27/1A, 2nd Floor, Jail Rd, Tilak Nagar, New Delhi-110018

An Ultimate Guide to Study Masters in Canada for Indian Students

Have you finished your bachelor’s degree and are searching for a master’s degree?  Are you looking to gain some serious expertise?  Well, Canada might be the perfect place to do your Masters!

This blog is your guide for all things Masters in Canada. We’ll cover all you need to know. This includes top universities and job opportunities. It also includes the great perks of being a scholarship student in Canada.  

So get ready to explore your Master’s in Canada possibilities!

Highlights

Intakes Fall, Winter, and Summer
Cost of Study Postgraduate Degree: CAD 18,000- CAD 40,000
Required Exams IELTS, PTE, TOEFL, GRE, and GMAT
Degrees Offered Diploma, Undergraduate, Postgraduate, and Doctorate
Cost of Living CAD 600 – 800 per month
Top Funding Sources Scholarships, Part-time Jobs, and Student Loans
Languages Spoken English and French
Best Student Cities Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa, Quebec, and Edmonton

Why pursue a Master’s in Canada as an Indian Student?

There are plenty of reasons to study in Canada, and some of the top ones include: 

  1. Great place to live: Canada ranks third globally for the best quality of life (source). You get the same rights as Canadians.
  2. Lower costs: Tuition fees in Canada are generally lower than in Australia, the U.K. and the U.S. (source).
  3. Good job prospects: Many international students who study in Canada get jobs and even permanent residency.
  4. Work while studying: You can often work part-time while studying and full-time after graduating.
  5. Strong alumni network: Canadian business schools maintain active alumni networks that provide mentorship, job referrals, and networking opportunities. 
  6. Global recognition: Degrees from Canada are respected worldwide, leading to good job opportunities.
  7. Practical learning: Many Canadian programs offer hands-on experience through internships and projects.

Eligibility and Admission Requirements

Academic Requirements

  • Bachelor’s Degree: A completed bachelor’s degree from a recognized university is mandatory.
  • GPA: A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is often required, but this varies by program and university.

English Proficiency

  • IELTS: A minimum score of 6.5-7.0 is common, but requirements differ.
  • TOEFL: Scores typically range from 90-100.
  • PTE: Accepted by many universities with varying score requirements.

Read more in detail: Is 7.5 a Good IELTS Score?

Is 6.5 a good score?

Standardized Tests

  • GRE/GMAT: Some programs require GRE or GMAT scores, especially for business and engineering fields.

Document Checklist

The specific documents required for your study permit application can vary depending on your chosen program, and personal circumstances. However, here’s a general checklist to get you started:

  1. Language Proficiency Test Scores: If required by your program (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, PTE).
  2. Statement of Purpose: Outlining your academic goals and reasons for choosing Canada.
  3. Letter of Recommendation: If required
  4. Academic Transcripts: From previous institutions.
  5. Work Experience Certificates: If applicable.
  6. Proof of acceptance: Your school must provide you with a letter of acceptance (LOA). Include the original or electronic copy of your letter with your study permit application.
  7. Provincial attestation letter or territorial attestation letter
  8. Proof of identity: a valid passport or travel document
  9. Proof of financial support: You must prove that you can support yourself while you are in Canada.

Popular Master’s Programs

Courses  Tuition Fees Average salary 
Business Administration (MBA) CAD 30,000 – 60,000 per year CAD 80,000 – 120,000 per year
Engineering CAD 15,000 – 30,000 per year CAD 70,000 – 100,000 per year
Computer Science CAD 15,000 – 35,000 per year CAD 70,000 – 100,000 per year
Health Sciences CAD 10,000 – 30,000 per year CAD 60,000 – 90,000 per year
Data Science and Analytics CAD 20,000 – 35,000 per year CAD 70,000 – 100,000 per year
Education CAD 10,000 – 25,000 per year CAD 50,000 – 80,000 per Year
Finance CAD 15,000 – 35,000 per year CAD 70,000 – 100,000 per year
Environmental Science CAD 10,000 – 25,000 per year CAD 60,000 – 85,000 per year
Psychology CAD 10,000 – 30,000 per year CAD 60,000 – 85,000 per year
International Relations CAD 15,000 – 30,000 per year CAD 55,000 – 80,000 per year

Explore more:

  1. MBA in Canada Without GMAT/GRE
  2. MBA in Finance in Canada

Cost of Studying Master’s in Canada

Studying for a master’s in Canada can be a significant financial investment. But, Canada’s cost of studying can be lower than in other countries. 

