The top 10 universities in Canada are the University of Toronto, UBC, McGill, University of Alberta, McMaster, University of Montreal, University of Calgary, Queen’s, Western, and Simon Fraser.
Canada has around 4.5 lakh Indian students currently enrolled in universities. This shows that Indian students highly favour higher education in Canada for its diverse culture, state-of-the-art facilities and a high ROI.
Key Highlights:
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The average cost of Studying in Canada for international students is roughly INR 18 - 40 lakh (CAD 30,000 - 65,000) including tuition and estimated living expenses
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The average salary after graduating from top Canadian universities for graduates tends to be around INR 27 - 42 lakh (CAD 45,000 - 70,000) though this varies with the field of study and industry.
- 1. Why Study in Canada?
- 2. List of Top Universities in Canada
- 3. Best Engineering Universities in Canada
- 4. Best Universities in Canada for Business & Management
- 5. Top Cities to Study in Universities in Canada
- 6. Top Courses to Study in Canada
- 7. Admissions Requirements for International Students in Canada
- 8. Cost of Studying in Canada
- 9. Scholarships in Canada
- 10. Average Salary in Canada
- 11. From the Desk of ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳
Check your eligibility at over 2000+ universities by connecting with our experts!
Why Study in Canada?
Studying in Canada offers a world-class education, global opportunities and cultural diversity. According to the Canadian Bureau for International Education, over 640,000 international students choose Canada each year. In addition, a recent survey indicates that over 90% of international students in Canada report high satisfaction levels with their academic and social experiences.
Let’s look at some of the top reasons you should choose to study in Canada:
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Well-funded universities: Canadian universities invest heavily in research, with annual expenditures surpassing CAD 7 billion. This makes the universities well-equipped for education, research and career development.
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Affordable education: The cost of studying in Canada is around INR 18 lakhs to INR 40 lakhs, which is significantly lesser than other top countries.
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High ROI: After graduating from a top Canadian university, you can get a starting salary of close to INR 30 lakhs, which returns about 80% of your annual tuition fees in the first few years.
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Post-study visa: After you finish your education, you are eligible for a post-graduation work permit.

List of Top Universities in Canada
The top 10 universities in Canada are the University of Toronto, McGill University and the University of British Columbia. Canada is home to some of the best universities in the world that consistently rank high in the QS World University rankings. There are 223 universities in Canada, public and private combined, that accept applications from international students.
Out of these, here are the top 10 universities in Canada for Indian students:
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University of Toronto
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McGill University
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University of British Columbia
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University of Alberta
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University of Waterloo
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Western University
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Université de Montréal
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McMaster University
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University of Ottawa
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Queen's University at Kingston
Let's learn about each of them in detail now.
1. University of Toronto
University of Toronto is one of the best universities in Canada for international students. Recognized as one of the top universities in Canada, it is famous worldwide for its research and development centers and the abundant research opportunities it offers making it a leading Canada university for international students.
25 |
|
Type |
Public |
Application Deadline |
Online application for September 2025 & January 2026 admissions will go live on November 17, 2024 |
Tuition Fees |
Bachelor's: INR 3,987,750 (CAD 61,350) per annum Postgraduate: INR 2,666,100 (CAD 40,940) per annum |
Scholarships |
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship; Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering Scholarships |
2. McGill University
McGill University, a standout among the top 10 universities in Canada and a preferred choice among universities in Canada for international students, is the oldest medical school in Canada. Studying medicine here means building a valuable network and tapping into premier research opportunities, securing its position as one of the best universities in Canada for international students.
29 |
|
Type |
Public |
Application Deadline |
International application deadline for 2025–2026 is January 15, 2025 |
Tuition Fees |
INR 1,300,000 (CAD 20,000) – INR 1,755,000 (CAD 27,000) per annum |
Scholarships |
Entrance scholarships ranging from $3,000 to $10,000, plus athletic awards, in-course financial aid, and entrance bursaries |
3. University of British Columbia
The University of British Columbia, also among the best universities in Canada for international students, is renowned globally for its research and teaching. It ranks #44 by the Shanghai Ranking for Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU), #2 in Canada, and #13 worldwide for research, stewardship, and outreach proving it’s one of the top universities in Canada.
