Answer Snapshot:
Studying in Canada in 2027 costs tuition plus living costs. Undergraduate tuition for international students commonly falls between about CAD 20,000 and CAD 60,000 a year depending on the university and program. For a study permit you must also show living funds: CAD 23,448 for a single applicant for applications made on or after 1 September 2026 (outside Quebec), plus your first-year tuition and travel.
Canada remains a popular choice for students from the UAE and the Gulf, but costs have risen and the proof of funds rules changed in September 2026. This guide breaks down tuition, living costs, study permit fees and the amount you must show, so your family can plan a realistic budget for 2027.
Cost of studying in Canada 2027 at a glance
| Cost | Typical amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate tuition | About CAD 20,000 to 60,000 per year | Engineering, business and health programs sit at the higher end |
| Master’s tuition | About CAD 20,000 to 50,000+ per year | MBA and specialist programs can cost more |
| Proof of living funds (outside Quebec) | CAD 23,448 for one year | For applications on or after 1 September 2026; CAD 6,318 per extra family member |
| Quebec living funds | CAD 24,617 for one year | Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) required first |
| Study permit fees | CAD 150 application plus CAD 85 biometrics | Confirm on IRCC before paying |
Tuition fees: what drives the price
Tuition depends on the province, the university or college, and the program. Colleges and diploma programs are usually cheaper than universities. Professional programs such as engineering, computer science and business often charge more than arts or social sciences. Always use the fee for international students for your intake year, because fees usually rise each year.
- Compare the full program cost, not one term.
- Check mandatory extras such as health plans, student union and lab fees.
- Ask whether co-op or internship terms carry extra fees.
Living costs and proof of funds
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) raised the cost of living amount for applications made on or after 1 September 2026. A single applicant outside Quebec must show CAD 23,448 for one year, plus first-year tuition and travel. Each additional family member adds CAD 6,318. Quebec sets its own amount of CAD 24,617 for a single applicant.
Real living costs vary by city. Toronto and Vancouver are the most expensive for rent, while cities in the Prairies and Atlantic Canada are usually cheaper. Build your budget around rent, food, transport, phone and books, then compare it to the proof of funds amount.
A sample first-year budget
| Item | How to estimate |
|---|---|
| Tuition | Use the university’s international fee for your program and year |
| Rent | Check residence fees or local listings in your city |
| Food, transport and phone | Use the university’s cost-of-living calculator |
| Health insurance | Provincial plan or university plan, depending on the province |
| Study permit and biometrics | CAD 150 plus CAD 85 |
| Flights and arrival costs | Return flight, winter clothing and first-month deposits |
Ways to reduce the cost
- Apply for entrance scholarships early. See our Canada scholarships guide.
- Consider a college diploma or pathway program before transferring to a degree.
- Choose cities with lower rent, or share accommodation.
- Work part-time within study permit rules once classes start.
Frequently asked questions
How much money do I need to show for a Canada study permit?
Outside Quebec, CAD 23,448 for one year of living costs for a single applicant (applications from 1 September 2026), plus your first-year tuition and travel.
Is Quebec different?
Yes. Quebec requires a CAQ first and sets its own living cost amount, CAD 24,617 for a single applicant.
Are college programs cheaper than university?
Usually yes. College diplomas and certificates often cost less per year, and some lead to university transfer.
Will tuition change before I start?
Fees often rise each year. Use the fee published for your intake year and keep a buffer.
Build your Canada budget with Glinks
Glinks can compare programs by total cost, check scholarship options and prepare your proof of funds checklist. Read our Canada September intake 2027 guide for deadlines.
