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PhD in Canada: Top Universities, Application Process, Cost, Scholarships and Job Prospects

Syed Yusuf Ashraf

Content Curator | Updated On - Jul 15, 2024

• Course Duration: PhD in Canada typically has a duration of 4 to 6 years depending on number of credits, or extensions period.  
• Cost of Study: PhD in Canada cost around 4,134 CAD to 24,998 CAD (2.53 lakhs to 15.31 lakhs INR) per annum for Indian students  
• Admission Requirements: Indian students require 75-80% in bachelor’s or master’s degree to secure admissions in PhD Degree programs in Canada.
• Average Salary: T he average salary of PhD in Canada graduates is 91,000 CAD (55.75 lakhs INR) per annum as per payscale.com.

PhD in Canada is a 4 to 6 year degree available in a variety of disciplines. Applicants failing to complete this degree within a given time frame can request a 6 months extension. The Phd program is available for Indian students in subjects like business administration, computer science, economics, mechanical engineering, pharmacy etc. PhD in Canada is an ideal option for those seeking higher job profiles in government firms, school/university, or a researcher scientist.

For admissions to Phd In Canada , you must hold a bachelor's or master's degree with an overall academic average of 75-80% . Your degree must be equivalent to the course you are applying for.

• A GMAT score between 550-600 is required for business related PhD courses in Canada.
• GRE scores are generally not required for admissions to PhD programs in Canada. However, Indian students are highly encouraged to submit a GRE score of 300 or above to strengthen their application.
• Additionally, you must target at least 7.0 in IELTS or TOEFL IBT score of 92 to meet English proficiency requirements.
• Indian students can also improve their chances of admissions if they have research experience.

The Canadian government had recently proposed a budget of 825 million CAD to support researchers for the next 5 years. This will not only increase the job opportunities but also the amount stipend for next generation researchers. Hence, pursuing a PhD in Canada will be an ideal choice for Indian students in the coming 5 years. After completion of PhD in Canada, Indian students can expect job roles such as professor, research scientist, research engineer etc.

Top Universities for PhD in Canada

Why study phd in canada, phd in canada application process, phd in canada cost of study, phd in canada scholarships, phd in canada job prospects.

Tabulated below are the top universities for PhD in Canada based on the latest QS World University rankings:

QS Rankings 2025	Top Universities	Duration of PhD Program	Annual Tuition Fees (CAD)
#25		4 year	8,969
#29		4-5 years	18,239
#38		5 years	9,690
#96		5-6 years	8,874
#115		4 years	24637
#=176		4 years	23,059 - 24,998
#189		4 years	12,104
#193		4-6 years	5,772
#=198		4-6 years	23,756
#319		4 years	4,134
#=423		4 years	19,134

PhD in Computer Science in Canada

QS CS Rankings 2024	Universities	Application Deadline
#13	University of Toronto	October 1, 2024
#21	University of Waterloo	October 1, 2024
#26	University of British Columbia	January 14, 2025
#34	Mcgill University	August 1, 2024
#44		September 1, 2024

PhD in Engineering in Canada

QS Engineering Rankings 2024	Universities	Application Deadline
#17	University of Toronto	October 1, 2024
#25	University of British Columbia	January 14, 2025
#39	Mcgill University	August 1, 2024
#40	University of Waterloo	October 1, 2024
#=100	University of Alberta	October 1, 2024

PhD in Medical Science in Canada

QS Medical Science Rankings 2024	Universities	Application Deadline
#14	University of Toronto	October 1, 2024
#=18	McGill University	August 1, 2024
#27	University of British Columbia	December 31, 2024
#43	McMaster University	January 14, 2025
#85	University of Montreal	September 1, 2025

PhD in Business in Canada

QS Business Rankings 2024	Universities	Application Deadline
#28	University of Toronto	October 1, 2024
#40	University of British Columbia	December 31, 2024
#=47	McGill University	August 1, 2024
#67		January 5, 2024
#=75	University of Montreal	January 6, 2025

PhD in Humanities in Canada

QS Humanities Rankings 2024	Universities	Application Deadline
#10	University of Toronto	January 19, 2024
#18	University of British Columbia	December 15, 2024
#29	McGill University	January 15, 2024

PhD in Canada allows graduates to work with top industry leaders of their respective fields. The Canadian universities offer exceptional research opportunities for Indian students along with state of the art facilities.

• Affordable Tuition Fees: PhD degrees in Canada are relatively less expensive than in the United States. For Indian students, the annual tuition fee for a PhD degree in Canada ranges from 4,134 CAD to 24,998 CAD (2.53 lakhs to 15.31 lakhs INR) .
• Diverse Disciplines: There are a diverse range of disciplines available with a PhD degree in Canada. The most popular disciplines for Indian students being computer science, business, engineering, humanities and medical science.
• Easy PR: PhD graduates can easily obtain a PR in Canada through the Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program. For this, you must apply to IRCC for permanent residency status in Canada. PhD students are eligible for PR even without a job offer.
• Scholarships : Canadian universities offer several scholarships for PhD students regardless of their nationality and background. Indian students can avail a scholarship up to 50,000 CAD through Canada Graduate Scholarships Doctoral Program. The other most popular PhD scholarships for Indian students include International Doctoral Student Award, Ontario Graduate Scholarship, and Vanier scholarships.

The entry requirements for a PhD in Canada may vary depending on the specialization and the university it is offered by. Below is the basic admission requirements for Indian students regardless of university and specialization:

Admission Requirements

• Bachelors’ or master’s degree with 75-80%
• IELTS- 6.5-7.5
• TOEFL IBT - 92-100
• GMAT - 550-600
• Statement of purpose
• Letters of recommendation
• CV or Resume
• Research experience

PhD in Canada University Specific Requirements

Check specific GPA requirements along with test scores across top universities in Canada for PhD program:

Universities	Academic Requirements	English Language Requirements	Test Scores
Simon Fraser University	3.5 GPA on a 4.33 scale	IELTS: 7.0 | TOEFL IBT: 93	GMAT: 600 | GRE: 320
University of Toronto	3.3 GPA or 77-79%	IELTS: 7.0 | TOEFL IBT: 93	GRE score of 167 in quant section
University of British Columbia	B+ or 76%	IELTS: 6.5 | TOEFL IBT: 92-100	GMAT score on 95th percentile
McGill University	3.0 GPA on 4.0 scale (85%)	IELTS: 6.5-7.5 | TOEFL IBT: 86-100	GMAT score of 600+
McMaster University	B+ grade of 77-79%	: 6.5-7.5 | TOEFL IBT: 88-92	GMAT: 600 or GRE: 305
University of Alberta	3.0 GPA on 4.0 scale (85%)	IELTS: 6.5-7.0 | TOEFL IBT: 93	GMAT score of 550
University of Ottawa	B+ or 75%	IELTS: 6.5 | TOEFL IBT: 79-80	Competitive GMAT/GRE scores
University of Calgary	3.5 GPA on 4.0 scale (90%)	IELTS: 7.0 | TOEFL IBT: 97	GMAT: 700 or : 300+
Laval University	3.0-3.3 GPA on 4.3 scale (81-83%)	TOEFL IBT: 64 | TCF-TP for French: 361 out of 699	Not required
Queen’s University	3.7 GPA/4.3 scale (89%)	IELTS: 7.0 | TOEFL IBT: 88	GMAT: 500+ | GRE: 315+
University of Waterloo	78-80%	IELTS: 6.5 | TOEFL IBT: 80-93	GMAT score of 550+

PhD in Canada is highly affordable compared to its neighbor the United States. For the 2024-25 academic year, Indian students can expect to pay around 4,134 CAD to 24,998 CAD (2.53 lakhs to 15.31 lakhs INR) annually in tuition fees. Being a PhD student, you need an annual budget of 21,120 to 28,440 CAD (12.93 lakhs to 17.42 lakhs INR) to meet the cost of living in Canada .

Tuition Fees

Check out the estimated tuition fee for studying a PhD degree in Canada across top universities:

Universities	Annual Tuition Fees (CAD)	Annual Tuition Fees (INR)
Simon Fraser University	4,134	2.53 lakhs
University of Toronto	8,969	5.49 lakhs
University of British Columbia	9,690	5.93 lakhs
McGill University	18,239	11.17 lakhs
McMaster University	24,028	14.72 lakhs
University of Alberta	8,874	5.43 lakhs
University of Ottawa	12,104	7.41 lakhs
University of Calgary	23,756	14.55 lakhs
Laval University	19,134	11.72 lakhs
Queen’s University	5,772	3.53 lakhs
University of Waterloo	24,637	15,09 lakhs

Cost of Living in Canada

Following are the likely expenses that you may include while planning an annual budget For living expenses in Canada.

Expenses	Cost Per Month (CAD)	Cost Per Month (INR)
Housing	900-1,200	55.057 - 73,14
Books and Supplies	150	9176
Food	200-300	12,235 - 18,352
Transportation	100	6,117
Internet and Phone	170	10,399
Utilities	240 - 450	14,682 - 27,529
Total Cost	1,760 - 2,370	1.07 to 1.44 lakhs

Indian students pursuing a PhD in Canada are eligible for several scholarships and funding opportunities. Some of these fundings cover both tuition fees and living expenses. Given below are the most popular Phd scholarships in Canada for Indian students :

University	Scholarships	Eligibility Requirements	Award
University of Toronto		Students enrolled in a full-time program at UToronto | Must have achieved at least grade A- in last 2 years of study or overall A- in graduate study	15,000 CAd per year
	Phd Fundings	Based on Academic Merit	29,470 CAD per year
University of Alberta	University of Alberta Graduate Entrance Scholarship	A minimum GPA of 3.7 in master’s degree | Must be pursuing masters or doctoral degree | Thesis or course-based program	21,000 CAD stipend + 10,000 CAD for Fees
University of Waterloo	International Doctoral Student Award	International students pursuing a full-time Phd Degree | Candidate Must demonstrate strong academic performance	15,420 CAD
University of British Columbia		Candidate must be pursuing 1st PhD degree | Have not completed more 20 months of PhD or 32 month of PhD degree as joint degree |	50,000 CAD
	Canada Graduate Scholarships Doctoral Program	Have not completed more 24 months of PhD or 36 month of PhD degree as joint degree | Research Potential | Relevant work experience |	35,000 CAD

According to payscale.com, the graduates of PhD degree typically earn an average salary of 91,000 CAD (55.75 lakhs INR) per annum). The graduates with PhD in Computer in Canada earn the highest with average salary being 123,000 CAD (75.35 lakhs INR). PhD graduates in Canada are likely to witness a pay rise in the coming 5 years. Being a PhD graduate in Canada, you can secure high positions in higher education, research and various government positions across the country.

Top Paying Job Roles for PhD in Canada Graduates.

Job Role	Average Annual Salary (CAD)	Average Annual Salary (INR)
Software Developer	99,436	60.93 lakhs
Data Scientist	108,395	66.42 lakhs
Research Engineer	76,636	46.96 lakhs
Mechanical Engineer	86,024	52.71 lakhs
Chief Financial Officer	148,908	91.25 lakhs
Research Scientist	50,086	30.69 lakhs

Canada is one of the best choices for Indians seeking a PhD degree abroad. PhD students are eligible for endless facilities and benefits in Canada. Canada offers various scholarships for international students including Indians students. This helps them fund both educational and living expenses in Canada. Indian students can also work part-time while pursuing PhD in Canada for up to 10 hours during semesters.

Ques. Is PhD in Canada worth it?

Ans. PhD in Canada is worth going for as an Indian student. The degree offers numerous facilities for students including research opportunities, state of the art facilities, high paying job profiles, and easy access to permanent residency in Canada

Ques. Do PhD students in Canada get PR?

Ans. PhD graduates are eligible for PR In Canada even without a job offer. To obtain a PR in Canada, PhD graduates must apply for IRCC for permanent residence status in Canada.

Ques. Is IELTS required for PhD in Canada?

Ans. A minimum IELTS score of 6.5 is required for PhD in Canada. However, Indian students must target a band score of 7.0 or above to get admissions in top universities offering PhD In Canada. Universities such Mcgill and McMaster require an IELTS score of 7.5 for some PhD courses.

Ques. Can I work during my PhD in Canada?

Ans. PhD students can work in Canada as long as they have a study permit. PhD students are eligible to work 10 hours per week during semesters. Upon graduation, PhD graduates can work and live up to 3 years in Canada through a post graduate work program.

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Table of Contents

Why study ph.d. in canada, overview of ph.d. programs in canada, list of top 5 universities to pursue phd programs in canada, eligibility criteria & admission requirements to study phd in canada, cost of studying phd in canada for international students, top 5 ph.d. scholarships in canada for international students, job opportunities after pursuing ph.d. in canada, take off your dream career in canada with getgis.

Did you know every year, Canada welcomes over 80,000 international students eager to dive into the world of cutting-edge research and pursue their PhD dreams? With world-renowned universities, groundbreaking innovation, and a supportive research environment, Canada has become a magnet for aspiring academics from around the globe.

But navigating the path to a Ph.D. in Canada can feel like trekking through an unfamiliar forest. Well, breathe easy, future Dr.! This comprehensive guide is your compass, ready to clear the path and lead you on a smooth journey to securing your PhD spot in Canada. Let’s begin!

The journey to a Ph.D. is about pushing boundaries, delving deep into your field, and making a splash in the world of knowledge. But where you choose to start on this exciting quest matters. Let's find out why Canada is your ideal destination for pursuing a PhD program.

• Canada ranks 13th in the Global Innovation Index 2023 , boasting top-notch research facilities and a collaborative environment.
• With 19 universities among the top 200 in QS World University Rankings 2024 , Canada boasts a stellar track record of producing research superstars.
• With over $4 billion invested in health research annually , Canada offers generous funding opportunities for qualified PhD students.
• Completing your PhD grants you valuable Canadian experience and opens doors to permanent residency , making it a strategic investment in your future career.
• With a 12% job growth rate predicted for clinical research professionals, and competitive salaries averaging over $65,000 per year , Canada offers rewarding opportunities to put your expertise to work.

Explore: Is It Worth Moving to Canada from India?

Canada stands as a beacon for pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree, offering a diverse range of programs across various disciplines. Here's a comprehensive overview of PhD programs in the Great White North.

Canada is home to world-renowned institutions that offer exceptional Ph.D. programs across diverse disciplines. Here are the top 5 universities known for their excellence in research and academic prowess.

1. University of Toronto

As Canada's leading institution, the University of Toronto consistently ranks among the top global universities. With a robust commitment to research, it provides a conducive environment for pursuing a PhD across a multitude of fields.

2. University of British Columbia (UBC)

The University of British Columbia is acclaimed for its innovative research and academic excellence. Its picturesque Vancouver campus attracts scholars from around the world. UBC offers a wide range of PhD programs with a focus on interdisciplinary research.

3. McGill University

Situated in the vibrant city of Montreal, McGill University is renowned for its research-intensive programs. With a diverse and inclusive academic community, McGill provides an excellent platform for pursuing a PhD with global recognition.

4. McMaster University

McMaster is known for its strong emphasis on research and discovery. Located in Hamilton, Ontario, McMaster offers a collaborative environment for doctoral candidates, fostering innovation and critical thinking.

5. University of Montreal

The University of Montreal, a French-language institution, is a hub for cutting-edge research. With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary studies, it offers a dynamic platform for pursuing a Ph.D. in a vibrant academic setting.

Pursuing a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Canada is a rewarding endeavor, but it requires meeting specific eligibility criteria and fulfilling admission requirements. Here's a breakdown of what aspiring PhD candidates need to consider.

• Educational Qualifications: Candidates must hold a relevant master's degree from a recognized institution. Some programs may accept exceptional candidates with an outstanding bachelor's degree.
• Research Proposal: A well-crafted research proposal outlining your intended area of study is often a crucial part of the application. This should highlight your research goals, methodology, and expected contributions to the field.
• Academic Transcripts: Submit comprehensive academic transcripts from all previous institutions attended. These transcripts should demonstrate a strong academic record, particularly in relevant courses.
• Letters of Recommendation (LOR) : Provide letters of recommendation from professors or professionals who can attest to your academic and research capabilities. These letters should emphasize your potential for successful doctoral research.
• Language Proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency in English or French, depending on the language of instruction at your chosen institution. Most universities accept scores from language proficiency tests such as IELTS or TOEFL. (TOEFL - Overall 107/20, IELTS - Overall 7.5)
• CV/Resume: Submit a detailed curriculum vitae (CV) or resume highlighting your academic achievements, research experience, publications, and any relevant work experience.
• Statement of Purpose (SOP) : Craft a compelling Statement of Purpose detailing your motivation for pursuing a Ph.D., your research interests, and how the program aligns with your career goals.
• Entrance Exams: While not universally required, some programs may mandate standardized entrance exams, such as the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or discipline-specific exams.
• Portfolio of Research Work: If applicable, include a portfolio showcasing your previous research work, publications, or projects. This can strengthen your application and demonstrate your research capabilities.
• Interview: Be prepared for an interview, either in-person or virtually, where you may discuss your research proposal, academic background, and motivation for pursuing a PhD.
• Proof of Financial Support: Some institutions may require proof of financial support to ensure you can cover your tuition and living expenses throughout the duration of your PhD program.

Note: It's crucial to carefully review the specific requirements of the chosen university and PhD program, as these may vary.

Understanding the comprehensive cost of studying for a PhD in Canada enables international students to plan their finances effectively. Here's a breakdown of the financial considerations.

1. Tuition Fees

Tuition fees for Ph.D. programs in Canada vary by institution and program. On average, international students can expect to pay between 8,000 CAD to 16,000 CAD per year. This cost is influenced by factors such as the university's reputation and the field of study.