In this section, we will explore the cost of studying for a Master’s in Canada for Indian students.

  • Postgraduate Diploma: CAD 17,000 CAD 25,000 a year, depending on the course and institution.
  • Degree: CAD 18,000 CAD 40,000 a year, depending on the course and institution.

Here are specific examples of tuition fees for a Master’s in Canada for Indian students:

CourseFees (INR)
Computer Science27.3 lakhs
Business Administration24.48 lakhs
Engineering19.97 lakhs
Health Sciences26.37 lakhs
Environmental Studies28.1 lakhs
Economics20.29 lakhs
Law18.27 lakhs

Now, let’s move on to living costs in Canada because just knowing the cost of studying in Canada is not enough.

Cost of Living in Canada

When planning to pursue a Master’s in Canada, you should consider the cost of tuition. Also, consider the cost of living. Here is what you should expect:

AmenitiesCost per month (INR)
RentToronto: 91,000 - 1.51 lacs

Vancouver: 1.09 lacs - 1.82 lacs
Groceries16,000 - 24,300
Entertainment1000 - 3000

Thus, you can expect a monthly budget for living in Canada of around 6.07 lacs to 9.71 lacs. But, this budget can vary depending on the location and individual lifestyle choices.

Note: The above cost estimates are rough. They can vary by university, degree, and other factors. So, for the cost, you can contact our counsellor. They can tell you the money you need to go to Canada to study for a master’s degree.

Scholarships for Master’s in Canada

Studying for a Master’s in Canada can be an investment. But there are also scholarships to help cover the costs.[2] Scholarships are merit-based awards that don’t have to be repaid. They can help cover tuition, living, and other costs. 

Many scholarships are available to Indian students. They are for both domestic and international students looking to study MS in Canada. 

Here are some of the top ones:

ScholarshipsAmount (INR)
Ontario Graduate Scholarship6.07 lakhs - 18.22 lacs
Graduate Entrance Scholarship2.12 lacs
JN Tata Endowment Scholarship1.11 lacs - 1112 lacs
Aga Khan Foundation Scholarship1.23 lacs approx
Graduate Dean’s Entrance Scholarship3.64 lacs
Master’s Entrance Scholarship10.62 lacs + 6.07 lacs (stipend)
Innovates Graduate Student Scholarship15.79 lacs approx

Our team of experts will help you provide you with scholarship support and help you study abroad.

Explore More: Scholarships for Indian Students in Canada

Top Universities and Colleges to Study Master’s in Canada

Canada has many top universities. Students can explore them if they want to study for a Master’s in Canada. Below, we list some of the best universities in Canada.

University/College QS Ranking Canada QS World University Rankings 2025
University of Toronto 1 25
McGill University 2 29
University of British Columbia 3 38
University of Alberta 4 96
University of Waterloo 5 115
Western University 6 120
Université de Montréal 7 159
McMaster University 8 176
University of Ottawa 9 189
Queen’s University at Kingston 10 193

Job Opportunities after Master’s in Canada for Indian Students

Earning a Master’s in Canada can open doors to various job opportunities, both in Canada and abroad. [3]

Job OpportunitiesSalary Package (INR)
Engineering45.56  lacs
IT48.61 lacs
Healthcare42.53 lacs
Finance48.61 lacs
Education42.53 lacs
Consulting51.64 lacs
Management54.69 lacs
Research45.56 lacs
Sales42.53 lacs

Contact Transglobal Overseas today. They can tell you about the job opportunities available after a master’s degree in Canada. 

Our experts will give you job market information. It includes in-demand jobs and pay.

