MS in Canada - Universities, Courses, Fees, Eligibility & More

Why Study MS in Canada?

Compared to colleges and universities in Australia, the U.K., and the U.S., Canadian institutions generally have lower tuition fees. This affordability, coupled with the high quality of education, makes Canada an attractive choice for aspiring Master's students. With seven institutions ranked in the top 200 globally (Times Higher Education, 2023), Indian students who choose to study in Canada can expect a world-class education that nurtures intellectual growth.

Moreover, Canadian universities offer numerous scholarships and part-time work opportunities to international students. These opportunities help offset tuition costs and enhance employability upon graduation. A study revealed that 60% of international students employed during or after their studies became landed immigrants within a decade of obtaining their first study permit (Statistics Canada, 2021). Canada's favourable immigration policies provide opportunities for graduates to pursue long-term careers and establish a life in this welcoming country.

Finally, the rich cultural tapestry of Canada translates into inclusive classrooms and vibrant communities, offering students an opportunity to broaden their horizons and gain a deeper appreciation for different perspectives.

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Top Universities in Canada for MS

Below are the top universities in Canada with their QS World University Rankings of 2023.

McGill University
University of Toronto
University of British Columbia
University of Alberta
Université de Montréal
McMaster University
University of Waterloo
Western University
University of Ottawa
University of Calgary
Queen's University at Kingston
Dalhousie University
Simon Fraser University

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In-Demand MS Courses in Canada

Canada offers several Master's degrees that are popular among Indian students. Some of these are listed below:

Master of Accounting

Master of Data Science

Master of Information Technology

Master of Finance

Master of Agriculture

Master of Management

Master of Environmental Science

Master of Engineering

Master of Psychology

Master of Human Resource Management

Cost of Studying and Living in Canada

In Canada, the average annual cost for a bachelor's degree is between CAD 12,000, which is about INR 6,46,000, and CAD 30,000, equivalent to INR 16,15,000. While programs in the humanities, business, and management may cost anywhere from CAD 5,500 (INR 2,96,000) to CAD 6,500 (INR 3,50,000), engineering and medicine degrees cost approximately CAD 22,000, which is equivalent to INR 11,69,000 per year.

The cost of living in Canada varies in each city, with larger cities such as Toronto and Vancouver generally being more expensive than smaller cities. From tuition fees and rent to transportation and food, there are a variety of expenses that international students should account for when budgeting for their studies. Here we provide an overview of the cost of living in Canada for international students:

Expenses	Costs*
Average tuition fee	CAD 20,000 to CAD 30,000 per year
Accommodation	CAD 400 to 600 per month
Public Transport	CAD 40 - 100 per month
Grocery and Food Costs	CAD 200 CAD - 300 per month
Internet	CAD 30 – 50
Miscellaneous	CAD 600 – 700

*These are just general estimates, and your actual costs may vary as per your location and other factors.

Additionally, knowing about province-wise breakdown for accommodation can also help you plan your budget for studying in Canada.

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Career Prospects after MS in Canada

The average base salary for Master’s graduates in Canada is C$68k/ year. Below are some popular jobs in Canada for individuals who earn a Master’s degree from here:

Job Title	Salary Range	Average Salary
Software Developer	C$53k - C$97k	C$71,775
UX Designer	C$45k - C$80k	C$59,178
Sr. Software Engineer / Developer / Programmer	C$76k - C$132k	C$101,398
Data Analyst	C$53k - C$88k	C$68,493
Marketing Coordinator	C$46k - C$74k	C$58,060
Marketing Manager	C$58k - C$103k	C$78,540
Program Manager, Engineering	C$57k - C$101k	C$76,474
Project Manager, (Unspecified Type / General)	C$48k - C$90k	C$66,003
Research Analyst, Operations	C$42k - C$87k	C$60,455
Senior Business Analyst	C$81k - C$123k	C$100,323

Scholarships For Master's in Canada

Scholarships in Canada can provide partial or full financial support for tuition, books, and other educational expenses to international students. These programs are designed to help international students gain the necessary qualifications and experience to find secure employment.

Types of Scholarships in Canada

Government-funded Scholarship: These scholarships are designed to make higher education in Canada more accessible and allow students to complete their studies without financial burden. Some of the government-funded scholarships include the Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship, and the Vanier Graduate Scholarships.
Non-governmental Scholarships: These scholarships are provided by private companies, organizations, and individuals, and can range from small awards to full tuition and living costs. Examples include the Trudeau Scholarships and Fellowships, and the Anne Vallee Ecological Fund.
Institutional Scholarships: Institutional scholarships are offered by the colleges and universities themselves, and often depend on the student's academic performance. Some universities offer scholarships to students with high grades, while others offer grants the same to those with financial need. The University of Toronto, Lester B. Pearson International Student Scholarships, and the York University International Student Scholarships are a couple of examples of institutional scholarships in Canada.

Requirements & Eligibility Criteria for MS in Canada

While it is important to check each university's website for specific admission requirements, here are general eligibility requirements to secure your seat in a Master’s program in the Canada:

Bachelor’s degree with good grades
Internship certificate/s or work experience, though not mandatory at some universities
Valid GRE scores, if required by your university
English language proficiency scores – IELTS or PTE.
Detailed resume
Letters of Recommendation.
Statement of Purpose and/or other admission essays

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Deadline for MS Applications in Canada

Fall Intake (Primary Intake: September - December): The most popular intake season is the Fall semester, which is the primary intake and typically runs from September to December. You will be able to choose from a large pool of full and partial scholarships. However, it is quite competitive to get admission and scholarship during this intake due to a large number of applications.

