Expenses

Graduate student fees vary greatly depending on the program and province of study. Most provinces charge higher fees for international students (known as differential fees), and some offer a limited number of exemptions from the higher fees.

Living costs: Students must meet the costs of study and living in Canada. Citizenship and Immigration Canada requires proof that the student has sufficient money available. If the institution provides a cost of living estimate, the immigration officer will generally follow it. In the absence of a cost of living estimate, the immigration officer will require evidence of $10,000 to cover 12 months living expenses for a single student. An additional $4,000 will be required for a spouse and an additional $3,000 for each dependent, to cover 12 months living expenses. This amount includes food, accommodation, transportation, medical insurance, books, clothing and sundries. Tuition and other student fees are not included in this amount. These are minimum estimates.

Clothing: Students from warmer climates must expect to spend a considerable amount of money in the first few months on winter wear such as coats, boots, sweaters and gloves. On the campus most students dress informally.

Medical expenses: It is imperative that every student and dependent obtain medical and hospital insurance, as health care in Canada is expensive. Public medical and health insurance plans are administered independently by each province, and some private or supplementary plans are available. Some universities and colleges require compulsory health insurance coverage. It is not possible to arrange for coverage in advance, but it should be secured within the first week after arrival. Please note that even if provincial coverage is available free of charge to international students, the students must nevertheless register with the provincial health coverage authority to ensure coverage.

Some prices of typical goods and services are as follows (in US dollars):

One month's rent, one-bedroom apartment: $400

Bus fare, one way: $1.50

Local telephone call: $0.25

Average restaurant meal: Lunch $7/Dinner $14

Movie: $7

Since the winters are cold in most parts of Canada, an adequate warm clothing budget is a must. Expect to spend $250 - $350 US for proper winter clothes.

Generally students will need approximately $12,000 US ($18,840 Cdn ) to cover their expenses for an academic year. This includes tuition and living expenses. Please bear in mind that this figure is an average only. Actual expenses may vary depending on the region of the country that the student lives in, the tuition fees at the university the student attends and the program the student chooses.