Cost of MBBS in Canada for Indian Students

Thinking about studying MBBS in Canada? Top medical schools like the University of Toronto, McGill University, and UBC attract Indian students every year. But before applying, the big question is—how much is the cost of MBBS in Canada?

MBBS in Canada follows a different structure. Students first complete a pre-med degree before applying for a Doctor of Medicine (MD). The total study duration extends to 6 to 8 years, depending on the university and program.

Here’s a quick look at the cost of MBBS in Canada in 2025:

• Tuition Fees: CAD 35,000–90,000 per year (₹21L–₹54L)
• Living Expenses: CAD 12,000–20,000 per year (₹7L–₹12L)
• Health Insurance: CAD 600–1,200 per year (₹36K–₹72K)

This blog will cover tuition, living costs, scholarships, and ways to reduce expenses while studying in Canada.

Why Does Canada Follow the MD Program Instead of MBBS?

Medical courses in Canada follow a two-step pathway. Students must complete a four-year undergraduate degree in science (pre-med) before applying for a Doctor of Medicine (MD) program. Unlike India, where students enter MBBS directly after high school, Canada requires pre-medical education, extending the total study duration to 6 to 8 years.

The MD program ensures:

• Strong clinical training and research opportunities
• Higher employability in Canada and other developed countries
• Eligibility for residency and licensing in Canada, the US, and Europe

How Many Indian Students Study Medicine in Canada?

In 2024, over 3,500 Indian students enrolled in medical programs in Canada. Medical schools in Ontario and British Columbia attract the most international students.

Cost of MBBS in Canada: Top Universities & Their Fees

The cost of MBBS in Canada varies based on the university, residency status, and location. Public universities charge lower tuition for Canadian citizens due to government subsidies, while international students pay full fees. The cost of MBBS in Canada also depends on living expenses, which can be high in cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.

University	Type	Annual Tuition Fees (CAD) (₹ INR Equivalent)
University of Toronto	Public	CAD 91,760 (₹55L)
McGill University	Public	CAD 52,068 (₹31L)
University of British Columbia (UBC)	Public	CAD 42,000 (₹25L)
McMaster University	Public	CAD 96,000 (₹57.5L)
University of Alberta	Public	CAD 54,000 (₹32.5L)
University of Calgary	Public	CAD 81,000 (₹48.5L)
Dalhousie University	Public	CAD 38,000 (₹22.5L)
University of Manitoba	Public	CAD 35,000 (₹21L)

Public vs. Private Medical Universities: Cost of MBBS in Canada Differences

Most Canadian medical schools are public, funded by the government. This allows lower tuition fees for domestic students. However, international students do not receive government subsidies, so their fees are significantly higher.

• Public Universities: Lower tuition for residents, higher fees for international students.
• Private Universities: Limited options, higher fees, more flexible admission pathways.
• MD vs. Undergraduate Medical Degrees: MD programs cost more due to clinical training, research, and faculty expertise.

Example:
A Canadian student at McGill University pays CAD 8,036 (₹4.8L) per year, while an international student pays CAD 52,068 (₹31L) per year.

How Tuition Fees Vary by Program

Medical tuition varies based on the field of study and university ranking. Some universities charge higher fees for research-intensive medical programs.

Program Type	Tuition Range (CAD per Year) (₹ INR Equivalent)	Examples
MD (Doctor of Medicine)	CAD 40,000–CAD 96,000 (₹24L–₹57.5L)	UofT (CAD 91K/₹55L), McMaster (CAD 96K/₹57.5L)
Undergraduate Pre-Med (BSc, Health Sciences)	CAD 20,000–CAD 50,000 (₹12L–₹30L)	UBC (CAD 42K/₹25L), McGill (CAD 52K/₹31L)
Pharmacy, Dentistry, Biomedical Sciences	CAD 30,000–CAD 75,000 (₹18L–₹45L)	Alberta (CAD 54K/₹32.5L), Calgary (CAD 81K/₹48.5L)

Why Do Some Universities Charge Higher Tuition Fees?

