Cost of Living in Canada for Indian Students in 2025

Canada is one of the most popular destinations for Indian students, and there are plenty of good reasons for this. If you’re thinking about studying abroad, Canada has a lot to offer!

Benefits:

• Compared to places like the US or the UK, studying in Canada is more affordable. Tuition fees usually range from $7,000 to $29,000 (₹5,30,000 to ₹22,90,000) a year depending on the program.
• Canada is home to people from all over the world. Almost 22% of Canada’s population are immigrants, which means you’ll meet people from different backgrounds and cultures.
• After completing your studies, you can apply for a work permit for up to three years. This gives you a chance to gain work experience and earn money.

Popular Courses:

• Engineering
• Business
• IT & Computer Science

Overall, Canada offers a combination of affordable education, a welcoming environment, and excellent career prospects. The cost of living can be different depending on the city, but places like Winnipeg and Halifax are more affordable.

For example, if you live in a city like Halifax, the cost of living will be lower compared to Toronto or Vancouver. Planning ahead will help you enjoy your studies without worrying too much about money!

Cost of Living in Canada for Indian Students

When you come to Canada as a student, it's important to know how much things will cost. Here are the main expenses you need to think about:

Expense Category	Average Monthly Cost (USD) (INR Approx.)	Considerations
Accommodation	$400–$800 (₹33,000–₹66,000)	Options include on-campus housing or shared apartments.
Food and Groceries	$150–$300 (₹12,500–₹25,000)	Cooking at home saves money; dining out can cost more.
Transportation	$60–$100 (₹5,000–₹8,300)	Public transport passes vary by city. Walking or biking can save costs.
Healthcare and Insurance	$50–$75 (₹4,100–₹6,200)	Health insurance is mandatory for international students.
Utilities and Miscellaneous	$100–$200 (₹8,300–₹16,500)	Covers internet, phone bills, and personal expenses.

Note: The amount mentioned above can vary due to fluctuating exchange rates.

Accommodation Costs for Indian Students in Canada

When you're studying in Canada, one of the biggest things you'll spend money on is where you live. There are different types of accommodation in Canada, and the cost can change depending on where you live and what type of place you choose.

On-Campus Accommodation

Living on campus can be very convenient. You’re close to your classes and don’t have to worry about commuting.

Common facilities you’ll get:

• Shared kitchens or dining halls
• Laundry rooms
• Study spaces

Costs:
On-campus accommodation prices depend on the type of room. Shared rooms are cheaper, while private rooms can cost more.

Accommodation Type	Monthly Cost (USD)	Monthly Cost (INR)
Dormitory (Shared Room)	$400–$800	₹33,000–₹66,000
Dormitory (Private Room)	$800–$1,200	₹66,000–₹99,000

Note: The amount mentioned above can vary due to fluctuating exchange rates.

Off-Campus Housing

Off-campus housing gives you more independence. You can rent a shared apartment or a private one.

Types of Off-Campus Housing:

• Shared Apartments: You share the apartment with other students to lower rent costs.
• Private Rentals: You rent a whole apartment or house by yourself.

Other expenses to keep in mind:

• Utilities like electricity and water
• Internet bills
• Furniture (some apartments might not come furnished)

Accommodation Type	Key Features	Monthly Cost (USD)
Shared Apartment	Shared living spaces, kitchen	$400–$700 (₹29,000–₹50,000)
Private Rental	Private living space, kitchen	$900–$1,600 (₹66,000–₹1,24,000)

Note: The amount mentioned above can vary due to fluctuating exchange rates.

Homestays and Student Hostels

Homestays and student hostels are also great options if you want to save some money and experience Canadian life up close.

Homestay:

• You live with a Canadian family, and meals and utilities are often included.
• It's a budget-friendly option and can make you feel more at home.

Student Hostels:

• You share a room with other students, and the cost is usually lower.
• You’ll have access to basic services like meals and laundry.