Spring/Winter Intake (Secondary Intake: January - April): The competition for admission and scholarship is low during this intake. Moreover, with fewer students in the classroom, you can receive more individualized attention from your professors, ensuring you get the most out of your studies.

Timeline for Master's Application for Canada

Generally, it is advisable to start the application process approximately 12 to 18 months before the intended program start date. Here is a general Master’s degree timeline:

Allocate 1-4 weeks for passport application and processing.
Plan for 2-8 weeks to prepare for and take the IELTS exam.
Allow 4-10 weeks for GRE preparation and test-taking.
Give yourself 1-3 weeks to write and refine important application components like CV, SOP, and LOR.
Submit your applications 1-2 weeks before the deadline.
Await the first admission decision.
Begin the loan process 3-6 weeks before the program starts.
Obtain travel insurance in 15-30 minutes.
Reserve your flight in 15-30 minutes.
Plan for 2-6 weeks for visa application and processing.
Obtain prepaid cards within 1-3 days.
Schedule and complete a health checkup in 1-2 days.
Allow 1 week for shopping and gathering necessary items.

Remember, starting early is crucial, but even if you're slightly behind, completing tasks before the application deadline is manageable.

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Work Permit for MS Students in Canada

After completing your studies in Canada, you may apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) to stay in Canada and find temporary employment. The duration of your program determines how long your PGWP will be active.

Your PGWP will be valid for the same length as your study program if it is less than 8 months. However, if your program was at least eight months, but less than two years, then you will be granted a PGWP valid for up to the same length as your study program. Similarly, if your program was two years or longer, you may get a PGWP that is valid for three years. In addition, if you completed more than one program while in Canada and each of these programs is PGWP-eligible and at least 8 months in length, you may be able to combine the length of each program to get a longer PGWP. You are ineligible for a PGWP if you have previously obtained one after completing an earlier program of study.

Ensure that your passport is valid for the entirety of your eligibility period. If your passport expires before your PGWP, you will be issued a PGWP that is valid until your passport expires, and you will be told if you need to extend its validity to get its full validity.

Visa Requirements for International Students in Canada

Once you've completed the application, it is important to submit your application for a study permit as soon as possible. This is because the Canadian government has a backlog of study permit applications, which might delay certain applications. If you want to study in Canada, you will need to prove that you have at least a certain amount of money in your bank. The fee for a Canadian student visa is around CAD 150, or nearly 9000 INR. Some visa requirements that may be part of the eligibility criteria for a Canada study permit include academic requirements, an offer letter from the institution, language proficiency, financial requirements, the Immigration Medical Examination (IME), passport-size photographs, a health insurance policy, valid travel documents, and so on. In addition to this, you must also have enough money to get to and from your home country, as well as enough money to support yourself during this time.

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FAQ's

Does work experience matter for MS in Canada?

For most Master's programs in Canada, work experience is not a mandatory requirement. However, having relevant work experience can enhance your application and make you a more competitive candidate, especially for certain specialized programs. It demonstrates practical knowledge and can be advantageous during the admissions process.

How many LORs are required for MS in Canada?

Most Canadian universities typically require two to three Letters of Recommendation (LORs) as part of the application process for MS programs.

How many years for MS in Canada?

Typically, a Master's degree in Canada takes two years to complete.

How much does MS cost in Canada?

On average, international students can expect CAD 15,000 to CAD 35,000 or more per year. Additionally, you'll need to consider living expenses, which can vary depending on the city or province you study in.

Is 7 CGPA good for MS in Canada?

Yes, a CGPA of 7.0 on a scale of 10 is generally considered competitive for admission to most Master's programs in Canada.

How many transcripts do I need for MS in Canada?

You will typically need to submit all your academic transcripts from your previous institutions. Most universities require official transcripts directly sent from the issuing institution to the university's admissions office.

How to apply for MS in Canada from India?

To apply for MS in Canada from India, research the universities and programs that interest you, and check the admission criteria, English language proficiency requirements, and other prerequisites for your chosen program. Gather all the required documents requested by the university and apply through the university's online application portal or through relevant application platforms.

Is GRE needed for MS in Canada?

GRE is generally not a required component of the MS application process in most Canadian universities. However, some specific programs or institutions might request GRE scores.

Is TOEFL accepted in Canada for MS?

Yes, TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) scores are accepted by some Canadian universities for MS admissions.

Can I get a scholarship for MS in Canada?

Yes, there are various scholarships and financial aid options available for international students pursuing MS programs in Canada.

Does backlogs affect MS in Canada?

Having backlogs can affect your MS application, as it may raise concerns about your academic performance and readiness for the program. Each university has its own policies regarding backlogs. It's best to address any academic issues in your SOP and emphasize your strengths to demonstrate your potential for success in the program.

Is Canada good for MS in Mechanical Engineering?

Yes, Canada is a good choice for pursuing MS in Mechanical Engineering. Canadian universities are known for their strong engineering programs and research opportunities.