2. Living Expenses

The cost of living in Canada also varies based on the city and lifestyle. As a general estimate, international students should budget around 15,000 CAD to 20,000 CAD per year for accommodation, food, transportation, and other personal expenses.

Dive into: Top Jobs in Canada for Indian Freshers in 2023

3. Health Insurance

International students are required to have health insurance coverage in Canada. The cost of health insurance varies, and international students should budget approximately 600 CAD to 1,000 CAD per year for this mandatory expense.

4. Books and Supplies

Ph.D. programs often entail additional expenses for books, research materials, and supplies. International students should allocate around 1,000 CAD to 2,000 CAD annually for these academic resources.

5. Miscellaneous Fees

Institutions may charge miscellaneous fees covering services like access to recreational facilities, student unions, and other campus resources. This can range from 500 CAD to 1,000 CAD per year.

Canada offers a plethora of prestigious scholarships for international PhD students. Here are some notable options that can pave the way for your doctoral journey

1. Ontario Trillium Scholarship (Western University)

Administered by Western University, this scholarship provides substantial financial support for international PhD students, covering tuition and living expenses.

Scholarship Amount: 40,000 CAD/year, renewable for up to 4 years.

2. University of Alberta Graduate Entrance Scholarships

A one-time award for outstanding international PhD candidates entering the University of Alberta. While not renewable, it provides a significant boost to initial finances.

Scholarship Amount: 21,000 CAD, cannot be renewed.

3. Doctoral Scholarship at the University of Montreal

Designed for doctoral candidates at the University of Montreal, this scholarship offers financial assistance for the first year, with the option for renewal for a second year.

Scholarship Amount: 7,000 CAD, renewable once.

Also, read: Best PhD Scholarships for Indian Students Abroad

4. 4-Year Doctoral Fellowship - University of British Columbia

This prestigious fellowship at the University of British Columbia supports international Ph.D. students with a substantial stipend and full coverage of tuition fees throughout the 4-year program.

Scholarship Amount: 18,200 CAD (annual stipend), covers full tuition fees for up to 4 years.

5. Graduate Entrance Scholarship - University of Windsor

Awarded to exceptional international PhD candidates entering the University of Windsor, this scholarship provides financial support for the first year, with the possibility of renewal for three additional years.

Scholarship Amount: 7,500 CAD, renewable for up to 4 years.

Note: Before applying, ensure you thoroughly review the specific eligibility criteria, application requirements, and renewal conditions for each scholarship.

Completing a Ph.D. in Canada not only signifies academic achievement but also opens doors to diverse and rewarding career opportunities. Here are some compelling job prospects for Ph.D. graduates in Canada.

Starting a PhD journey in Canada is a transformative experience, offering academic excellence, diverse research opportunities, and a welcoming environment. Remember that thorough planning and guidance are essential for a successful academic and immigration journey. Navigating visa applications, work permits, and residency options can be complex. That's where GetGIS comes in.

GetGIS stands as a reliable partner in your quest for a seamless transition to Canada. Our dedicated team understands the nuances of the Canadian immigration landscape and is poised to guide you through every step. Don’t wait!

Book Your Free Consultation!

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Which PhD is most in demand in Canada?

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PhD Courses in Canada

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PhD Degrees in Canada

A PhD is the highest degree awarded at global universities. Study is based on a substantial research project in an area of academic interest, typically up to 100,000 words in length, written as a thesis which must be defended in an oral examination at the end of the program. All PhD students are assigned a supervisor, and the duration of a PhD is typically three years full-time and six years part-time.

Very few research degrees feature taught modules, and as such a student is expected to take more responsibility for their work and schedule. Universities in Canada are known for their academic excellence and state-of-the-art research infrastructure, along with their support for enterprise partnerships.  

PhD Entry Requirements

Canadian institutions are free to admit anyone to a PhD program, with admission generally conditional on the prospective student having completed an undergraduate degree with at least upper second-class honours, as well as a master's degree . English language ability proof is a must, and a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 is generally required. There is usually a first-year assessment to remain in study and the thesis is submitted at the end of the completed program.

Once you have decided on an area of research and have looked into how you will fund your study, there are a number of documents required when submitting your application. They include:

• Academic transcripts
• Academic references
• Personal statement
• Research proposal

- PhD Research Proposal

A research proposal is required by all students when applying to study for a PhD. The proposal should address the research you wish to undertake, how you will do it, and why it is important. A panel of experts must accept the proposal before your program can begin.

How much does a PhD cost in Canada?

Funding and researching a PhD can be expensive. Candidates can cost between $5,000-$20,000 per year, although this is still considerably cheaper than US or UK equivalents. Dedicated scholarships can help support your PhD, and it is rare for a PhD student not to be supported by some form of bursary, grant or scholarship .

Study a PhD in Canada

If you are interested in studying a research degree in Canada, arrange a free consultation with SI-Canada today.

Increase your chances of success when applying

SI-Canada specializes in selecting the right Canadian university or college for international students by reviewing your academic background, discussing your career goals and helping you apply. Our application services can help you achieve your dream of studying in Canada.

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PhD programs

Take a deep dive into the topic you love with a phd, at the university of ottawa, you can:.

• Join a select community of researchers and work in state-of-the-art labs – uOttawa is ranked among the top 10 research universities in Canada.
• Study in the heart of the nation’s capital, a bilingual and multicultural setting where networks of senior stakeholders take action on major issues and influence decisions.
• Receive considerable financial support.

“One of the reasons I chose the University of Ottawa is for its multidisciplinary or multi-university thesis committees available to students in their first year of doctoral studies.”

Valérie Costanzo, LL.B., LL.M., lawyer, PhD candidate

Explore ways to finance your doctoral studies

The University of Ottawa has many scholarships or financial support options available to you. As a doctoral candidate, there is also the option to earn money while gaining valuable experience through teaching and research assistantships.

“Supervising doctoral students is a privilege: it allows for the discovery of new research challenges and for the development of sustainable relationships.”

Emmanuelle Bernheim, LL.D., PhD, Full professor, Faculty of Law, Civil Law Section

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Most of all are thinking of enrolling for a PhD in Canada, aren't we? Let us hone our chances for a unique intellectual trip! Students from all over the world travel to attend the best Canadian universities, where students receive higher employment rates with higher earnings. Check out our blog on the ten best universities in Canada . So we are here to drop the beans on what it takes to rock that doctoral journey up north, from gorgeous vistas to cutting-edge research. Start the journey to study for a PhD in Canada by reading this blog! Also, check out this blog to know the things to consider before you choose your major.

A Wise Choice To Study PhD in Canada?

The fact that more than a third of all research in Canada is carried out at its esteemed universities makes the nation appealing in terms of the availability of resources and job opportunities for graduates. In addition to having institutions that consistently deliver high-quality education, Canada also provides degrees that are recognised internationally.

1. High rates of employability for graduates with higher chances of top-notch earnings.  2. Work opportunities after graduation because one can stay and work for three years. 3. Overseas pupils' exposure to a variety of cultures. 4. Compared to other English-speaking countries, there are lower living and tuition costs. 5. High standards of living and life quality. 6. The Canadian Government allows massive PhD scholarships in Canada. 7. Contemporary facilities that are globally competitive.

Canadian University Rankings 

Keeping up with its neighbors in North America, Canadian universities for PhD are the best in the world in various disciplines. Here are the standings of the best universities in Canada that reflect globally.

Top-Tier Universities in Canada For PhD

1. university of toronto.

The University of Toronto consistently ranks among the top universities in the world and is largely regarded as one of the best Canadian universities for PhD. It provides a comprehensive selection of PhD programmes in many different fields, including the humanities, social sciences, sciences, engineering, and professional programmes. The institution recruits outstanding professors and offers cutting-edge labs, libraries, and research facilities to enable groundbreaking research. The University of Toronto provides PhD applicants with a dynamic intellectual environment thanks to its diverse and welcoming community.

‍ 2. The University of British Columbia 

The University of British Columbia (UBC) is a leader in Canadian higher education and is known for the quality of its research. The PhD programmes that UBC offers span a variety of academic fields, including the arts, sciences, engineering, business, and health sciences. The university's dedication to collaboration, creativity, and sustainability fosters an environment that is suited for cutting-edge research. The beautiful campus of UBC, which is tucked between the mountains and the Pacific Ocean, offers a distinctive and motivating environment for PhD study. These are some of the reasons why the University of British Columbia is one of the best universities in Canada. To retain scholarship offers, the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships is provided by the University of British Columbia.

3. McGill University

It is one of Canada's top institutions for research and one of the best universities in Canada, which is situated in Montreal, Quebec. It provides a wide selection of PhD programmes in many different disciplines, including the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, and health sciences. Outstanding academics at McGill conduct groundbreaking research, and the university promotes a vibrant intellectual environment. Its cutting-edge libraries, research centers, and labs provide PhD students with many resources.

The University of Alberta is one of Canada's top institutions for conducting extensive research and is located in Edmonton. In disciplines like science, engineering, the arts, social sciences, business, and health sciences, it provides a wide choice of PhD programmes. The university's numerous research centers and institutes demonstrate its dedication to research and innovation. At the University of Alberta, doctoral students can access several funding possibilities, state-of-the-art equipment, and a collaborative research atmosphere. Thanks to all of this, the University of Alberta is one of the best universities in Canada.

5. University of Waterloo

For its accomplishments in the domains of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), the University of Waterloo is well-known and is among one of the best universities in Canada . In disciplines including engineering, computer science, mathematics, applied sciences, and health sciences, it provides outstanding PhD programmes. The university is renowned for its cooperative education programmes, in which students switch between paid labor terms and academic terms to get valuable real-world experience. The University of Waterloo presents distinctive opportunities for research and industry engagement with a focus on entrepreneurship and innovation.

Supreme PhD programmes in Canada

In Canada, a wide range of academic specializations, including the natural sciences, the arts, and technical sectors, are available as PhD degrees. These PhD programmes in Canada cover all sorts of areas of interest regardless of their nature.

1. Business 2. Economics 3. Medicine 4. Engineering 5. Education 6. Biological sciences 7. Physics 8. Mathematics 9. Political sciences 10. Anthropology 11. Sociology 12. Psychology

How long does it take to study for a PhD in Canada?

Most of the students have a question in mind on how long is a PhD in Canada? Well many of the 4–6 year PhD programmes in Canada are research thesis-based.  A  generally have more in common with those in the UK than with those in the nearby USA. The PhD programmes in Canada are frequently more research-focused than American programmes, which start with one or two years of taught lectures and exams before determining a thesis topic.

How much does it cost to do a PhD in Canada?

Canadian institutions offer various scholarships specifically for PhD programmes. However, generally speaking, depending on the programmes, specialism, and university, a PhD in Canada might cost anywhere from CAD $8,000 to CAD $20,000 per year.

How to choose the right University in Canada?

Many colleges, universities, and other higher education facilities in Canada grant PhDs that are recognized internationally. You must take into account a number of crucial considerations while selecting the ideal location for your studies, including:

1. Program availability 2. University ranking 3. Faculty and staff reputation 4. Research facilities 5. Scholarships and funding options offered by the university 6. Graduate employability rate 7. Tuition fees 8. Location 9. Check out this blog to know the top reasons to study abroad .

Prerequisites for the PhD in Canada

Depending on the university and the subject of study, several criteria are required for Canadian PhD admission. In order to capitalize your Canadian doctoral dreams, these requirements will pave your way to success. However, in general, the following is what most universities in the nation demand of foreign applicants for PhD degrees:

1. Completed application form 2. Resume 3. Accredited master's degree in a related field with strong grades, proven research ability, and potential 4. Transcripts for your university degree or courses 5. Statement of Purpose 6. GMAT or GRE scores 7. Recommendation letters 8. English language tests, such as IELTS or TOEFL ‍ 9. Application fee

Fees and Funding Opportunities

Contrary to popular belief, studying abroad in Canada is more economical. Universities do, however, often charge more for international students. It's better to count beans and cross T’s while we go through the multiple Canadian PhD Fundings that a student can afford.

Canadian PhD fees

The typical annual cost of a Canadian PhD programmes is between CAD $2,500 to CAD $17,000, while some might cost up to CAD $25,000. It is higher than what an international student pays at home, but it is still less than in other developed nations like the UK and the USA. The expenses for your PhD may change from year to year if it is a part of a more organized plan. The cost of taught classes and examinations is typically higher than the cost of years that emphasize individual study.

Additionally, you could be requested to pay a few minor extra expenses for things like union dues and student services. Depending on the province you are studying in, Canadian PhD tuition varies. Only use these prices as a general reference.

Renent fee changes for international students

At particular universities, there are some fresh efforts for overseas students.

1. In 2018, the University of Toronto started charging domestic and international PhD students the same costs. Thus, you will pay the same amount for your PhD as a native Canadian student. 2. Brock University has started using its grants to pay the entire cost of an international PhD.

A Comprehensive Guide To Canadian PhD Funding

Canada being the second largest country in the world, it's hard to navigate the funding that can be tricky as a cat on a hot tin roof especially when you consider the distinctive approaches of its ten provinces. A cheaper funding than in the UK or USA is inflicted that can put you up in the queue with various funding opportunities including PhD scholarship in Canada. Here are a few PhD scholarships in Canada that one will be able to apply covering Canadian PhD funding

1. Queen Elizabeth Scholarship Program 2. Canadian Government PhD Funding  3. Vanier CGS (Canadian Government Scholarship) Program 4. National Research Council

Documentation for Pursuing PhD in Canada

Typically, you will submit your application directly to the graduate programmes overseeing your PhD. For various topic areas, some universities will offer separate graduate schools. Others will have a single large institution overseeing the administration of their advanced degree programmes. You'll need the following documents: 

1. Admission requirements 2. GPA scores 3. Graduate admissions tests 4. Language requirements 5. Application process  6. Interviews 7. Student visas

Employment Opportunities During PhD In Canada

You will be an excellent candidate for many kinds of positions in higher education, research, and other fields if you have a PhD. Furthermore, Canada will be eager to keep you, and the country's post-study visa programmes is set up to make that possibility as appealing as possible. Following the completion of a PhD, international graduates from Canadian universities are permitted to reside and work there for up to three years under the country's post-graduation work permit (PGWP) programmes. You must have pursued full-time study for your PhD and successfully finished your programmes. For an online application, the charge is typically CAD $255, and the processing time is around 56 days.

A PhD in Canada can open doors to a world of great learning, research opportunities, and cultural diversity. A PhD in Canada gives access to fulfilling careers and personal development with financial options, helpful services for international students, and potential routes to permanent residency. Accept the enlightening adventure of innovation and knowledge. Also, if you are planning to study in the USA, check out this guide for masters in finance in the USA to know everything, including the cost, requirements and top universities. Also, check out this blog to know everything about the types of intakes in Canada . You can also read our blog on the best fully funded scholarships in Canada .

Frequently Asked Questions

Why pursue a phd in canada, how long does it take to complete a phd in canada, what are the admission requirements for a phd program in canada, can i apply for permanent residency after completing my phd in canada, what career opportunities are available after obtaining a phd in canada.

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Study PhD in Canada

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All you need to know to start your PhD degree in Canada!

If you want to know why you should opt for studying PhD in Canada, check out our top insights on programs, universities, fees, requirements, admissions and more.

PhD degree is often required when you apply for high-level management jobs, government expert positions, and careers like a university professor, researcher, or scientist in many fields.

Why choose Canada?

In fact, more than a third of Canada’s overall research is conducted at its prestigious universities , which makes the country attractive in terms of facilities availability and work prospects for graduates. Apart from the fact that Canadian Institutions are known for providing consistently high-quality education , Canada offers :

Internationally recognised degrees.

Globally competitive state-of-the-art facilities.

High graduate employability rates.

Post-study work options as you can stay and work for up to 3 years.

Culturally diverse experience for international students.

Low cost of living & tuition fees compared to English-speaking countries.

High quality of life & high living standards.

One of the world’s most peaceful countries.

Top PhD programs in Canada

PhD degrees in Canada are offered in a wide range of studies , including natural sciences, arts, and technical fields:

Engineering

Biological sciences

Mathematics

Political sciences

Anthropology

How many years does it take to study PhD in Canada?

Programs in the universities of Canada are mostly research thesis-based, and last for 4 to 6 years. Generally, Canadian doctorate programs have more in common with the UK than the neighbouring USA. Unlike the American programs which begin with 1 or 2 years of taught classes and examinations before defining a thesis topic, the Canadian PhD program is often more research focused.

How much does it cost to do PhD in Canada?

There are many scholarships dedicated for PhD programs at the universities of Canada. But generally speaking, the cost of PhDs in Canada varies between CAD 8,000 to 20,000 annually depending on the program, specialisation and the university.

Check out more on the cost of study and living in Canada

How to choose the right university in Canada?

There are several higher education institutions, colleges, and universities in Canada that award internationally accredited PhD degrees. To choose the perfect place for your study, you need to consider some important factors, such as:

Program availability

University ranking

Faculty and staff reputation

Research facilities

Scholarships and funding options offered by the university

Graduate employability rate

Tuition fees

PhD requirements in Canada

PhD admission requirements in Canada vary based on the university and the field of study. But in general, most universities in the country require the below from international students applying for PhD degree there:

Completed application form

Accredited master’s degree in a related field with strong grades and proven research ability and potential

Transcripts for your university degree or courses

Statement of Purpose

GMAT or GRE scores

Recommendation letters

English language test, such as IELTS or TOEFL

Application fee

Can I work while doing PhD in Canada?

You can work in Canada as an international PhD student for as long as you’ve a valid study permit for your PhD degree. Furthermore, doctorate graduates in Canada can enjoy one of the world’s most generous post-study work visa schemes upon graduating. The Post-Graduation Work Permit ( PGWP ) allows you to live and work in Canada after graduation for up to 3 years.

