According to a NITI Aayog study supported by Ministry of External Affairs data, Canada ranks as the leading destination for overseas education in recent years. Its appeal has surged by 350%, with Indian student numbers rising from 94,240 in 2016 to 179,000 in 2020 and 427,000 in 2024. This growth stems from supportive policies on immigration and employment, as noted in the report.
The Indian Student Mobility Report indicates that around 850,000 students are enrolled in higher education across Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia, with a combined spending of about Rs. 2.9 lakh crore (equivalent to $34 billion) in the 2023-24 period.
The analysis shows that spending in these four nations accounts for 48% of all foreign exchange used by Indian students for education in 2025. Expenses for studying in Canada vary based on factors like program fees, degree level, housing options, and additional costs. Below is an overview of these expenses.
Annual Fees for Undergraduate and Graduate Programs
Data from the Canadian government states that international undergraduates pay approximately $41,746 (Rs. 28,57,931) per year in tuition. For graduate students, the figure is around $24,028 (Rs. 16,44,956) annually.
(Note: Indian rupee conversions are based on the current exchange rate of 1 Canadian dollar to 68.46 Indian rupees.)
Fees for College and Diploma Courses
As per EduCanada.ca, costs for international students in college or vocational programs, including polytechnics, differ by institution and field. Diploma programs typically range from $16,000 to $25,000 per year (Rs. 10,95,360 to Rs. 17,11,500).
Housing Expenses
A report from universitystudy.ca explains that many institutions provide on-campus dormitories, some reserved for international students. However, admission to a program does not ensure housing availability. Students must apply separately, and prices depend on the school, room type, and inclusion of meals.
Alternatively, some opt for off-campus rentals. The average monthly rent for a two-bedroom apartment is $1,930 (Rs. 1,32,127), though this fluctuates by location and property features.
Overall Spending by Indian Students in Canada
The 2023-24 International Mobility Report details annual outlays as follows:
– Tuition: Rs. 51,000 crore ($6 billion)
– Housing: Rs. 25,000 crore ($3 billion)
– Daily living: Rs. 23,000 crore ($2.7 billion)
– Total: Rs. 1 lakh crore ($11.7 billion)
NITI Aayog’s review confirms the ongoing dominance of the US, UK, and Canada as top choices, with Canada experiencing the fastest expansion thanks to its advantageous policies on residency and jobs.
