course materials, and other supplies required for your studies. The University of Toronto recommends budgeting about $1,000/year for books and more for a computer or other equipment.⁴

Health Insurance
International students are typically required to have health insurance coverage while studying in Canada.⁵ Costs for health insurance can vary depending on the province and the extent of coverage.

Scholarships and Financial Aid
Many universities and external organizations in Canada offer scholarships or grants to help students offset the cost of their education. Domestic and international students are encouraged to research and apply for available financial aid opportunities based on academic merit, financial needs, and other criteria.

Whether you’re a domestic student or an international student, understanding the average costs of tuition and additional expenses for a university in Canada can help you make informed decisions and better prepare for your academic journey.

This content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.