Read more about Canada student visa Kick start your education journey to Canada! Speak with your IDP Education counsellor now to turn your study ambition into action!

How to apply for a PhD in Canada

If you are an international student planning to apply to a canadian university to study a phd, this guide will answer all the questions you might have, jens locher, .css-76pyzs{margin-right:0.25rem;} ,, shane moore, julian dierkes.

Once you’ve decided to apply for a postgraduate programme, starting the application process can often be the hardest part. If you’re planning to pursue your PhD in Canada, this guide will help you understand the application process and how to write a research proposal. 

While this guide covers the main questions that students might have around applying for a PhD in Canada, it is important to check the requirements for your university and ask the admissions team if you have any questions about the process. 

How do I apply to do a PhD in Canada as an international student?

Once you have decided to apply to a PhD programme in Canada, you can use degree databases to find which university offers PhDs in your area of interest, such as  Universities Canada or provincial bodies such as Education Planner BC . Search engines or other global commercial degree directories may also help you identify a suitable programme.

Alternatively, you could search for which faculty members conduct research in your area via publication databases and then look up the universities where they teach.

If you already know which university you are most interested in, you should look at both its departmental/programme web pages and the pages of a central graduate school if applicable.

Unlike at undergraduate level, where you can apply via a central application system, application to graduate programmes is usually targeted to each programme, which can vary across institutions.

What qualifications do I need to apply for a PhD ?

We recommend that applicants check the admissions requirements for their programme of interest.

In terms of qualities admission committees may be looking for, these will vary by subject area – for example graduate programmes in natural sciences may look for different attributes from those in the performing arts. 

Graduate students in Canada are usually expected to work independently and be self-directed. As such, applicants may want to provide evidence of how they have taken initiative and shown self-direction and perseverance. Passion, curiosity, focus, commitment, collegiality and enthusiasm are all qualities that applicants may find mentioned on programme websites.

How do I look for a PhD supervisor?

The first step would be to check with your programme of interest to see if contact with a supervisor is encouraged or required. Processes vary and some programmes assign you supervisors based on interests identified in your application, some require commitment from a supervisor prior to the application, and some may determine supervisors after some initial coursework or rotations.

If a programme requires you to contact potential supervisors, begin by researching faculty members and their research topics. Most universities, including the University of British Columbia  (UBC), have a research supervisor database where prospective students can search faculty. 

Candidates should read recent papers by potential supervisors and look for a good match between their own interests and those of the faculty member. Reading graduate student stories can also help, as applicants will be able to see current research projects students are working on, and get a sense of the faculty or programme they are looking into.

Once you have found a faculty member you would like to work with, you can reach out to them individually. Prospective students should be aware that academics often receive many such requests every week. Plan carefully who to contact and customise each message to the particular faculty member, explaining your research interests and why you are interested in working with them.

Everything you need to know about studying in Canada Everything international students need to know about student visas in Canada

How should I write my research proposal?

Your research proposal is a crucial part of your application. It gives a sense of how prepared you are to conduct research and what directions of research you’re likely to pursue. A specific proposal is more likely to impress than some general ideas.

Your research areas and interests may change once you have entered your programme, so you will not be held to the ideas you’ve proposed. However, it gives prospective supervisors a sense of how your research aligns with theirs and that of the department in general.

Be sure to stay within the word count requested, and of course it’s essential you avoid any spelling or grammatical errors. We always recommend that applicants write several iterations of their research proposal and gain feedback from friends, colleagues and, if possible, professors at each stage. When you approach previous professors for a letter of reference, it’s worth sharing your proposal to get their feedback on it.

When should I start applying?

Applicants need to meet the application deadlines, which are often a year or more in advance of the desired start date (eg apply in December to start the following September). On top of that it is important to allocate enough time to prepare and complete various steps to be able to submit a completed application in time.

International applicants will need to ensure there is enough time to take the required English language tests. Applicants should also check if they have to complete any other courses before applying and that they have enough time to collect the necessary documentation and proofread everything. 

We recommend that prospective students review application timelines for their programme of interest and then plan backwards, ensuring they have time to complete all aspects of the application. All the steps may take longer than expected, so give yourself extra time to compile the strongest possible application.

How long will the application process take?

This will depend on each university, programme and sometimes supervisor. Once you have applied, the process will probably take a further two to three months at least. At UBC, many graduate programmes close applications in December and January, with offers being made February to April as a rough guideline. Depending on subject area, applications can close as late as April or May for a September start though.

What supporting documents do I need as an international student?

In general, required supporting documents won’t be too different from those for a domestic applicant, with the exception being proof of English language ability. Examples of supporting documents could be: 

• Transcripts of all post-secondary courses/degrees previously enrolled in
• Reference letters 
• Statement of interest/research statement
• English language test scores
• Depending on programme, test scores or portfolio

Many institutions allow applicants to apply with scans of their transcripts initially. However, once applicants receive an admission offer they will usually have to submit official copies, which may include translations for international applicants. 

International applicants are encouraged to familiarise themselves with other details, such as study permit procedures, work opportunities and health insurance. While not required for the application itself, these are important considerations for which to plan and budget if the application is successful.

Do I have to pay for my PhD application?

Most universities in Canada will charge an application fee. At UBC, the application fee for international applicants is CAD$168.25. UBC automatically waives these fees for applicants from countries identified among the world’s 50 least developed nations. Other universities in Canada may have similar measures in place, so be sure to check this.

Other than application fees, students should make a financial plan that incorporates tuition and living costs, as well as checking what financial aid you could be eligible for and which scholarships are available for international students. 

What would be your top pieces of advice for an international student applying for a PhD?

Deciding to go to graduate school is a big decision and often a difficult one if you do not have a clear understanding of what it will be like. It is important to go to graduate school for the right reasons, including:

• Being interested in a given field.
• Desiring to be part of an intellectual or professional community.
• Gaining qualifications for career progression.
• Acquiring expertise to change sector or professional area.
• Gaining experience and entry requirements for an academic career.

Also, it is important to think about where you would like to study. Location and lifestyle can make a significant difference. Think about how this will affect your life, and importantly, is it a place where you could live in the future?

Regarding being successful in the process, preparation is key. Most universities provide a lot of information on their websites about the process and how to prepare strong applications. Make use of these resources, take the time to read the advice and treat the application itself as an opportunity to show that you possess key qualities faculty members are looking for, such as paying attention to detail, and writing ability. 

• Shane Moore is marketing and recruitment manager at the University of British Columbia .
• Julian Dierkes is associate dean of funding at graduate and postdoctoral studies, and assistant professor, school of public policy and global affairs at the University of British Columbia .
• Jens Locher is assistant dean, strategic technologies and business initiatives at the University of British Columbia .

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Tuition fees by university

University tuition fees (Canadian dollars) for full-time Canadian and international students in an arts and humanities program, 2023 – 2024.

Source: Statistics Canada

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Undergraduate		Graduate
University	Undergraduate - Canadian Students	Undergraduate - Foreign Students	Graduate - Canadian Students	Graduate - Foreign Students	Province
Memorial University of Newfoundland	$2,760 - $6,240	$12,390 - $20,790	$1,905 - $3,717	$3,222 - $4,833	Newfoundland & Labrador
University of Prince Edward Island	$6,828 - $6,828	$14,838 - $14,838	$6,450 - $8,961	$10,455 - $16,971	Prince Edward Island
Acadia University	$8,771 - $10,054	$20,947 - $20,947	$8,713 - $9,996	$21,174 - $21,174	Nova Scotia
Université Sainte-Anne	$7,481 - $8,764	$14,425 - $14,425	$7,466 - $8,764	$14,425 - $14,425	Nova Scotia
Dalhousie University	$7,570 - $8,853	$27,399 - $31,900	$8,089 - $9,372	$16,986 - $27,918	Nova Scotia
Mount Saint Vincent University	$7,645 - $8,928	$17,855 - $17,855	$5,942 - $6,711	$12,068 - $12,068	Nova Scotia
NSCAD University	$8,297 - $9,580	$21,451 - $21,451	$8,361 - $9,644	$21,642 - $21,642	Nova Scotia
St. Francis Xavier University	$8,665 - $9,938	$19,876 - $19,876	$5,606 - $6,376	$12,752 - $12,752	Nova Scotia
Saint Mary's University	$7,607 - $8,890	$20,760 - $22,370	$4,264 - $7,564	$12,284 - $16,751	Nova Scotia
University of King's College	$8,922 - $9,380	$27,926 - $31,900			Nova Scotia
Cape Breton University	$7,762 - $9,045	$18,090 - $18,090	$10,036 - $11,319	$20,364 - $20,364	Nova Scotia
Mount Allison University	$10,015 - $10,015	$20,210 - $20,210	$5,010 - $5,010	$5,010 - $5,010	New Brunswick
University of New Brunswick	$7,459 - $8,177	$18,429 - $19,148	$8,001 - $8,001	$14,325 - $14,325	New Brunswick
Université de Moncton	$7,795 - $7,795	$14,285 - $14,285	$3,360 - $10,356	$6,600 - $19,500	New Brunswick
St. Thomas University	$8,280 - $8,280	$18,610 - $18,610	$6,174 - $10,290	$12,636 - $21,060	New Brunswick
Bishop's University	$2,881 - $8,992	$19,922 - $27,006	$2,881 - $8,992	$19,728 - $27,006	Québec
McGill University	$2,881 - $8,992	$20,483 - $41,000	$2,881 - $8,992	$17,708 - $28,362	Québec
Université de Montréal	$2,881 - $8,992	$27,102 - $27,102	$2,881 - $8,992	$17,708 - $20,553	Québec
Polytechnique Montréal	$2,881 - $8,992	$28,132 - $28,132	$3,241 - $10,116	$19,922 - $22,194	Québec
Ecole des Hautes Etudes Commerciales(HEC)	$2,881 - $8,992	$29,870 - $29,870	$2,881 - $8,992	$21,630 - $21,630	Québec
Université du Québec à Chicoutimi	$2,881 - $8,992	$19,728 - $22,037	$2,881 - $8,992	$17,708 - $19,728	Québec
Université du Québec à Montréal	$2,881 - $8,992	$19,728 - $22,036	$2,881 - $8,992	$17,709 - $19,728	Québec
Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue	$2,881 - $8,992	$22,036 - $22,036	$2,881 - $8,992	$17,708 - $19,728	Québec
Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières	$2,881 - $8,992	$19,728 - $22,037	$2,881 - $8,992	$17,708 - $19,728	Québec
Université du Québec en Outaouais	$2,881 - $8,992	$20,118 - $22,479	$2,881 - $8,992	$17,708 - $19,728	Québec
École nationale d'administration publique			$2,881 - $8,992	$17,619 - $19,728	Québec
Institut national de la recherche scientifique			$3,146 - $9,257	$17,974 - $19,993	Québec
Université du Québec à Rimouski	$2,881 - $8,992	$19,729 - $19,729	$2,881 - $8,992	$19,729 - $19,729	Québec
École de technologie supérieure	$2,881 - $8,992	$28,440 - $28,440	$2,881 - $8,992	$17,708 - $24,383	Québec
Université Laval	$2,881 - $8,992	$22,699 - $23,218	$2,881 - $8,992	$17,708 - $22,699	Québec
Université de Sherbrooke	$2,881 - $8,992	$19,728 - $22,037	$2,881 - $8,992	$17,708 - $19,728	Québec
Concordia University	$2,881 - $8,992	$19,581 - $27,761	$2,160 - $6,744	$13,282 - $22,989	Québec
Université TÉLUQ*	$2,881 - $8,992	$8,992 - $8,992	$2,881 - $8,992	$8,992 - $19,728	Québec
Algoma University	$5,865 - $5,865	$20,000 - $20,000	$8,700 - $8,700	$22,500 - $22,500	Ontario
Brock University	$6,089 - $6,394	$30,744 - $34,152	$8,039 - $8,176	$23,504 - $23,504	Ontario
Carleton University	$6,067 - $10,709	$29,828 - $45,923	$4,952 - $7,256	$13,060 - $17,780	Ontario
University of Guelph	$6,091 - $6,715	$33,046 - $33,046	$4,755 - $4,993	$13,675 - $17,127	Ontario
Lakehead University	$5,398 - $5,985	$27,318 - $28,500	$4,894 - $5,390	$15,334 - $15,334	Ontario
Laurentian University (includes Hearst University)	$5,908 - $6,430	$26,575 - $27,258	$5,721 - $5,721	$14,361 - $14,361	Ontario
University of Sudbury					Ontario
McMaster University	$5,955 - $6,043	$40,318 - $45,703	$6,307 - $6,307	$6,307 - $17,096	Ontario
OCAD University	$6,052 - $6,506	$26,880 - $26,880	$16,670 - $16,670	$34,950 - $34,950	Ontario
University of Ottawa	$6,088 - $6,712	$43,335 - $43,335	$6,367 - $8,597	$17,478 - $31,507	Ontario
Queen's University	$6,083 - $6,706	$51,845 - $54,808	$5,773 - $12,156	$12,927 - $16,592	Ontario
University of Toronto	$6,100 - $12,340	$43,620 - $62,580	$6,210 - $10,350	$6,210 - $45,310	Ontario
University of St. Michael's College	$6,100 - $6,100	$60,510 - $60,510	$4,800 - $7,205	$21,200 - $27,150	Ontario
University of Trinity College					Ontario
Victoria University (includes Emmanuel College)					Ontario
Trent University	$6,118 - $6,118	$23,987 - $28,286	$5,394 - $5,394	$14,851 - $14,851	Ontario
University of Waterloo	$6,128 - $7,946	$37,038 - $51,448	$3,504 - $4,508	$4,602 - $15,392	Ontario
St. Jerome's University	$9,000 - $9,000	$55,000 - $55,000	$4,500 - $4,500	$15,000 - $15,000	Ontario
Western University (excludes colleges)	$6,050 - $6,669	$37,712 - $42,233	$6,360 - $6,360	$19,751 - $19,751	Ontario
Brescia University College					Ontario
Huron University College	$8,415 - $8,415	$46,079 - $58,321	$6,604 - $8,018	$8,018 - $46,179	Ontario
King's University College at Western University	$6,050 - $6,050	$42,233 - $54,475			Ontario
University of Windsor	$5,800 - $6,584	$27,150 - $30,200	$7,179 - $7,538	$22,995 - $23,460	Ontario
York University	$6,118 - $6,118	$34,067 - $34,067	$2,871 - $2,871	$12,550 - $12,550	Ontario
Wilfrid Laurier University	$5,663 - $7,081	$30,777 - $32,251	$4,536 - $11,543	$13,320 - $27,120	Ontario
Toronto Metropolitan University	$6,093 - $6,939	$31,610 - $31,610	$4,307 - $18,485	$23,240 - $31,540	Ontario
Nipissing University	$5,781 - $6,374	$23,000 - $23,000	$8,506 - $9,378	$23,000 - $23,000	Ontario
Redeemer University College	$9,987 - $9,987	$18,566 - $18,566			Ontario
Royal Military College of Canada					Ontario
Ontario Tech University	$9,159 - $10,094	$33,161 - $41,799	$7,579 - $8,860	$19,166 - $30,409	Ontario
Brandon University	$4,284 - $4,551	$15,851 - $16,839	$3,415 - $3,732	$6,830 - $7,147	Manitoba
Canadian Mennonite University	$6,216 - $6,216	$9,632 - $9,632	$6,440 - $6,440	$9,982 - $9,982	Manitoba
University of Manitoba	$4,640 - $5,242	$17,693 - $20,168	$5,907 - $5,907	$12,995 - $12,995	Manitoba
St. Paul's College	$5,700 - $5,700	$19,300 - $19,300			Manitoba
Université de Saint-Boniface	$4,447 - $4,447	$9,784 - $9,784			Manitoba
The University of Winnipeg	$4,370 - $5,012	$16,245 - $19,544	$7,188 - $7,188	$14,798 - $14,798	Manitoba
University of Saskatchewan	$7,258 - $7,433	$30,482 - $31,218	$3,288 - $3,288	$3,288 - $7,398	Saskatchewan
St. Thomas More College (FT and PT combined)					Saskatchewan
University of Regina (excludes colleges)	$7,523 - $7,973	$22,568 - $23,918	$4,916 - $4,916	$8,920 - $8,920	Saskatchewan
Campion College					Saskatchewan
Luther College					Saskatchewan
First Nations University of Canada					Saskatchewan
University of Alberta	$6,875 - $6,875	$31,895 - $31,895	$4,838 - $4,838	$12,093 - $12,093	Alberta
University of Calgary	$6,961 - $6,961	$26,849 - $26,849	$3,604 - $9,238	$8,408 - $23,757	Alberta
University of Lethbridge	$6,429 - $6,429	$21,304 - $21,304	$5,837 - $6,270	$14,208 - $14,208	Alberta
The King's University					Alberta
Concordia University of Edmonton	$9,420 - $11,484	$24,710 - $27,803	$13,300 - $22,750	$11,966 - $38,040	Alberta
Athabasca University (PT only)	$6,090 - $7,840	$10,950 - $17,470	$17,290 - $17,290	$19,740 - $19,740	Alberta
Mount Royal University	$6,624 - $7,259	$23,100 - $23,100			Alberta
MacEwan University	$6,090 - $8,496	$21,600 - $28,800			Alberta
The University of British Columbia	$5,843 - $7,777	$41,595 - $44,942	$5,408 - $5,408	$9,500 - $9,500	British Columbia
Simon Fraser University	$6,236 - $6,236	$29,011 - $33,046	$3,099 - $6,198	$3,099 - $6,198	British Columbia
University of Victoria	$6,166 - $6,166	$23,291 - $29,715	$6,404 - $6,404	$8,077 - $8,077	British Columbia
Trinity Western University	$22,260 - $22,260	$22,260 - $22,260	$20,100 - $45,000	$20,100 - $45,000	British Columbia
University of Northern British Columbia	$5,872 - $5,872	$24,771 - $24,771	$3,640 - $3,640	$5,096 - $5,096	British Columbia
University of the Fraser Valley	$4,804 - $8,403	$20,460 - $20,460	$17,465 - $17,465	$25,000 - $25,000	British Columbia
Vancouver Island University	$4,894 - $4,894	$21,741 - $21,741	$10,636 - $14,301	$19,278 - $25,120	British Columbia
Royal Roads University	$9,271 - $10,554	$22,945 - $22,945	$13,682 - $17,831	$17,926 - $22,238	British Columbia
Emily Carr University of Art + Design	$4,439 - $4,439				British Columbia
Thompson Rivers University	$4,668 - $4,668	$20,546 - $20,546	$10,058 - $10,058	$15,145 - $15,145	British Columbia
Kwantlen Polytechnic University	$4,696 - $6,338	$21,368 - $21,368			British Columbia
Capilano University	$4,592 - $15,661	$19,597 - $31,041			British Columbia

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• Study in Canada /

PhD in Canada for Indian Students

• Updated on  
• Jun 1, 2023

Home to cross-ethnic communities, lively city culture, and thriving businesses, Canada is a go-to place when it comes to overseas education. In addition to that, the world-renowned educational institutions and multifarious offered avenues of research establish Canada as a sought-after destination when it comes to PhD courses. From Science to Fine Arts, the country offers an immense number of opportunities for research scholars to explore. If you are looking to pursue your PhD in Canada at one of its leading universities , this blog will provide you with the key essentials from eligibility criteria to the application process.

