1946 Masters Courses in Canada - Find Universities,Deadlines, Eligibility & Fees

You probably know someone who went to Canada to study—or at least thought about it. And it makes sense. A Master's in Canada gives you a world-class degree, work opportunities, and a clear PR pathway, all without the high costs of the US or UK.

Over 220,000 international students choose Canada every year (IRCC 2024), for its top universities like Toronto, McGill, and UBC, and because graduates actually get jobs. Fields like AI, business, engineering, and healthcare are in demand, and with a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) of up to 3 years, you get plenty of time to find work and settle in.

But is it the right choice for you? What about tuition, scholarships, and living costs? And how does it compare to other countries? Read further as this page covers everything you need to know.

Highlights: Master's in Canada (2025)

Canada is quickly becoming a top destination for international students, thanks to affordable tuition, strong job prospects, and an easy PR pathway. According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC, 2024)over 60% of international students in Canada transition to permanent residency (PR) after graduation. Plus, with tuition fees 40-50% lower than the USA, many students find Canada to be a cost-effective choice for higher education.

Key Highlights of Master’s in Canada

Key Factor Details
Duration of Master's Programs 1-2 years (course-based or thesis-based)
Top Universities University of Toronto, UBC, McGill, University of Waterloo
Tuition Fees $15,000 - $40,000 per year (₹12 - ₹33 lakh)
Cost of Living $10,000 - $18,000 per year (₹8 - ₹15 lakh)
Job Prospects 90% employment rate within six months of graduation (Statistics Canada, 2024)
Work Permit Up to 3 years under Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
PR Pathway Express Entry & Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) available

Planning to work in Canada after graduation? Learn about how to apply for PR after studying in Canada for a smooth transition.

Why Choose Master's in Canadas?

  • Affordable Education – Compared to the USA or UK, tuition in Canada is more budget-friendly.
  • Job Opportunities – Canada has a growing demand for tech, healthcare, and business graduates.
  • Easier PR Process – International students can apply for PR through Express Entry or PNP after gaining work experience.

Need funding? Check out scholarships for Indian students in Canada to explore financial aid options.

Types of Master’s in Canada: Which One is Right for You?

With Canada ranking among the top 5 countries for higher education globally (QS Higher Education System Strength Rankings 2024), international students have access to world-class education, internships, and work opportunities.

According to Universities Canada (2024), over 70% of master’s graduates secure employment within three months of graduation, with salaries 20-35% higher than bachelor’s degree holders.

Want to know how Canada’s education system works? Learn about the education system in Canada to understand degree structures and career opportunities.

Types of Master’s Programs in Canada

Program Type Duration Who It’s Best For?
Course-Based (Professional Master’s) 1-2 years Students seeking practical skills and direct industry placement in IT, Business, or Engineering.
Research-Based (Thesis Master’s) 2 years Ideal for students interested in academic research, PhD, or innovation-driven fields.
Co-op or Internship-Based Master’s 1.5-2 years Best for those wanting hands-on industry experience during their degree. Popular in STEM, Finance, and Business Analytics.
MBA & Executive Master’s 1-2 years Designed for professionals aiming for leadership roles in business, finance, and management.
  • If you want a degree that leads directly to a job, go for a course-based master’s.
  • If you’re planning for a PhD, a research-based master’s is the best fit.

Thinking about Canada for your degree? Discover why Canada is a top study destination for international students.

Best Universities for Master's in Canada (2025)

According to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025seven Canadian universities rank among the top 150 globally, which makes Canada a leading destination for postgraduate education.

Top Universities for Master’s in Canada (2025)

University Name QS Ranking 2025 Top Programs
University of Toronto #21 Engineering, AI, Data Science, Business
University of British Columbia (UBC) #34 Computer Science, Environmental Studies, Business Analytics
McGill University #30 Medicine, Biomedical Engineering, Law
University of Waterloo #44 Robotics, AI, Software Engineering
McMaster University #80 Healthcare, Public Health, Engineering
University of Alberta #91 Petroleum Engineering, AI & ML, Business
Western University #114 Economics, Finance, Marketing
Queen’s University #125 Business, Public Policy, International Relations
University of Calgary #135 Energy Studies, Geosciences, Engineering
Simon Fraser University #152 Cybersecurity, Game Development, IT

How to Choose the Right University for Master's in Canada?

