Study in Canada for Indian Students 2026: Intakes, Apply, Cost, Visa

Canada remains one of the most preferred global education destinations in 2026 due to its academic excellence, structured immigration pathways, employment-oriented programs, and a safe environment for international students. Indian students planning to study in Canada benefit from globally ranked universities, post-study work rights, and long-term settlement opportunities supported by transparent policies.

In this blog, you will get all the latest updates on study in Canada for indian students 2026, such as visa rules, intakes, total cost, eligibility, scholarships, work options, and career pathways, so let’s get started.

Disclaimer: All currency conversions (1 CAD ≈ ₹66.60) and financial requirements are estimates. These figures are subject to market volatility and IRCC policy updates; please verify the latest rates and official guidelines before applying.

Is Canada Worth It for Indian Students?

Yes, but only if you choose the right course and plan your money well. Canada follows a “quality over quantity” model, as confirmed by IRCC. The average starting salary for graduates is about INR 33 to 39 Lakhs per year. In STEM or Healthcare, salaries can cross INR 55 Lakhs. Also, you can get a Post-Graduation Work Permit for up to 3 years, which helps you gain work experience and apply for PR.

However, costs are higher now. You must show INR 15,22,500 for living expenses under the new GIC rule. Average tuition is around INR 14 Lakhs per year. So your first-year budget can reach nearly INR 30 Lakhs. In addition, college students must choose one of the 1,107 approved programs to get a work permit after study. So, Canada is worth it if you meet these conditions. Here are the key points:

• You choose a Master’s degree or an approved high-demand program
• You arrange at least INR 30 Lakhs for first-year costs
• You plan to use the 3-year PGWP for work experience
• You follow all the 2026 study and work rules carefully

Study in Canada for Indian Students 2026: Quick Highlights

To study in Canada for Indian students 2026, you need to first get a gist of everything. Here is an overview of everything before we go further into the details. It covers everything you need to plan your move to Canada in one glance.

Visa Stream	Regular Stream only (SDS permanently closed in late 2024)
GIC Amount	CAD 22,895 (INR 15.2 Lakhs) for living expenses
Work Hours	Off-campus work limit is now 24 hours per week
Master’s / PhD	Exempt from the Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) requirement
UG / Diploma	Mandatory PAL required, intake strictly capped by province
PGWP Eligibility	Guaranteed for Degrees; Field-specific for Diplomas (1,107 categories)
Spousal Work	Only available for spouses of Master’s, PhD, and Professional students
PR Pathway	Priority given to Healthcare, STEM, Trades, and French speakers
IELTS / PTE	6.0 (Academic) minimum; higher scores recommended for competitive DLIs
Total Funds	Show INR 30 to 40 Lakhs (1st year tuition + GIC + travel)
Processing Time	Average 8 to 12 weeks for Indian applicants
Main Intake	September (Fall), Application deadline: Jan to March 2026

Latest Canada Student Visa Updates

Canada changed its student visa system in February 2026. IRCC now controls intake strictly. The government will issue a maximum of 408,000 study permits in 2026. Out of these, only 155,000 are for new students. SDS is closed, so everyone must apply through the Regular Stream. Here are the official rules you must follow to to study in Canada for Indian students 2026:

• IRCC will issue 408,000 total study permits in 2026.
• Only 155,000 permits are for new applicants.
• Students applying for Bachelor’s or College Diploma must submit a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL).
• Master’s and PhD students at public institutions do not need a PAL.
• If you study in a joint program, you need only one PAL from the main institution.
• SDS closed on November 8, 2024.
• You must apply through the Regular Stream with 4 months of bank statements.
• You must show CAD 22,895 (INR 15,22,500) as GIC for living expenses.
• PhD applicants can receive 14-day priority processing.
• You can work 24 hours per week during study terms.
• You must meet CLB 7 (University) or CLB 5 (College) to receive a PGWP.
• You cannot change your school without applying for a new study permit.

What Is the Single PAL Rule for Joint and Dual Degrees?