Accommodation Type	Monthly Cost (USD)	Monthly Cost (INR)
Homestay	$600–$1,000	₹50,000–₹82,000
Student Hostel	$300–$500	₹25,000–₹41,000

Note: The amount mentioned above can vary due to fluctuating exchange rates.

Food and Grocery Costs for Indian Students in Canada

Food costs are another important thing to keep in mind. You can either cook at home or eat out, and both options come with their own costs. Let’s break it down.

Grocery Shopping Costs

If you enjoy cooking at home, there are lots of affordable grocery stores in Canada where you can find what you need.

Popular grocery stores:

• Walmart: Known for cheap prices and good variety.
• No Frills: A discount store with very affordable options.
• Loblaws: A bit more expensive, but offers a wide range of products.

How much you’ll spend:

• On average, expect to spend $200–$400/month (₹16,500–₹33,000), depending on your cooking habits and food preferences.

Dining Out Costs:

• Fast Food or Casual Dining: Costs about $10–$20 (₹830–₹1,660) per meal.
• Mid-Range Restaurants: A meal at a sit-down restaurant costs around $20–$40 (₹1,660–₹3,300).
• Indian Restaurants: A meal at an Indian restaurant ranges from $12–$20 (₹1,000–₹1,660).

Indian Restaurants:
You’ll find many Indian restaurants, especially in bigger cities like Toronto. A meal might cost around $12 - $20.

Tips to Save on Food Costs

Here are some simple ways to save money on food:

• Cook at home: It’s cheaper and you get to enjoy homemade food.
• Shop at discount stores: Stores like No Frills can help you stick to your budget.
• Farmers’ markets: Buy fresh produce directly from local farmers, often at lower prices.

Transportation Costs in Canada for Students

Getting around Canada as a student can be affordable, especially with the range of transportation options available. Depending on the city you’re studying in, you can choose between public transportation, which is often cheaper, or private transportation like cars.

Public Transport Costs

Public transportation is affordable, reliable, and commonly used by students. Many cities offer discounts or monthly passes for students.

City-Specific Networks:

• Toronto (TTC): Monthly pass costs $128.15 (₹10,600) for students.
• Vancouver (TransLink): Monthly pass costs $98–$177 (₹8,100–₹14,500) depending on the zone.
• Montreal (STM): Monthly pass costs $56.50 (₹4,700) for students.

Transport Mode	Key Features	Coverage
Bus/Subway	Affordable and reliable; discounted passes for students.	Covers major urban areas.
Train	Regional networks for intercity travel.	Connects nearby cities and towns.

Note: The amount mentioned above can vary due to fluctuating exchange rates.

Private Transport and Car Rentals

While public transport is usually sufficient, some students may prefer private transport for flexibility.

Costs of Owning a Car:

• Car Rental: Starts at $40–$70/day (₹3,300–₹5,800) depending on the type of car.
• Fuel: Costs around $1.70/liter (₹140).
• Insurance: Mandatory and can cost $100–$200/month (₹8,300–₹16,500).

Owning a car may not be practical for students living in cities with robust public transport, but it can be useful for those in suburban or rural areas.

Transport Mode	Key Features	Coverage
Car Rentals	Flexible, short-term solution.	Ideal for weekend trips or moving.
Private Car	Full independence; higher costs.	Suburban and rural areas.

Note: The amount mentioned above can vary due to fluctuating exchange rates.

Healthcare and Insurance Costs for Indian Students in Canada

Healthcare is a crucial part of student life in Canada. As an international student, you’re required to have health insurance, which can be provincial or private depending on where you live.

Provincial Health Insurance Plans

Canada’s healthcare system works through provincial health plans. Some provinces offer free or subsidized healthcare for international students, while others require you to purchase insurance.

Eligibility and coverage details:

• Free or subsidized healthcare: Some provinces, like Ontario and British Columbia, provide free or low-cost healthcare to students.
• Waiting periods: In some provinces, you may need to wait for a few months before you can access public healthcare, so it’s important to have insurance in the meantime.

