Top institutions to study in Canada: Canada remains one of the most preferred destinations for international education, known for its excellent academic institutions, high standards of living, multicultural society, and post-study work opportunities. With an outstanding list of globally ranked universities and practical colleges, the country welcomes students from over 180 countries every year.
In the section below, we highlight the top institutions to study in Canada, exploring their strengths, course offerings, tuition fees, eligibility, scholarships, and much more to help candidates make an informed decision.
Canada is one of the most desirable study destinations in the world, offering internationally recognized degrees, flexible immigration policies, and a high quality of life. From top-ranked universities to affordable public colleges, Canada provides a wide range of opportunities for Indian and international students. Below are some points why candidates should choose Canada for higher education:
World-Class Education with global recognition
Affordable tuition fees compared to the US and UK
A multicultural society offering global networking
Safe cities and excellent quality of life
Post-study work options like PGWP
Pathways to Permanent Residency (PR) for international graduates
Canada is home to some of the world’s best universities that offer globally recognized degrees and vibrant campus experiences. The table below lists the top-ranked Canadian universities along with their tuition fees and popular programs:
University Name |
QS Global Rank 2025 |
Top Courses |
Fees (INR/year) |
University of Toronto |
21 |
Engineering, Medicine, Business, CS |
INR 27 lakh –INR 42 lakh |
University of British Columbia |
34 |
Forestry, Arts, Law, Environmental Studies |
INR 24 lakh–INR 39 LAKH |
McGill University |
30 |
Medicine, Life Sciences, Arts |
INR 15 - INR 33 lakh |
University of Alberta |
96 |
AI, Petroleum Engineering, Health Sciences |
INR 15,- INR 27 lakh |
McMaster University |
103 |
Health Sciences, Engineering, Business |
INR 18 lakh – INR 30 lakh |
Canada's public colleges are known for their practical learning approach, affordable tuition, and strong industry connections. These institutions offer diploma, advanced diploma, and post-graduate certificate programs ideal for skill-based education and employment options.
College Name |
Popular Programs |
Fees (INR/year) |
Seneca College |
Business, IT, Fashion, Aviation |
INR 8.4 lakh - INR 12 lakh |
Humber College |
Engineering Tech, Media, Hospitality |
INR 9 lakh–INR 13.2 lakh |
George Brown College |
Culinary Arts, Health Sciences, Design |
INR 8.4 lakh - INR 12.6 lakh |
Centennial College |
Biotech, Automotive, Media |
INR 7.8 lakh – INR 12 lakh |
Fanshawe College |
Nursing, Aviation, Business |
INR 7.8 lakh – INR 10.8 lakh |
Before applying to Canadian universities or colleges, it's important to understand the admission criteria. These requirements may vary by institution and program level (undergraduate or postgraduate), but the table below outlines the most common eligibility requirements for international students.
Requirement |
Undergraduate |
Postgraduate |
Academic Qualification |
70–85% in Class 12 |
Bachelor’s degree with 70–80% |
English Language Proficiency |
IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL iBT 90+ |
IELTS 6.5–7.5, TOEFL iBT 90–100 |
SOP |
Sometimes required |
Mandatory |
LORs |
Usually not required |
2–3 required |
Portfolio (Design courses) |
Required |
Required |
Work Experience |
Not needed |
Preferred for MBA and PG diploma programs |
Understanding the average cost of studying in Canada helps students budget efficiently. The table below outlines the estimated annual tuition fees for different institution types and average living expenses:
Institution Type |
Tuition Fees per Year |
Universities |
INR 20 lakh - INR 45 lakh |
Public Colleges |
INR 8 lakh - INR 15 lakh |
Design Schools |
INR 6 lakh - INR 18 lakh |
Living Expenses |
INR 6 lakh - INR 10 lakh/year |
Canada offers various scholarship opportunities to reduce the financial burden for international students. These scholarships are provided by the government, institutions, and private organizations and are based on academic merit, leadership potential, or financial need. Below are scholarships for international students:
Government Scholarships
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship: INR 30 lakhs/year
Canada-ASEAN Scholarship: Varies for short-term programs
University Scholarships
Lester B. Pearson Scholarship (U of T): Full tuition + living
UBC International Scholars Program: Full/partial tuition
McGill Entrance Scholarships: INR 6 lakh- INR 7 lakh for high achievers
Indian-Specific Scholarships
Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute Programs
IC-IMPACTS Fellowship for Indian Researchers
Canada offers excellent post-study work opportunities for international students. With a work permit system, high demand across multiple sectors, and immigration-friendly policies, students can gain valuable work experience and even transition to permanent residency.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): Up to 3 years
Top Hiring Sectors: IT, Healthcare, Finance, Engineering, Education
Permanent Residency Pathways: Express Entry, CEC, PNP programs
Studying in Canada offers a unique mix of quality education, cultural diversity, and career prospects. Whether candidates choose a renowned university or a practical polytechnic college, the top institutions to study in Canada are designed to prepare candidates for global success.
Plan early, prepare thoroughly, and take advantage of the many opportunities available in Canada. With the right institution, candidates' dreams of studying abroad can become a rewarding reality.