IRCC updated this rule on February 6, 2026. Now, if you study in a joint or dual program taught by two schools or in two provinces, you need only one Provincial Attestation Letter. Earlier, students had to arrange two separate PALs. That process was slow and costly. The new rule makes your study permit process simpler and faster. This is how the single PAL rule works:

Situation	Rule
You study at two colleges in one program	You submit only one PAL
Who gives the PAL	The institution that awards your final degree
Joint program across provinces	Still only one PAL required
Master’s or PhD at public university	No PAL required

Important: This rule also applies to twinning or dual degree programs. If you start your course in one country and complete it in Canada, the Canadian institution that grants your final degree must issue the PAL. If your program requires a PAL and you submit your study permit application without it, IRCC will return your application. Therefore, always confirm your PAL requirement before you apply.

What Is the PGWP Field of Study Freeze?

On January 15, 2026, IRCC confirmed that the Post-Graduation Work Permit eligible program list will stay fixed for the full year. This list has 1,107 approved programs. No new courses will be added. No courses will be removed in 2026. Therefore, you get rule stability for the entire year. This rule mainly affects college diploma and certificate students. University degree students do not face this restriction. Here are the key facts:

• If your college program is on the 1,107 list, you remain eligible for PGWP in 2026.
• The earlier plan to remove 178 programs is paused, so those programs stay valid this year.
• This freeze applies only to non-degree college programs.
• Bachelor’s, Master’s, and PhD graduates can apply for PGWP without checking this list.

Note: Before you pay tuition, ask your college for your 6-digit CIP code. Then match it with the official IRCC PGWP list. If your code is not listed, you will not receive a work permit after graduation.

What Is the 14-Day Fast-Track for PhD Applicants?

From January 1, 2026, IRCC set a 14-day processing target for PhD study permit applications at public universities. This means eligible doctoral students can receive a decision in about two weeks if they submit a complete application. In comparison, regular study permit processing usually takes 7 to 12 weeks. This faster system applies only when you meet all official conditions. Here are the key eligibility rules:

• Verify your documents before submission.
• Match your scores with the required cut-off.
• Keep your passport valid for the required period.
• Monitor your email for updates from the authority.

Also Read: 2-Year Nursing Programs in Canada for International Students

Top Universities in Canada for Indian Students

QS World University Rankings 2026 places 15 Canadian universities in the global top 400. Tuition depends on program and faculty. The INR values below use recent average exchange rates for planning. Here are the details to study in Canada for Indian students 2026.

QS 2026 Rank	University	Average Tuition per Year	Average Tuition per Year	Average Acceptance Rate
27	McGill University	CAD 32,000 to CAD 65,000	INR 19 Lakhs to INR 40 Lakhs	46%
29	University of Toronto	CAD 45,000 to CAD 68,000	INR 27 Lakhs to INR 42 Lakhs	43%
40	University of British Columbia	CAD 42,000 to CAD 60,000	INR 25 Lakhs to INR 37 Lakhs	52%
94	University of Alberta	CAD 32,000 to CAD 48,000	INR 19 Lakhs to INR 29 Lakhs	58%
119	University of Waterloo	CAD 48,000 to CAD 70,000	INR 29 Lakhs to INR 43 Lakhs	53%
151	Western University	CAD 38,000 to CAD 55,000	INR 23 Lakhs to INR 34 Lakhs	55%
168	Université de Montréal	CAD 25,000 to CAD 35,000	INR 15 Lakhs to INR 21 Lakhs	50%
173	McMaster University	CAD 42,000 to CAD 55,000	INR 25 Lakhs to INR 34 Lakhs	58%
191	Queen’s University	CAD 35,000 to CAD 60,000	INR 21 Lakhs to INR 37 Lakhs	42%
211	University of Calgary	CAD 28,000 to CAD 40,000	INR 17 Lakhs to INR 25 Lakhs	63%
219	University of Ottawa	CAD 35,000 to CAD 48,000	INR 21 Lakhs to INR 29 Lakhs	60%
283	Dalhousie University	CAD 28,000 to CAD 45,000	INR 17 Lakhs to INR 27 Lakhs	65%
308	Simon Fraser University	CAD 32,000 to CAD 45,000	INR 19 Lakhs to INR 27 Lakhs	59%
333	York University	CAD 35,000 to CAD 45,000	INR 21 Lakhs to INR 27 Lakhs	62%
358	University of Victoria	CAD 30,000 to CAD 42,000	INR 18 Lakhs to INR 25 Lakhs	64%

