The cost of living in Canada for Indian students is an important consideration when planning to move abroad. Depending on which Canadian city you’re hoping to call home, your budget for monthly expenses such as rent, utilities, and groceries may vary greatly. The cost of living in Canada can also be affected by lifestyle choices, such as going out for meals or entertainment.
In some cases, students may have access to grants, discounts, or other forms of financial aid that will help lessen the cost of living. When deciding between studying in Canada, it’s important to research the expected costs and plan accordingly.
That said, read this blog crafted by MSM Unify overseas education consultants to manage your finances and plan your study expedition to Canada.
Cost of Living in Spain for International Students
Living expenses breakdown for Indian students
Read this section carefully to learn about the different factors contributing to living expenses. Understanding them will help you plan better for a stress-free overseas education.
Accommodation
The cost of accommodation in Canada for Indian students can vary greatly depending on the type of housing and location. On average, a student can expect to pay between CAD 400 and CAD 600 per month for accommodation, which is equivalent to INR 24,106 to INR 36,159. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Accommodation type | Monthly cost (CAD) | Monthly cost (INR) |
| On-campus dormitories | CAD 400 – CAD 600 | INR 24,106 – INR 36,159 |
| Shared apartments | CAD 500 – CAD 800 | INR 30,133 – INR 48,212 |
| Private apartments | CAD 800 – CAD 1200 | INR 48,212 – INR 72,318 |
Food
The cost of food in Canada for Indian students depends on dietary preferences and location. On average, a student can expect to spend between CAD 200 and CAD 300 per month on food, equivalent to INR 12,053 to INR 18,079.
Transportation
The cost of transportation in Canada for Indian students depends on the mode of transport and the city. Public transit is the most affordable option, costing CAD 100 to CAD 250 per month (INR 6,026 to INR 15,066). Many cities offer student discounts for transit passes.
Internet
Internet costs in Canada can vary. On average, a student spends between CAD 30 and CAD 50 per month (INR 1,808 to INR 3,013). Consider bundled plans to save on costs.
Miscellaneous
Miscellaneous expenses in Canada for Indian students, including books, clothing, entertainment, and personal care, are between CAD 600 and CAD 700 per month (INR 36,159 to INR 42,186).
City-wise cost of living in Canada: A quick comparison
Costs can vary significantly depending on the city. Here is a detailed comparison:
| City | Accommodation (CAD) | Food (CAD) | Transportation (CAD) |
| Toronto | CAD 800 – CAD 1,200 | CAD 300 – CAD 400 | CAD 120 – CAD 150 |
| Vancouver | CAD 900 – CAD 1,300 | CAD 350 – CAD 450 | CAD 140 – CAD 160 |
| Montreal | CAD 600 – CAD 800 | CAD 250 – CAD 300 | CAD 100 – CAD 120 |
| Calgary | CAD 700 – CAD 1,000 | CAD 200 – CAD 250 | CAD 80 – CAD 110 |
| Ottawa | CAD 650 – CAD 900 | CAD 200 – CAD 300 | CAD 90 – CAD 110 |
Please note: These living expenses for different Canadian cities are for your reference. They may vary depending on your requirements and lifestyle.
Cost-saving tips for Indian Students by MSM Unify experts
Here are some key tips by MSM Unify experts to help you manage your expenses better while you are studying in Canada.
1. Choose affordable accommodation
Prefer shared apartments or on-campus housing over private rooms and accommodation to reduce rental costs. This way your other housing expenses will also get shared, which in turn will reduce your financial burden.
2. Cook meals at home
Dining out every day isn’t a feasible option. You may save on dining expenses by cooking your own food using groceries from local markets.
3. Use public transportation
Cab fares are pretty high abroad and as a student, it is tough to bear such high expenditures. Therefore, take advantage of student discounts on transit passes for cost-effective commuting.
4. Part-time work
Work part-time to earn extra income, and offset your living expenses. This will also help you gain some work experience and acclimatize to the new country pretty fast.
5. Leverage student discounts
Many stores, restaurants, and services offer good discounts to students. By leveraging these discounts, you will be able to enjoy your study abroad experience without burning a hold in your pocket.
Scholarships and financial aid for Indian students
Many universities and organizations in Canada offer scholarships and bursaries to help Indian students manage their expenses. Some popular options include:
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships: For graduate students
- Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS): For master’s and doctoral students in Ontario
- Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute Scholarship: For Indian students pursuing studies in Canada
- University-specific scholarships: Many Canadian universities, such as the University of Toronto and McGill University, offer scholarships specifically for international students
Cost of studying in Canada for Indian students
The cost of studying in Canada for Indian students includes tuition, student fees, health insurance, and more. On average, Indian students spend around CAD 37,247 per year (INR 2,254,844).
| Expense | Annual cost (CAD) | Annual cost (INR) |
| Tuition | CAD 18,907 – CAD 30,000 | INR 1,138,836 – INR 1,806,900 |
| Student fees | CAD 400 | INR 24,307 |
| Health insurance | CAD 840 | INR 50,922 |
| Textbooks | CAD 600 | INR 36,452 |
| On-campus rent | CAD 7,200 | INR 4,34,724 |
| Public transit pass | CAD 480 | INR 29,157 |
| Groceries/food | CAD 3,600 | INR 2,17,024 |
| Miscellaneous | CAD 960 | INR 58,307 |
Please note: The various expenses mentioned above are not absolute and for your reference only.
Conclusion
The cost of living in Canada for Indian students might seem challenging at first, but with careful planning, it’s entirely manageable.
From affordable housing options to efficient public transit systems, Canada offers a balanced lifestyle for students. By taking advantage of student discounts, part-time work opportunities, and budgeting wisely, you can focus more on your education and less on financial stress.
Canada remains a top choice for Indian students, not only for its quality education but also for the enriching experiences it provides.
For more resources and tips, feel free to contact MSM Unify counselors. MSM Unify has helped more than 1,86,000 students attain their overseas education dreams, you could be the next one!
FAQs
1. What is the average cost of living in Canada per month for Indian students?
The average cost of living in Canada per month for Indian students is CAD 800 to CAD 1,500, depending on location and lifestyle.
2. How much does transportation cost in Canada for students?
Transportation costs CAD 100 – CAD 250 per month. Many cities offer discounted transit passes for students.
3. Is Canada affordable for Indian students?
Yes, Canada is affordable compared to other popular destinations like the USA or UK. Proper budgeting and planning can help manage expenses effectively.
4. What are the cheapest cities to live in Canada?
Cities like Sherbrooke, Moncton, and Laval offer a lower cost of living compared to Toronto or Vancouver.
5. How can Indian students reduce living costs in Canada?
Students can reduce costs by living in shared accommodations, cooking meals, using public transportation, and taking advantage of student discounts.
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