This Blog Includes:

About phd in canada, why study phd in canada, top universities for studying phd in canada, cost of studying phd in canada, popular phd courses in canada, intakes for phd in canada , eligibility criteria, documents required , how to apply for phd in canada, cost of living in canada, phd in canada with scholarships, canadian student visa , post study work permit in canada, student life in canada, pr after study in canada, jobs and salary.

	PhD
	Canada
	3-6 years
	98
	September to April
	4,000 to 20,000 CAD (INR 2,36,493 – INR 11,82,468)
	Up to 40,000 CAD a year (INR 23,64,937)
	10 hours a week
	At least 3 years

Also Read: Study in Canada

Most PhD programs require at least three years of full-time study and research, although it is common for students to take longer than that to get their degrees. The maximum amount of time you have to do your PhD in Canada is six years. It’s normally performed with the help of at least one academic advisor. You must submit a strong PhD thesis before the end of the semester. This will be sent to a panel of examiners, who will go through your study and provide recommendations. Your PhD will next continue to an oral defence, during which you will be cross-examined on the topic of your study and may be required to prepare a presentation to explain your work to them. Your overall performance as well as your thesis will aid you in acquiring your PhD.

Studying in Canada is no longer only a novelty; the country’s diversified society and hospitable government standards attract international students to enrol in Canadian universities. The incentives listed below entice students to pursue a PhD program available at one of the top universities in Canada:

• World-Class Universities : Around 3-4 universities in Canada make it to the top 150 list across the world. These top-ranking universities in Canada offer you cutting-edge research facilities and educators with the best academic knowledge.
• Post-Study Work Opportunities : You can stay back for up to three years through PGWPP after completing your PhD in Canada. It also paves your path to obtaining a Canadian PR . Not only that but throughout the academic year, PhD students in Canada can work for about 10 hours each week. This enables you to fund and support your everyday costs while also learning and getting experience in the field.
• Affordable Tuition Fees : The fees of pursuing PhD in Canada range from 4,000 (INR 2.4 lakh) to 20,000 CAD (INR 12 lakh). This is a lot lesser when compared with study destinations like the USA and UK.
• Scholarships : The number of scholarships for PhD in Canada for international students is humungous. Some of the popular scholarships are Ontario Trillium Scholarships, Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships, Ontario Graduate Scholarships, and more. Some of these scholarships offer 15,000 (INR 9 lakh) to 40,000 CAD (INR 24 lakh) a year.

Choosing to study in Canada is one of the best decisions you will make as it will open a world full of opportunities. The universities offer students ample opportunities to dive into a topic. Further, the best-in-class research facilities, renowned professors and academic scholars, and a diverse group of students help promote a creative culture and innovative thinking. A few of the universities which offer PhD degrees in fields ranging from management, economics, engineering to arts, culture, and society, and everything in between have been listed below.

	34
	47
	31
	152
University of Montreal	116
University of Alberta	110
	237
	242
	154
Western University	172
	308
	433
Queen’s University	246
	328
	651-700

Take a quick look at some of the Best Courses in Canada For Indian Students

The table highlighted below shows the average estimated cost of studying PhD in Canada at the top Canadian universities:

University of Toronto	5 lakhs
University of British Columbia	5 lakhs
McGill University	10.6 lakhs
McMaster University	9 lakhs
University of Montreal	4.5 lakhs
University of Alberta	5.5 lakhs
University of Ottawa	4 lakhs
University of Calgary	7 lakhs
University of Waterloo	7.5 lakhs
Western University	6.5 lakhs

Following is a list of some of the most common courses/fields of study taken by overseas students in Canada while pursuing their PhD:

• Natural Sciences
• Mathematics
• Social Sciences
• Medicine & Health
• Business & Management
• Engineering
• Computer Science & IT
• Agriculture
• Applied Sciences
• Environment Sciences

For all those who are planning to complete a Ph.D. in Canada, it is important to target the right semester as per the field and university of your choice. Canada mainly offers 3 semesters during the year and in all three semesters, it allows international students to seek admission to the universities of their choice. Here are the main three intakes in Canada – 

• Winter- January to April 
• Fall- September to December
• Summer- May to August

	September–December/early January	Among Indian students, this is a popular intake. The Fall semester begins in September and provides a large number of courses and degrees to foreign students.
	January–May	The winter intake starts in January and is best for those students who did not enroll in September.
Spring/Summer Intake	May-August	Summer admission is generally available for a restricted number of programs and colleges and begins in April or May.

Here’s an interesting read on 10 Biggest Culture Shocks for Students in Canada

Be it Canada or any other country, you need to fulfill certain eligibility conditions to study abroad. Although the eligibility criteria might vary from university to university, given below are general eligibility or admission requirements that candidates must fulfill to pursue their Ph.D. in Canada:

• A postgraduate degree in a closely-related field with consistent grades. Further, extracurricular activities and prior research experiences are also preferred. For select Ph.D. degrees, such as an integrated masters-PhD program, a high-ranking bachelor’s degree is also accepted.
• A research proposal and a letter of recommendation from your chosen supervisor at the university.
• Minimum English Language ability proof in the form of acceptable IELTS / TOEFL scores.
• Acceptable scores in ability-testing examinations such as the GRE or GMAT depending on the nature of the course.
• After submitting their exam scores, candidates might be called for a personal interview round by the university as well.

To help you get started with your PhD in Canada, pillow we have mentioned a list of documents that you will need during the application process- 

• Transcripts of your previous courses 
• Competitive exam scorecard 
• Photocopy of your passport 
• Detailed resume 
• Letter of Recommendation
• Statement of Purpose
• Research proposal (Optional)
• Other important certificates and transcripts 
• Canadian Study Permit

Also Read: What are the Requirements to Study in Canada?

Here’s a step-by-step guide given for aspirants that will help them with the application process of pursuing PhD in Canada:

• Visit the official website of the university you are interested in.
• Check the course curriculum and the eligibility requirements.
• Click on the application form of the respective university.
• First, you need to create an account using your mobile number or email address.
• You will receive an email or SMS on your registered contact number with login details and verification.
• Use the login details provided and enter your personal details ( name, gender, date of birth)
• Enter your academic qualification and upload the required documents.
• Select the course and pay the application fee.
• The application fee is different for every university and can be paid through a debit/credit card or Internet banking.
• Submit your application form, you can also track your application form through your account.
• Students that have been selected will be required to attend a virtual interview by some universities.

Given below is a breakdown of the different expenses which are important to consider while calculating the cost of studying and living in Canada for Indian students.  

	INR 1,00,000- 2,00, 000/- per flight
	$150 (INR 11,123)
	$155 (INR 11,493)
	INR 14,700
	CAD 5,000 – CAD 10,000 (INR 2,67,000-INR 5,39,000) per annum
	CAD 80 – CAD 110 (INR 4,300-INR 6,000) per month
	CAD 300-CAD 800 (INR 17,000-INR 44,000)
	CAD 300- CAD 400 [17,508 INR-23,344] (monthly)
	CAD 750 [43,770 INR] (monthly)

Get your personalized cost of living calculated for studying abroad with the help of our Cost of Living Calculator Tool !

Several scholarship schemes support meritorious students aspiring to pursue a PhD in Canada. From providing full financial support to stipends and accommodation assistance, they help individuals explore research opportunities comfortably. A few scholarship options have been mentioned below.

• Ontario Trillium Scholarship at Waterloo University
• Ontario Graduate Scholarship
• Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarship
• Graduate Global Leadership Fellowship at the University of British Columbia
• Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship
• NSERC Postgraduate Scholarship
• Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship
• The University of Calgary Merit-based Scholarship
• Robert Hartog Graduate Scholarship
• University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship
• UAlberta Izaak Walton Killam Memorial Scholarship
• UBC four-year Doctoral Scholarship
• Hira and Renu Ahuja International Graduate Scholarship

Know How to Apply for Scholarships in Canadian Universities?

For international students looking forward to pursuing a PhD in Canada, it is mandatory to have a Canadian student visa before they enter the Canadian borders. Once they have secured their student visa for the country along with an acceptance letter from the university, candidates are all set to pursue the course. It is important to note that along with the student visa, candidates must have a study permit which is valid as long as the duration of their PhD course. To apply for a student permit under the process of Student Direct Stream, you need to fulfill some prerequisites which are given below:

• A letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution of post-secondary learning;
• Transcripts of recent secondary or post-secondary qualification;
• Proof of payment of first-year tuition fees.
• At the time of application of obtaining a Canada visa for Indians, the candidate must be living outside Canada.
• A medical exam before applying (if needed).
• Police certificate before applying (if needed).
• Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of CAN $10,000 (INR 8 lakh).
• ‘Ministry of Immigration, Diversity and Inclusion-issued ‘Certificate of Acceptance of
• Quebec (CAQ)’ (if you are planning to study in Quebec).
• IELTS 6.0 or higher in each section (reading, listening, writing and speaking), or
• Test d’évaluation de français (TEF) score of 7.0 or higher in each section (reading,
• listening, writing and speaking) which is equal to the Canadian Language
• Benchmark (CLB).

Also Read: Canada Student Visa IELTS Band Requirements

You need to pursue a course for a minimum duration of 8 months to be eligible to stay back in Canada. Courses with a duration of fewer than 8 months do not allow a student to stay back and apply for Post Graduation Work Permit . If you pursue a course that is of duration less than 2 years, he/she is eligible for a post-graduation work permit of equivalent duration as the course. For Example:

• 8 months course = 8 months Post Graduation Work Permit;
• 2 years course (master or diploma) = 3 years Post Graduation Work Permit 
• PhD in Canada = 3 years Post Graduation Work Permit 

Also Read: Canada Student Permit Guide 2023

Canada invests a huge amount of money in education and its facilities. This makes the country among the most caught-after study abroad destinations. Let’s briefly go through the dynamic student life in Canada.

• Canada is known to have a multicultural environment that gives students a global perspective and also helps them build a stronger network. 
• The country is also known for welcoming the majority of immigrants which contributes to the progressive nature of the people.
• Students can explore endless leisure activities in  Canada. Being home to many world heritage sites and lively festivals, students can engage in various activities.
• Canada is also known to have the lowest crime rates in the world. Canadians experience fewer violent crimes and fewer break-ins, and police officers follow strict ethics which makes it safe for students. 

After earning a degree from a prominent Canadian university, obtaining permanent residency and immigration becomes simple. The government offers a variety of options to help international students become permanent residents. The Post-Graduate Job Permit (PGWP) is an alternative for fresh graduates who want to obtain work experience in the business.

International students can also apply for Permanent Residency in Canada through the following avenues:

• Students must have completed two years of study and one year of work experience following graduation to be eligible for this class.
• Students must have a working knowledge of the French language and have completed a CEGEP programme at a Quebec-based university.
• Students who participate in the Provincial Nomination Program can obtain PR more quickly.

Also Read: Best PR-Friendly Courses in Canada 2023

Scope of PhD in Canada

After earning your PhD in Canada, you have a variety of alternatives, ranging from teaching to conducting research with industrial giants. The occupations you pick or the research field you choose will be determined by the specialties of your project; as a result, the pay you will receive will vary depending on your choices.

Also Read: PhD Scholarships in Canada

The following are some of the most common research profiles in Canada, as well as the wages associated with them for PhD graduates:

Principal Scientist	58.5 lakhs
R&D Director	79.9 lakhs
Physicist	46.7 lakhs
Medical Science Liaison	58 lakhs
	40.8 lakhs
Postdoctoral Research Associate	31.3 lakhs
Research Engineer	37.2 lakhs

No, a PhD in Canada costs between 4,000 and 19,000 Canadian dollars. However, you can study for a PhD in Canada if you can get a scholarship that covers your tuition and living expenses.

To pursue a Ph.D. in Canada, you may need to take the GRE. This criterion is strongly reliant on the university of choice.

Yes, Ph.D. students in Canada are eligible for a small stipend. However, the stipend mostly provides basic assistance, and the amount is modest. As a result, if you plan on relying on your stipend, it’s time to reconsider and consider other options.

If you are looking to pursue a PhD or any other higher education degree but feel uncertain as to its suitability and prospects, get in touch with our experienced counselors at Leverage Edu on 1800572000. They’ll guide you throughout the process of selecting a suitable program and university that equip you with the right knowledge and exposure to kickstart your career.

Team Leverage Edu

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Hi , I am looking for a PHD in Canada preferably funded . My details are : Bachelor in science in 1999, MBA in marketing and international business with First class in 2002, Bachelor degree in Eucation in 2017 , International travel and work exposure in areas of marketing of education programs

Hello Amol,

PhD in Canada is a great academic choice! Thank you for providing your academic details. Our experts will the best ones to guide you with the best universities, eligibilities, application processes and the cost. Please connect to them at 1800-572-000 and book your first counselling session for FREE!

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PhD in Canada: Requirements, Fees, & How to Apply?

Pursuing a PhD in Canada may be the perfect path if you're looking to take your education to the highest level. With world-class universities, brilliant experts, and affordable tuition, Canada has become a top destination for PhD students. In fact, PhD graduation rates have skyrocketed, with over 7,000 students earning their doctorate degrees each year since 2002.

But getting started on the road to a Canadian PhD can be tricky for international students. From aligning your research interests with the right program to navigating the admission process, it pays to have an insider guide. This step-by-step guide breaks down everything you need to know as an Indian student looking to earn your doctoral degree in Canada.

We’ll walk through how to choose the university and program that best fits your academic goals. Learn about available funding and scholarships to make a Canadian Ph.D. affordable. Get tips on acing your application, from tailoring your personal statement to shining in interviews. And see what life is really like as a PhD student in Canada’s vibrant, diverse university cities.

If you’re ready to take the next step in your academic journey, let this guide set you up for PhD success in Canada. Be sure to also check out Yocket Premium for more personalized assistance in getting admitted to your dream Canadian university!

Why Study PhD in Canada?

Before we can proceed further toward learning the Ph.D. requirements in Canada , let’s first understand why international students should choose to study Ph.D. in Canada .

• Ideal for Research-Based Studies: Canada has been ranked the number 4 in the world for scientific research studies. Since PhD studies in Canada are more research-oriented, the country proves to be the ideal destination to pursue this type of study.
• Offers In-Demand Ph.D. Programs: Universities in Canada for Ph.D . offers a range of in-demand Ph.D. programs. The most demanded programs from the list are Business Studies, Engineering, Computer Science, Education, and Health.
• Provides Modern Technologies & Facilities: Canada has always been ahead when it came to enhancing its academic standards. The country uses modern technology to cater to the current needs of international students. Apart from this, all PhD-related research facilities retain the modern touch.
• Home to QS Ranked Universities 2024: There are close to 10+ universities that offer PhD courses in Canada. These universities are ranked under the QS World Rankings 2024. Apart from this, these universities also stand high on the list of Nobel Prize Winners worldwide. The University of Toronto is one example.

Suggested: Universities in Canada for PhD

PhD in Canada: Course Overview

Canada has been honored with 28 Nobel Prize awards . There is a strong reason why PhD courses in Canada are considered highly. Thus before we can move ahead, let’s give you a quick overview of the PhD studies in Canada.

	Ph.D.
	4 - 6 years
	98
	Fall, Winter, Spring/Summer
	CAD 8,081 (INR 4,97,770) - CAD 16,122 (INR 9,93,080)/year
	CAD 86,000 (INR 52,97,430)/ year
	Government Fellowships Independent Research Scholarships Graduate Assistantships
	7,059

Are you on your journey to study Ph.D. in Canada? Navigating through countless universities can be overwhelming, but fear not! Yocket's University Finder Tool is your compass to discovering the perfect academic destination tailored to your preferences. Say goodbye to information overload and hello to a personalized university search experience.