Affordable Universities in Canada Under CAD 20,000 per Year

Some public universities charge lower tuition, especially in smaller provinces. These schools maintain good academic standards and lower yearly costs. Here are strong budget options:

• Memorial University of Newfoundland charges about CAD 14,500 per year, around INR 9 Lakhs.
• University of Northern British Columbia charges between CAD 18,000 and CAD 20,000, around INR 11 to 12.5 Lakhs.
• Brandon University fees are close to CAD 17,000 per year, around INR 10.5 Lakhs.
• University of Prince Edward Island charges about CAD 18,500 yearly, near INR 11.5 Lakhs.

Universities Accepting Without IELTS

Several universities accept alternative English proof if you studied in English for the last three to four years. Many accept Duolingo or PTE scores. Here are verified options:

• University of Winnipeg accepts a Duolingo score of 120 or completion of the Academic Level
• The University of Saskatchewan has a U PREP pathway and accepts a Duolingo score of 115.
• Brock University allows admission after completing its Intensive English Language Program.
• Concordia University waives IELTS with four years of English medium study proof.
• University of Regina accepts PTE score of 59 or its internal ESL test.

Best Courses to Study in Canada

You must choose a course that matches Canada’s labor shortage sectors and PGWP eligible list. Healthcare, STEM, Skilled Trades, Transport, and Agriculture show strong hiring data. The programs below offer high employment outcomes and stable post study work options. Here are the top courses with fee ranges to study in Canada for Indian students 2026:

Course or Program	Top Universities or Colleges	Fee per Year	Fee per Year
MSc Data Science or AI	University of Waterloo, University of Toronto, University of British Columbia	CAD 35,000 to CAD 55,000	INR 21 Lakhs to INR 34 Lakhs
MBA Finance or Analytics	University of Toronto Rotman, Western Ivey, York Schulich	CAD 40,000 to CAD 90,000	INR 25 Lakhs to INR 56 Lakhs
BSc Nursing	McGill University, University of Alberta, McMaster University	CAD 20,000 to CAD 35,000	INR 12 Lakhs to INR 21 Lakhs
Software Engineering	University of Waterloo, University of Toronto, Carleton University	CAD 45,000 to CAD 65,000	INR 28 Lakhs to INR 40 Lakhs
Healthcare Administration	Humber College, Seneca Polytechnic, University of Ottawa	CAD 18,000 to CAD 28,000	INR 11 Lakhs to INR 17 Lakhs
Cybersecurity Postgraduate	York University, Conestoga College, British Columbia Institute of Technology	CAD 17,000 to CAD 25,000	INR 10 Lakhs to INR 15 Lakhs
Supply Chain Management	Centennial College, Fanshawe College, University of Alberta	CAD 16,000 to CAD 24,000	INR 10 Lakhs to INR 15 Lakhs
Civil or Construction Technology	George Brown College, British Columbia Institute of Technology, Southern Alberta Institute of Technology	CAD 18,000 to CAD 22,000	INR 11 Lakhs to INR 14 Lakhs
Agribusiness	University of Saskatchewan, University of Guelph	CAD 20,000 to CAD 30,000	INR 12 Lakhs to INR 18 Lakhs
Early Childhood Education	Algonquin College, Sheridan College, Capilano University	CAD 16,000 to CAD 20,000	INR 10 Lakhs to INR 12 Lakhs
Public Health	University of Toronto, University of Alberta	CAD 30,000 to CAD 45,000	INR 18 Lakhs to INR 27 Lakhs
Renewable Energy Engineering	University of Calgary, University of British Columbia	CAD 32,000 to CAD 50,000	INR 19 Lakhs to INR 31 Lakhs
Robotics	University of Toronto, McGill University	CAD 35,000 to CAD 55,000	INR 21 Lakhs to INR 34 Lakhs
Logistics and Transport Management	Humber College, Seneca Polytechnic	CAD 17,000 to CAD 23,000	INR 10 Lakhs to INR 14 Lakhs
Food Science	University of Guelph, University of Saskatchewan	CAD 28,000 to CAD 38,000	INR 17 Lakhs to INR 23 Lakhs