Medical schools invest heavily in cutting-edge labs, research, and clinical training. Higher-ranked universities charge higher tuition fees due to their reputation, faculty expertise, and strong job placement rates.

Factors That Influence the Cost of MBBS in Canada

Factor	Impact on Cost	Examples
University Ranking & Reputation	Top-ranked universities charge more due to faculty, research, and job placements.	UofT (CAD 91K/₹55L), McGill (CAD 52K/₹31L)
Program Demand	Medical fields like surgery and research-based programs have higher tuition.	McMaster (CAD 96K/₹57.5L)
Location	Universities in expensive cities have higher living costs.	UBC (CAD 42K/₹25L) – Vancouver
Public vs. Private	Public universities have lower fees for residents but higher for international students.	McGill (Domestic: CAD 8K, International: CAD 52K)

Example:
The University of Toronto charges CAD 91,760 (₹55L) per year for international students, one of the highest in Canada. However, it is ranked among the top 10 medical schools globally, making it a preferred choice for students seeking world-class education.

Cost of MBBS in Canada Breakdown: Tuition Fees & Additional Charges

The cost of MBBS in Canada includes tuition fees, lab expenses, textbooks, licensing exams, insurance, and administrative costs. Many students underestimate hidden charges, which add up over the years. 

Breakdown of MBBS Tuition Fees & Additional Cost of MBBS in Canada

Expense Type	Estimated Cost (CAD) (INR Equivalent)	Details
Laboratory Fees	CAD 1,500–CAD 5,000 per year (₹90K–₹3L)	Covers practical sessions, medical equipment, and simulation labs
Textbooks & Study Materials	CAD 1,000–CAD 3,500 per year (₹60K–₹2L)	Medical textbooks are expensive, digital versions are cheaper
Medical Licensing Exams (MCCEE, MCCQE, USMLE if required)	CAD 1,500–CAD 3,000 (₹90K–₹1.8L)	Mandatory for medical practice in Canada
Health & Liability Insurance	CAD 600–CAD 1,200 per year (₹36K–₹72K)	Required for all medical students
University Administrative & Registration Fees	CAD 500–CAD 1,500 per year (₹30K–₹90K)	Covers student services, technology, and lab access
Accommodation & Living Expenses	CAD 12,000–CAD 20,000 per year (₹7L–₹12L)	Rent, food, transport, and personal expenses

Additional Cost of MBBS in Canada Indian Students Should Consider

1. Medical Licensing & Certification Costs

Medical students must clear licensing exams to practice in Canada. The Medical Council of Canada Evaluating Examination (MCCEE) and Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Examinations (MCCQE Part I & II) cost between CAD 1,500–3,000 (₹90K–₹1.8L). Some students also take the USMLE (for the US), adding extra costs.

2. Residency Application & Interview Expenses

Applying for medical residency in Canada costs between CAD 2,000–5,000 (₹1.2L–₹3L), including application fees, interview travel, and visa extensions.

3. Clinical Equipment & Lab Fees

Some universities require students to purchase their own stethoscopes, dissection kits, scrubs, and lab coats, costing an additional CAD 500–1,500 (₹30K–₹90K) per year.

4. Student Visa & Immigration Costs

Indian students must apply for a Canada Study Permit, which costs CAD 150 (₹9,000), and pay for a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of CAD 10,000 (₹6L) as proof of funds for living expenses.

Cost of MBBS in Canada: Living Expenses 

Studying MBBS in Canada has varied living expenses, depending on the city and lifestyle.

Cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal offer excellent student facilities, while places like Winnipeg and Halifax provide more budget-friendly options. 

Students should plan for CAD 12,000–20,000 (₹7L–₹12L) per year to cover housing, food, transportation, and other essentials.