Examples by Province:

• Ontario (OHIP): Doesn’t cover international students; private insurance is required.
• British Columbia (MSP): Costs $75/month (₹6,200) and includes basic healthcare services.
• Alberta (AHCIP): Free healthcare for eligible students.

Insurance Type	Coverage Details	Key Benefits
Provincial Plans	Basic health services.	Free or subsidized depending on the province.
Private Plans (Mandatory in Some Provinces)	Doctor visits, prescriptions, and emergencies.	Covers gaps in provincial plans.

Private Health Insurance (Optional)

If your province doesn’t offer coverage or you want additional benefits, private insurance is a good option.

Costs:

• Ranges from $600–$1,000/year (₹50,000–₹82,000).
• Covers dental, vision, and prescription drugs not included in provincial plans.

Who Should Consider It?

• Students in provinces like Ontario without provincial coverage.
• Those needing specialized care or extended coverage.

Healthcare Services and Access

Typical Healthcare Costs Without Insurance:

• General Practitioner Visit: $100–$150 (₹8,300–₹12,500).
• Prescriptions: $20–$100 (₹1,700–₹8,300) depending on the medication.
• Hospital Visits: Can cost $500–$1,000/day (₹41,500–₹83,000) without insurance.

Service	Cost (Without Insurance)	Considerations
Doctor Visit	$100–$150 (₹8,300–₹12,500)	Includes basic consultation.
Prescriptions	$20–$100 (₹1,700–₹8,300)	Varies by medication.
Hospital Care	$500–$1,000/day (₹41,500–₹83,000)	Includes room and medical treatment.

Note: The amount mentioned above can vary due to fluctuating exchange rates.

Utility Bills and Miscellaneous Cost of Living in Canada for Indian Students

Apart from rent and groceries, there are several other monthly expenses you need to consider when living in Canada as a student. These can include utility bills, internet and phone plans, and entertainment costs.

Essential Costs Like Electricity, Internet, and Phone Plans

These are the basic utilities and services you’ll need while living in Canada. Some costs, like utilities, may be included in your rent, especially for on-campus housing, but if you’re living off-campus, you’ll likely need to pay these separately.

Utility Bills (Electricity, Water, Gas)

Utility bills typically include electricity, water, and gas, and these costs can vary depending on the size of your place and the city you live in.

• How Utilities Are Billed:
  Utilities are usually billed monthly and shared among roommates in shared apartments. Costs vary depending on the size of the apartment, location, and season (heating in winter increases bills).
• Average Monthly Costs:
  • Electricity and Water: $50–$100 (₹4,100–₹8,300) per person.
  • Heating/Gas: $30–$70 (₹2,500–₹5,800) per person.
• Tips to Save on Utilities:
  • Turn off lights and appliances when not in use.
  • Use energy-efficient devices.
  • Share housing with roommates to split bills.

Internet and Phone Plans

Having reliable internet and a phone plan is essential for communication and staying connected.

• Internet Costs:
  Broadband internet typically costs $40–$80/month (₹3,300–₹6,600), depending on the speed and service provider. Shared apartments often split the cost.
• Phone Plans:
  • Prepaid Plans: Start at $15–$30/month (₹1,200–₹2,500), suitable for light users.
  • Postpaid Plans: Range from $40–$60/month (₹3,300–₹5,000), offering more data and international calling options.
• Tips:
  • Choose student plans offered by providers like Rogers, Bell, or Telus.
  • Use Wi-Fi for calls and data whenever possible to reduce mobile usage.

Entertainment and Leisure Costs

Socializing and leisure activities are part of the student experience, but they come with costs.