Courses After 12th

After high school, a four-year Bachelor’s degree gives you the most stable pathway. Bachelor’s programs remain exempt from field of study limits for PGWP. Therefore, you can choose most majors and still qualify for a three year work permit after graduation. Strong options include Computer Science, Nursing, Business Administration, and Psychology.

PG Diploma Courses

PG Diplomas offer practical training and faster entry into the job market. However, your diploma must match an approved CIP code under the PGWP eligible list. Two year diplomas usually provide a three year work permit, while one year programs may lead to a shorter permit. Popular fields include Artificial Intelligence, Project Management, Digital Marketing, Cybersecurity, and Sustainable Construction.

Master’s Programs

Master’s degrees offer major advantages. You do not need a Provincial Attestation Letter. The national study permit cap does not apply to most public university Master’s programs. In addition, even one year Master’s graduates can receive a three year PGWP. High demand areas include Data Science, Public Health, Engineering Management, and Finance.

PhD Programs

PhD programs receive the highest priority. Public university doctoral students benefit from a 14 day visa processing target when applying from outside Canada. Spouses remain eligible for open work permits. Canada actively supports research in Robotics, Renewable Energy, Public Health, and Quantum Computing.

Also Read: 5 Universities in Canada with Low Tuition Fees

Master’s vs PG Diploma in Canada: Which Is Better?

Your choice affects visa approval, work permit length, and PR chances. A Master’s at a public university gives more stability under current IRCC rules. A PG Diploma costs less and gives faster job entry, but you must follow stricter course eligibility rules. Here is the comparison to help you decide to study in Canada for Indian students 2026.

Comparison Point	Master’s Degree	PG Diploma
Duration	1 to 2 years	1 to 2 years
Average Tuition	CAD 30,000 to CAD 60,000 per year	CAD 15,000 to CAD 25,000 per year
Study Permit Rules	Exempt from PAL at public universities	PAL required in most cases
National Cap Impact	Not restricted under student cap	Falls under student cap limits
PGWP Length	Up to 3 years even after 1 year program	Same length as program, 1 to 2 years
Field of Study Restriction	No restriction for PGWP	Must match approved eligible program list
PR CRS Points	Higher points for Master’s level	Lower points compared to Master’s
Career Path	Research, management, leadership roles	Technical, practical, job focused roles

Admission Requirements for Indian Students

Canadian universities follow strict academic and language rules. Competitive programs in STEM and Business ask for higher scores. Therefore, you must meet academic, language, and document standards before you apply. Here are the exact requirements to study in Canada for Indian students 2026.

Academic Requirements

Universities check your past marks first. Higher ranked schools ask for higher percentages and GPA. Therefore, you must meet these minimum scores.

• Complete Class 12 from a recognized board for undergraduate admission. Most universities require 70 to 75%, while top schools may ask for 85% or higher.
• Hold a four year Bachelor’s degree for Master’s admission. Some universities accept a three year degree after credential evaluation.
• Present a strong Master’s degree with research experience for PhD programs.
• Maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, which equals about 65 to 70%. Top research universities may expect 3.3 or higher.

English Proficiency

You must prove that you can study in English. Each university sets its own minimum score. However, most follow these common ranges.

• Achieve IELTS Academic overall 6.5 for undergraduate with no band below 6.0. Postgraduate programs often require 7.0 overall.
• Score between 85 and 100 in TOEFL iBT depending on the university.
• Obtain 60 or above in PTE Academic for most programs.
• Secure 115 to 125 in Duolingo English Test if the university accepts it.

Standardized Tests

Some programs require extra test scores. These tests are common for Engineering and MBA courses. Therefore, check your program page carefully.

