Quick answer
Plan for three costs: tuition, living costs and application fees. At universities, international students paid an average of CAD 41,746 a year for an undergraduate degree in 2025/2026 (CAD 49,802 in Ontario) and CAD 24,028 for a graduate degree. For your study permit you must also show at least CAD 23,448 a year for living costs, and pay CAD 150 for the permit and CAD 85 for biometrics.
Last reviewed against official Government of Canada sources. Rules change often: confirm with a counsellor before you apply.
- Average university tuition (2025/26)
- Undergraduate CAD 41,746; graduate CAD 24,028
- Ontario average (2025/26)
- Undergraduate CAD 49,802; graduate CAD 28,624
- Living-cost proof
- CAD 23,448 a year (from 1 Sep 2026)
- Application fees
- Study permit CAD 150; biometrics CAD 85
Tuition: the biggest cost
| Average yearly tuition, 2025/2026 | Canada | Ontario |
|---|---|---|
| International undergraduate degree | CAD 41,746 | CAD 49,802 |
| International graduate degree | CAD 24,028 | CAD 28,624 |
Averages hide big differences between programs, institutions and provinces, so compare the exact fees of the programs you're considering. College certificate and diploma fees vary by program; your counsellor will give you current figures.
Living costs and the money you must show
For a study permit, IRCC asks you to prove you can cover at least CAD 23,448 a year in living expenses for one student (applications from 1 September 2026), plus CAD 6,318 for each family member who comes with you. That's on top of tuition and travel. See what counts as proof in the study permit document checklist.
Government application fees
| Fee | Amount |
|---|---|
| Study permit (including extensions), per person | CAD 150 |
| Biometrics, per person | CAD 85 |
| Biometrics, family of 2 or more applying together | CAD 170 maximum |
| Work permit (including extensions), per person | CAD 155 |
| Open work permit holder fee | CAD 100 |
Earning while you study
Eligible students can work up to 24 hours a week off campus during classes and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks. Treat this as help with living costs, not a way to fund tuition: you show your funds when you apply for your study permit.
Want this checked for your own situation?
Book free counselling