Have you considered to study in Canada after 12th grade? Canada is one of the most popular choices for students because of its high-quality education, safe cities, and job opportunities.
Many international students choose Canada because it has affordable tuition fees compared to the US and UK. The country also offers work permits after graduation, so students can stay and find jobs.
But how do you choose the right university and course? What are the admission requirements? In this blog, we will answer these questions and explore the best universities and programs in Canada after 12th. Let’s get started!
Thinking to study in Canada after 12th? If you want a degree that is recognized worldwide and a chance to settle abroad, Canada is a great option.
1. Top Universities and Recognized Degrees
Canadian universities rank among the best in the world. A degree from Canada is respected globally, which makes it easier to find jobs or pursue further studies.
Allows graduates to stay and work in Canada for up to 3 years.
Work experience under PGWP helps in applying for PR.
Popular PR Programs
Express Entry (EE) – Points-based system for skilled workers.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) – Provinces select students based on local job demand.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC) – PR for students with at least 1 year of Canadian work experience.
Best PR-Friendly Courses
Healthcare (Nursing, Pharmacy, Medicine)
Engineering & IT (Software, AI, Cybersecurity)
Finance & Accounting
Education & Teaching
Hospitality & Tourism
6. Post-Study Career Opportunities in Canada
Canada has a strong job market for international graduates, with opportunities in multiple industries.
Field
Average Salary (CAD per Year)
Top Companies Hiring
Software Development & IT
70,000 – 100,000 (₹42L – ₹60L)
Microsoft, Amazon, Google, Shopify
Engineering (Civil, Electrical, Mechanical)
65,000 – 90,000 (₹39L – ₹54L)
SNC-Lavalin, WSP Global, Hatch
Healthcare (Nursing, Pharmacy, Medicine)
80,000 – 120,000 (₹48L – ₹72L)
Hospitals, Research Institutes
Finance & Accounting
60,000 – 85,000 (₹36L – ₹51L)
Deloitte, PwC, RBC, TD Bank
Hospitality & Tourism
40,000 – 60,000 (₹24L – ₹36L)
Hotels, Airlines, Tourism Boards
Good to Know: Canada’s economy is growing, with a high demand for skilled workers in these fields.
Top Undergraduate Programs in Canada After 12th
Canada has many great undergraduate programs that offer good education, job opportunities, and a chance for PR.
1. Engineering and Technology
Engineering is one of the most in-demand fields in Canada. The program covers mechanical, civil, electrical, and software engineering, preparing students for technical and leadership roles in industries like construction, automotive, and aerospace.
Admission Requirements
12th grade in Science stream (Physics, Chemistry, and Math required).
IELTS: 6.5+ / TOEFL: 90+
Some universities require entrance exams or a personal statement.
Best Universities for Engineering (QS 2025 Ranking)
University of Toronto (#1 in Canada, #21 worldwide)
University of British Columbia (UBC) (#2 in Canada, #34 worldwide)
McGill University (#3 in Canada, #36 worldwide)
University of Alberta (#4 in Canada, #96 worldwide)
University of Waterloo (#5 in Canada, #112 worldwide)
Top Courses
Mechanical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Electrical and Electronics Engineering
Software and Computer Engineering
Aerospace Engineering
Career Path & Salary
Job Role
Average Salary (CAD per year)
Salary in INR (₹)
Civil Engineer
CAD 70,000 – 90,000
₹42 – 55 lakh
Mechanical Engineer
CAD 75,000 – 95,000
₹45 – 58 lakh
Software Engineer
CAD 85,000 – 120,000
₹51 – 72 lakh
2. Business and Management
A degree in Business or Management equips students with skills in finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Canada has some of the best MBA schools that offer global exposure and internship opportunities with top companies.
Admission Requirements
12th grade in any stream (Commerce or Science preferred).
IELTS: 6.5+ / TOEFL: 90+
May require a statement of purpose (SOP) or math proficiency.
Best Universities for Business & Management (QS 2025 Ranking)
University of Toronto – Rotman School of Management (#1 in Canada, #24 worldwide)
McGill University – Desautels Faculty of Management (#2 in Canada, #30 worldwide)
Western University – Ivey Business School (#3 in Canada, #40 worldwide)
York University – Schulich School of Business (#4 in Canada, #54 worldwide)
UBC – Sauder School of Business (#5 in Canada, #65 worldwide)
Healthcare is a booming field in Canada, with high demand for nurses, doctors, and medical researchers. Undergraduate programs in health sciences lay the foundation for careers in medicine, pharmacy, and allied health fields.
Admission Requirements
12th grade in Science stream (Biology required for medical programs).
IELTS: 6.5+ / TOEFL: 90+
Some universities require entrance exams or practical experience.
