Canada has emerged as one of the top destinations for international students, with over 1 million students currently studying there, including 4,27,000 Indians. While it's famous for its master's programs in computer science and IT, Canada is also rising in popularity for undergraduate programs in business, engineering, and humanities.
A key attraction is its simplified application process, with several universities waiving standardized test requirements for eligible programs. Additionally, Canada's growing job market and well-defined pathway to permanent residency (PR) make it an ideal choice for students planning a long-term career abroad.
After 12th, you can choose from bachelor's degrees, diplomas, or certificate programs in Canada, depending on your career goals and budget. With Fall, Winter, and Spring intakes, you have multiple chances to apply.
Admission requirements typically include academic qualifications, English proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL, and in some cases, standardized exams like the SAT.
Before diving into the details, let’s first get an overview of study in Canada after 12th:
Criteria
Details
Eligibility
Minimum 65-70% in 12th grade (varies by program), Subject-specific prerequisites
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)
University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program
Beyond academics, studying in Canada also provides students with work opportunities and pathways to permanent residency. Let’s explore what makes Canada an ideal study destination.
Why Study in Canada after 12th? Key Benefits
Benefits include lower tuition costs compared to the US, English as the primary language of instruction, part-time job opportunities, and a clear pathway to PR.
Here’s a breakdown of key benefits of studying in Canada after 12th:
Student-Friendly Environment
Canada’s safe cities, diverse communities, affordable public transport, and student-supportive universities make it a top choice for international students, including Indians.
Here are the key student-friendly features:
Safe and Inclusive Cities
Canada consistently ranks among the safest countries globally. Cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver offer a secure and welcoming environment, with low (about 5,843 criminals per 100,000 people) crime rates and strong legal protections for international students.
For instance, Montreal has a safety index of 67.09, while New York and San Francisco have a safety index of 49.22 and 38.8, respectively.
Part-Time Job Opportunities
The government allows international students to work up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during breaks, helping them cover expenses while gaining valuable work experience.
Salary can range from CAD 12.2 (INR 738) to CAD 20 (INR 1.2K) per hour for off-campus jobs. For roles like resident advisor, you can earn about CAD 7500-9000 (INR 4.5L - 5.4L).
Affordable Living Options
Students can choose from various housing options, including university dormitories, shared apartments, and homestays. Many institutions also offer on-campus housing, reducing transportation costs.
For instance, the cost of living in major cities like New York is 70.8% higher than in Canadian cities like Montreal.
Efficient Public Transport
Major student hubs like Toronto and Montreal have extensive public transport systems, including buses, trains, and subways, with student discounts available for affordable commuting. Using monthly passes can save you up to 20% of college living expenses.
Multicultural Environment
Canada is home to diverse cultures, with large expatriate communities, including Indian, Chinese, and Middle Eastern populations. South Asians make up 19.3% of Canada's population, with cities like Vancouver having nearly half of their residents from Asia.
Supportive Academic Institutions
Canadian universities provide extensive student support services, including career counseling, mental health resources, academic mentorship, and networking opportunities to help students adjust and succeed.
The average tuition fee for international undergraduate students in Canada is CAD 29,714 (INR 17.8L), which is lower than in other English-speaking countries like the U.S. and the UK.
Here’s a comparison of tuition fees:
Country
Average Tuition Fees
United States
$26,290 (INR 22.8L)
United Kingdom
£11,400 - £38,000 (INR 12.8L - INR 42.7L)
Australia
AUD 17,000 - AUD 50,000 (INR 9.3L - INR 27.4L)
Germany
€100 - €20,000 (INR 9.4K - INR 18.9L)
Ireland
€12,000 to €22,000 (INR 11.3L - INR 20.8L)
Indian students can access merit-based, need-based, and university-specific awards such as the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship and the UBC International Scholars Program.
Scholarship
Benefits
Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute Scholarship
Funds undergraduate students pursuing research or exchange programs between India and Canada.
Carleton University Entrance Scholarships
Merit-based scholarship for high-achieving international students, covering partial tuition costs.
York University International Student Scholarship
Provides financial aid to exceptional students based on academic performance and leadership qualities. Amount ranges between CAD 2,500 (INR 1.5L) to CAD 37,500 (INR 22.6L)
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)
Covers tuition, books, and living expenses for outstanding international students.