• Submit GRE score of 310 or higher for competitive STEM and Engineering Master’s programs if required.
• Provide GMAT score of 650 or above for MBA and specialized Business programs where mandatory.

Documents Required

You must prepare all documents before you apply. Missing papers can delay your admission. Therefore, keep everything ready.

• Collect academic transcripts for Class 10, Class 12, and all university years.
• Attach degree certificate or provisional certificate as proof of completion.
• Write a Statement of Purpose of 500 to 800 words explaining academic goals.
• Arrange two academic Letters of Recommendation.
• Prepare an updated resume showing projects, internships, or work experience.
• Keep a valid passport with enough validity period.
• Show proof of funds, including a Guaranteed Investment Certificate of CAD 22,895 for living expenses.

Cost of Studying in Canada for Indian Students

To study in Canada for indian students 2026, you must plan your budget carefully. Tuition is your highest cost. In addition, you must show a GIC of CAD 22,895 for living expenses as per official rules. Therefore, check the numbers below before you apply.

Tuition Fees by Course Level

Fees depend on the program and the university type. Public universities usually cost less than private institutions. Here are the average yearly tuition ranges.

Course Level	Average Annual Fee in CAD	Average Annual Fee in INR
Undergraduate Degree	CAD 25,000 to CAD 45,000	INR 15 Lakhs to INR 28 Lakhs
Master’s Degree	CAD 20,000 to CAD 40,000	INR 12 Lakhs to INR 25 Lakhs
MBA	CAD 35,000 to CAD 65,000	INR 22 Lakhs to INR 40 Lakhs
PhD	CAD 7,000 to CAD 18,000	INR 4 Lakhs to INR 11 Lakhs
PG Diploma	CAD 15,000 to CAD 22,000	INR 9 Lakhs to INR 14 Lakhs

Cost of Living by City

Living costs change by city. Toronto and Vancouver are the most expensive. Montreal and Calgary are more affordable. Here are the average monthly expenses including rent, food, and transport.

City	Average Monthly Cost in CAD	Approx Monthly Cost in INR
Toronto	CAD 1,900 or more	INR 1.17 Lakhs or more
Vancouver	CAD 1,980 or more	INR 1.22 Lakhs or more
Montreal	CAD 1,440 or more	INR 89,000 or more
Ottawa	CAD 1,650 or more	INR 1.02 Lakhs or more
Calgary	CAD 1,430 or more	INR 88,000 or more

Canada vs USA vs UK Cost Comparison

Canada has moderate tuition compared to the USA and similar or slightly lower costs than the UK. Here is the annual comparison.

Feature	Canada	USA	UK
Average Tuition	CAD 25,000 to CAD 45,000	USD 35,000 to USD 60,000	GBP 15,000 to GBP 35,000
Living Costs	CAD 18,000 to CAD 25,000	USD 18,000 to USD 22,000	GBP 12,000 to GBP 16,000
Mandatory Proof	CAD 22,895 GIC	I 20 financial proof	GBP 12,000 to GBP 15,000
Post Study Work	Up to 3 years	1 to 3 years	2 years

Total Budget Calculator for First Year

Your first-year budget must include tuition, living expenses, and extra expenses. Here is a simple estimate.

Expense Category	Estimated Cost in CAD	Estimated Cost in INR
Average Tuition	CAD 30,000	INR 18 Lakhs
GIC Requirement	CAD 22,895	INR 15 Lakhs
Pre Arrival Costs	CAD 3,500	INR 2 Lakhs
Total First Year Budget	CAD 56,395	Around INR 35 Lakhs

Also Read: Aeronautical Engineering in Canada: Courses, Fees, Universities & Career Scope

Canada Intakes in 2026 & When to Apply

In 2026, you must apply early because all students now use the regular visa stream. Visa processing takes about 7 to 12 weeks. Therefore, you should plan your intake and submit documents on time. Here are the main intakes and deadlines.