Best Universities for Health Sciences (QS 2025 Ranking)
University of Toronto – Faculty of Medicine (#1 in Canada, #12 worldwide)
McGill University – Faculty of Medicine (#2 in Canada, #27 worldwide)
University of British Columbia – Faculty of Medicine (#3 in Canada, #40 worldwide)
University of Alberta – Faculty of Medicine (#4 in Canada, #55 worldwide)
University of Calgary – Cumming School of Medicine (#5 in Canada, #72 worldwide)
Top Courses
BSc in Health Sciences
Pre-Medicine & Pre-Pharmacy Programs
Biomedical Sciences
Nursing & Allied Health
Career Path & Salary
Job Role
Average Salary (CAD per year)
Salary in INR (₹)
Nurse
CAD 65,000 – 90,000
₹39 – 55 lakh
Pharmacist
CAD 75,000 – 110,000
₹45 – 66 lakh
Medical Researcher
CAD 80,000 – 120,000
₹48 – 72 lakh
4. Arts and Humanities
Arts and Humanities programs focus on literature, history, communication, and sociology. Students develop critical thinking, writing, and research skills, which can lead to careers in media, education, and public policy.
Admission Requirements
12th grade in any stream.
IELTS: 6.0+ / TOEFL: 85+.
Best Universities for Arts & Humanities (QS 2025 Ranking)
University of Toronto (#1 in Canada, #18 worldwide)
McGill University (#2 in Canada, #25 worldwide)
University of British Columbia (#3 in Canada, #33 worldwide)
University of Alberta (#4 in Canada, #50 worldwide)
Queen’s University (#5 in Canada, #60 worldwide)
Top Courses
Bachelor of Arts in Literature & History
Media & Communication Studies
Political Science & International Relations
Career Path & Salary
Job Role
Average Salary (CAD per year)
Salary in INR (₹)
Journalist
CAD 50,000 – 80,000
₹30 – 48 lakh
Policy Analyst
CAD 65,000 – 90,000
₹39 – 55 lakh
5. Computer Science and IT
Canada is a tech hub, making Computer Science and IT a highly rewarding career path. Programs cover AI, cybersecurity, and software development, leading to high-paying jobs in Canada’s growing tech industry.
Admission Requirements
12th grade in Science stream (Math required).
IELTS: 6.5+ / TOEFL: 90+
Best Universities for Computer Science (QS 2025 Ranking)
University of Toronto (#1 in Canada, #10 worldwide)
University of British Columbia (#2 in Canada, #25 worldwide)
Tuition fees vary based on the university and program you choose. Apart from tuition, students need to budget for books, lab fees, and student services.
Tuition Fees for Undergraduate Programs
University Name
Average Tuition Fees (Per Year)
Additional Costs (Books, Lab Fees, etc.)
University of Toronto
CAD 45,000 – 60,000 (₹27L – ₹36L)
CAD 1,500 – 2,500 (₹90K – ₹1.5L)
University of British Columbia
CAD 40,000 – 55,000 (₹24L – ₹33L)
CAD 1,000 – 2,000 (₹60K – ₹1.2L)
McGill University
CAD 35,000 – 50,000 (₹21L – ₹30L)
CAD 1,200 – 2,200 (₹72K – ₹1.3L)
University of Alberta
CAD 30,000 – 45,000 (₹18L – ₹27L)
CAD 1,000 – 1,800 (₹60K – ₹1.1L)
York University
CAD 28,000 – 40,000 (₹17L – ₹24L)
CAD 1,000 – 1,500 (₹60K – ₹90K)
Cost of Living in Canada for Indian Students
Living expenses depend on where you stay. Big cities like Toronto and Vancouver are more expensive, while smaller cities have lower costs.
Accommodation Costs
You can choose between on-campus and off-campus housing.
On-campus housing: Student dormitories are available, but spots fill up fast. Off-campus housing: Renting an apartment or sharing a house is common among students.