Admission Requirements to Study PhD in Canada

There are multiple PhD in Canada for Indian student requirements. Once these are checked, your application process will be conducted smoothly. This is the standard eligibility criteria for all PhD educational institutes in Canada:

• A Masters Degree
• Official Transcripts
• Research Statement
• Writing Sample
• Letters of Recommendation
• English Language Proficiency Test Scores

1. Masters Degree

International students need to submit a Master's Degree when applying for a Ph.D. program in this country. Most educational institutes expect a score of 80% .

2. Official Transcripts

Apart from the Master's degree certificates, international students need to submit all official transcripts of their previous educational qualifications such as a bachelor's degree, etc.

3. GPA scores

Submission of GPA scores is based on the universities you opt for. At the University of Toronto, they accept a GPA score of A-.

4. CV/Resume

Most universities encourage the submission of a CV /Resume. This is helpful for students who are academically weak or are unable to pass the university cut-offs.

5. Research Statement

Submission of a research statement helps experts understand your interest choice in a new or existing project. The research statement is 1500 words long and in essay form. Students can also include their choice of supervisor to work with during the PhD study period.

6. Writing Sample

A writing sample will help experts determine your skills related to how well you can submit a thesis, research paper, or article. The word limit is between 5000-10,000 based on your university choice.

7. Letters of Recommendation

As per the university choice, students need to submit 2-3 letters of recommendation from their previous educational tutors.

8. English Language Proficiency Test Scores

If your first language isn’t English, international students need to write and pass an English proficiency test. Here is the score list:

• TOEFL - Overall 107/20
• IELTS - Overall 7.5

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How to Apply for PhD in Canada?

Here is a quick overview of how to apply for a Ph.D. in Canada.

• Step-1: Choose the project type, new or existing
• Step-2: Find the ideal supervisor for your project
• Step-3: Research for funding opportunities for your PhD studies
• Step-4: Visit the university's official website to submit all related documents before the deadlines
• Step-5: Attend Ph.D. interview if scheduled
• Step-6: Apply for a study permit and PhD visa (electronic travel authorization).

Suggested : How to Apply for PhD in Canada?

Now that you’re aware of how to apply for a Ph.D. in Canada, let’s understand the Ph.D. in Canada in detail.

Cost of Studying PhD in Canada for Indian Students

PhD programs in Canada have a study duration of 4-6 years depending on the course program and university choice. The cost of studying PhD programs in Canada is divided into two categories:

Average Tuition Fees

Most PhD universities in Canada ask international students to conduct PhD fee payments either on an annual basis or per term. The average annual payment for PhD programs is CAD 4000 (INR 2,46,390) - CAD 8000 (INR 4,92,780)/year. On a per-term basis, the PhD fees in Canada ranges between CAD 2000 (INR 1,23,190) -  CAD 8000 (INR 4,92,780) .

Cost of Living

The average cost of living in Canada for international students ranges between CAD 15,000 (INR 9,23,970) - CAD 20,000 (INR 12,31,960)/year based on lifestyle preferences and standard of living. 

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List of Top Universities and Colleges that offer PhD Programs in Canada

Canada is home to prestigious universities that offers versatile and highly standard PhD programs for international students. In fact, there is a total of 98 PhD universities in Canada. We have covered the top ones below:

Top PhD Scholarships in Canada for International Students

While Canada has an affordable fees structure, for international students, the PhD fees in Canada move to a higher range. Luckily for the tight-budgeted students looking to pursue PhD programs, the PhD scholarships in Canada are available.

Ontario Trillium Scholarship (Western University)	, renewed for up to 4 years
University of Alberta Graduate Entrance Scholarships	, cannot be renewed
Doctoral Scholarship at the University of Montreal	, renewable once
4-year Doctoral Fellowship- University of British Columbia	( annual stipend) also covers full tuition fees for up to 4 years
Graduate Entrance Scholarship- University of Windsor	up to 4 years

As you’ve witnessed Ph.D. fees in Canada for international students are covered by the PhD scholarships in Canada provided. So, what does the real world look like for PhD graduates?

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Job Opportunities after Pursuing PhD in Canada

PhD graduates have ample amount of opportunities once they’ve completed their study periods. Here are the top job profiles to consider:

Postdoctoral Research Associate	CAD 48,046 (INR 29,59,540)
Research Director	CAD 77,435 (INR 47,69,840)
Research Analyst	CAD 62,617 (INR 38,57,080)
Principal Scientist	CAD 98,881 (INR 60,90,880)
Research Engineer	CAD 63,699 (INR 39,23,730)

PR In Canada After PhD

PhD students are now eligible to apply for PR (Permanent residency) in Canada. The criteria are as follows:

• Applied for PR via a federal skilled work visa
• Completed at least 2 years of study in the Ph.D. program
• Holds a good academic recognition

Ph.D. graduates as well can apply for PR given that they have applied within one year of their graduation.

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Canada has always been a magnet for international students looking to pursue higher education in the country. Graduating after pursuing Ph.D. programs in Canada gives students higher leverage on their career choices and subject knowledge. Now that you have all the PhD requirements in Canada, it’s time to connect with Yocket Counsellors and apply for a PhD in Canada.

From the Desk of Yocket

In conclusion, pursuing a PhD in Canada offers a promising academic journey for international students, particularly from India. The country's robust education system, coupled with top-notch universities and affordable fees, has made it a prime choice. As the number of Ph.D. graduates continues to rise, this guide aims to simplify the complex process, providing a valuable resource for those navigating the intricacies of securing a doctoral position in Canada. Best of luck with your academic pursuit in the Great White North!

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Frequently Asked Questions about Studying PhD in Canada

Is PhD in Canada worth it?

Yes, Pursuing a PhD in Canada is worth all the time, effort, and money as the country is home to bright PhD minds, well-ranked PhD educational institutes, and offers a range of PhD programs in Canada.

Is PhD in Canada for Indian students difficult?

The difficulty level depends on the students pursuing a PhD program. If an international student has sufficient money to survive their PhD program or opts for a funding opportunity, their study period will continue smoothly. PhD programs in Canada are research-oriented and will confidently create a better career path for PhD graduates. 

Is PhD in Canada cost cheaper?

Yes, when compared to other countries such as the USA, Canada is relatively cheaper for PhD studies. Apart from this the country also offers multiple funding opportunities to support tightly budgeted students. To name a few are scholarships, assistantships, and fellowships.

Can PhD students work in Canada?

Yes, PhD students are allowed to work part-time for up to 20 hours a week. Once they graduate, they are eligible to live and work for up to 3 years in the country.

Can PhD in Canada for international students apply for PR?

Yes, PhD students are eligible to apply for PR in Canada. The country allows students who complete 2 years in a PhD program to apply for PR as well as graduate students who apply within a year of graduation.

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Top 10 PhD Programs in Canada for International Students 2022

Mar 4, 2024 | 8 min read

Know more about PhD programs in Canada with details such as duration, admission requirements, fees & PhD scholarship in Canada for international students.

Canada is home to several globally renowned research universities providing PhD programs in Canada for international students. Canada is the most preferred Study Abroad in Canada  for international students, mainly because of its affordability and also due to its multicultural student community and cosmopolitan environment.

PhD programs in Canada offer high-quality research facilities and opportunities to doctoral students. A PhD in Canada is offered in over 500 different graduate and postgraduate academic disciplines such as business, engineering, mathematics, management, etc. The duration of a PhD in Canada is about 4-6 years. The average tuition fees for a PhD in Canada ranges from $10,000- $20,500 per academic year.

International students are required to have high academic scores in addition to high scores in admission tests such as GMAT and GRE for PhD admission in Canada. International students with a PhD in Canada can avail of post-study work visa schemes. All details related to a PhD in Canada, such as top universities in Canada for PhD, admission requirements, fees, and scholarships in Canada for international students are  discussed.

Table of Contents

List of Top 10 PhD Programs in Canada for International Students

Top universities in canada for phd, why pursue a phd in canada, phd in canada course structure, admission requirements to study phd in canada, application process for phd in canada, phd in canada cost for international students, best phd scholarship in canada for international students, scope of pursuing phd in canada.

In the following table, international students can find the best PhD programs in Canada 2022:

PhD in Philosophy	McMaster University	4	7th September 2022
PhD Program in Management	McGill University	3-5	31st July 2022
PhD in Information	University of Toronto	4-6	1st September 2022
Doctor of Philosophy in Theological Studies	Wycliffe College	4-6	1st September 2022
Doctor of Philosophy in Biomolecular Science	University of Lethbridge	4	1st September 2022
Doctor of Social Sciences	Royal Roads University	4	11th January 2022
PhD in Conflict Studies	Saint Paul University	6	1st January 2022
PhD in Communication, New Media and Cultural Studies	McMaster University	4	7th September 2022
PhD in Theology	Saint Paul University	6	1st January 2022
PhD in Administration	University of Montreal	4	1st August 2022

Canada has nearly 100 research institutions offering doctoral degrees to both domestic and international students. These PhD programs in Canada are offered through dedicated graduate schools and colleges under the respective Canadian universities. Both public and private Canadian universities offer PhD programs in Canada to international students. Online PhD Canada are offered by some universities such as Royal Roads University and Athabasca University . Given below are some of the top universities in Canada for PhD along with their QS World Rankings 2022:

	26
	46
	27
	140
	111
	126
	230
	235
	149
	170

International students in Canada pursuing PhD programs in Canada gain the opportunity to work with leading researchers and avail of top-quality research facilities and opportunities. International students are also eligible for a Canadian work visa post-study in Canada. Online PhD programs in Canada are offered by some of the Canadian universities such as the Royal Roads University and Athabasca University. Online PhD in Canada is offered under various disciplines such as business administration, social sciences, etc. Listed below are some of the reasons for international students to pursue a PhD in Canada:

• PhD programs in Canada are offered in over 500 different graduate and postgraduate academic disciplines such as management, mathematics, business, engineering and technology, etc.
• Canada is home to nearly 100 renowned research universities offering high-quality education and research opportunities to students. Six of the Canadian universities are ranked in the top 150 universities in the world by several ranking agencies.
• Certain PhD programs in Canada do not require a master’s programs in Canada in the respective field. The student pursuing the master’s degree program is provided with the option to switch to the PhD program after the first year.
• Students pursuing PhD in Canada are expected to start working on their thesis and research soon after starting their PhD program. Students have the opportunity to work with top researchers in the respective fields.
• Canada offers affordable education as well as the standard of living to international students.
• International students with a PhD degree in Canada are eligible to apply for a post-study work visa in Canada that could lead to a permanent residence or citizenship in Canada. International students can live and work in Canada for up to 3 years after completion of their doctoral studies.

PhD programs typically require students to pursue a full-time course for a minimum of three years, but it is often found that students require much more time to do their research and complete their degrees. Usually a PhD program in Canada gets completed within a maximum duration of of six years.

The PhD is generally completed under the supervision of one or more academic supervisors in Canada. Students need to submit a substantial doctoral thesis at the end of the course. The thesis is then reviewed and evaluated by a set of examiners.

Additionally, you may be required to prepare a presentation to explain your research to the committee during your PhD oral defense. Your overall performance and the quality of your thesis play a major role in obtaining a PhD degree in Canada.

The admission requirements for international students to study PhD in Canada varies based on the program and the Canadian university. The basic requirement is for the student to have a master’s degree in the respective field of study. A PhD program in Canada takes up to 4-6 years to complete. Some of the PhD requirements in Canada for international students to study PhD in Canada are listed below:

• International students should have high academic grades in the master’s degree in their respective fields. Students should also have excellent research capabilities and potential.
• International students are required to submit the proof of English proficiency with test scores such as TOEFL, IELTS, etc. Students pursuing courses in French are required to prove French language proficiency.
• Applicants should have good GMAT/ GRE scores for admission to any doctoral program in Canada.
• Specific PhD programs in Canada do not require a masters degree from students. Students enrolled in master’s degree programs have an option to switch to a PhD program after the first year.
• A PhD student in Canada is expected to start working on their thesis and research work as soon as the start of the PhD program.

In Canada, the process for applying for a PhD may differ from one university to another. However, the common admission requirements of PhD offering universities in Canada remain the same. Let us look at the step-by-step process of obtaining PhD admission in Canada:

Select the Type of PhD Program you want to Pursue

Submit research outline, apply online and upload necessary documents, attend your interview, obtain your study permit.

You have the option to choose structured or open PhD programs in Canada. In a Structured PhD, the research outline is determined by the university. In an Open PhD, you must propose and outline your own research project.

Both courses require students to identify a supervisor who will guide them throughout the process. In addition to your application, some universities will require a letter of support from your supervisor.

If you have decided to pursue an open PhD in Canada, you must submit a research proposal outlining your project and its significance in the present. The research proposal must comply with the research guidelines set by your chosen university.

Fill out the online application form of the university of your choice, pay the application fees, and attach the important documents. PhD applicants are required to submit the following documents:

• Academic transcripts
• Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
• Two to three Letters of recommendation
• Portfolios (for creative fields)

You may be required to sit for an online/virtual interview by some Canadian universities before being admitted. So make sure you do not miss out on the interview date and prepare well in order to secure a seat at the university.

Following acceptance by the university, you need to apply for a Canadian study permit. You need the following documents to obtain your study permit:

• Health insurance
• Medical certificate
• Proof of sufficient funds
• Acceptance letter from a DLI
• Language proficiency scores (IELTS/TOEFL)
• The intent of returning to the home country

The PhD in Canada cost varies based on the different courses and also the university that is offering the doctoral degree. Generally, the PhD in Canada cost for international students is double the cost for Canadian students. The average fees of a PhD program in Canada for international students range between $8,000 - $25,000 per year. In addition to the tuition fees, international students are required to bear the living costs in Canada for the duration of their PhD program. Tuition fees of different universities offering PHD in Canada are shown in the table below:

University of Toronto	4.9 lakhs
University of British Columbia	4.8 lakhs
McGill University	10.6 lakhs
McMaster University	8.9 lakhs
University of Montreal	4.1 lakhs
University of Alberta	5.1 lakhs
University of Ottawa	3.8 lakhs
University of Calgary	7 lakhs
University of Waterloo	7.4 lakhs
Western University	6.2 lakhs

There are several PhD programs in Canada with scholarships for international students. The PhD scholarship in Canada for international students is awarded based on academic merit and covers the charges for tuition fees, cost of research, and sometimes living expenses as well. A fully funded PhD in Canada will cover most of the costs associated with living, travel, accommodation, insurance, and flight charges. The average tuition fee for international students for PhD studies in Canada is $8,000 - $20,000 per academic year. A range of scholarships, fellowships, grants, and awards are available for international students provided by the respective universities in Canada for PhD. Both government-sponsored and independent scholarships are available to international students based on their country of origin. Listed below are some of the PhD scholarship in Canada for international students:

• The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
• The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships
• The University of British Columbia Four Year Doctoral Fellowship
• Tomlinson Doctoral Fellowships
• University of Waterloo Graduate Scholarship
• The Graduate Global Leadership Fellowship
• Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship
• Ontario Trillium Scholarship
• University of Calgary Graduate Scholarship
• The University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship (UMGF)

A doctorate opens up a world of possibilities for a student. Upon completion of your PhD in Canada, you have an array of career options available to you, from teaching to research work with industry giants. You will receive a salary based on the specialization you chose. Even so, we can still take a look at the salaries offered to PhD students at some of Canada's top universities:

University of British Columbia	150,000
McGill University	150,000
University of Toronto	130,000
University of Waterloo	247,000
Carleton University	95,000

Please note that the salaries shown above are the upper range of salaries offered to students. Some of the top research profiles and salary packages offered to PhD graduate in Canada are tabulated below:

Research Scientist	69,000
Postdoctoral Research Associate	53,000
Research Engineer	63,000
Principal Scientist	99,000
R&D Director	135,000
Physicist	79,000
Medical Science Liaison	98,000

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PhD in Canada: Top Universities, Tuition Fees, Deadlines, and Scholarships

Zollege Team

Content Curator | Updated On - Mar 2, 2024

ROI for PhD in Canada is highest at 277% offered by University of Alberta, followed by University of Clagary at 267%, University of Waterloo at 260%. Positions in research, leadership, and other fields that are closed to those with less education can become available to those with a PhD. A PhD can be intellectually fulfilling and provide a sense of achievement. Students receive packages well above the average salary in Canada , with a PhD degree.  

Doctorate programs in Canada have different entrance requirements for different universities and programs, but generally speaking, these include a strong academic record, research experience, scores from tests of English language proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS), GRE or GMAT results, letter of recommendation , and a research proposal.Numerous fellowships and scholarships are offered to assist with the cost of your PhD studies in Canada. Universities, private companies, and the government may all provide these.Depending on the university, the program, and your residency status, a PhD in Canada can cost different amounts. Tuition for international students is usually more than that of domestic students. On the other hand, compared to other developed nations, living expenses are generally lower in Canada.

3.1  3.2  3.3  3.4  6.1

Why Study PhD in Canada?

Pursuing a PhD in Canada can be a rewarding experience for many reasons. In Canada, a PhD normally takes four to six years to finish. In international comparisons, Canadian universities consistently rank highly, indicating that the country offers a top-notch educational system. In general, PhD programs in Canada are less expensive than those in the US or the UK. Furthermore, Canada has a high standard of living and is a friendly, multicultural nation. Canada has positioned itself as the best country to provide education and a supportive government for immigrants. Few universities in Canada offering GRE waiver for PhD progrma are also available. The reasons for studying in Canada are as follows:

• According to the QS World University Ranking 2023, 3 universities in Canada ranked in the top 50. These universities are McGill University (rank 31), University of Toronto (rank 34) and University of British Columbia (rank 47).
• Canada has been ranked as the 2nd largest research place in the country.
• Compared to the USA, the cost of living and tuition fee is much cheaper and more economical.
• Students can stay for about 3 years via PGWPP after completing their PhD courses in Canada. This will enable the candidates to get a Canadian PR.
• Canada provides immense scholarship opportunities for international students. Some of the scholarships for PhD students are The Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarship etc. These scholarships provide an amount of 15,000 to 40,000 CAD per year.
• Students can also earn more money through part-time work in Canada during their course of study.

