Masters Study in Canada: Common Questions Answered

This comprehensive set of frequently asked questions covers topics like the application process, admission requirements, tuition fees, scholarship opportunities, accommodation, and more.

Whether you are a local or an international student, we hope to provide answers and guidance to ensure a smooth journey towards your advanced study in Canada. Start here to explore the exciting educational opportunities that await you in one of the world’s leading study destinations.

#1 How long does a Masters course in Canada usually last?

Masters courses in Canada typically last between one and two years.

#2 What academic requirements do I need to meet to gain admission to a university in Canada for Masters study?

You'll need a good Bachelors degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0-4.0, or its international equivalent such as a UK 2:1. You may need to provide a graduate entry test score such as a Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or Graduate Record Examination (GRE).

#3 What is the typical cost of a Masters degree in Canada for international students?

Average international tuition fees for a Masters in Canada is CAD $36,100 (USD $25,142). Arts and Humanities subjects will be at the lower end of this scale, and Dentistry, Architecture and Business & Management will be nearer the top. Domestic Canadian students generally pay around half the amount of international students.

#4 What type of funding can I apply for based on my province or territory of residence?

Students from the Yukon may only apply for grants or loans from the federal government. Students from Nunavut, the Northwest Territories and Quebec may only apply for grants or loans from local finance authorities. Students from Alberta, Manitoba, Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island may apply for funding from the federal government and/or local finance authorities. Students from British Columbia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Ontario and Saskatchewan may apply for funding jointly offered by the federal government and local finance authorities. You can find out more in our funding guide.

#5 What funding is available for international Masters students in Canada?

There are several scholarships available to attract and support postgraduates studying overseas at Canadian universities. These are administered by Global Affairs Canada (GAC), as well as other providers such as Canadian research councils. You can view a list of the scholarships offered by GAC on their website, and in some cases, provinces and territories offer funding for talented postgraduates looking to study in Canada. Additionally, there may be international partnerships that provide funding for international Masters students.

#6 Are there any additional fees for international students studying in Canada?

The only additional fee that applies specifically to students studying abroad in Canada is an international application fee, which is usually between CAD $100 and CAD $170 (USD $75-125). Additionally, students should budget approximately CAD $15,000 (USD $10,447) per year to cover living costs, excluding tuition fees.

#7 Do I need a study permit to study a Masters in Canada?

Almost all foreign nationals will need a study permit to enrol on a postgraduate courses in Canada. However, you might not require a study permit if you’re stationed in Canada as a member of a foreign military force, you’re a family or staff member of an accredited foreign diplomat in Canada, or you have Registered Indian status in Canada. Additionally, you may need to prove that you have the required financial funds available to support yourself and any family members accompanying you. You can find out more details in our visa guide.

When you make your application, you’ll have to pay a fee of $150. Additionally, you’ll need to pay a biometrics fee of $85 (if relevant) and any fees related to a medical exam / police certificate.

#8 What are the financial requirements for a Masters in Canada?

There are financial requirements for a study permit in Canada, depending on which Canadian province you’re studying your Masters in. You can find out more in our student visa guide.

To demonstrate that you have the finances available to support yourself during a Masters, you can provide proof of a Canadian bank account in your name, a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC), the previous four months’ worth of bank statements, a bank draft that can be converted to Canadian dollars, proof of a bank loan that covers your studies, written confirmation from a person or institution that is sponsoring you, proof from your university that you’ve paid tuition fees and/or housing costs, and details of any scholarships you’ve successfully applied for.

#9 How much does it usually cost to rent a room or apartment in Canada?

A room in a shared house will usually cost between CAD $400 and $800 (USD $295-$585) per month. An apartment will cost between CAD $900 and $3,000 (USD $660-$2,200) per month, but this cost can be reduced by sharing with other students. You may also need to pay at least a month’s rent in advance and another month’s rent as a deposit. Find out more in our living in Canada guide.

#10 How can students purchase health insurance in Canada?

Students can purchase health insurance from their universities (most of them will arrange healthcare cover on behalf of providers). It is a condition of the study permit to have Canadian healthcare cover.

#11 Can international students work while studying in Canada?

Yes, international students who hold a study permit are allowed to work during their studies. For off-campus work, you require a work permit, which usually stipulates that you are studying full-time and work no more than 24 hours per week during term. Job opportunities are usually available in hospitality and tourism.

#12 How long is the Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) valid for?

If your course was at least eight months long, the PGWP will be valid for three years. Find out more about the PGWP in our working after graduation in Canada guide.