Intake	Semester Begins	Typical Application Deadline	Best For
Fall 2026	September 2026	December 2025 to March 2026	All major degrees, most scholarships, maximum course options
Winter 2027	January 2027	July to September 2026	Backup option, moderate course availability
Summer 2027	May 2027	November to December 2026	Limited diplomas and short vocational programs

Scholarships for Indian Students in Canada

Scholarships help reduce tuition and living costs. Most major awards close 6 to 9 months before classes start. Therefore, you must prepare early with strong academics and documents. Here is the list of scholarships to study in Canada for Indian students 2026.

Scholarship Name	Provider	Amount	Eligibility	Deadline
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship	Government of Canada	CAD 50,000 per year	PhD with leadership and research excellence	October to November 2025
Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship	Government of Canada	CAD 70,000 per year	Postdoctoral researchers in health, science, social science	September 2025
Ontario Graduate Scholarship	Ontario Government	CAD 15,000 per year	Master’s or PhD in Ontario universities	January to March 2026
Ontario Trillium Scholarship	Ontario Government	CAD 40,000 per year	International PhD students in Ontario	Varies by university
Lester B Pearson Scholarship	University of Toronto	Full tuition plus living	First year undergraduate students	October to November 2025
International Major Entrance Scholarship	University of British Columbia	CAD 10,000 to CAD 20,000	Undergraduate merit based students	January 15, 2026
McCall MacBain Scholarship	McGill University	Full tuition plus stipend	Master’s and professional programs	September 2025
Waterloo International Entrance Scholarship	University of Waterloo	CAD 10,000	Undergraduate with 90 percent or higher	February 2026
UdeM Tuition Exemption Scholarship	University of Montreal	Tuition reduction	Undergraduate, Master’s, PhD	September to February
Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Scholarship	Trudeau Foundation	Up to CAD 60,000 per year	PhD humanities and social sciences	November 2025
Shastri Research Fellowship	Shastri Indo Canadian Institute	Varies	Research scholars	December 2025
Leverage Edu Study Abroad Scholarship	Leverage Edu	INR 20,000 to INR 3 Lakhs	Students applying through Leverage Edu	Rolling basis

Government Scholarships

These are highly competitive and funded by federal or provincial governments. They focus on research strength and leadership.

• Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship supports top PhD candidates across Canada
• Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship funds advanced research after PhD
• Ontario Graduate Scholarship supports merit based Master’s and PhD students in Ontario
• Ontario Trillium Scholarship supports international PhD students

University Scholarships

Top universities offer entrance and merit awards. Some are automatic, while others require early separate applications.

• Lester B Pearson Scholarship covers full tuition and living costs
• International Major Entrance Scholarship rewards strong undergraduate applicants
• McCall MacBain Scholarship funds full Master’s study with leadership focus
• Waterloo International Entrance Scholarship rewards high academic scores
• UdeM Tuition Exemption reduces tuition fees for international students

Leverage Edu Study Abroad Scholarship

This is a private scholarship for students applying through Leverage Edu. It supports different study levels and courses.

• Offers INR 20,000 to INR 3 Lakhs
• Open to students across undergraduate and postgraduate programs
• Accepts applications on a rolling basis

Also Read: Cheapest MBA in Canada for International Students

Canada Study Visa (Study Permit) for Indian Students

Canada follows a stricter visa system focused on genuine students and strong finances. The Student Direct Stream has closed permanently. Therefore, all applicants now apply through the regular stream with detailed financial proof. Here are the key details you must know to study in Canada for Indian students 2026.

Eligibility and Requirements

You must meet these conditions before applying:

• Hold a Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution that is PGWP eligible
• Submit a Provincial Attestation Letter if applying for undergraduate or college diploma programs
• Show proof of funds of CAD 22,895 for living expenses plus first year tuition and travel cost
• Provide academic transcripts from Class 10, Class 12 and any completed degree
• Complete medical exam and police clearance certificate

Step by Step Application Process

Follow this clear order to avoid delays:

• Apply to a Designated Learning Institution and receive your Letter of Acceptance
• Obtain the Provincial Attestation Letter from your institution if required
• Pay first year tuition and purchase a CAD 22,895 GIC
• Prepare a strong Statement of Purpose explaining course choice and career plan
• Submit online application through the IRCC portal
• Complete biometrics at a VFS center after receiving Biometric Instruction Letter

Fees and Processing Time

You must budget for these official costs and timelines:

• Pay study permit fee of CAD 150
• Pay biometrics fee of CAD 85
• Expect processing time of 7 to 12 weeks
• Plan for up to 14 weeks during peak months May to July

SDS Student Direct Stream Status

The Student Direct Stream closed permanently on November 8, 2024. All students now apply through the regular stream.