Step-by-step guide to applying for a Master’s degree

  1. Identify universities and programs that match your interests and career goals.
  2. Review specific admission requirements, including academic qualifications and prerequisites.
  3. Gather transcripts, degree certificates, resume/CV, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, and test scores.
  4. Complete any required tests like GRE, GMAT, or language proficiency exams (IELTS, TOEFL).
  5. Fill out the application form for each university or through common application portals.
  6. Upload or mail all required documents as specified by the university.
  7. Pay the non-refundable application fee for each program.
  8. Prepare for and attend any interviews if the program includes them.
  9. Monitor application status and wait for acceptance notifications.
  10. Choose your preferred offer and confirm your acceptance with the university.
  11. Apply for a student visa or study permit if studying in Canada, providing proof of acceptance and financial capability.
  12. Arrange travel, accommodation, and other logistics for starting your program.

Student Visa Requirements for a Master’s Program in Canada

  1. Acceptance Letter
    • Obtain a letter of acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada.
  2. Proof of Financial Support
    • Show evidence of sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation. Options include bank statements, a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC), or a letter of financial support.
  3. Valid Passport
    • Provide a copy of your passport valid for the duration of your stay in Canada.
  4. Application Form
    • Complete and submit the study permit application form (IMM 1294) online or on paper.
  5. Application Fee
    • Pay the non-refundable application fee, typically CAD 150.
  6. Proof of Identity
    • Include recent passport-sized photographs as specified by the application guidelines.
  7. Medical Exam (if required)
    • Undergo a medical examination if instructed by the Canadian immigration authorities or if you plan to stay for more than six months.
  8. Police Clearance Certificate (if required)
    • Provide a police clearance certificate if requested, to show a clean criminal record.
  9. Statement of Purpose
    • Include a written statement explaining your study plans, reasons for choosing Canada, and intentions after completing your studies.
  10. Biometrics (if required)
    • Provide biometric information (photo and fingerprints) if requested by the Canadian immigration authorities.

Post-Study Stay Back Options in Canada

You may be eligible for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) if you graduated from a designated learning institution (DLI) and want to stay in Canada temporarily to work.

Graduation from a DLI doesn’t automatically make you eligible for a PGWP. Check the DLI list to find out which schools have eligible programs.

You have up to 180 days after you graduate to apply for a PGWP. When you apply, you must confirm the following:

  • that you attended and completed your program
  • the name of your program
  • the length of your program

You can confirm these by submitting any of the following:

  • your degree or diploma
  • your transcript or
  • an official letter from your school

FAQs

Can I get PR after 1 year Masters in Canada?

While a 1-year Master’s degree is a great foundation, it doesn’t automatically qualify you for permanent residency (PR) in Canada. However, it’s a crucial step towards that goal.

Is it worth doing Masters in Canada?

Yes, pursuing a Master’s degree in Canada can be a worthwhile investment for many international students. Canada offers a high-quality education system, a multicultural environment, and strong job prospects.

Is Masters in Canada 2 years?

It depends on the type of program:

  1. Research-based Masters: These are often 2 years in length, allowing for in-depth research and thesis completion.
  2. Course-based Masters: These tend to be 1 year long, focusing primarily on coursework and practical application.
  3. Specific university and program: Different institutions have their program structures.

Is MBA or MS better in Canada?

MBA (Master of Business Administration)

  • Focus: Broad-based business education, covering areas like finance, marketing, human resources, operations, and strategy.
  • Ideal for: Individuals with some work experience looking to transition into management roles or entrepreneurship.
  • Career paths: Consulting, management, entrepreneurship, finance, marketing.

MS (Master of Science)

  • Focus: Specialized knowledge in a specific field, such as computer science, engineering, or data science.
  • Ideal for: Students with an undergraduate degree in a relevant field looking to deepen their expertise.
  • Career paths: Research, technical roles, data analysis, software development.

Can international students who are pursuing master’s in Canada work part-time?

Yes, International Students Can Work Part-Time in Canada

International students pursuing a Master’s degree in Canada are generally allowed to work part-time on or off-campus.

Read more in detail: Highest Paying Part Time Jobs in Canada

Which intakes offer Masters in Canada?

Canada primarily offers three intakes for Master’s programs:

  • Fall Intake: This is the most popular intake, starting in September. It offers a wide range of programs, higher chances of scholarships, and a larger student community.
  • Winter Intake: Beginning in January or February, this intake is generally smaller, with fewer program options. However, it can be a good choice for students who couldn’t make it for the fall intake.
  • Summer Intake: Less common; this intake starts in May or June and is often for specific short-term programs or specialized courses.

Read more in detail: Upcoming Intakes in Canada