International Student Guide to Studying in Canada

Canada is one of the world's top destinations for international students — over 800,000 study here each year. The quality of education is high, tuition is more affordable than the US and UK, and there is a clear pathway from study to work to permanent residence. To study in Canada, you need a study permit (not a visa) issued by IRCC. The study permit allows you to study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) — a school approved by the provincial government to host international students. Tuition for international students ranges from $15,000 to $40,000/year depending on the program and institution (undergraduate) and $20,000–$50,000/year for graduate programs. You can work up to 20 hours/week off-campus during the academic year and full-time during scheduled breaks (winter, summer). On-campus work is unlimited. After graduation, you can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) — an open work permit valid for up to 3 years depending on the length of your program. The PGWP lets you work for any employer in Canada, which gives you Canadian work experience — a key requirement for Express Entry (Canadian Experience Class) and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP). Many international students use the study permit as a stepping stone to permanent residence: study in Canada (1–4 years) → PGWP (1–3 years) → Canadian work experience → Express Entry or PNP → PR. To apply for a study permit, you need a letter of acceptance from a DLI, proof of funds ($10,000–$20,000 depending on the province), a passport, and sometimes a language test (IELTS for university). Health insurance for international students varies by province — in some (BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan) you are covered by the provincial plan after a waiting period; in others (Ontario, Nova Scotia) you must buy private insurance through your university ($500–$700/year).