Study Masters in Canada in 2026
Here is AECC's detailed guide for aspirants wishing to study Masters in Canada in the upcoming year. Learn about the best universities, programmes, admission requirements, costs, scholarships, career prospects and even the PGWP opportunities that await you.
Plan your Master's in Canada for 2026 — get expert guidance today
What you'll learn in this article
If you are worried that Canada has closed its doors to international students, then let us help clear your worries. This specific cap has been set for those planning on pursuing a diploma or an undergraduate programme in Canada. As a Master's student, all prospective international students have a 'free ride' through the Canadian immigration system. From an optional PAL requirement during the admission process to the guaranteed 3-year post-graduate work permit after graduation, Canada is dedicated to attracting more Master's aspirants.
Canada is a pinnacle destination for international college students in search of advanced professional degrees, and for excellent reasons. Earning a Masters in Canada gives a wealth of benefits, propelling your career ahead and establishing doorways to interesting opportunities.
Compared to several popular international study destinations, the costs for Masters programmes in Canada for international students are often more affordable. Additionally, many Canadian universities provide scholarships and monetary resource packages in particular for international students, assisting to ease the monetary burden.
Plan your Master's in Canada for 2026 — get expert guidance today
Why Study Masters in Canada?
Studying a masters or MS degree in Canada can be a fantastic choice for international students, offering numerous benefits that make it a top destination for higher education. Here are some compelling reasons why it is a great choice to study masters in Canada for international students:
- Canada consistently ranks as one of the safest countries globally
- Canada is renowned for its innovation and research, with leading universities and institutions driving advancements in various fields.
- Universities are highly esteemed for their quality of education, offering world-class programmes and opportunities for academic and professional growth.
- Canada is known for its cultural diversity and inclusivity, making it a welcoming place for students from all backgrounds.
- With its high standard of living, beautiful landscapes, and vibrant cities, Canada offers an excellent quality of life for students seeking a well-rounded academic experience.
Types of Degrees to Study Masters in Canada
The table below highlights the different courses and degree programmes, that are 1-2 years long, that international students can choose from if they wish to study masters in Canada in the upcoming academic year.
| Master of Architecture (MArch) | Master of Arts (MA) | Master of Applied Science (MASc) |
| Master of Business Administration (MBA) | Master's in Business Analytics | Master of Computer Science (MCS) |
| Master of Education (MEd) | Master of Engineering (MEng) | Master of Environmental Studies (MES) |
| Master of Fine Arts (MFA) | Master's in Hospital Administration | Master of International Business (MIB) |
| Master of Laws (LLM) | Master of Nursing (MN) | Master's of Pharmacy |
| Master's in Psychology | Master of Public Administration (MPA) | Master of Public Health (MPH) |
| Master of Science (MSc) | Master of Social Work (MSW) | NA |
Popular 2-Year Master's Programme in Canada for International Students
Among the more popular choices of international students wishing to study masters in Canada are the 2-year master's programmes in Canada for international students. Some of the popular Master's/MS degree in Canada are listed here.
| Programme Name | Average Tuition Fees (in CAD) |
|---|---|
| Master of Global Affairs at University of Toronto | CA $53,000 - $55,000 |
| MASc Civil Engineering at the University of British Columbia | CA $9,000 - $10,000 |
| Master of Science in Computer Science at McGill University | CA $19,000 - $22,000 |
| Master of Public Health at the University of Alberta | CA $16,000 - $19,000 |
| Master of Science in Computing at Queen's University | CA $15,000 - $18,000 |
Cost Source: Range derived from average annual tuition fees charged by top-ranking universities offering these courses.
Need help narrowing down on the best masters in Canada for international students? Connect with us and get tailored guidance to shortlist the best programmes with experts at AECC today.
Top Canada Universities for Masters
There are multiple top universities that offer masters programme in Canada across a range of subjects. Listed in the table below are some of the top Canadian universities for Masters, as per QS World University Ranking.
| University Name | QS World University Ranking 2026 |
|---|---|
| McGill University, Montreal, Quebec | #27 |
| University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario | #29 |
| University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia | #40 |
| University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta | #94 |
| University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario | #119 |
| Western University, London, Ontario | #151 |
| University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec | #168 |
| McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario | #173 |
| Queen's University at Kingston, Kingston, Ontario | #191 |
| University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta | #211 |
| University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario | #219 |
Curate a list of universities and colleges in Canada that offer the perfect masters programmes in Canada to help you achieve your academic and professional goals without costing you an arm and a leg.
Admission Requirements to Study Masters in Canada
Here are the detailed eligibility and admission requirements to study masters in Canada for international students planning to enrol in top-ranking universities this year, organised into distinct sections:
Academic Prerequisites
- Bachelor's degree: Typically, students need a relevant bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognised institution.