University of British Columbia (UBC) International Scholars Program
Need- and merit-based financial aid for academically strong students.
International students can take up part-time jobs like research assistantships, off-campus roles in convenience stores, or freelance work as content writers.
Here are some popular part-time job options:
Type of Job
Details
On-Campus Jobs
Work within the university (libraries, research assistantships, cafes) without needing a separate work permit.
Off-Campus Jobs
Work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks.
Freelancing & Remote Work
Take up freelance roles in fields like content writing, graphic design, and IT, but must ensure compliance with visa regulations.
Co-op Programs
Work-integrated learning where you can alternate between academic study and paid work placements.
Easy PR Pathway
International students can apply for PR through programs like the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and provincial programs like Express Entry.
Here are the different PR pathways:
Programs
Details
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
Enables international graduates to stay and work in Canada for up to 3 years.
Essential for gaining Canadian work experience, which is critical for PR.
Express Entry
A comprehensive immigration system for skilled workers, including students with Canadian work experience.
Candidates are ranked based on points for age, education, and job offer.
Fast-tracks PR for graduates with work experience in Quebec.
Career Opportunities Post-study
Canada’s growing tech sector offers roles in AI, cybersecurity, and software development. Finance is expanding with fintech and risk management jobs, while healthcare sees rising demand for medical researchers and administrators.
Here are some top job opportunities:
Job Role
Average Annual Salary
Software Developer
$77K (INR 66.9L)
Financial Analyst
$65K (INR 56.5L)
Nurse
CAD 75T (INR 45.2L)
Architect
$66K (INR 57.3L)
Marketing Specialist
$57K (INR 49.5L)
Source: Glassdoor
Prospective students can gain valuable insights into studying in Canada by attending study-abroad fairs or online webinars. These events will provide firsthand information on Canadian universities, application processes, scholarships, and student life.
These events are often free and can help you make informed decisions about your study abroad journey by interacting with admissions officers, current students, and alumni.
With these benefits in mind, let's look at the top universities in Canada for students after 12th.
Top Universities to Study in Canada After 12th
Canada is home to world-class universities consistently ranked among the best globally. Whether you aim to study business, engineering, or humanities, here are the top universities in Canada after 12th.
Institutions like McGill University and the University of Toronto are well-placed in both QS rankings and THE rankings, reflecting their quality. They offer bachelor’s programs in fields such as applied science, humanities, and business.
Here’s a list of top-ranked Canadian universities, their global rankings, and popular bachelor’s programs:
Now, let’s explore some top programs to study in fields like business, engineering, and humanities in Canada.
Top Programs to Study in Canada After 12th
Institutions like the University of Toronto, McGill University, and York University are known for their undergraduate programs in fields such as engineering, business, and humanities. After graduation, you can explore diverse job opportunities such as Software Engineer, Business Analyst, and Academic Counsellor, depending on your qualifications.
Here’s a breakdown of the top programs to study in Canada after 12th:
Engineering and Technology
Institutions like McGill University and the University of Waterloo are well-known for their engineering programs, such as Civil Engineering and Software Engineering. Graduates can pursue roles like Civil Engineer or Software Developer after completing their studies.
Here’s a breakdown of top engineering programs and their associated job roles:
Top engineering courses:
University
Program
Annual Tuition Fees
University of Toronto
Engineering Sciences
CAD 67,370 (INR 40.8L)
University of British Columbia
Mechanical Engineering
CAD 7,497.68 - CAD 8,003.47 (INR 4.5L - 4.8L)
McGill University
Civil Engineering
CAD 62,637 (INR 37.9L)
University of Waterloo
Software Engineering
CAD 73,000 (INR 44.2L)
University of Alberta
Petroleum Engineering
CAD 191,025.60 (INR 1.1CR) complete course
Job roles:
Job Role
Average Annual Salary
Software Engineer
$91K (INR 79L)
Mechanical Engineer
CAD 74T (INR 44.8L)
Civil Engineer
$72K (INR 62.5L)
Electrical Engineer
$74K (INR 64.2L)
Biomedical Engineer
CAD 63T (INR 38.2L)
Source: Glassdoor
Business and Management
You can explore undergraduate programs like BCom at McGill University and BBA at the University of Toronto. After graduation, you can apply for roles like Financial Analyst and Business Consultant.