Monthly Living Costs for MBBS Students Across Canadian Cities

City	Estimated Monthly Living Cost (CAD) (₹ INR Equivalent)
Toronto	CAD 1,800–CAD 2,500 (₹1.1L–₹1.5L)
Vancouver	CAD 1,700–CAD 2,400 (₹1L–₹1.4L)
Montreal	CAD 1,400–CAD 2,000 (₹85K–₹1.2L)
Calgary	CAD 1,300–CAD 1,900 (₹80K–₹1.1L)
Ottawa	CAD 1,300–CAD 1,800 (₹80K–₹1.05L)
Winnipeg	CAD 1,000–CAD 1,500 (₹60K–₹90K)
Halifax	CAD 1,000–CAD 1,400 (₹60K–₹85K)

Breakdown of Monthly Expenses for MBBS Students in Canada

Expense Type	Estimated Monthly Cost (CAD) (₹ INR Equivalent)	Details
Accommodation (Rent)	CAD 600–CAD 1,500 (₹36K–₹90K)	University dorms and shared apartments reduce costs
Food & Groceries	CAD 250–CAD 600 (₹15K–₹36K)	Supermarkets like Walmart & Costco offer bulk discounts
Public Transport	CAD 100–CAD 180 (₹6K–₹11K)	Student passes lower travel expenses
Utilities (Electricity, Water, Internet)	CAD 100–CAD 250 (₹6K–₹15K)	Costs vary based on apartment size and location
Health Insurance	CAD 50–CAD 100 (₹3K–₹6K)	Mandatory for all students
Mobile Phone & Internet	CAD 50–CAD 120 (₹3K–₹7K)	Affordable student plans available
Entertainment & Miscellaneous	CAD 100–CAD 300 (₹6K–₹18K)	Includes gym, movies, and personal expenses

Ways to Manage Cost of MBBS in Canada

• Choose Affordable Housing – University dorms and shared rentals offer comfortable and budget-friendly options.
• Use Student Discounts – Public transport, restaurants, and entertainment places offer discounts for students.
• Cook at Home – Buying groceries and meal prepping helps save over 30% on food expenses.
• Buy Second-Hand Books & Equipment – Renting or purchasing used textbooks reduces costs by up to 60%.
• Work Part-Time – Students can work up to 20 hours per week, earning CAD 12–20 per hour (₹720–₹1,200).

Entrance Exam & Application Cost of MBBS in Canada

Indian students applying for MBBS-equivalent programs (MD) in Canada must meet strict entrance exam requirements and budget for application fees, document verification, and visa-related expenses. The Medical College Admission Test (MCAT) is mandatory for most universities, while some may require additional assessments. Application costs vary based on the number of universities a student applies to.

MCAT and Other Required Entrance Exams

Over 85% of Canadian medical schools require MCAT scores for admission. In 2023, the average MCAT score for admitted students was 511, with top universities requiring 515+. Some universities also require the CASPer Test, a situational judgment exam that evaluates critical thinking and professional behavior.

Exam	Cost (CAD) (₹ INR Equivalent)	Additional Fees	Who Requires It?
MCAT (Medical College Admission Test)	$330 (₹20K)	Rescheduling: $50–$200 (₹3K–₹12K)	Required by 85% of medical schools
CASPer (Situational Judgment Test)	$50–$80 (₹3K–₹5K)	Score submission: $12 per university	Required by McMaster, Dalhousie, Ottawa, Manitoba
IELTS/TOEFL (English Proficiency Test)	$250 (₹15K)	Extra score reports: $25 per university	Required for students from non-English schools

Example: The University of Toronto requires a minimum MCAT score of 125 in each section, while McMaster University relies heavily on CASPer scores for selection.

University Application Fees & Admission Cost of MBBS in Canada

Applying to medical schools in Canada involves multiple costs, including application fees, transcript evaluations, and visa requirements.

Expense	Estimated Cost (CAD) (₹ INR Equivalent)	Details
University Application Fees	$75–$200 (₹4.5K–₹12K) per university	Paid when submitting applications
WES Credential Evaluation (if required)	$250 (₹15K)	Some universities require document verification
Transcript & Document Fees	$10–$30 (₹600–₹1.8K) per document	Official academic records must be sent from Indian institutions
SEVIS Fee (Student Visa Requirement)	$350 (₹21K)	Mandatory for student visa application

A 2024 survey by the Association of Faculties of Medicine of Canada (AFMC) showed that international applicants apply to at least 4–6 medical schools to increase admission chances.