- GPA: A minimum GPA requirement may apply, often ranging from 3.0 to 3.5 on a 4.0 scale, depending on the programme and university.
- Specific Coursework: Some programmes may have specific coursework prerequisites related to the chosen field of study.
Language Proficiency
- English Proficiency: Most universities require proof of English proficiency through tests like IELTS Academic (International English Language Testing System) or TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language). Minimum score requirements vary but are generally around 6.5 to 7.0 for IELTS and 90 to 100 for TOEFL.
- French Proficiency (if applicable): For programmes in French-speaking regions, proficiency in French may be required, demonstrated through tests like TEF (Test d'Évaluation de Français).
Documentation
- Application Form: Complete and submit the university's application form for the respective Masters or MS in Canada for international students.
- Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts of academic records from all previous institutions attended.
- Letters of Recommendation: Typically, 2-3 letters of recommendation from professors or professionals familiar with the applicant's academic or professional abilities.
- Statement of Purpose: A written statement outlining the applicant's academic and career goals, reasons for choosing the programme, and how it aligns with their aspirations.
- Resume/CV: A detailed resume or curriculum vitae highlighting academic achievements, work experience, extracurricular activities, and skills.
- Portfolio (if applicable): For programmes such as fine arts, design, or architecture, a portfolio showcasing the applicant's work may be required.
- Application Fee: Payment of the application fee as required by the university.
Visa Requirements
- Study Permit: International students must obtain a study permit from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to study in Canada.
- Proof of Funds: Demonstrating sufficient funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation. As per visa regulations in Canada, international students must provide proof of a minimum of CA $22,895 to cover living expenses for one year on top of the tuition fees for one year.
- Medical Exam: Some students may need to undergo a medical examination as part of the visa application process.
- Other Requirements: Depending on the student's country of origin, additional requirements such as a biometric appointment may be necessary.
Want to know if you qualify to study Masters in Canada in the upcoming academic year?
Costs to Study Masters in Canada
Here's a breakdown of the study costs of popular master's or MS degrees in Canada that international students will incur:
| Degree Name | Duration | Average Tuition Fees (CAD/year) |
|---|---|---|
| Master of Business Administration (MBA) | 1-2 years | CA $44,000 - $133,000 |
| Master of Science (MSc) | 1-2 years | CA $10,000 (Research Stream) - $90,000 |
| Master of Engineering (MEng) | 1-2 years | CA $10,000 - $70,000 |
| Master of Arts (MA) | 1-2 years | CA $10,000 - $32,000 |
| Master of Computer Science (MCS) | 1-2 years | CA $10,000 - $66,000 |
| Master of Public Administration (MPA) | 1-2 years | CA $15,000 - $45,000 |
| Master of Public Health (MPH) | 1-2 years | CA $17,000 - $50,000 |
| Master of International Business (MIB) | 1-2 years | CA $35,000 - $53,000 |
Cost Source: Average annual Masters tuition fees for international students, as stated on official websites of top-ranking universities.
Studying masters in Canada as an international student will include the following living expenses:
| Expense | Average Annual Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | CA $9,000 - $18,000 |
| Food and Groceries | CA 3,600 - $6,000 |
| Transportation | CA $960 - $1,800 |
| Health Insurance | CA $600 - $1,000 |
| Books and Supplies | CA $1,000 - $2,000 |
| Student Permit Fee | CA $150 |
| Travel Expenses | CA $1,500 - $2,500 |
Curate the best financial plan to cover the costs of studying Masters or MS in Canada as an international student with expert guidance at AECC.
Scholarships to Study Masters in Canada for International Students
Here's a detailed table with information on the scholarships for masters in Canada for international students and their respective eligibility criteria and funding coverage:
| Scholarship | Eligibility Criteria | Awards |
|---|---|---|
| McCall MacBain Scholarship, McGill University | All students holding a Bachelor's degree, displaying excellent character, community engagement and leadership potential along with good grades, qualify for the scholarship | Full tuition fees, living stipend of CA $2,300 per month during academic terms, one-time relocation grant to move to Montreal and beginner to advanced French language courses. |
| Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) | International students, enrolled in a full-time Master's programme in Ontario, having achieved a minimum of 80% in the previous two years of academic studies. | CA $5,000 for every session, and up to $15,000 for one academic year (3 academic sessions). |
| Quebec Merit Scholarship Programme, Quebec | International students, selected/nominated by a Quebec University having completed less than 3 months of their Master's programme are eligible. | CA $20,000 per year |
| University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowships, University of Manitoba | International students who have registered for a full-time Master's programme, excluding MBA, and have secured a minimum GPA of 3.0 are eligible. | CA $20,000 per year |
| UBC Affiliated Fellowships, University of British Columbia | Current and prospective Master's students at the university, displaying first-class standing in the previous academic programmes, qualify for the scholarship. Students must not have enrolled in a programme administered by the Faculty of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies or have a significant research component, or in the Doctor of Pharmacy programme | CA $175 - $16,000 |
Connect with our team of expert counsellors to find the best scholarships and financial aid to cover the costs of your Masters courses in Canada.