  • For AI, Machine Learning & Data Science: Choose University of Toronto, UBC, or University of Waterloo.
  • For Business & Finance: McGill, Western University, and Queen’s University have strong MBA and finance programs.
  • For Healthcare & Biomedical Fields: McMaster University and University of Alberta lead in research and job placements.
  • For Energy & Engineering Fields: University of Calgary and University of Alberta are known for petroleum, renewable energy, and geosciences.

One-Year vs. Two-Year Master’s in Canada: Which One is Better?

Master’s in Canada typically lasts 1-2 years, but which duration is right for you? It depends on how fast you want to graduate and enter the job market.

According to IRCC (2024), international students prefer one-year master's programs when aiming for cost savings and quick employment, while two-year programs offer stronger research opportunities and longer post-study work permits (PGWP).

Comparison: One-Year vs. Two-Year Master’s

Factor One-Year Master’s Two-Year Master’s
Duration 8-12 months 16-24 months
Best For Students who want to graduate faster & enter the workforce quickly Those who want more in-depth learning, research, or PhD pathways
Tuition Fees Lower (approx. $15,000 - $25,000/year) Higher (approx. $25,000 - $40,000/year)
Post-Study Work Permit (PGWP) 1 year PGWP Up to 3 years PGWP
Job Prospects Quick entry into jobs, but might have fewer specialization options Stronger specialization and research advantages

If you want to save time and money, a one-year master's is ideal.
If you need more research exposure and a longer work permit, choose a two-year master’s.

Considering a one-year program? Check out Canada’s best 1-year PG diploma and master's courses.

Eligibility Criteria for Master’s in Canada

Master's in Canada is highly sought after. According to Statistics Canada (2024)international students make up nearly 30% of all master’s enrollments, with business, engineering, and computer science being the most competitive programs.

Need help with language requirements? Check out IELTS for studying in Canada or explore alternatives like TOEFL and PTE.

Basic Eligibility for a Master’s in Canada

Requirement Details
Bachelor’s Degree 3- or 4-year degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale)
English Proficiency IELTS (6.5+), TOEFL (90+), or PTE (58+) – required for non-native speakers
GRE/GMAT Required for competitive programs in engineering, business, and data analytics
Work Experience Not mandatory, but 1-3 years of experience preferred for MBA and certain technical fields
LORs & SOP 2-3 Letters of Recommendation and a Statement of Purpose detailing career goals

Struggling with your application? Learn how to craft a winning statement of purpose (SOP) and get expert tips on writing a strong letter of recommendation (LOR).

Application Process for Master’s in Canada

Canada has three primary admission intakesSeptember (Fall), January (Winter), and May (Summer). The Fall intake is the most competitive, attracting over 70% of international master’s applicants (Universities Canada, 2024).

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Choose Your University & Program

  • Research programs based on fees, job prospects, and PR eligibility.
  • Check if your program is available in the Fall, Winter, or Summer intake.

2. Meet Admission Requirements & Prepare Documents

  • Ensure you meet the GPA, English proficiency, and GRE/GMAT requirements.
  • Gather transcripts, LORs, SOP, resume, and work experience letters (if applicable).

3. Submit Online Applications via University Portals

  • Canadian universities process applications directly through their websites.
  • Application fees range from $75 - $150 (₹6,300 - ₹12,500) per university.

4. Receive Admission Decision & Secure Your Spot

  • Universities take 6-12 weeks to process applications.
  • If accepted, you’ll receive an offer letter, which is required for the student visa application.

5. Apply for a Study Permit (Student Visa)

Intake Options for Master’s in Canada

Intake Application Deadline Best For
September (Fall) Dec - March Most courses available, higher competition, best for scholarships
January (Winter) July - October Fewer courses, good for those who missed Fall intake
May (Summer) Oct - Feb Limited programs, best for late applicants in specific fields

Considering a January or May intake? Learn more about Winter intake in Canada and Summer intake in Canada for application strategies.

Master's in Canada Without GRE/GMAT: Universities & Requirements

Not all Canadian universities require GRE or GMAT scores for master's programs. While business and engineering programs at top schools often ask for them, many universities have waived these tests in favor of evaluating work experience, academic records, and research potential.

A report by Universities Canada (2024) found that over 60% of Canadian universities do not make GRE/GMAT mandatory for master's admissions. Instead, they focus on GPA, professional experience, and recommendation letters.