Example: A student applying to five universities (Toronto, McGill, UBC, Alberta, and McMaster) can expect to spend CAD 1,200–1,800 (₹72K–₹1.08L) on application-related costs.

Scholarships to Cover Cost of MBBS in Canada for Indian Students

Studying MBBS in Canada requires a significant financial investment, but several scholarships help Indian students reduce costs. The Canadian government, universities, and private institutions offer scholarships. Some cover full tuition and living expenses, while others provide partial funding.

Government-Funded Scholarships for MBBS Students

The Canadian government offers highly competitive scholarships for international students pursuing medical studies. These are awarded based on academic excellence, research potential, and leadership skills.

Scholarship Name	Coverage	Eligibility
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship	CAD 50,000 per year (₹30L)	PhD & research-based medical students
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)	CAD 15,000 per year (₹9L)	Medical students in Ontario universities
Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship	Full or partial tuition	Research-based medical programs
Canada-ASEAN Scholarships	CAD 10,200–12,700 (₹6L–₹7.6L)	International students in health sciences

Example: A student enrolled in McGill University’s medical research program can apply for the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship, covering full tuition and living expenses.

University-Specific Scholarships for MBBS Students

Many Canadian medical schools offer merit-based scholarships to international students. These are awarded based on GPA, research work, and community involvement.

University	Scholarship Name	Amount (CAD) (₹ INR Equivalent)	Eligibility
University of Toronto	Lester B. Pearson Scholarship	Full tuition + living expenses	High academic achievers
McGill University	McGill Entrance Scholarships	CAD 3,000–12,000 (₹1.8L–₹7.2L)	Undergraduate medical students
UBC	International Major Entrance Scholarship	CAD 25,000 per year (₹15L)	Exceptional international students
University of Alberta	Doctoral Recruitment Scholarship	CAD 5,000 (₹3L)	MBBS-equivalent students
Dalhousie University	Medical Research Scholarships	CAD 10,000 (₹6L)	Students pursuing MD research

Example: A student enrolling in the University of British Columbia’s MD program with high academic scores and leadership experience may receive CAD 25,000 per year through the International Major Entrance Scholarship.

Need-Based & Merit-Based Financial Aid

• Merit-Based Scholarships – Awarded to students with top academic performance and research work.
• Need-Based Financial Aid – Given to students demonstrating financial hardship.
• Assistantships – Some universities offer paid research or teaching assistantships to medical students.

How to Apply for MBBS Scholarships in Canada

1. Identify Scholarship Options – Research university-specific and government-funded scholarships.
2. Prepare Documents – Gather transcripts, recommendation letters, and a statement of purpose.
3. Submit Applications on Time – Deadlines are usually 6–12 months before the program begins.
4. Apply for Multiple Scholarships – Increases chances of receiving financial aid.

Visa Costs & Work Options for MBBS Students in Canada

Indian students must apply for a Canada Study Permit to enroll in MBBS-equivalent programs. A valid study permit allows students to study, work part-time, and apply for post-graduation work permits.

Visa Cost of MBBS in Canada for Students

Visa Requirement	Cost (CAD) (₹ INR Equivalent)	Details
Study Permit Application Fee	CAD 150 (₹9,000)	Mandatory for all international students
Biometrics Fee	CAD 85 (₹5,100)	Required for identity verification
Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC)	CAD 10,000 (₹6L)	Proof of financial support
Medical Examination	CAD 200–300 (₹12K–₹18K)	Required for visa approval

Example: An Indian student applying to McMaster University’s MD program must show proof of CAD 10,000 (₹6L) in a GIC account and pass a medical exam for visa approval.