• Fast track twenty day visa option no longer exists
• Provide four months of bank statements
• Submit proof of CAD 22,895 GIC
• Prepare stronger financial documents for approval

Common Rejection Reasons and How to Avoid Them

Visa refusal rates increased due to tighter intake control. Avoid these common mistakes:

• Write a clear and personal Statement of Purpose without copying templates
• Show full financial strength including family income tax returns for three years
• Choose a course that matches previous education and career path
• Explain strong home country ties to prove temporary stay intent

Jobs & Career After Studying in Canada for Indian Students 

Canada’s job market for international students has shifted toward quality over quantity. Graduates in high-demand fields now enjoy clearer pathways to both high-paying careers and Permanent Residency (PR). Here’s the breakdown to study in Canada for Indian students 2026.

Part-Time Work During Study 

International students can earn while studying, but there are limits to ensure academics come first.

• Work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during regular sessions
• Unlimited work during academic breaks (summer, winter, reading week)
• Must be full-time at a DLI and have started classes; no work before program start
• Average pay: CAD 15.50 to 18.00 per hour (INR 9,000 to INR 11,000 per hour)

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) 

PGWP eligibility is now stricter and linked to your program type and field.

• Degree Advantage: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD graduates get 3-year PGWP, no field restrictions
• Diploma Restriction: College diplomas must be on the IRCC 1,107 eligible programs list
• Language Requirements: University graduates: CLB 7 (IELTS 6.0 all bands); College graduates: CLB 5
• Master’s programs of 8+ months qualify for the full 3-year PGWP

Top Recruiters & Salary Expectations 

Canada actively recruits in Priority Sectors. Top recruiters include Shopify, RBC, Deloitte, Amazon Canada, Magna International, Provincial Health Authorities (AHS, BC Health). Here are entry-level salary benchmarks for international graduates.

Sector	Top Job Roles	Avg. Starting Salary	Avg. Starting Salary
STEM	Software Developer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity	CAD 75,000 to CAD 110,000	INR 46 Lakhs to 68 Lakhs
Healthcare	Registered Nurse, Pharmacist, Lab Technician	CAD 65,000 to CAD 95,000	INR 40 Lakhs to 58 Lakhs
Engineering	Civil, Mechanical, Electrical Engineer	CAD 70,000 to CAD 105,000	INR 43 Lakhs to 65 Lakhs
Business	Financial Analyst, Supply Chain Manager	CAD 60,000 to CAD 85,000	INR 37 Lakhs to 52 Lakhs
Skilled Trades	Industrial Electrician, Welder, HVAC Technician	CAD 55,000 to CAD 90,000	INR 34 Lakhs to 55 Lakhs

Express Entry & PR Pathway After Study

Canada has multiple routes to PR for graduates, especially in high-demand sectors.

• Canadian Experience Class (CEC): Eligible after 1 year working in TEER 0 to 3 roles on PGWP
• Category-Based Draws: Special draws for STEM, Healthcare, Trades, and Transport experience; lower CRS scores (470 vs. 530)
• Priority Categories: Researchers, Scientists, Senior Managers
• Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP): International Student Streams can grant 600 extra points even before first year of work

Student Life in Canada for Indian Students 

To study in Canada for Indian students 2026, you need to adapt to a new lifestyle and as well as academics. While the community is welcoming, you need to prepare for cold weather, higher living costs, and managing part-time work alongside studies.