Confused about eligibility? Learn more about how Canada’s education system evaluates applicants beyond standardized tests.

Top Universities That Do Not Require GRE/GMAT

University Name Popular Master’s Programs Without GRE/GMAT
University of Toronto Public Health, Social Work, Environmental Science
University of British Columbia (UBC) Data Science, Nursing, Public Policy
McGill University Law, Political Science, Biomedical Sciences
University of Waterloo Computer Science, Cybersecurity, AI
University of Calgary Geosciences, Public Administration, Education
Carleton University Journalism, International Affairs, Public Policy
Simon Fraser University Communication Studies, Psychology, IT
University of Saskatchewan Agriculture, Biotechnology, Pharmacy

What Can Replace a GRE/GMAT Score?

  • If a program does not require GRE/GMAT, universities evaluate your application using:
  • GPA of 3.0 or higher (on a 4.0 scale) can offset the absence of test scores.
  • Many business and tech programs accept 2-5 years of relevant work experience instead of GMAT.
  • A solid research portfolio or thesis work can help in research-based master’s programs.
  • Having certifications in your field (like PMP, CFA, or Google Data Analytics) can strengthen your application.
  • Demonstrating practical experience in relevant industries improves your chances.

Cost of Studying a Master’s in Canada

The cost of pursuing a master’s degree in Canada varies by university, location, and lifestyle choices. On average, tuition fees range between $15,000 - $40,000 per year (₹12 - ₹33 lakh), while the cost of living adds another $10,000 - $18,000 per year (₹8 - ₹15 lakh).

According to Statistics Canada (2024), tuition for STEM and business-related programs is 20-30% higher than for humanities and social sciences. However, co-op programs and part-time work help students recover costs faster.

Want a breakdown of expenses? Check out Canada’s cost of living for students to plan your budget.

Estimated Cost of Master’s Programs in Canada

Expense Type Estimated Cost Per Year Notes
Tuition Fees (Public Universities) $15,000 - $30,000 (₹12 - ₹25 lakh) More affordable than private universities
Tuition Fees (Private Universities) $25,000 - $40,000 (₹21 - ₹33 lakh) Business and STEM programs are on the higher end
Living Expenses (Housing, Food, Transport) $10,000 - $18,000 (₹8 - ₹15 lakh) Higher in cities like Toronto and Vancouver
Health Insurance $600 - $900 (₹50,000 - ₹75,000) Mandatory for all students
Books & Study Materials $500 - $1,500 (₹41,000 - ₹1.2 lakh) Varies by course
Student Fees (Library, Technology, Athletics, etc.) $500 - $1,500 (₹41,000 - ₹1.2 lakh) One-time or annual charges
Miscellaneous (Personal, Entertainment, etc.) $2,000 - $5,000 (₹1.6 - ₹4 lakh) Depends on lifestyle

City-Wise Cost Comparison for Master’s Students in Canada

City Average Tuition Fees (Annual) Estimated Living Cost (Annual)
Toronto $25,000 - $40,000 (₹21 - ₹33 lakh) $18,000 - $24,000 (₹15 - ₹20 lakh)
Vancouver $22,000 - $38,000 (₹18 - ₹31 lakh) $15,000 - $22,000 (₹12 - ₹18 lakh)
Montreal $20,000 - $35,000 (₹16 - ₹29 lakh) $12,000 - $18,000 (₹10 - ₹15 lakh)
Calgary $18,000 - $30,000 (₹15 - ₹25 lakh) $10,000 - $15,000 (₹8 - ₹12 lakh)
Winnipeg $15,000 - $25,000 (₹12 - ₹20 lakh) $8,000 - $12,000 (₹6 - ₹10 lakh)

Tip: If you’re looking to save money, cities like Calgary and Winnipeg offer lower living costs and affordable tuition fees, especially for public universities

Cost-Saving Tip: Many students reduce tuition costs by securing scholarships, assistantships, and co-op jobs while studying.

Scholarships for Master's in Canada

The Government of Canada, universities, and private organizations provide fully funded and partial scholarships based on merit, financial need, or research potential.

According to Universities Canada (2024), over 70% of international master's students receive some form of financial aid, bursary, or scholarship to support their education. Many scholarships cover up to 50-100% of tuition fees, while some also provide a living allowance.