Career Scope After Studying MS in Canada for International Students
Here's a table with information on career opportunities and salary ranges for international students after studying masters or MS degree in Canada:
| Job Role | Average Annual Salary (in CAD) |
|---|---|
| Software Engineer | CA $86,000 - $131,000 |
| Data Scientist/Analyst | CA $77,000 - $100,000 |
| Mechanical Engineer | CA $60,000 - $80,000 |
| Business Analyst/Consultant | CA $65,000 - $91,000 |
| Financial Analyst | CA $65,000 - $85,000 |
| Marketing Manager | CA $75,000 - $127,000 |
| Civil Engineer | CA $92,000 - $120,000 |
| IT Project Manager | CA $82,000 - $106,000 |
| Environmental Consultant/Specialist | CA $90,000 - $122,000 |
| Human Resources Manager | CA $62,000 - $80,000 |
Source: Payscale, Talent.com, SalaryExpert
Post-Graduate Work Permit after Masters in Canada
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) in Canada allows international students who have completed a programme of study at a designated learning institution to work in Canada for a period equal to the length of their study programme, up to a maximum of three years. Currently, all students who graduate from a Masters programmes in Canada qualify for the maximum PGWP, i.e. 3 years of stay back to gain valuable work experience.
This permit provides valuable work experience in Canada, which can be beneficial for enhancing career prospects, gaining exposure to the Canadian job market, and potentially transitioning to permanent residency through programmes like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or Provincial Nominee Programme (PNP).
Universities in Canada head the list in global ranking for academic excellence, offering a good variety of degree programmes across disciplines. Taking advantage of the offered wide range of popular courses like an MBA, MSc, and MEng programmes, with duration of 1- 2 years, international students can shine bright.
Need in-depth guidance related to pursuing Masters programmes in Canada? Let our expert counsellors will help you every step of the way. Contact AECC today to ensure your bright future with an MBA in Canada!
Study Masters in Canada FAQs
An master's in Canada typically costs CA $15,000 - $45,000 annually in tuition. Living expenses are a significant factor, with the IRCC requiring proof of CA $22,895 for a single student's annual living costs, usually deposited into a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC). This GIC is a secure investment that provides monthly funds for living. Total yearly expenses, including tuition and living costs, could range from CA $35,000 to CA $60,000 or more, depending on the choice of your course and lifestyle.
For an Master's in Canada, Indian students generally must provide English proficiency test scores from TOEFL iBT (typically 90-100), IELTS Academic (minimum overall 6.5-7.0), or PTE Academic (60-70). While GMAT scores are usually required for MBA and some specialised business masters degrees, GRE scores are becoming increasingly optional or waived for many MS programmes across various disciplines. Some universities or highly competitive research-based programmes might still require or recommend a GRE. For programmes in French-speaking regions, tests like TEF may be necessary. Always check the specific eligibility and exam requirements directly on each university's official website for your chosen programme.
To apply for an MS in Canada, international students first need to select a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and secure an admission offer. Upon acceptance, they will receive a Letter of Acceptance (LOA). The next step is to gather all necessary documents, including proof of identity, academic transcripts, English language proficiency scores, and evidence of financial support, including a GIC account. Finally, apply for a Canadian study permit through the official Canada.ca website. Applying early helps ensure smoother processing and adequate preparation.
Trusted Expertise
About the Author
Published and reviewed by AECC counsellors who guide students through every step of their study-abroad journey.
Published by Anuj Gupta
ICEF Canada Certified Education Specialist | 15 Years Advising International Students
Anuj Gupta holds ICEF Canada certification, one of the most widely recognised professional credentials in international student recruitment, and has been advising students on Canadian and European university pathways for 15 years.
Since Canada introduced its study permit cap in 2024, Anuj has spent a significant part of his time helping students work through the implications. Some are proceeding with Canada on adjusted timelines. Others are considering Germany, Ireland or the Netherlands, where English-taught programmes are available and post-study work routes are more predictable. He advises students on both options without steering them towards one by default.
The conversations he has with students tend to be specific: which course gives the best return on a particular budget, which province currently has faster processing times, and whether a diploma-to-degree pathway makes financial sense given the student's long-term goals. That is what his articles are written around. He holds an MBA in Finance and is based at AECC's Ahmedabad office.