Living Costs (Per Month)
Expense Category
Average Monthly Cost (CAD)
Key Considerations
Accommodation (On-Campus)
CAD 800 – 1,500 (₹48K – ₹90K)
Includes utilities and basic amenities
Accommodation (Off-Campus, Shared)
CAD 500 – 1,200 (₹30K – ₹72K)
Varies by city and location
Food & Groceries
CAD 250 – 400 (₹15K – ₹24K)
Cooking at home saves money
Public Transport
CAD 90 – 120 (₹5.4K – ₹7.2K)
Monthly student passes available
Health Insurance
CAD 70 – 120 (₹4.2K – ₹7.2K)
Mandatory for international students
Miscellaneous (Entertainment, Phone, Internet)
CAD 100 – 250 (₹6K – ₹15K)
Depends on lifestyle choices
City-Wise Cost Comparison for International Students in Canada
City
Accommodation (Off-Campus, Shared) (CAD)
Food & Groceries (CAD)
Toronto
900 – 1,500 (₹55K – ₹91K)
300 – 450 (₹18K – ₹27K)
Vancouver
850 – 1,400 (₹52K – ₹85K)
300 – 450 (₹18K – ₹27K)
Montreal
600 – 1,100 (₹36K – ₹67K)
250 – 400 (₹15K – ₹24K)
Calgary
650 – 1,200 (₹40K – ₹73K)
250 – 400 (₹15K – ₹24K)
Edmonton
600 – 1,000 (₹36K – ₹61K)
250 – 400 (₹15K – ₹24K)
Winnipeg
500 – 900 (₹30K – ₹55K)
200 – 350 (₹12K – ₹21K)
Ottawa
700 – 1,200 (₹43K – ₹73K)
250 – 400 (₹15K – ₹24K)
Halifax
550 – 1,000 (₹33K – ₹61K)
200 – 350 (₹12K – ₹21K)
Toronto and Vancouver have the highest living costs, especially for rent. Montreal and Ottawa provide a balance between affordability and quality of life. Winnipeg and Halifax are the most budget-friendly cities for students.
Tip: Living in student housing or shared apartments can help save money. Cooking at home and using public transport instead of taxis also reduces expenses.
How to Reduce Costs While Studying in Canada
Apply for scholarships – Many universities offer tuition fee waivers. Choose shared housing – Renting an apartment with roommates saves money. Use student discounts – Many stores, restaurants, and public transport services offer discounts for students. Get a part-time job – International students can work up to 20 hours per week during study terms.
How upGrad Abroad Helps You Study and Save in Canada
upGrad Abroad makes studying in Canada simple. From picking the right university to saving money on tuition, here’s how we help.
Without upGrad Abroad:
Finding the right university that fits your budget is tough.
Preparing for IELTS, GRE, or GMAT can feel overwhelming.
You might miss out on scholarships that could reduce your costs.
With upGrad Abroad:
Cut Costs with Blended Learning
Start your studies online in India, then move to Canada.
Save on tuition and living expenses while earning a full Canadian degree.
Test Prep Made Easy
Get help with IELTS, PTE, GMAT, and GRE to improve your scores.
Access practice tests and expert tips to boost your chances.
Do I need SAT scores to apply for undergraduate programs in Canada?
Most Canadian universities do not require SAT scores for admission. However, some competitive programs may ask for them, especially in business and engineering. Check individual university requirements before applying.
What is the minimum IELTS/PTE score required for Canadian universities?
For most universities, the minimum IELTS score is 6.0 to 6.5, while PTE scores typically range between 58 and 65. Some colleges may accept lower scores, but top universities have higher requirements.
Can I study in Canada after 12th without IELTS?
Yes, some universities accept alternatives like Duolingo, TOEFL, or PTE. You can also study without IELTS if you complete an English preparatory program in Canada or if your previous education was in English.
Are there tuition-free universities for Indian students in Canada?
Public universities in Canada do not offer free education, but many provide scholarships and financial aid to reduce tuition costs. Some fully funded scholarships cover tuition and living expenses.
Which undergraduate programs have the best job opportunities in Canada?
Fields like Computer Science, Engineering, Healthcare, Business, and Data Science offer high employment rates and strong salary prospects in Canada.
Can I work part-time while studying in Canada?
Yes, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during studies and full-time during scheduled breaks without needing a separate work permit.
What is the average cost of living for students in Canada?
On average, students spend around CAD 10,000–15,000 (₹6–9 lakh) per year on accommodation, food, transportation, and other expenses. Costs vary by city.
How can I apply for scholarships to study in Canada after 12th?
You can apply for merit-based, need-based, and government scholarships through university portals or external funding sources. Many universities automatically consider students for scholarships during admission.
What are the best cities in Canada for international students?
Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, Ottawa, and Calgary are top choices for students due to high-quality education, job opportunities, and a vibrant student life.
How long can I stay in Canada after completing my degree?
After graduation, you can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which allows you to stay and work in Canada for up to three years.
What are the best PR-friendly courses in Canada?
Courses in Healthcare, IT, Engineering, and Business are popular among students seeking permanent residency as they are listed in Canada’s in-demand jobs.
Can I switch my course or university after getting admission?
Yes, you can change courses or transfer to another university, but you may need approval from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to maintain your study permit.
How do I find accommodation in Canada as a new international student?
You can choose on-campus dorms, private rentals, homestays, or student housing. Websites like RentBoard, Kijiji, and university housing portals help find affordable options.
Are there any fast-track PR pathways for Indian students in Canada?
Yes, the Express Entry system, Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), and the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) provide faster PR options for students who complete their education and gain work experience in Canada.
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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