Listing below is an overview of studying PhD in Canada.

	PhD
	3-6 years
	Fall, Winter, Spring/Summer
	6,000 CAD – 22,000 CAD (INR 3,67,777- 13,48,510)
	PhD Psychology Canada, PhD in Chemistry in Canada, PhD in Management in Canada, PhD in Biotechnology in Canada, PhD in Business Analytics in Canada, PhD in Law in Canada, PhD in Business Administration Canada, PhD in Computer Science in Canada, PhD Economics Canada, PhD in Education in Canada, PhD in English Literature in Canada, PhD Clinical Psychology Canada, PhD in Microbiology in Canada, PhD Social Work Canada, PhD in Mathematics in Canada, PhD in Marketing in Canada, PhD in Physics in Canada, PhD in Physiotherapy in Canada, PhD in Finance in Canada, PhD in Pharmacy in Canada, PhD in Public Health in Canada
	100+
	10 hours a week
	At least 3 years
	90,000 CAD (INR 55,16,882)

CAD 1= INR 61.09, as of 2 nd  March 2024

Top Universities in Canada for PhD

The best university for your PhD program will depend on a number of things, such as your research interests, program offerings, faculty qualifications, funding availability, and campus culture. It's wise to conduct in-depth research and think about getting in touch with possible supervisors to talk about your research fit. There are more than 100 universities whwether among top public universities in Canada or among private universities that offer PhD programs in Canada. Here are a few of the top universities for doctoral studies with fees:

Name of the University	Annual Tuition Fees
	17,192 CAD (INR 10,54,421)
University of Toronto	8,735 CAD (INR 5,35,735)
	9,312 CAD (INR 5,71,138)
University of Alberta	8,874 CAD (INR 5,44,249)
	6,306 CAD (INR 3,86,752)
University of Waterloo	22,188 CAD (INR 13,60,808)
	9,660 CAD (INR 5,92,455)
University of Ottawa	7,413 CAD (INR 4,54,713)
	8,242 CAD (INR 5,05,564)
Laval University	14,703 CAD (INR 9,01,872)

Admission Process

Candidates must follow the admission process to get a chance at the top PhD colleges in Canada, whether it is among top universities in Toronto , or Calgary. Here given below is the step to step guide to the admission process for PhD admission in Canada:

• Select the PhD programs in Canada and shortlist the universities for attaining the courses.
• Identify a supervisor to get guidance in the research programs.
• Submit the research proposal as per the guidelines of the selected university that depicts the summary of the project.
• Fill in the application form and pay the application fees.
• Submit all the required documents as asked by the university.
• Attend the interview offered by Canadian universities.
• After confirmation of application, apply for a student visa.

Admission Deadline

The deadlines for applications to Canadian universities differ based on the type of institution, the program graduate or undergraduate, and the term of admission or intakes in Canada  like fall, winter, or summer.The admission deadline of the top universities for PhD admission in Canada is as follows:

Name of the University	Application Deadline
	February 1st, 2024
McGill University	Fall- August 1, 2024 Summer- October 1, 2024
University of British Columbia	May 2024 Intake- 05 January 2024 July 2024 Intake- 31 March 2024 September 2024 Intake- 30 April 2024 January 2025 Intake- 15 July 2024
McMaster University	April 1, 2024
	1 July 2024
	April 1 ,  2024
Western University	Opens Oct 1- Closes Mar 1  2024
University of Calgary	Mar. 1, 2024
	September 1, 2024
	Fall 2024- Apply by March 1, 2024

PhD in Canada Eligibility Criteria

Candidates can apply for full time or part time or online PhD Canada. Candidates need to follow certain criteria to apply for PhD in Canada. Listing below are the eligibility criteria of the best universities in Canada for PhD:

• A master’s degree with an excellent academic record.
• Strong GRE or GMAT score is required.
• IELTS score of 6.5 is required.
• TOEFL score of 100 is required.
• PBT score of 600 is required.
• GPA score of 3.0 or higher score.

Admission Requirements

 Excellent results in pertinent coursework in order to be considered for graduate programs. Although they vary, minimum GPA requirements usually fall between 70% and 80%. Candidates must meet the admission requirements to apply to the top universities in Canada.  Exams requireed to study in Canada for PhD in Canada for Indian students requirements for admission are tabulated below:

Name of the University	Admission Requirements
University of Toronto	TOEFL: 93 IELTS: 7.0
McGill University	TOEFL: 100 IELTS: 7.5
University of British Columbia	TOEFL: 90 IELTS: 6.5
McMaster University	TOEFL: 92 IELTS: 6.5
University of Alberta	TOEFL: 100 IELTS: 7
University of Ottawa	TOEFL: 100 IELTS: 7
Western University	TOEFL: 86 IELTS: 7
University of Calgary	TOEFL: 97 IELTS: 7
University of Waterloo	TOEFL: 90 IELTS: 7
Laval University	TOEFL: 86 IELTS: 6.5

PhD in Canada Application Fee

There aren't many Canadian universities that require an application fee. On their website, each university will provide details regarding their application costs. The list below does not include any universities in Canada without application fee . The graph below states the application fee of the top universities in Canada for PhD:

Admission Document Requirement

Students need to submit various documents to study in Canada .The documents required to be submitted to the universities for PhD programs in Canada are:

• Transcripts of previous degrees
• GRE/ GMAT Scorecards of entrance exams
• Proficiency language scorecards such as IELTS/ TOEFL
• An updated CV/Resume
• Statement of purpose/ research outline
• Writing sample
• Letters of recommendation
• Application form and fee slip
• Proof of sufficient funds

PhD in Canada Cost

Canada is a friendly, safe nation with an excellent standard of living. There is a strong sense of community and the people are courteous and friendly. Regarding outdoor recreation and natural beauty, Canada is a great place to visit. Candidates of full time or part time PhD Canada must bear the cost of living in Canada . The cost of living for PhD in Canada for international students is detailed below in graph:

PhD Scholarship in Canada

Canadian universities offer various scholarships to students during their course of study. A fully funded PhD in Canada for Indian students usually provides 100% concession on tuition fees, accommodation fees, research, and insurance costs. Students will get benefitted by various scholarships in Canada for international students . The table below shows the eligibility details for PhD in Canada for Indian students with scholarship details:

PhD Scholarship in Canada	Eligibility	Scholarship Amount
Ontario Trillium Scholarship	International students pursuing PhD at top universities in Ontario	40,000 CAD/year (INR 24,53,635)
Ontario Graduate Scholarship	PhD research courses with partner universities	5,000 CAD (INR 3,06,663) per session, 10,000 CAD (INR 6,13,423) for 2 consecutive sessions or 15,000 CAD (INR 9,19,991) for 3 consecutive sessions
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship	PhD programs specialized in the field of social science, engineering, humanities, health, or natural sciences	50,000 CAD/year
Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarship	PhD programs in social science or humanities	40,000 CAD/year
Robert Hartog Graduate Scholarship	PhD at the University of Waterloo	5,000 CAD/year

Jobs after PhD in Canada

There are numerous career options after PhD in Canada for Indian students including part time job in Canada . PhD graduates can find teaching positions at many universities, particularly in fields where there is a dearth of experienced teachers.  PhD graduates are hired by a number of Canadian companies for roles in research and development.The below table shows the salary for different job roles in Canada:

Job Title	Average Annual Salary
Research Scientist	80,920 CAD (INR 49,60,413)
Data Scientist	92,008 CAD (INR 56,40,652)
Postdoctoral Research Associate	47,524 CAD (INR 29,13,511)
Project Manager, (Unspecified Type / General)	114,130 CAD (INR 69,96,866)
Medical Writer	66,051 CAD (INR 40,48,138)
Physicist	82,351 CAD (INR 50,47,134)
Software Engineer	100,259 CAD (INR 61,44,681)

Top Recruiters for PhD in Canada

 There are certain limitations on working while pursuing a PhD in Canada for foreign students. Both a work permit and a valid study permit are required for high paying jobs in Canada . While working off-campus may be restricted to 20 hours per week during the semester and full-time during breaks, working on campus is normally unrestricted.The top recruiters for PhD in Canada are as follows:

• Stanford University
• Economist Intelligence Unit
• Ryerson University
• York University
• Prime Minister's Office
• Northern Illinois University
• Science & Economic Development Canada
• University of Mohamed VI Polytechnique
• Environment and Climate Change Canada
• University of Toronto

Work Permit

Canada is a country known for their supportive immigration policies. Students should have a student visa and electronic travel authorization to study and travel in Canada. PGWP stands for Post-Graduation Work Permit. It allows international students to study and work in Canada for around 3 years even after completing their course of study. Those who have a PGWP can eventually apply for Canadian PR. Candidates have to complete at least 2 years of their PhD course with a good academic record to apply for the work permit for Canada visa. Candidates should apply via a federal skilled work visa. To pursue a PhD in Canada, you must apply for a study permit. The particular requirements will change based on your country of citizenship.

Canadian universities are known for fostering a collaborative and supportive environment for graduate students. Pursuing PhD courses in Canada can lead to immense job opportunities for the candidates. Candidates must meet the eligibility condition to apply to the top universities for PhD programs in Canada. Aspirants can also apply for PhD in Canada without IELTS. There are also various scholarships for PhD programs in Canada for international students. Candidates can avail of the PhD programs in Canada with scholarship.

Ques: What are the career prospects after completing a Ph.D. in Canada?

Ans : In Canada, doctorate holders frequently go on to work in academia, research, business, government, or entrepreneurship. The particular opportunities vary according to the field of study.

Ques: Can I transfer credits from another Ph.D. program to a Canadian university?

Ans : Program policies and the university will determine this. For detailed information on credit transfer, get in touch with the admissions office.

Ques: What are the key research strengths of Canadian universities?

Ans : Institutions differ in their strengths in research. To determine which university best suits your interests, look through the faculty research profiles of each one.

Ques: Is there support for international students in terms of adapting to Canadian culture?

Ans : In Canada, there are plenty of options for Ph.D. candidates to work as research or teaching assistants, which can offer both valuable experience and financial support.

Ques: Are there opportunities for teaching or research assistantships?

Ques: Can I bring my family with me during my Ph.D. studies?

Ans : You are welcome to bring your family, but make sure you are aware of the necessary visa requirements and any extra family support services.

Ques: Is health insurance included in the Ph.D. program fees?

Ans : International students can get health insurance from many universities, but it's important to check with the specific university.

Ques: What is the cost of a Ph.D. in Canada for international students?

Ans : Although tuition costs vary, international students often pay more. Verify the particular costs associated with the program and university that interest you.

Ques: How do I apply for a Ph.D. program in Canada?

Ans : Apply online via the university's admissions portal, making sure to include all necessary supporting documentation, such as transcripts, recommendation letters, and a statement of purpose.

Ques: Are there opportunities for interdisciplinary research?

Ans : Interdisciplinary research is encouraged in many Canadian universities, enabling cross-departmental collaboration among students.

Ques: What is the structure of a Canadian Ph.D. program?

Ans : Coursework, comprehensive exams, and original research culminating in a dissertation are typical components of Ph.D. programs.

Ques: Is there an age limit for starting a Ph.D. in Canada?

Ans : No, there's usually no age restriction to enroll in a Ph.D. program.

Ques: How can I find a Ph.D. supervisor?

Ans : Look up faculty biographies, go to conferences, and make direct contact with prospective mentors to convey your interest.

Ques: Is there a comprehensive exam in Canadian Ph.D. programs?

Ans : A comprehensive exam or qualifying exam is a common component of Ph.D. programs, designed to evaluate a student's knowledge in their field.

Ques: Can I work while pursuing my Ph.D. in Canada?

Ans : Yes, most doctoral students are permitted to work part-time while enrolled in classes, both on and off campus.

Ques: What is the language proficiency requirement for international students?

Ans : International students usually have to take tests like the TOEFL or IELTS to prove that they are proficient in either French or English.

Ques: Do I need a Master's degree to apply for a Ph.D. in Canada?

Ans : Depending on the program, yes. While some might require a master's degree, others might accept students with a bachelor's.

Ques: Are there scholarships available for international Ph.D. students?

Ans : Indeed, a large number of Canadian universities provide scholarships to Ph.D. candidates from both home and abroad. Investigate options such as the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship.

Ques: How do I choose a university for my Ph.D. studies?

Ans : Take into account elements like program reputation, research faculty, resources available, and location.

Ques: What is the duration of a Ph.D. program in Canada?

Ans : In Canada, the majority of PhD programs take four to six years to finish.

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10 PhD scholarships in Canada for international students in 2023

Canada is well-known for being a safe, stable, open and welcoming country. According to US News, the country is ranked the  seventh best study-abroad destination  in the world. 

That, however, is not all the Great White North is known for. 

Canada offers many beneficial opportunities for international students — from top universities to scholarships. 

If you’re looking for PhD scholarships in Canada, you’re in luck! There are  many scholarships  for both domestic and international students to further their education. 

There is no denying that studying abroad can be expensive. Combine your tuition fees with the cost of living, and it can all be too much to handle. 

After all, scholarships are a great way to help you pay for your education and reduce that burden. 

Thankfully, in Canada, there are over 800 scholarships available for international students for the term 2023 to 2024. 

With these many scholarships available, there may even be scholarships that you are eligible for that you didn’t know existed. 

So, don’t worry — we have listed down the top 10 PhD scholarships in Canada for international students for you. 

Here is a list of PhD scholarships in Canada every international student should know about: 

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by University of Alberta (@ualberta)

1. University of Alberta Scholarships

The University of Alberta is a  comprehensive academic and research university  established in 1908. 

The university consistently ranks as one of Canada’s top destinations for international students due to the many funding opportunities available. 

Among the scholarships offered is the  Graduate Entrance Scholarship , available to all students enrolled in a master’s or doctoral programme. 

Recipients of the scholarship pursuing a PhD will receive a stipend of CA$21,000, and an additional CA$10,000 will be given to international students to help cover the cost of their fees. 

What’s more, the university has removed the IELTS requirement for applicants from many countries beginning this year. 

The deadline for the scholarship varies throughout the year, depending on your admission period.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by University of Waterloo (@uofwaterloo)

2. University of Waterloo Scholarships

The University of Waterloo is a public research university in Canada and is ranked eighth  as the Best Global Universities in Canada, according to US News . 

The university offers scholarships for all international students in undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programmes. The University of Waterloo Graduate Scholarship is fully funded and valued at up to  $10,000 .

The scholarship recipients will enjoy benefits such as the International Master’s Award of Excellence valued at $2,500 per term for a maximum of 6 terms.

The deadline to apply for the scholarship differs based on the programme you are enrolled in. Click  here  to view the deadline based on your programme. 

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by University of Saskatchewan (@usask)

3. University of Saskatchewan 

The University of Saskatchewan is renowned for its highly collaborative research environment and is ranked number one in Canada for water research. 

The  University of Saskatchewan Graduate Scholarship  is offered to all international students enrolled in a master’s or PhD programme. 

The best part? This fully funded scholarship provides up to CA$20,000 for PhD students over 36 months. 

Once enrolled at the university, you will automatically be considered for the scholarship based on your academic achievement and financial needs. 

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by McGill University (@mcgillu)

4. McGill University Scholarships in Canada

McGill University is one of the leading universities worldwide, ranking #31 according to the  QS World University Rankings 2023 . 

The university aims to make the programmes more accessible to students facing financial difficulties. 

As such, it offers scholarships for international students pursuing an  undergraduate, masters and PhD programme . 

For those pursuing a PhD a modest amount of bursaries is given to help them financially. The deadline for scholarships at McGill is based on your admission.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Université de Montréal (@umontreal)

5. Montreal University Fully Funded Scholarship

When it comes to the number of students, the University of Montreal is the second-largest university in Canada, with  36,000 students enrolled .

UdeM exemption scholarship programme was designed to ensure students from all over the world can attend one of the top research universities in Canada. 

This scholarship programme is available to all international students pursuing their undergraduate, master’s or PhD at the university. 

Montreal Univeristy Scholarships will provide up to  CA$21,593.35 per year .

For more information on other scholarships, you may check out the  Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies  page.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by University of Toronto (@uoft)

6. University of Toronto Scholarships

The University of Toronto is a public research university in Ontario, Canada.

The university offers a wide range of scholarships for undergraduate and graduate students. These scholarships are available to Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and international students.

It has a large number of scholarships that are awarded based on merit, leadership, financial need and many other factors.

All PhD students will receive a base funding package for up to five years of their study period. If selected, international recipients will receive  CA$27,811, including a UHIP of CA$756.00 .

Applicants would need to maintain their academic performance in their programme to remain eligible for the funding throughout the five years.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by University of Ottawa (@uottawa)

7. University of Ottawa Scholarships

The University of Ottawa offers an International Doctoral Scholarship to all international students who are enrolled in a PhD programme.

This scholarship is offered to full-time international students. The scholarship is valued at CA$45,000 over five years.

The scholarships are available to all undergraduate, master’s and PhD students.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by The University of Lethbridge (@ulethbridge)

8. The University of Lethbridge

The University of Lethbridge is one of Canada’s top three research universities and is ranked among the 6% of world universities for research performance.

The Graduate Research Award aims to provide financial support to all graduate students at the university.

This financial support is provided to all students except those within the Faculty of Education.