38 |
|
Type |
Public |
Application Deadline |
For Winter Session (Sept 2025–Apr 2026) and Summer Session (May–Aug 2025): Applications open from early October 2024 and close in December 2024 |
Tuition Fees |
Approx. INR 2,782,130 (CAD 42,802) per annum |
Scholarships |
International Scholars Program awards:
|
4. University of Alberta
The University of Alberta stands out as one of the leading universities in Canada and a prime destination for research. Boasting the highest number of 3M National teaching awards and over 400 research and teaching agreements with 50 countries, it is among the best universities in Canada for international students.
96 |
|
Type |
Public |
Application Deadline |
Applications open from October 2024 and close on March 1, 2025 |
Tuition Fees |
Undergraduate: INR 1,917,500 (CAD 29,500) per annum Masters: INR 332,150 (CAD 5,110) per annum PhD: INR 565,500 (CAD 8,700) per annum |
Scholarships |
Offers approximately $34 million in scholarships and financial aid; international admission scholarships up to $5,000 |
5. University of Waterloo
The University of Waterloo is among the top universities in Canada for international students, known for its comprehensive curriculum accredited by regulatory bodies. Beyond traditional lectures, students benefit from lab work, field studies, hackathons, co-op programs, and certificate courses making it one of the best universities in Canada for international students.
115 |
|
Type |
Public |
Application Deadline |
Expected deadline for 2025 admissions: January 15, 2025 (please check the official website for confirmation) |
Tuition Fees |
Approximately INR 10 Lakhs (CAD 16,886) – INR 22.16 Lakhs (CAD 34,098) per term |
Scholarships |
Various entrance scholarships and co-op awards are available (detailed information is available on the official website) |
6. Western University
Western University ranks as one of the top universities in Canada and one of the best universities in Canada for international students. With the second-highest number of 3M Awards in the nation, along with 66 Canada Research Chairs and a Canada Excellence Research Chair, it remains a premier choice a true Canada university for international students focused on research-oriented courses.
120 |
|
Type |
Public |
Application Deadline |
Expected deadline for Fall 2025 admissions: January 15, 2025 (please verify on the official website) |
Tuition Fees |
Approximately INR 36 Lakhs (CAD 55,658) per annum |
Scholarships |
Various entrance scholarships and research awards are available (for complete details, please refer to the official website) |
7. Université de Montréal
The University of Montreal ranks among the top universities in Canada for international students and is the country’s second largest. With a record of admitting over 400,000 international students each year and offering exceptional job placement opportunities, it is undoubtedly one of the best universities in Canada for international students and a top 10 universities in Canada option.
159 |
|
Type |
Public |
Application Deadline |
Fall & Summer intake: February 1; Winter intake: September 1 (annually) for 2025 |
Tuition Fees |
Undergraduate: INR 13.25 Lakhs (CAD 20,400) per annum Postgraduate: INR 12.7 Lakhs (CAD 19,597) per annum |
Scholarships |
University of Montreal Scholarships for international students, offering awards up to $27,300 |
8. McMaster University
McMaster University is one of the top universities in Canada for international students and is celebrated as one of the best universities in Canada. Ranking among the world’s top institutions year-on-year, it also offers robust international academic exchange agreements for those seeking global exposure.
176 |
|
Type |
Public |
Application Deadline |
For September 2025 intakes, the deadline ends in April 2025 |
Tuition Fees |
Undergraduate: INR 20.50 Lakhs (CAD 31,470) per annum Graduate: INR 4 Lakhs (CAD 6,037) per annum |
Scholarships |
Faculty of Engineering Entrance Scholarships including:
|
9. University of Ottawa
The University of Ottawa is one of the top universities in Canada and a member of the top 10 universities in Canada for research. As the largest bilingual institution in the world, it offers courses in both English and French, making it one of the best universities in Canada for international students seeking a culturally enriched education.
189 |
|
Type |
Private |
Application Deadline |
For international students, applications open from October 2024 and close on April 13, 2025 |
Tuition Fees |
MBA for international students: INR 7.12 Lakhs (CAD 11,076.58) per term |
Scholarships |
Admission Scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $4,000 (automatically awarded to eligible full-time students with a minimum 80% average) |
10. Queen's University at Kingston
Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario, is one of Canada's top universities for international students. Founded in 1841, its historic yet innovative campus offers renowned programs in business, law, and engineering, a close-knit community, and unique student traditions, making it a truly distinctive Canadian institution.