Here’s a breakdown of top business programs and their associated job roles:
You can pursue health sciences programs such as the BMSc at Western University and the Bachelor of Health Sciences at the University of Calgary. After graduation, you can explore job roles such as Physiotherapist and Medical Doctor.
Here’s a breakdown of top health sciences programs and their associated job roles:
If you’re interested in humanities, you can enroll in programs like a BA in Political Science at McGill University and a Bachelor of Journalism at Carleton University. After graduation, you can apply for jobs such as Journalist and PR Specialist.
Here’s a breakdown of top humanities programs and their associated job roles:
Canadian institutions offer programs such as the Bachelor of Information Technology at Carleton University and the BSc in Computer Science at the University of Toronto. After graduation, you can explore job roles such as Software Engineer and Data Analyst.
Here are the top computer science programs and potential job roles after graduation:
Education programs include the Bachelor of Education (BEd) at the University of Alberta and the Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Educational Studies at Queens University. After graduation, you can explore job roles such as Teacher and Academic Advisor.
Here are some top education programs and their associated job roles:
Top education courses:
University
Program
Tuition Fees
McGill University
Bachelor of Education (Bed)
CAD 27,447 (INR 16.6L)
University of Toronto
Honours Bachelor of Arts Education Studies
CAD 62,950 (INR 38.1L)
Queens University
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Educational Studies
CAD 1218 (INR 73.8K) per unit
University of Alberta
Bachelor of Education (BEd)
CAD 35,666 (INR 21.6L)
Simon Fraser University
Bachelor of Education (BEd)
CAD 1,167.61 (INR 70.8K) per unit
Job roles:
Job Role
Average Annual Salary
Educational Consultant
$57K (INR 49.4L)
Teacher
CAD 66K (INR 40L)
Academic Advisor
$56K (INR 48.6L)
Curriculum Developer
CAD 65T (INR 39.4L)
Corporate Trainer
$49K (INR 42.5L)
Source: Glassdoor
Now that you know the eligibility criteria, let’s walk through the step-by-step application process to secure admission to a Canadian university after 12th.
Eligibility and Application Process to Study in Canada After 12th
Eligibility includes 60% in Grade 12, English proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS), and subject prerequisites like Mathematics and Physics for engineering and science programs.
Here are the eligibility requirements to study in Canada after 12th:
Criteria
Details
Academic Requirements
Minimum 60% in Grade 12 (higher for competitive programs).
Course-Specific Requirements
STEM programs: Mathematics & Science required.
Business programs: Mathematics preferred.
Arts & Humanities: Flexible entry requirements.
English Language Proficiency
IELTS: 6.0-6.5
TOEFL: 80-90
PTE: 58+
Duolingo: 110+
Financial Proof
Proof of funds for tuition & living expenses (CAD 20,635 per year).
Student Visa & Study Permit
Offer letter from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
Visa application, medical exam, biometrics.
Age Limit & Study Gap
No strict age limit.
Gaps over 2 years may need justification (like work experience).
With eligibility requirements covered, let’s move on to the application process.
Application Process to Study in Canada
The application process begins with checking eligibility (academic scores), preparing essential documents like academic transcripts, and applying online through university portals. Once you get the admission letter, you can proceed with the student visa application.
Here are the steps involved in the application process:
1. Choose a Program and Institution
Select an undergraduate program (BSc, BA, BEng, Diploma, Certification) aligned with your career goals.
Ensure the institution has been named a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) to qualify for a student visa.
2. Check Eligibility Requirements
Minimum 60% in Grade 12 (varies by program and university).
English proficiency tests like IELTS (6.0-6.5), TOEFL (80-90), or PTE (58+).
Some programs require Math, Physics, or other subject prerequisites.
Proof of funds (tuition + CAD 20,635 for living expenses).
4. Apply to Universities/Colleges
Submit online applications through university portals or centralized systems (e.g., OUAC for Ontario universities).
Pay application fees (CAD 70–250 per institution).
5. Receive Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
Universities review applications and issue LOAs to selected students. It is usually provided within 2 to 8 weeks, depending on the institution and program.
This document is compulsory for the student visa application.
6. Arrange Finances
Secure scholarships, education loans, or self-funding.
