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How much does a Master's degree in Canada cost per year?

Published on March 31, 2024

How much does a Master's degree in Canada cost per year?

Are you planning a Master's degree study journey with your family? This article will provide you with detailed information on the costs and special benefits of studying for a Master's degree in Canada in 2024.

4 exclusive benefits for Master's degree study in Canada 2024 after various changes

Not subject to quantity reduction in 2024

According to a new announcement from the Ministry of Immigration on January 22, 2024, the number of international students admitted to Canada will decrease by 35% this year. However, Master's degree students are not among the restricted groups for Study Permit by the government and do not need to wait for an attestation letter from the province when submitting their application. 

Allowed to bring spouse/partner when studying

According to the same announcement, only Master's and Ph.D. programs are allowed by the Canadian government to permit spouses/partners of international students to accompany them on an Open Work Permit basis. Therefore, Master's degree students in Canada are allowed to bring their families along. This includes spouses/partners who can work legally in Canada and children who can study for free alongside locals. 

Granted a 3-year post-graduation work permit

International students studying Master's programs in Canada are granted a 3-year work permit after graduation, regardless of the program's duration. Even if a student completes a one-year Master's program, they are still allowed to stay for 3 years with their family.

Immediate settlement upon graduation

Master's degree graduates in Canada are eligible for immediate settlement in the province of Ontario without needing a job offer or work experience under the OINP Masters Graduate stream. In British Columbia, the Master's stream is open to graduates from all fields, whereas previously it was limited to STEM fields or select disciplines. To settle in BC with a Master's degree, you need a full-time job offer for at least 1 year.

Canada Master’s Study abroad: Tremendous advantage for immigration path

Studying abroad in Canada for a Master's degree

Estimated Costs of studying for a Master's degree in Canada (CAD)

Admission fees$100 - $200 (depending on the institution)
Visa application fee

Government fee: $150

Biometric fee: $85

Health examination fee: $126 (HCM), $147 (HN)

Master's degree tuition$20,000 - $60,000/year
Study materials$200 - $1,000/year
Accommodation costs

Dormitory: $11,000 - $20,000/year

Renting: $600 - $1,600/month

Food expenses

Self-cooking: $300 - $400/person/month

Restaurant dining: $20 - $60/person/meal 

Transportation costsPublic transportation ticket around $128.15 per month (student rate in Toronto)
Medical insurance$300 - $800/year
Other expenses$200 - 300/month
Total expenses$35,000 - 90,000/year (*)

(*) Note: Total expenses may vary over time and depend on the individual spending needs of the student. Additionally, to save costs, students may choose to study and live in sparsely populated areas, avoiding crowded cities like Toronto or Vancouver.

Which universities offer Master's degree programs in Canada? In which fields?

  • Brock University
  • Lakehead University
  • Laurentian University
  • University of Windsor
  • Trent University (Ontario)
  • Thompson River University
  • Vancouver Island University (British Columbia)
  • Mount Saint Vincent University (Nova Scotia)
  • University of Regina (Saskatchewan)
  • University of Manitoba (Manitoba)
  • University of New Brunswick (New Brunswick)

Some popular Master's degrees in Canada:

  • Master of Business Administration (MBA)
  • Master of Education
  • Master of Health Sciences
  • Master of Arts
  • Master of Social Work
  • Master of Engineering
  • Master of Management - Logistics and Supply Chain
  • Master of Management - Business Data Analytics
  • Master of Nursing

Attractive scholarships for Master's Degree study in Canada for international students

1. Lakehead University - Graduate Assistantships

Program offering $10,506.69 for Master's level students. The program includes up to 270 hours of work in Fall and Winter semesters, averaging not more than 10 hours per week. Tasks include: class preparation, teaching, presentations, seminar hosting, lab supervision, grading, student advising, organizing administrative hours,...

Studying abroad in Canada for a Master's degree at Lakehead University

2. Laurentian University - Graduate Teaching Assistantship/Fellowship (GTA)

This program offers $9,551 in support for international students. Students are required to work up to 10 hours per week under various teaching support roles.

3.  University of Windsor - Graduate Entrance Scholarships

For research Master's: $7,500 per year.

For Master's: $3,750 per year (non-renewable).

Requirement: GPA of 80% or higher.

4. Thompson River University - Dr. Sherman Jen Graduate Entrance Award

Value: $6,000

Available for students enrolled in Master of Science in Environmental Science, Master of Education, or Master of Science in Data Science programs.

5. University of Regina - Ages Foundation Fellowship & Bursaries

Value: $15,000

Requirement: Conduct research on Rare Philanthropy Reserve assets or combine with Rare Philanthropy Reserve assets from May 2023 to April 2024. The research or project must have a focus or component related to the environment.

6. University of Manitoba - University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship (UMGF)

Value: $14,000 per year for 12 or 24 months, total value up to $28,000

Students must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 to be considered for this scholarship.

Conclusion

Studying for a Master's degree in Canada not only provides learning opportunities but also opens doors for settlement and work in the future. With the benefits and career development opportunities, Canada is an ideal destination for those seeking a memorable study abroad experience. Prepare your plans and start your new journey today!