Want to apply for scholarships? Check out fully-funded scholarships for eligibility and deadlines.

Top Scholarships for Master’s Students in Canada

Scholarship Name Eligibility Funding Amount
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (VCGS) High-achieving international students in research-based programs $50,000 per year (₹41 lakh) for 3 years
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) Master’s students in Ontario universities $5,000 - $15,000 (₹4 - ₹12 lakh) per year
Trudeau Foundation Scholarships Students pursuing leadership, public policy, or social sciences Covers full tuition + $40,000 (₹33 lakh) stipend
University of Toronto Lester B. Pearson Scholarship Exceptional academic record & leadership skills Full tuition + living expenses
University of British Columbia International Tuition Award Master’s students in research-based programs Up to $3,200 (₹2.6 lakh) per year
McGill University Entrance Scholarship Based on academic merit $3,000 - $12,000 (₹2.5 - ₹10 lakh)
University of Alberta Graduate Entrance Scholarship Open to all master’s students Up to $17,500 (₹14.5 lakh) + $10,000 (₹8 lakh) for international students

Tip: Most universities also offer graduate assistantships (TA/RA positions) where students work as teaching assistants or research associates to earn a stipend and tuition discount.

Best Job-Oriented Master's Programs in Canada

A recent Survey of Graduates by Statistics Canada (2024) found that nearly 90% of master's graduates secure full-time employment within six months, with an average salary increase of 40% compared to bachelor's degree holders

In fields like AI, engineering, and finance, employment rates are even higher due to strong demand for skilled professionals. The NOC Code system categorizes high-demand occupations, which makes it easier to qualify for PR (Permanent Residency) in Canada.

Want to maximize career prospects? Learn more about the average salary in Canada.

Top Job-Oriented Master’s Programs in Canada

Program Industry Demand Average Salary (Annual)
Master’s in Data Science High demand in AI, machine learning, fintech $85,000 - $110,000 (₹70 - ₹91 lakh)
Master’s in Computer Science Strong hiring in tech, cybersecurity, software dev $80,000 - $105,000 (₹66 - ₹87 lakh)
Master’s in Business Analytics Needed in consulting, finance, and e-commerce $75,000 - $100,000 (₹62 - ₹83 lakh)
MBA (Finance, Marketing, HR) Best for corporate leadership & management roles $90,000 - $120,000 (₹75 - ₹99 lakh)
Master’s in Artificial Intelligence (AI) Huge demand in automation, robotics, deep learning $90,000 - $130,000 (₹75 - ₹108 lakh)
Master’s in Renewable Energy Growing industry in Canada’s green energy sector $75,000 - $95,000 (₹62 - ₹79 lakh)
Master’s in Biotechnology Expanding demand in pharma, medical research $80,000 - $100,000 (₹66 - ₹83 lakh)
Master’s in Cybersecurity Critical demand in tech, finance, and government $85,000 - $115,000 (₹70 - ₹95 lakh)
Master’s in Engineering (Civil, Electrical, Mechanical) Infrastructure, tech, and automation hiring growth $80,000 - $110,000 (₹66 - ₹91 lakh)

Tip: If PR (Permanent Residency) is your goalSTEM fields offer easier PR pathways under the Canadian Express Entry system.

Work Permit & PR Pathway After Master's in Canada

Canada is one of the easiest countries for international students to transition from a study permit to permanent residency (PR). The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows graduates to gain Canadian work experience, which strengthens PR applications through Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).

Need help with your visa? Check the Canada student visa process for study permit details.

Step-by-Step Guide: Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

The PGWP lets international students work in Canada for up to three years after graduation.

Course Duration PGWP Duration
Less than 8 months Not eligible
8 months – 2 years Equal to course duration
2+ years Up to 3 years

PGWP Application Process:

  • Graduate from an eligible DLI (Designated Learning Institution).
  • Apply for PGWP within 180 days of getting your final transcripts.
  • Provide required documents: passport, proof of graduation, and study permit details.
  • Pay the application fee ($255 CAD or ₹15,600).
  • Processing takes 90–180 days; applicants can work while waiting for approval.

Pathways to PR After a Master’s in Canada

1. Express Entry – Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

  • Fastest PR route for PGWP holders with 1+ year of Canadian work experience.
  • Requires a minimum CRS score (varies by draw).