Deposit tuition fees as required by the institution.
Purchase a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of CAD 20,635 for living expenses.
7. Apply for a Student Visa (Study Permit)
Submit visa application via the Student Direct Stream (processing in 20–45 days) or Regular Stream (4–12 weeks).
Provide Letter of Acceptance, financial proof, medical exam results, and biometric details. You have 60–90 days to submit the required documents, depending on the application stream.
8. Undergo Medical Examination & Biometrics
Complete a medical exam with an IRCC-approved panel physician.
Submit your biometric data at a Visa Application Center (VAC).
9. Receive Visa Approval & Travel to Canada
If approved, receive a Port of Entry (POE) Letter.
Book flights, arrange accommodation, and plan travel.
Now, let's break down the costs to understand the total expenses of studying in Canada.
Cost of Studying in Canada
The cost of studying in Canada depends on the university, program, and city. Major hubs like Toronto and Vancouver have higher tuition and living expenses compared to cities like Winnipeg or Halifax.
Apart from tuition, students must budget for health insurance, course materials, and personal expenses. Below is a detailed breakdown of costs to help you plan your budget.
Here’s a breakdown of the cost of studying in Canada:
1. Tuition Cost
University Name
Tuition Fee
Tuition Fee (INR)
University of Toronto
CAD 69,390
INR 42L
University of British Columbia
CAD 63,653.69
INR 38.6L
McGill University
CAD 62,637
INR 37.9L
University of Waterloo
CAD 73,000
INR 44.2L
Western University
CAD 63,385.21
INR 38.4L
2. Living Cost
Cost
Purpose
Cost (CAD)
Cost (INR)
Pre-Arrival Cost
Application Fees
$50 – $250 per university
INR 3K - 15.1K
IELTS/TOEFL/PTE Exam Fees
US$200 – US$250
INR 17.3K - 21.6K
Visa Application
$150
INR 9K
GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate)
$20,635
INR 12.4L
Medical Examination
$140 – $280
INR 8.4K - 16.9K
Flight Ticket
$800 – $1,500
INR 48.5K - 90.9K
Post-Arrival Cost
Tuition Fees
$16,000 – $59,000
INR 9.6L - 35.6L
Accommodation
$8,400 – $18,000
INR 5L - 10.9L
Food & Groceries
$2,400 – $4,800
INR 1.4L - 2.9L
Public Transport
$1,260
INR 76.1K
Health Insurance
$600 – $960
INR 36.3K - 58.2K
Utilities (Electricity, Internet, Phone Bill)
$1,200 – $2,400
INR 72.7K - 1.4L
Books & Study Materials
$600
INR 36.2K
3. Cost of Living in Cities
City
Cost (USD)
Cost (INR)
Toronto
$5,305
INR 4.6L
Vancouver
$5,693
INR 4.9L
Montreal
$3,893
INR 3.3L
Halifax
$4,911
INR 4.2L
Ottawa
$4,872
INR 4.2L
Winnipeg
$4,241
INR 3.6L
Want to study in Canada for free? Explore How to Study in Canada for Free in 2025? guide for scholarships, grants, and affordable universities to minimize costs.
While studying in Canada can be costly, scholarships and part-time work opportunities can help ease the financial burden. Let’s explore these options.
How to Reduce Cost of Studying in Canada?
Costs can be reduced by working part-time, securing scholarships from universities, and opting for shared housing instead of expensive apartments.
Here’s how you can save on expenses:
Cost Reduction
Details
Part-time Work
Work up to 20 hours per week during semesters and full-time during holidays to cover living expenses.
Scholarships
Merit-based (Lester B. Pearson Scholarship), need-based, and program-specific scholarships can reduce tuition fees.
Student Discount
Discounts on transportation, food, software, and entertainment are available through student ID programs like ISIC and SPC.
Shared Housing
Renting with roommates lowers accommodation costs compared to on-campus or private rentals.
Now, let’s explore how upGrad can help you secure admission to top universities in Canada.
How upGrad Supports Your Study Abroad Journey in Canada?
Studying in Canada is a big step, and upGrad is here to make it easier. From helping you choose the right university to guide you through applications, test prep, and visa processes, upGrad ensures you’re ready for success.