QS Ranking Global(2025) |
193 |
Type |
Public |
Application Deadline |
International applications for Fall 2025 open from October 2024 and close on January 15, 2025 |
Tuition Fees |
Approx. INR 26 Lakhs (CAD 40,000) – INR 29 Lakhs (CAD 45,000) per annum |
Scholarships |
Automatic entrance scholarships based on merit; awards range from CAD 3,000 to CAD 10,000, plus athletic and departmental awards |
Best Engineering Universities in Canada
Canada offers some of the world's top engineering universities. You can study at the University of Toronto, ranked among the top 25 globally, or McGill University, with strong research output.
The University of British Columbia and the University of Waterloo excel in innovation and co-op programs, ensuring high employability.
Some of the best engineering universities in Canada are mentioned below:
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University of Toronto
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University of Alberta
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Carleton University
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University of Ottawa
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Ryerson University
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The University of Waterloo
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Ontario Tech University
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University of British Columbia
Best Universities in Canada for Business & Management
Universities of Canada (Rotman, Ivey, Schulich) yield average post-MBA salaries of INR 75 lakh (CAD 125,000) with tuition fees averaging INR 80 lakh (CAD 135,000). These institutions consistently deliver superior employment outcomes, expansive global networks, and exceptional ROI, propelling graduates toward remarkable career success.
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University of Toronto
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McGill University
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Western University
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Queen's University
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University of British Columbia
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York University
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University of Alberta
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Concordia University
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HEC Montréal
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McMaster University
Top Cities to Study in Universities in Canada
Canada’s top study cities blend world-class education with distinct advantages: Montreal’s vibrant arts, Toronto’s dynamic economy, Vancouver’s breathtaking landscapes, Ottawa’s innovation, and Quebec’s rich heritage create truly ideal learning environments.
Here’s the list of top cities to study in:
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Montreal
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Toronto
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Vancouver
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Ottawa
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Quebec
Top Courses to Study in Canada
The top courses to study in Canada include engineering, computer science and health care. Canada is considered one of the top countries to pursue an MS in computer science, and has a huge demand for skilled professionals.
Top courses to study in Canada at a glance are:
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Computer Science
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Business
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Engineering
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Health Sciences
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Physiotherapy
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Information Technology
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Animation and Gaming Course
Admissions Requirements for International Students in Canada
To study in Canada, you must submit your academic transcripts, English proficiency scores, and standardized test results. Also, provide financial proof, recommendation letters, and personal statements or interviews if required.
Diploma/Certificate Courses
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Flexible admission policies
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IELTS score as per course/institution requirements
Post-Graduate/Masters Courses
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Up to 3 years of full-time work experience
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GMAT minimum score: 580–600
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IELTS overall 6.5 (with no band below 6) or as required
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4-year bachelor’s degree with a minimum 70% average
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May require written samples, published work, or a portfolio
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Statement of Purpose (SOP)
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Letters of Recommendation (LOR)
Undergraduate/Bachelor’s Level
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Minimum 70% in 12th grade
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Proficiency in 12th grade level Mathematics
MBA Programs
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Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution (preferably 4-year; some accept 3-year)
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3–5 years of relevant work experience (minimum 12 months preferred)
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Minimum IELTS scores as required
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GMAT score between 500 and 700 (out of 800)
Cost of Studying in Canada
Tuition fees in Canada start around INR 4 Lakhs (CAD 6,500) per year plus living expenses, accommodation, and fees; scholarships help reduce your investment.
Expense Category |
Cost (CAD) |
Cost (INR) |
---|---|---|
Test Fee (IELTS, GRE, etc.) |
280 to 370 |
16,800 to 22,200 |
Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) |
20,635 |
13 Lakhs |
Tuition Fees |
16,600 to 83,300 |
10 Lakhs to 50 Lakhs |
Student Visa Fee |
150 |
9,000 |
Living Costs |
20,000 |
12 Lakhs |
Travel Expenses |
1,300 |
78.00 Thousands |
Total Cost of Studying in Canada |
59,000 to 1.5 million |
35 Lakhs to 75.5 Lakhs |
Scholarships in Canada
Scholarship applications in Canada demand thorough research on each institution's criteria and deadlines. Include your academic records, essays, recommendation letters, and financial documents, and submit early. Securing a scholarship can substantially reduce tuition fees while enhancing your academic and professional profile.