2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

  • PR pathway through province-specific nomination programs (Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, etc.).
  • Some provinces offer direct PR streams for international graduates.

3. Quebec Experience Program (PEQ)

  • Special PR pathway for students who graduate from Quebec universities.

Student Life in Canada: What to Expect?

International students in Canada experience high-quality education, diverse cultures, and job opportunities, but adjusting to costs, weather, and work-life balance is important.

Cost of Living for International Students

On average, students spend $10,000 - $18,000 (₹8 - ₹15 lakh) per year on living expenses.

Expense Type Average Monthly Cost
Rent (Shared Apartment) $500 - $1,500 (₹41,000 - ₹1.2 lakh)
Food & Groceries $300 - $600 (₹25,000 - ₹50,000)
Transport (Public Transit) $100 - $150 (₹8,300 - ₹12,500)

Want more details? Check Canada’s student cost of living.

Weather & Culture

  • Winters: Can drop to -20°C in Toronto, Montreal, Calgary.
  • Summers: Range from 20-30°C, making Vancouver & Toronto popular.
  • Diverse student population; over 50% of students are from India, China, and Nigeria (IRCC, 2024).

Tip: Join student networks to settle in faster.

Balancing Studies & Part-Time Jobs

  • Work 20 hours per week during classes, full-time during breaks
  • Average wage: $15 - $20 per hour (₹1,200 - ₹1,600)
  • Popular jobs: Teaching assistant, research assistant, retail

Tip: Manage your time well to maintain grades and work experience.

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1946 results found

MBA in Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship

International Business University, Canada

  • DURATION
    Online:7 Months
    On-campus:1 Year 4 Months
  • FEES
    Online: INR 4,50,000
    On-campus: CAD 25,875

Information Studies (M.I.St.)

McGill University, Canada

  • DURATION
    1 Year 6 Months
  • FEES
    INR 18.17L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025

Master of Science in Business Administration in Management Information Systems (MSCB)

The University of British Columbia, Canada

  • DURATION
    -
  • FEES
    INR 5.71L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -

Master of Engineering in Engineering Management (Mechanical Engineering)

University of Alberta, Canada

  • DURATION
    1 Year 6 Months
  • FEES
    INR 0.00L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    AUG 2025

Master of Business Administration

University Canada West, Canada

  • DURATION
    Online:11 Months
    On-campus:1 Year 3 Months
  • FEES
    Online: INR 4,50,000
    On-campus: CAD $29,799

Master of Biomedical Engineering

University of Montreal, Canada

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    INR 14.06L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    MAY 2025

Master of Engineering Science (MESc) Electrical and Computer Engineering

Western University, Canada

  • DURATION
    -
  • FEES
    INR 23.03L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.5
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2024

Master of Engineering in Food Processing

Brescia University College, Canada

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    INR 8.48L (Total)
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2024

Graduate Certificate in Biblical Studies and Christian Thought

Trinity Western University, Canada

  • DURATION
    -
  • FEES
    INR 5.13L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-7.0
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2024

Master of Information Studies (Bilingual)

University of Ottawa, Canada

  • DURATION
    -
  • FEES
    INR 22.36L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.5
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2024

MSc in Computing Science

Simon Fraser University, Canada

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    INR 7.37L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-7.0
  • INTAKE SESSION
    JAN 2025

Master of Applied Science In Civil Engineering

University of Victoria, Canada

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    INR 5.03L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    MAY 2025

MBA

University of Sherbrooke, Canada

  • DURATION
    1 Year 6 Months
  • FEES
    INR 14.80L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2024

MA Information Systems and Technology

York University, Canada

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    INR 12.03L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025

Information Systems Security (MASc)

Concordia University, Canada

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    -
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2024

Master of Computer Science

Carleton University, Canada

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    INR 25.93L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.5
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2024

Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering

University of Manitoba, Canada

  • DURATION
    2 Years
  • FEES
    INR 7.39L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2024

M.Sc. in Computer Science

University of Windsor, Canada

  • DURATION
    -
  • FEES
    INR 9.85L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.5
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2024

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All information provided on this page is for general use and upGrad Abroad is not responsible for any errors or omissions. The Universities involved in this Program are accredited/recognized in the countries where they are established. Relevant terms and conditions apply.Any action taken upon the information found on this website is strictly at your own risk.