• Typical Expenses:
  • Movie Tickets: $10–$15 (₹830–₹1,200) per ticket.
  • Gym Memberships: $30–$50/month (₹2,500–₹4,100).
  • Social Activities: Dining out, coffee, or weekend outings can cost $50–$100/month (₹4,100–₹8,300).
• Weekend Travel and Sightseeing:
  Explore Canada’s beauty with weekend trips. Costs for travel and accommodation start at $100–$200 (₹8,300–₹16,500) for budget-friendly options.

City-Wise Cost of Living in Canada Comparison for Indian Students

The cost of living in Canada can vary greatly depending on which city you choose to study in. Larger cities tend to be more expensive, while smaller cities offer more affordable living options.

City	Total Monthly Cost (USD) (INR Approx.)
Toronto	$1,228–$1,628 (₹1,01,600–₹1,34,600)
Vancouver	$1,377–$1,977 (₹1,13,500–₹1,63,500)
Montreal	$906–$1,306 (₹75,200–₹1,07,200)
Winnipeg	$680–$980 (₹56,100–₹81,100)
Halifax	$778–$1,078 (₹63,000–₹89,000)
Ottawa	$965–$1,365 (₹79,500–₹1,12,000)

Note: The amount mentioned above can vary due to fluctuating exchange rates.

Budgeting Tips for Indian Students in Canada

Managing your finances wisely can make your experience in Canada stress-free. With a bit of planning and smart choices, you can stretch your budget without compromising on essentials.

1. Create a Monthly Expense Tracker

• Use an app or a notebook to monitor your spending.
• Track major categories like rent, groceries, transport, and leisure.

2. Prioritize Essentials

• Focus on fixed costs like rent, groceries, and transport first.
• Allocate a portion of your budget for savings or emergencies.

3. Use Student Discounts

• Many services like public transport, movie tickets, and restaurants offer student discounts.
• Always carry your student ID to make the most of these offers.

4. Share Accommodation

• Split rent and utility costs by sharing an apartment with roommates.
• Look for housing options near campus to save on commuting expenses.

5. Buy Groceries in Bulk

• Purchase staples like rice, lentils, and canned goods in larger quantities from stores like Costco or No Frills.
• Meal prep weekly to reduce waste and save time.

Scholarships and Financial Aid Options in Canada

Financial aid and scholarships can greatly reduce the cost of living in Canada. 

Popular Scholarships for Indian Students:

• Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships: For outstanding doctoral students.
• Ontario Graduate Scholarship: Available to graduate students studying in Ontario based on academic excellence.
• Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship: For undergraduate students at the University of Toronto, covering tuition and other costs.
• Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship: For graduate students from Commonwealth countries.

Types of Financial Aid Available:

• Merit-based Scholarships: Awarded to students with excellent academic records.
• Need-based Scholarships: For students who need financial assistance.
• Partial vs. Full Funding:
  • Full funding: Covers all costs, including tuition and living expenses.
  • Partial funding: Helps with a portion of the costs, like tuition fees or books.

How upGrad Abroad Can Help You Study and Save in Canada

Studying in Canada is a big step, but upGrad Abroad makes it easier and more affordable. From choosing the right university to managing costs, here’s how we can help.

Without upGrad Abroad:

• You might struggle with picking the right university and sticking to your budget.
• Preparing for exams like IELTS or GRE could be stressful without proper support.
• You might miss out on scholarships or ways to save money.

With upGrad Abroad:

• Blended Learning: Start your studies online before going to Canada. It saves on tuition and living costs.
• Test Prep Support: upGrad Abroad helps you prepare for IELTS, PTE, GMAT, or GRE. Check out the resources:
  • IELTS
  • PTE
  • GMAT
  • GRE
• Scholarship Guidance: Find scholarships to reduce your costs. Learn more here Scholarships articles for Indian Students.
• Application Support: upGrad’s team helps with your application, making sure everything’s done right.

With upGrad, you get expert help every step of the way, so you can focus on your studies and save money.

Ready to start your journey to Canada? Get in touch with upGrad Abroad now!