Here’s how upGrad will help you:
Personalized University & Course Selection: Get expert guidance to choose the right program and institution based on your career goals.
Application & Documentation Support: Assistance with preparing and submitting university applications, including SOPs and LORs.
Test Preparation: Guidance for standardized exams like IELTS, TOEFL, and SAT to meet admission requirements.
Blended Learning Programs: Access to online courses that can be combined with on-campus programs for flexible study options.
Scholarship & Financial Aid Guidance: Help in identifying and applying for merit-based and need-based scholarships.
Visa Assistance & Pre-Departure Support: Guidance on securing a student visa, arranging accommodation, and settling in Canada.
Planning to study in Canada after 12th? Get expert guidance on choosing the right university, preparing for entrance exams, and handling the admission process. Book a free counseling session with upGrad’s advisors today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is IELTS or TOEFL mandatory to study in Canada after the 12th?
Yes, most universities and colleges in Canada require proof of English language proficiency through tests like IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE. However, exemptions may apply if you’ve studied in an English-medium institution for at least four years or completed specific curricula (e.g., IB, A-Levels).
Some schools also accept alternative proofs, such as Duolingo scores or in-house language assessments. Always check institution-specific policies.
Can I study in Canada after the 12th without a study gap issue?
Yes, a small study gap (1-2 years) is generally acceptable if justified with valid reasons like internships, work experience, or certification courses. Longer gaps may require strong supporting documents explaining the reason for the gap.
What are the best scholarships available for Indian students in Canada?
Some top scholarships include the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto), UBC International Scholars Program, York University International Student Scholarship, Carleton University Entrance Scholarships, and the Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute Scholarship.
How can I get a study permit extension in Canada if my course duration increases?
You must apply through the IRCC portal with an updated enrollment letter and proof of funds before your permit expires. Processing takes 30-60 days, so apply early to maintain legal status. A timely extension ensures you maintain legal status, which is crucial for eligibility for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
What are the affordable colleges in Canada for international students?
Affordable options include Centennial College, Seneca College, Humber College, University of Winnipeg, and Memorial University of Newfoundland. Tuition fees in these institutions range from CAD 10,000 to CAD 20,000 per year, depending on the program.
Which intake is best for studying in Canada after the 12th?
The Fall (September) intake is the most popular, offering the widest range of programs and scholarship opportunities. The Winter (January) intake has fewer options, while the Spring/Summer (May) intake is limited to select programs.
What are the common mistakes students make when applying to study in Canada?
Common mistakes include applying late, choosing the wrong intake, missing document deadlines, not meeting English proficiency requirements, and failing to show sufficient financial proof for the visa.
Can I change my course or college after reaching Canada?
Yes, you can switch programs or institutions, but you must inform IRCC and update your study permit details if required. Ensure that the new institution is also a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). If switching to a lower-level program (e.g., from a degree to a diploma), it may impact your Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility.
Additionally, study permit conditions, financial proof, and provincial regulations may apply, so consulting an immigration advisor is recommended.
What are the requirements for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) in Canada?
To qualify for a PGWP, you must have completed a full-time course of at least 8 months at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). The permit duration depends on the length of your study program, and you must apply within 180 days of receiving your final grades.
How do I find affordable accommodation in Canada as a student?
Options include on-campus housing, shared apartments, and homestays. Websites like RentBoard, Kijiji, and university housing portals help students find affordable rentals. Living in smaller cities or sharing rent with roommates significantly reduces costs.
What are the medical test requirements for a Canadian student visa?
Students from India and other high-risk TB countries must undergo an Immigration Medical Exam (IME) by a panel physician approved by IRCC. The test includes a general check-up, chest X-ray, and blood tests to ensure you meet Canada's health standards.
Rakhee Talukdar is an edtech expert with five years of experience in the education technology sector, focusing on K-12 and higher education systems in various countries, including Canada, USA, Finland, France, and Germany. Her background includes founding a startup and working with early-stage educational ventures, giving her a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities within these educational landscapes. Additionally, Rakhee specializes in helping students craft compelling Statements of Purpose (SOPs) for studying abroad, leveraging her insights into different education systems to guide students in articulating their academic and professional goals effectively. Her comprehensive knowledge and strategic approach make her a valuable resource for students navigating their educational journeys and financial planning.
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