Best Cities for Indian Students 

Canada has a mix of affordability, job opportunities, and student-friendly environments. Here are the top cities for Indian students:

City	Global Rank	Key Strength	Indian Community Hub
Montreal	#18	Most Affordable & Student-Friendly	Parc-Extension / Lasalle
Toronto	#22	Best for Finance & Tech Jobs	Brampton / Scarborough
Vancouver	#29	Mildest Weather & Natural Beauty	Surrey / South Vancouver
Ottawa	#80	Safest & Best for Government Jobs	Kanata / Nepean
Calgary	Top 100	Low Taxes & High Salaries	Northeast Calgary

Note on Brampton: Once the top landing spot for Indians, Brampton now faces a housing crunch. Start your search 3 to 4 months early due to new rental licensing rules.

Indian Communities & Cultural Life

Canada has vibrant Indian communities, making it easier to feel at home:

• Cultural Festivals: Diwali, Vaisakhi, and Garba events in Toronto and Surrey draw huge crowds.
• Food & Groceries: Stores like Indian Bazaar, Sabzi Mandi, and FreshCo stock all Indian spices and brands.
• Religious Spaces: Hundreds of Gurdwaras, Mandirs (BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Toronto), and Mosques provide cultural and community support.

Weather & Adaptation Tips

Canadian winters are extreme for most Indian students. Follow these tips to survive and thrive:

• Wait-and-Buy Jackets: Buy heavy parkas (North Face, Columbia, Eddie Bauer) in Canada; Indian jackets won’t withstand -20°C to -30°C.
• Work Limit: Off-campus work limit is 24 hours/week, allowing extra income to manage rent and living costs.
• Winter Blues (SAD): Sun sets early in December (4:30 PM). Take Vitamin D and stay active.
• Transport: Use apps like Transit or Moovit to avoid waiting in freezing temperatures.

Also Read: Personal Support Worker (PSW) in Canada: A Complete Guide

Study in Canada vs Other Countries for Indian Students

This table will give you a quick overview of tuition, living costs, salaries, work options, and ROI for Indian students. Costs are given in INR ranges for clarity. Here is the overview to study in Canada for Indian students 2026. 

Feature	Canada	USA	UK	Australia
Annual Tuition (INR)	12 Lakhs to 19 Lakhs	25 Lakhs to 55 Lakhs	15 Lakhs to 35 Lakhs	15 Lakhs to 28 Lakhs
Monthly Living Costs (INR)	1.0 Lakh to 1.3 Lakh	1.2 Lakh to 2.1 Lakh	1.1 Lakh to 1.8 Lakh	1.1 Lakh to 1.6 Lakh
Visa Proof / Fund Requirement (INR)	15.2 Lakhs (GIC)	25 Lakhs to 40 Lakhs	11 Lakhs to 14 Lakhs	16.1 Lakhs
Average Starting Salary (INR)	35 Lakhs to 55 Lakhs	55 Lakhs to 110 Lakhs	32 Lakhs to 55 Lakhs	45 Lakhs to 65 Lakhs
Part-Time Wage (INR/hour)	1,100	1,250	1,200	1,300
Master’s Duration	2 Years	2 Years	1 Year	2 Years
PR Pathway	High (Easiest)	Low (Lottery)	Moderate	Moderate (Points-based)
ROI	High	Moderate	High (short-term)	Moderate

To conclude, study in Canada for Indian students 2026 is still a smart option if you follow the updated rules carefully. First, you must show INR 15,22,500 as your GIC for living costs. This money remains yours, and you use it for rent, food, and daily needs. Since SDS has ended, you must apply through the Regular Stream and show 4 months of bank history.

Next, choose your course with care. If you select a Master’s degree at a public university, you do not need a PAL, and you can get up to a 3-year work permit after graduation. However, if you choose a college diploma, you must pick a program from the 1,107 approved priority courses to qualify for PGWP. Also, follow the 24-hour work limit rule and maintain good academic records.

So, plan early, apply on time, arrange your funds properly, and write a clear and honest SOP. When you stay informed and follow official IRCC rules, you increase your visa success chances and protect your future.

FAQs

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