Applicants will be considered upon admission and can receive up to CA$21,000.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Concordia University (@concordiauniversity)

9. Concordia University Canada Scholarships

Concordia University is one of the  top public universities  in Montreal, Canada. 

The university offers awards and scholarships to all students pursuing a PhD programme.

However, students need not apply, as they will be automatically considered for all entrance scholarships once admitted.

For more information on the scholarship, visit the  School of Graduate Studies Entrance Awards  page.

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by University of British Columbia (@universityofbc)

10. University of British Columbia

The  University of British Columbia  is one of the top universities in the world, ranked #40 by the Times Higher Education rankings in 2023.

The  Four Year Doctoral Fellowship  (4YF) is an outstanding choice for students wanting to pursue a PhD at this university. This programme ensures that students who have achieved academic excellence will receive financial support of at least CA$18,200 annually.

This scholarship is available to all international students and is ongoing based on admission.

Aside from universities, the government offers several PhD scholarships in Canada. Source: Drew Angerer/Getty Images North America/Getty Images/AFP

PhD scholarships in Canada offered by the government

Aside from universities, the Canadian government offers scholarships that are available for international PhD students.

Here is a list of two PhD scholarships in Canada offered by the government:  

1.Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships 

The Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship is offered to international students undertaking postgraduate programmes within the field of health research, natural sciences or engineering and social sciences and humanities. 

Apply by the end of April to stand the chance to receive this scholarship of up to CA$70,000 per year.

2. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships 

The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship is one of the most prominent scholarship offered by the Canadian government. This fully funded scholarship is open to all international PhD students.

Applicants will be selected based on academic excellence, research potential and leadership abilities. This scholarship is valued at $50,000 per year for three years.

The application window for the 2023 to 2024 term will close on May 1.

Many PhD scholarships in Canada aim to provide financial assistance to international students. Source: Drew Angerer/ Getty Images North America/Getty Images/AFP

Frequently asked questions when applying for PhD scholarships in Canada

The scholarship application process in Canada can be a little daunting, especially for first-time applicants. Not to worry. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions to guide you through the process: 

1. How to apply for a scholarship in Canada for international students?

In Canada, the scholarship application process begins with first receiving an acceptance letter into a Canadian university.

Once you have that sorted, shortlist the scholarships that you are eligible for and best fit your needs. Contact your university’s financial aid representative or head over to the website for more details on deadlines and requirements before submitting your application.

2. Is it hard to get a scholarship in Canada for international students?

Your chances of receiving a scholarship depend on the scholarship’s nature and eligibility. Most scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements.

However, you have a higher chance of receiving a scholarship if you have work or volunteer experience.

3. What are the requirements for PhD scholarships in Canada?

The requirement for a PhD scholarship in Canada differs for each. However, the basic requirement is first to be accepted into a PhD programme. To do so, you must have a  GPA of 3.0 or higher . 

4. How can I get a fully funded scholarship in Canada?

Start applying early to stand a chance at scoring a scholarship. By starting early, you will have more time and opportunities available to you.

The second tip would be to apply for as many scholarships as possible. The more you apply, the higher your chances of winning a scholarship.

5. Can a PhD student work full-time in Canada?

As a PhD student in Canada, you will be eligible to work on and off campus as long as you have a valid study permit. However, while the semester is running, you will only be able to  work part-time for up to 20 hours per week . During semester breaks, students can work full-time. 

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Phd-Study-In-Canada

• Studying in Montreal – A Guide for Postgraduate Students

Written by Taru Medha

If you’re thinking of studying a PhD in Canada, why not consider the biggest city in the Quebec region, Montreal! From affordable living costs to world-renowned universities and a bustling city life, Montreal has plenty to offer.

We’ve covered everything you need to know about studying in Montreal, including top universities, living costs and career opportunities.

Why study your PhD in Montreal?

Here’s a snapshot of what’s on offer for postgraduate students in Montreal:

• Affordable study : Not only are the tuition fees for international students in the Quebec region among the lowest in North America, but Montreal is also one of the cheaper cities to live in Canada.
• Hub for research : Montreal is known as a hub for Artificial Intelligence research and international companies like Google and Microsoft have invested hugely in the sector.
• Prime location : Located in the south-east of the country, Montreal is at a comfortable distance from cities like Vancouver and Ottawa and also some big US cities!
• Cultural hub : Whether you’re interested in music, arts, theatre or sports, you’ll find that there is never a dull day in Montreal!

Top universities in Montreal

Two of the six universities in Montreal rank in the top 200 in the world according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings .

#1 McGill University

Placed 49th in the world, McGill university offers more than 400 graduate courses. Some popular subjects at McGill university are Engineering, Life Sciences and Medicine. With 50 research institutes and fieldwork stations in Barbados and the high Arctic, there is something for everyone.

#2 University of Montreal

The University of Montreal is ranked 111th in the world and is one of Canada’s top research universities. If you wish to study and research about Deep Learning, Immunology and Cancer or Public Law, there is a research centre affiliated with the University of Montreal for you.

Living costs in Montreal

Even though living costs in Montreal are fairly average as compared the rest of Canada, they may still be higher than many other countries. With some careful budgeting, you should be able to keep costs down. To get you started, here are some examples of typical expenses in Montreal:

Student Cost of Living in Montreal - 2023

	CAD$1,664
	CAD$1,260
	CAD$25.00
	CAD$15
	CAD$97
	CAD$113.52
.

These rent estimates are for private, one-bedroom apartments, but you can cut down on costs by some smart accommodation choices . Living in a student residence or shared house is usually cheaper than renting an entire place privately. For example, the price of a shared room at a McGill University student accommodation varies between CAD$800-CAD$1,000 .

Working while studying in Montreal

International students with a valid study permit can work during their course. However, there might be some restrictions, depending on the kind of work you do. As a student in Canada, you can either work on or off-campus.

There is no limit to the number of hours you can work on-campus. On-campus jobs could include research or library assistant or staff at the university café.

Students who choose to work off-campus can only work 20 hours a week during term time. Casual off-campus jobs include working as a courier or sales assistant at shops.

Read more about working while studying in our guide.

Things to see in Montreal

Montreal offers the best of both worlds, combining a modern city with the charm of a quaint old French town.

Roam the cobbled streets of Old Montreal and enjoy the Parisian flair of this historic neighbourhood. You can head to the Bonsecours Market for some shopping or just walk around and take in the stunning architecture.

Another iconic neighbourhood of the city, the Plateau , is one of the best places in Montreal to experience food, theatre and art or to just amble and admire the Victorian architecture

Spend some time outdoors in one of Montreal largest green spaces, the Mount Royal Park , where you can also enjoy canoeing in the summer and skiing during wintertime.

For the sports fans, there’s the Circuit Giles-Villeneuve , home of the Canadian Grand Prix!

Careers in Montreal

With the Canadian government’s Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), you can work in Canada for up to three years, depending on the length of your course. If you’re keen to start your career in Montreal, there’s no shortage of opportunities in sectors like aerospace, technology, artificial intelligence and game development.

Read more about how to work in Canada after your studies in our guide.

Find a PhD in Montreal

Search our Montreal PhD database and find one that is right for you.

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• Phd in Canada

Home » Admissions » Phd in Canada

Why Study Ph.D. in Canada?

Let’s Look at the Numbers!

• As per QS World University Rankings 2023, 3 Canadian universities are in the top 50 list – the University of Toronto (Rank 34) ,  McGill University (Rank 31) and the University of British Columbia (Rank 47) .
• In Canada, the University sector is the 2nd largest research driver in the country after the private sector.
• Fortune Magazine has named Toronto the best international city to live in.

Following are some reasons to study PhD in Canada for international students:

Globally Recognized Degree : There are 3-4 universities in Canada for PhD that rank among the top 150 in the world. These top-ranked Canadian universities provide world-class research facilities as well as teachers with the most up-to-date academic expertise.

Post-study opportunity : After completing your Ph.D. programs in Canada, you can stay for up to three years through the PGWPP. After which you can apply for permanent residency in Canada.

Affordability : In Canada, the cost of earning a Ph.D. ranges from 4,000 to 19,000 CAD. When compared to other destinations to study abroad such as the United States and the United Kingdom, this is significantly low.

Scholarships : There are a number of Ph.D. scholarships in Canada for international students. Ontario Trillium Scholarships, Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships, Ontario Graduate Scholarships, and others are among the most popular scholarships. Some of these scholarships include a yearly stipend of 15,000 to 40,000 Canadian dollars.

Work-study opportunities : During the academic year, PhD students in Canada can work for 10 hours every week. This enables you to fund and sustain your everyday costs while learning and getting experience in the field.

Ph.D. in Canada: Highlights

Duration	3-6 years
Research Universities	Around 100
Academic Year	September to April
Fees	4,000 to 19,000 CAD
Funding up to	Up to 40,000 CAD a year
Work-study opportunities	10 hours a week
PGWP duration	At least 3 years

Academic Year for Ph.D. in Canada

The academic year in Canada begins from September to April, but semester dates vary by province and university.

Top Canadian University Rankings for Ph.D. in Canada

University of Toronto	31
University of British Columbia	47
McGill University	31
McMaster University	152
University of Montreal	116
University of Alberta	110
University of Ottawa	237
University of Calgary	242
Simon Fraser University	13
University of Waterloo	154
Western University	172
Dalhousie University	12
Universitié Laval	433
Queen’s University	216
University of Manitoba	651-700
University of Victoria	359
York University	162
University of Guelph	591-600
University of Saskatchewan	465
Carleton University	601-650

Universities Within Canadian Provinces and Territories

Because of its huge geographic size and colonial past, Canada has evolved a federal structure consisting of ten provinces and three territories. Provinces are self-governing sovereign entities (equivalent to states in the United States), whereas territories are governed by the federal government.

Here is the list of the 10 Canadian provinces:

• British Columbia
• New Brunswick
• Nova Scotia
• Newfoundland and Labrador
• Prince Edward Island
• Saskatchewan

Best Cities to Study in Canada

Here is the list of some best cities to study in Canada:

• Study in Montreal
• Study in Québec City
• Study in Edmonton
• Study in Vancouver
• Study in Toronto

Research Universities and Graduate Schools

In Canada, there are approximately 100 research universities. These universities frequently hold their doctoral programs in specialized graduate schools that have all of the necessary resources and expertise to let students complete advanced postgraduate (or ‘graduate’) degrees. Depending on how they are funded, Canadian universities can be either public or private. Public universities (the majority) are funded by their respective provinces or territories and tend to provide a broader range of academic options, including doctoral programs. Private universities are smaller as well as more specialized and are sponsored by third-party sources.

Are You Planning to Pursue Ph.D. in Canada? Click Here to Book Your Free 1-On-1 Session with Experts

Eligibility criteria for ph.d. programs in canada.

Strong Academic Credentials	Standardized Test Scores	Strong Academic Profile
Master’s degree in relevant field with minimum grades required completion of specific prerequisite courses	Competitive in some universities Many universities require scores as well as TOEFL/IELTS	Academic & Research projects, and/or publications/work experience

As a PhD aspirant, you need to properly network with a professor (supervisor, mentor) who has accepted to supervise your research and thesis work. The first step is to send out networking letters to professors whose areas of expertise match your interests and then wait for their reply.

A student who wants to pursue PhD programs in Canada must meet the eligibility criteria mentioned below:

• Master’s degree with excellent academic records
• Strong GRE or GMAT score
• Scores of language proficiency test:
• TOEFL: 100 (iBT) , 600 (pBT)

Know more about Entry Requirements for Canadian Universities .

Powerful Reasons to Study in Canada

Quality of education at par with that of the USA	Ph.D. supported by government and industrial sector collaborations	Diverse class	Student clubs/organizations	Immigration friendly; Post-study stay back option of 3 years
Most sought-after research destination Management Accounting	available are higher than in other nations	Cross-cultural exposure	Focus on ECA	A strong economy with the low unemployment rate

Related Blog: Top Reasons to Study in Canada .

Popular Ph.D. Courses in Canada

Following is the list of popular courses to study Ph.D. in Canada for Indian students:

• Natural Sciences & Mathematics
• Social Sciences
• Medicine & Health
• Business & Management
• Engineering & Technology
• PhD in computer science in Canada
• Agriculture & Forestry
• Applied Sciences
• Environment and Earth Sciences

Cost of Education for Ph.D. in Canada

Duration	Cost of Education per annum (Tuition Plus Living)
Usually between 3-4 years, Occasionally it might become longer.	Living Costs: CAD 15,000-20,000 per annum. Funding beyond 6 years becomes limited per annum (Tuition Plus Living)

Financial aid is available from universities as part of acceptance to Ph.D. programs. This financial aid can come as graduate assistantships in varied forms, including teaching and research assistantships, fellowships, and/or tuition waivers.

The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship award, for example, comes in at CA$50,000 (~US$37,210) per year for highly qualified international and local Ph.D. students in the fields of social sciences and/or humanities, natural sciences and/or engineering and health.

The  Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation doctoral scholarships award $40,000 (~US$29,770) per year for three years to Canadian citizens and foreign students -with applications particularly welcomed from students from developing countries.

The University of British Columbia Four Year Doctoral Fellowship meanwhile, provides a stipend of at least CA$18,200 (~US$13,545) per year plus full tuition for outstanding international/home doctoral students for all four years of their studies.

Ph.D. Course Duration in Canada

Some Ph.D. programs in Canada last 2-3 years, while others last up to ten years, it is heavily dependent on the type of university you will attend and the field you will pursue.

• Management: 4 years
• Accounting: 4 years
• Organization Studies: 5 years
• Finance: 4-5 years
• Industrial Engineering: 4 years
• Civil Engineering: 3 years
• Philosophy: 4 years
• Social Sciences: 4 years
• Anthropology: 2-3 years
• IT: 3-4 years

PhD Program Structure

The doctorate in Canada is typically the last ‘terminal degree,’ or the greatest level of academic certification that a student can achieve after earning a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree.

Along with the traditional academic Ph.D., a variety of doctoral degrees are offered, including professional doctorates such as the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) and Doctor of Education (EdD).

Supervision and Research for Ph.D. in Canada

Your Ph.D. will be completed under the supervision of at least one academic supervisor. They’ll be an expert in your overall subject and field. Other members of your graduate school may assist you with supervision and training, especially if your degree requires additional classes and coursework. The completion of a Ph.D. thesis will be the primary criterion of your degree. If you are pursuing a professional doctorate degree, such as a DBA or an EdD, you will have to concentrate on practical work and case studies along with your academic research. A thesis will still be required, although it may be shorter and complemented by other resources.

Assessment and Examination for Ph.D. in Canada

The originality and quality of your doctoral thesis are the major factors for evaluating a Canadian Ph.D.

After you submit your thesis, it will be read and considered by a committee of examiners (which will include at least one external expert). After that, you’ll have a verbal presentation of your thesis.

This process may be slightly more involved than viva voce, which is commonly done in the United Kingdom and elsewhere. Instead of discussing your work in a room,’ you may be expected to give a presentation about your research before being questioned about its content and significance.

The examiners will next meet separately to determine whether or not you performed well on the examination and if you have performed well then you will be awarded your PhD.

Admission Requirements for Ph.D. in Canada

A Master’s degree in a relevant field is usually the minimal PhD requirement in Canada. PhD admission in Canada can be quite tough. Students frequently take classes and modules together, and graduate institutions only accept a specific number of students each year. This means that your previous academic achievements will be examined carefully.

GPA Scores for Ph.D. in Canada

Instead of just providing your final degree result, you will be asked to offer a Grade Point Average (GPA) score. The GPA system is widely used in the United States and Canada (as well as a few other nations), although it is less widespread in the United Kingdom and Europe. It gives you a more comprehensive picture of your total performance over the course of your studies.

A GPA of 3.0 or better is usually required for admission to a Canadian PhD program.

Graduate Admissions Tests for Ph.D. in Canada

As part of your application, you may be asked to submit a score from the Graduate Records Examination (GRE) or the Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT). This allows universities to evaluate applicants’ readiness for higher graduate work and, in some cases, choose between candidates with similar academic histories.

Specific criteria (and expected scores) differ per university and graduate school, so double-check ahead of time.

Language Requirements for Ph.D. in Canada

You can consider the following language proficiency test for pursuing a Ph.D. program in Canada:

Student Visas in Canada

Canada is a kind and friendly country that is keen to attract international students. Its student visa and immigration systems reflect this. To enter Canada as a student and stay for your PhD, you’ll typically require two documents: • Electronic travel authorization • Study Permit

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Applying for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)

The majority of overseas students will require permission for studying in Canada. You can obtain this by submitting an application for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). This document serves as your visa, allowing you to enter Canada. The application process for an eTA is convenient and it is done online.

Along with your passport information and payment details, you would need to pay a fee of CAD 7 It’s important to note that while your eTA permits you to enter Canada, it doesn’t give you the right to stay there for the duration of your PhD. To do so, you must first apply for your Study Permit.

Cotutelle Programs in Canada

In addition to the traditional Ph.D. process, several Canadian universities collaborate with other international schools to offer a ‘cotutelle’ (French for ‘co-tutored’) route to a Ph.D. These programs require students to spend time at two distinct universities, each of which supervises, examines, and awards the Ph.D. project. A cotutelle agreement, unlike some other joint PhDs, is usually tailored to the student’s thesis rather than a long-term cooperation between two (or more) universities.

This option may or may not be available at each Canadian university. It is recommended to contact the University for More Information.

A Sneak Peek into the Ph.D. Application Process in Canada

The following documents are required:

• College Transcripts
• Detailed Resume
• Scanned Copy of the Passport
• Some universities additionally ask for a research proposal
• Application Form
• Statement of Purpose
• Letters of Recommendation

Learn more on How to Apply for PhD Abroad .