Work Options for MBBS Students in Canada

• On-Campus Jobs – Work up to 20 hours per week as a library assistant, tutor, or research assistant.
• Off-Campus Jobs – Work part-time in hospitals, clinics, or retail (only if the job aligns with study permit conditions).
• Clinical Internships – Gain hands-on experience in hospital research labs and diagnostic centers.

Post-Study Work Options for MBBS Graduates

• Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) – Allows MBBS graduates to work in Canada for up to 3 years.
• Medical Residency Programs – Required for international students to practice medicine in Canada.
• Permanent Residency (PR) Pathway – Many medical graduates apply for PR through Express Entry.

Example: A student completing an MD at Dalhousie University can apply for PGWP and gain hospital experience before applying for permanent residency in Canada.

How Does the Cost of MBBS in Canada Compare to Other Countries?

Studying MBBS abroad requires a detailed cost comparison to find the best value for education. Many Indian students consider Canada, the USA, the UK, Australia, and Germany for medical studies. Each country has different tuition structures, living costs, and post-study work opportunities.

Cost of MBBS in Canada vs. Other Countries (2025)

Country	Annual Tuition Fees (CAD) (₹ INR Equivalent)	Living Expenses (CAD) (₹ INR Equivalent)	Total Cost Per Year (CAD) (₹ INR Equivalent)
Canada	CAD 40,000–CAD 96,000 (₹24L–₹57.5L)	CAD 12,000–CAD 20,000 (₹7L–₹12L)	CAD 52,000–CAD 116,000 (₹31L–₹69L)
USA	CAD 60,000–CAD 100,000 (₹36L–₹60L)	CAD 15,000–CAD 25,000 (₹9L–₹15L)	CAD 75,000–CAD 125,000 (₹45L–₹75L)
UK	CAD 35,000–CAD 65,000 (₹21L–₹39L)	CAD 15,000–CAD 22,000 (₹9L–₹13L)	CAD 50,000–CAD 87,000 (₹30L–₹52L)
Australia	CAD 45,000–CAD 80,000 (₹27L–₹48L)	CAD 14,000–CAD 20,000 (₹8L–₹12L)	CAD 59,000–CAD 100,000 (₹35L–₹60L)
Germany	CAD 0–CAD 5,000 (₹0–₹3L) (Public Universities)	CAD 12,000–CAD 16,000 (₹7L–₹10L)	CAD 12,000–CAD 21,000 (₹7L–₹13L)

Which Country is the Most Cost-Effective for Indian Students?

• Germany offers the lowest tuition fees at public universities, but Indian students must learn German and qualify for strict admission criteria.
• Canada provides a balance of high-quality medical education, reasonable costs, and post-study work opportunities.
• The UK and Australia have shorter medical programs (5 years vs. 6-8 years in Canada/USA), reducing overall tuition costs.
• The USA has the highest cost due to longer study duration and high tuition fees, but it offers some of the highest-paying medical jobs.

Example: A student pursuing MBBS in Germany spends ₹10L–₹13L per year, much lower than in Canada or the USA. However, limited English-taught programs and work visa challenges make Canada a better choice for long-term career prospects.

upGrad Abroad’s Expense Calculator for MBBS in Canada

Studying MBBS in Canada requires a clear financial plan. upGrad Abroad’s Expense Calculator helps students estimate tuition, living costs, and additional expenses before applying.

Try upGrad Abroad’s Expense Calculator

Students can use the upGrad Abroad Expense Calculator to get a detailed financial breakdown before choosing a university.

Calculate the Cost of MBBS in Canada!

Is Studying MBBS in Canada Worth the Cost?

Why Choose Canada?

• Top-ranked medical universities with global recognition.
• Strong job prospects with high salaries after residency.
• Post-study work permits and PR opportunities.
• Advanced research facilities and clinical exposure.

Why Not Choose Canada?

• Higher tuition fees (₹31L–₹69L per year).
• Longer study duration (6–8 years with pre-med + MD).
• Competitive residency programs for international students.

Planning to study MBBS in Canada? Check your budget, scholarships, and visa requirements to start the process today!