Scholarship Name |
Description |
---|---|
Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute |
Offers diverse fellowships from graduate to postdoctoral in research and training. Eligible candidates can also engage in e-courses or e-internships under the SICI network. |
Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship |
Recognizes top Commonwealth students for advanced study. Includes graduate student exchanges offering INR 6 Lakhs (CAD 10,000) for travel, living, and related expenses over 5–6 months. |
Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program |
Targets Ontario graduate students. Awards are given at INR 3 Lakhs (CAD 5,000) per session, totaling INR 6 to 9 Lakhs (CAD 10,000–15,000) over two to three sessions, subject to departmental guidelines. |
National Research Council of Canada (NRCC) |
Provides research associateships for master’s degree holders in engineering and PhD candidates in natural sciences or engineering. (No fixed monetary award is specified.) |
Quebec Provincial Government Scholarship |
Offers merit-based financial aid for graduate studies in Quebec. Doctoral candidates receive INR 15 Lakhs (CAD 25,000) per year (up to 3 years with possible extension), postdoctoral awards are INR 21 Lakhs (CAD 35,000) per year, and short-term awards are INR 7.2 Lakhs (CAD 12,000) total for a 4-month period. |
Ontario Trillium Scholarship |
Designed for international doctoral students in Ontario, this scholarship provides INR 24 Lakhs (CAD 40,000) per year, renewable for up to four years based on merit and program criteria. |
Partnership Grants (SSHR Council) |
Supports innovative research initiatives in social sciences and humanities for PhD candidates with grants up to INR 12 Lakhs (CAD 20,000) over a duration ranging from 4 to 7 years. |
Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships |
A prestigious fellowship for postdoctoral research in natural, social, or healthcare sciences. Awarded at INR 42 Lakhs (CAD 70,000) per year for two years (taxable). |
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships |
Awarded to exceptional doctoral students. Provides non-renewable funding of INR 30 Lakhs (CAD 50,000) per year over three years, supporting advanced research at Canadian institutions. |
Trudeau Scholarships and Fellowships |
Offered to international doctorate-level students at select Canadian institutions. Provides INR 24 Lakhs (CAD 40,000) per year for three years plus an additional research and travel allowance of INR 12 Lakhs (CAD 20,000) per year for three years. Deadline: Mid Fall Session. |
Average Salary in Canada
In Canada, average salaries typically range around CAD 60,000 (approximately INR 36 lakhs), which is considerably higher than India's average earnings, offering better buying power and a higher standard of living.
Industry |
Average Annual Salary (CAD) |
Average Annual Salary (INR) |
---|---|---|
Mining, Quarrying, & Oil and Gas Extraction |
98,000 |
60 Lakhs |
Professional, Scientific, & Technical Services |
73,128 |
45 Lakhs |
Healthcare |
71,000 |
44 Lakhs |
Construction |
71,000 |
44 Lakhs |
Transportation & Warehousing |
71,000 |
44 Lakhs |
Finance & Insurance |
67,000 |
40 Lakhs |
Educational Services |
67,000 |
41 Lakhs |
From the Desk of ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳
In conclusion, with Canada hosting a myriad of top-notch universities, each excelling in diverse fields, the educational landscape is ripe for international students seeking excellence. From the renowned University of Toronto to the research-driven University of British Columbia, these institutions promise not just education but an experience that sets you apart globally. As you navigate through the rich offerings of these universities, remember that the journey to academic success begins with a well-informed choice.
Navigating the sea of choices for pursuing higher education in Canada? Look no further! Gain unparalleled insights into the Top 10 Universities in Canada for International Students in 2025 with ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳ Premium. Our comprehensive counseling experience ensures you're equipped with all the essential information you need to make informed decisions about your academic journey. Connect with us today, explore the academic landscapes of these prestigious institutions, and book your counseling session. Your path to academic excellence in a vibrant Canadian setting begins with ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳ Premium!
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