Intake & Application Deadlines for PhD in Canada

Canadian PhDs follow a 3-semester deadline system

• Fall (September to December)
• Winter (January to April)
• Summer (May to August)

The funding available to study in Canada is maximized for autumn, so it is preferred over the other two-semester intakes. The deadlines are different for all universities; nonetheless, the commencement dates for applications are more or less in September.

Know more about the Upcoming Intake to Study in Canada .

Student Visa Terms and Provisions for PhD in Canada

International students need study permits to pursue their PhD in Canada. You must submit a visa application online, and submit relevant documents to the VFS office. Additionally, an acceptance letter from the specific department of your university, proof of adequate funds, and a cover letter to the Canadian High Commission are also required.

Usually, students need to commit to specific hours of teaching or research as part of their assistantships and are generally not allowed to preoccupy themselves with any other form of employment on or off campus. Post-degree, a work permit must be applied for within 90 days and the student must carry a valid study permit to acquire this work permit.

Related Blog: Things to Consider Before Pursuing a Ph.D Abroad

How to Apply for Ph.D. in Canada?

Decide the type of ph.d. course you want to pursue.

You can pursue structured or open Ph.D. programs in Canada. The research studies for the Structured Ph.D. program are determined by the university. For an Open Ph.D., you must propose and outline your own research subject. You must choose a supervisor for one of the two courses who will guide you through the research process. Some colleges may require a letter of support from your supervisor in addition to your application.

Submit Research Outline

If you want to pursue open PhD programs in Canada, you’ll need to submit a research proposal outlining the scope of your subject and its relevance in today’s world. The proposal must be written in accordance with the university’s research requirements.

Apply Online and Submit Relevant Documents

Submit your application online with the university of your choice and pay the application fees. While submitting your application, make sure that you are submitting all the required documents in the correct sequence and order. Following is the list of documents that are generally required for PhD courses in Canada:

• Academic transcripts
• Score of language proficiency test
• Portfolios (if required)

Give the Interview

Some universities in Canada conduct virtual interviews before selecting you.

Get Your Study Permit

After receiving your letter of acceptance you must start applying for a study permit. Following is the list of documents required for applying for study permit in Canada:

• Health insurance
• Proof of sufficient funds
• Medical certificate
• Acceptance letter from the university
• Language proficiency test results
• The intention of leaving back to home country

Tuition Fees for Ph.D. in Canada for Indian Students

Fees for Ph.D. programs in Canada typically range from CAD $2,500 to $17,000 per year, while certain programs of Ph.D. in Canada cost up to CAD $25,000.

Recent Fee Changes for International Students

From 2018, local and international Ph.D. students at the University of Toronto will be charged the same fees. This implies that you’ll pay the same as a local Canadian student for your Ph.D.

Brock University has started covering international Ph.D. expenses through its own grants.

Following is the list of Ph.D. fees in Canada at the top universities:

University of Toronto	4.9 lakhs
University of British Columbia	4.8 lakhs
McGill University	10.6 lakhs
McMaster University	8.9 lakhs
University of Montreal	4.1 lakhs
University of Alberta	5.1 lakhs
University of Ottawa	3.8 lakhs
University of Calgary	7 lakhs
University of Waterloo	7.4 lakhs
Western University	6.2 lakhs

Ph.D. in Canada Scholarships

There are a number of top universities in Canada for PhD. Following is the list of most renowned scholarships to study PhD in Canada for Indian students:

• Ontario Trillium Scholarship: 40,000 CAD a year (renewable)
• Ontario Graduate Scholarship: 15,000 CAD
• Robert Hartog Graduate Scholarship: 5,000 CAD (renewable)
• UAlberta Izaak Walton Killam Memorial Scholarship: 45,000 CAD (for two years)
• The University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship: 18,000 CAD per year
• UBC four-year Doctoral Scholarship: 18,200 CAD per year (stipend)
• Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarship: 40,000 CAD
• Ontario Graduate Fellowship: 12,000 CAD (renewable)
• Hira and Renu Ahuja International Graduate Scholarship: 20,000 CAD

So, these were some Ph.D. scholarships in Canada.

Government Scholarships for Indian Students in Canada

Following is the list of government scholarships to study PhD in Canada for Indian students:

• IDRC Research Awards
• Vanier Graduate Scholarships
• Ontario Trillium

Non – Government Scholarships for PhD in Canada

Following is the list of non-government scholarships to study PhD in Canada for Indian students:

• Anne Vale Ecological Fund
• Canada Memorial
• Trudeau Scholarship & Fellowship

Other Funding Opportunities for PhD in Canada

Teaching/Research Assistantship : In a research assistantship, you would have to assist a faculty member with data collection, lab organization, report writing, analysis, and other tasks.

Work-Study : With a study permit, you can work for ten hours per week while pursuing your PhD in Canada. The government sets the salaries for part-time employment to ensure that everyone receives a minimum wage.

Ph.D. in Canada Without IELTS

English proficiency is required for Ph.D. admission in Canada. Most major colleges require EILTS, while many university courses do not require IELTS scores.

Following is the list of some universities that allow students to pursue PhD in Canada without IELTS:

• University of Winnipeg
• University of Saskatchewan
• University of Regina
• Brock University
• Memorial University

Ph.D. in Canada Without GRE

Despite the fact that many institutions require GRE scores for Ph.D. admission in Canada but there are some universities in Canada that do not require GRE scores. Following is the list of some universities that allow students to pursue Ph.D. in Canada without the GRE:

• Trent University
• Lake head University
• Laval University
• Carleton University
• Royal Roads University
• Laurentian University

Ph.D. in Canada Without GMAT

A GMAT score is required for pursuing Ph.D. in management in Canada. The GMAT is needed by nearly all major universities. On the other hand, several universities do not require the scores of GMAT.

Following is the list of some universities that allow students to pursue PhD in Canada without GMAT:

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Can I work in Canada after my PhD?

Yes. You’ll be a strong candidate for a variety of jobs in, research and other fields as a PhD graduate. Furthermore, Canada will be eager to keep you, and the country’s post-study immigration system is geared to make that option as appealing as possible. The post-graduation work permit (PGWP) allows international graduates of Canadian universities to reside and work in the country for up to three years after receiving their doctorate degree.

Is college cheaper than university in Canada?

College is usually less expensive than university. This is because college programs are typically shorter than university ones, and universities are generally held in higher regard. Your decision between college and university is largely influenced by the type of career you wish to follow. The tuition fee in Universities per year generally ranges between CAD 25 – 40K for Bachelor’s degree programs, whereas the tuition fee at colleges generally ranges between CAD 12K and 25K.

Do Indian students get scholarships in Canada

The Government of Canada and many post-secondary schools provide students with various sorts of scholarship awards, grants, or bursaries to help them pay for their studies. This attracts a big number of Indian students who wish to pursue higher education and a better quality of life in Canada.

How much percentage is required to earn a scholarship in Canada?

To be considered for a scholarship, a candidate must have scored at least 80% in their class 12 examination. In addition, the candidate’s parent’s annual income should not exceed Rs. 4.5 lacs.

Which language proficiency test should I consider for pursuing PhD in Canada?

Below is the list of the most renowned language proficiency test that you can consider for pursuing PhD in Canada:

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cost of phd in canada for international students

You can get complete information about phd requirements in canada for international students in this post. I’m also going to add cost of phd in canada and the procedure of admission in canadian universities for international students

How much does it cost to study in Canada? The good news is that studying in Canada is affordable. That’s right! It’s cheaper than you think. When it comes to post-secondary education, our tuition fees are generally lower than colleges and universities in Australia, the U.K. and the U.S.

This page will give you the information you need to understand the cost of studying in Canada from elementary to secondary school, college, university, graduate studies, language school and more.

There’s more to your study costs than tuition and other fees. Our Prepare your budget information will help you plan for other expenses, such as living costs.

Cost Of Phd In Canada For International Students

Top Universities for PhD in Canada

Listed below are top Canadian universities as per their 2021 Times Higher Education rankings along with the fees of pursuing PhD courses: 

Rankings	University	Fees (CAD/year)
18	University of Toronto	4,500 to 8,900
34	University of British Columbia	8,700
40	McGill University	19,000
69	McMaster University	16,000
73	University of Montreal	7,500
131	University of Alberta	9,200
145	University of Ottawa	6,900
200	University of Calgary	12,600
201-250	University of Waterloo	13,400
201-250	Western University	11,180
251-300	Dalhousie University	11,995
251-300	Laval University	27,790
251-300	Queen’s University	12,927
251-300	Simon Fraser University	5,955
351-400	University of Manitoba	9,500

Cost of elementary school in Canada

Public elementary or primary school is free for residents of Canada. If you’re sending your child to Canada to study, please check with the school to find out if there are fees for international students. Sometimes, schools charge small fees for your child to participate in extra activities, such as sports teams or school outings. Most children bring their own lunch to school, however, some schools offer cafeterias or hot lunch programs where your child may purchase a meal.

Cost of high school in Canada

Public secondary or high school is free in Canada for residents of the country. Many schools charge fees for international students, which can range from approximately CAD 8,000 to CAD 14,000 per year. Please check with the school you want your teenager to attend to confirm the cost, if any, for international students.

Sometimes, schools charge small fees for your child to participate in extra activities, such as sports teams or school outings. In high school, many students bring their own lunch to school, however, some schools offer cafeterias or hot lunch programs where your child may purchase a meal.

Cost of language school in Canada

Language schools often provide courses based on a certain number of weeks, rather than a semester approach to study. The cost of tuition at Canadian language schools is established by each school.

Here is some sample costing for language schools in some of Canada’s key metropolitan areas (not including housing or meals):

• Toronto: 12-week English language school = CAD 3,515
• Quebec City: 12-week French language school = CAD 3,570
• Vancouver: 12-week English language school = CAD 4,083
• Calgary: 12-week French language school = CAD 3,446

Cost of college and vocational school in Canada

College programs vary in length, so they are often less expensive than university studies. Some programs include work-integrated learning, which may earn you an income while you are in Canada.

You’ll find high-quality colleges and vocational schools throughout Canada, including smaller cities and towns where the cost of living is lower. Even Canada’s larger cities are relatively more affordable than many cities around the world.

Tuition fees for international students in Canada vary depending on the program and location you choose. Try our search tool to find your college program and calculate what it will cost you:

You will see that some schools offer free tuition, while others range from approximately CAD 2,000 per year to CAD 18,000 per year for tuition, depending on the college and your program of study. It pays to do your research, so try comparing up to 3 colleges and destinations in one search. Our tool will do that for you.

It will also generate costs for your living expenses. We found that, on average, living costs tend to be approximately CAD 12,000 for Canadian college students.

Cost of university in Canada

What could be better than earning a university degree in a beautiful country? Finding a reputable program that you can afford. Many quality universities are found in Canada’s smaller cities and towns where the cost of living is lower. At times, Canada’s larger cities are more affordable than many cities around the world.:

You can also compare different schools and cities. You’ll see that the costs can vary from city to city and province to province, both for your tuition fees and living expenses. So, if you’re on a budget, we recommend searching a wide range of options to find the right university and community for you.

To give you an idea of the costs, we tested our search tool on a number of bachelor’s degree options across Canada. We found that tuition can range from CAD 1,800 per year to approximately CAD 20,000 per year for an undergraduate degree. The tool will also give you the estimated costs for books and supplies.

Similarly, the cost of accommodation, food and local transportation varies from city to city. Our search tool will give you a good idea of the cost you once you choose your school, however, we found that living expenses for one year averaged around CAD 12,000.

Cost of graduate studies in Canada

Your graduate studies are a smart career investment. Canada’s master’s and PhD programs are recognized around the globe, and our relatively lower cost of living makes the opportunity even more appealing to international students like you. Even Canada’s larger cities are more affordable than many cities around the world.

Graduate tuition fees in Canada can vary depending on the program and location you choose. Try our search tool to find your graduate studies program and calculate what it will cost you:

To give you an idea of the costs, we tested our search tool on a number of master’s and PhD programs across Canada. We found that tuition can range from CAD 2,500 per year to approximately CAD 18,000 per year for a master’s degree program. A PhD might run you approximately CAD 2,500 to CAD 17,000 per year. Be sure to compare programs from different provinces and schools if you are on a budget. The tool will also give you the estimated costs for books and supplies.

The cost of accommodation, food and local transportation varies from city to city. Our search tool will give you a good idea of the cost you once you choose your school, however, we found that living expenses for one year averaged around CAD 12,000.

Cost of professional certification in Canada

You’ll find professional certification programs available both in-person and online through distance education. Use our Search colleges & universities tool to locate the program you need and the cost for completing it.

Cost of student exchange programs in Canada

The costs of student exchange programs vary depending on the organization offering the programs and their fee structure. You may use an educational agent to help you find an exchange program for your child to attend school in Canada.

If you are interested in doing a semester or year in Canada as a college or university student, use our search tool to locate programs and schools that fit your career aspirations. It will provide you with the estimated costs for tuition and living expenses.

Cost of online and distance education

Fees for online learning vary based on whether the program is part of a college diploma, bachelor’s degree or at the graduate studies level. Costs can also vary depending on the institution and program you choose. Use our search tool to calculate the costs of your distance education program.

Scholarships to study in Canada

You may be eligible for a scholarship, fellowship or grant to study in Canada. The Government of Canada, our provinces and territories and many educational institutions offer funding for international students.

Living expenses for international students in Canada

When you’re planning your budget as an international student in Canada, there are some important expenses to consider:

• Food and groceries
• Transportation
• Health insurance
• Entertainment and fun

Find out more about how to plan your living expenses in Canada.

Home to some of North America’s most historic – and globally renowned – research universities, Canada’s multicultural outlook and cosmopolitan society also make it an increasingly popular home-away-from-home for thousands of international students.

A PhD in Canada will give you the opportunity to work with leading experts and take advantage of modern high-tech facilities. Once you’ve earned your doctorate, you’ll have the opportunity to take advantage of one of the world’s most generous post-study work visa schemes.

This page covers everything you’ll need to know to take advantage of postgraduate study in Canada. It includes information on the Canadian university system, the structure of a typical Canadian doctoral programme and key facts for fees, funding and visa requirements.

PhD opportunities in Canada – what’s on offer for 2020?

Canada has always been popular with international students – and international students have always been popular with Canada. But this has never been more true than it is right now.

The number of people studying abroad in Canada has risen by nearly 30% recently as more and more students have been attracted by the prospect of living and studying in a friendly and liberal society that supports and celebrates its internationally acclaimed universities. Not to mention the chance to experience and explore the country’s diverse range of stunning natural landscapes and habitats.

Here are a few of the things that make Canada a great choice for PhD study in 2020 and beyond:

• Internationally renowned universities  – Canada’s oldest universities date back to the seventeenth century, but the research they carry out continues to be world-leading, with six institutions in the top 150 of all three  major global rankings .
• Attractive international fees  – PhD study in Canada is generally cheaper than in the neighbouring USA, with some universities actually reducing – or even waiving – international fees.
• Post-study opportunities  – Successfully completing your doctorate will entitle you to live and work in Canada for up to three years and perhaps take up a pathway to permanent residency, or even citizenship.
• The great outdoors  – From the Great Lakes of Ontario and Québec and the Canadian Rocky Mountains and Prairies of Alberta to the unspoilt wilderness of the vast Northwest Territories: there’s plenty to explore (and perhaps even research) during your PhD.

You’ll also have the opportunity to study at the same universities as a famous American leader – and who knows: you might even meet Justin Trudeau himself.

	96
	27
	Université Laval (1663)
	209,979
	3-6 years
	CAD $10,000-20,500 (USD $7,655-15,695)
	September to April

PhD life in Canada

Want to know more about life for international PhD students in Canada? Our detailed guide covers everything from accommodation and living costs to culture and entertainment.

phd requirements in canada for international students

What are the admission requirements.

The requirements to study in Canada at doctorate level vary between universities and courses, but you generally need the following:

• A master’s degree in a related field, with strong grades and proven research ability and potential.
• Proof of language ability, depending on whether you study in English or French, if either language is not your first language and you haven’t previously studied in either language. (Some programs in French-speaking Quebec are conducted in both languages).
• A strong score in a graduate admissions test such as the Graduate Management Admission Test (GMAT) or the Graduate Record Examination (GRE).

In exceptional cases, you may be able to study a PhD with “accelerated admission” – that is, without a master’s degree. In this process, you’ll need to have outstanding grades in the last two years of your bachelor’s degree (a first-class average) and other demonstrations of your high academic potential, such as research publications.

How long are PhDs in Canada?

Most PhDs in Canada take about four to six years to complete.

How do I apply for a PhD in Canada?

Although the admissions process can vary between Canadian universities, you’ll generally need to follow the following steps to apply for a PhD:

1. Decide which PhD course you’d like to apply for, identifying your supervisor and chosen research topic. This may be an advertised, structured PhD in which the scope of the research is already outlined by the university (particularly in the sciences), or alternatively (particularly in arts and humanities) you could suggest and outline your own research project with an open PhD. Once you’ve found a supervisor, some universities may ask for a letter of support from your chosen supervisor to be included in your application documents.

2. If applying for an open PhD, you’ll need to submit a research proposal following the guidelines set by your university and generally outlining what you want to research, and why this is a worthwhile project.

3. Apply online, paying the appropriate application fee and attaching the necessary documents to your application. This could be all or some of the following:

• Statement of purpose – this should outline your background and academic/professional experience, including any awards, publications or relevant experience you can offer. You should also discuss your career goals and anything else stipulated by the university, keeping to the word limit.
• Two or three letters of reference (including one from your intended supervisor). Your referees should be academic, where possible.
• Academic transcripts and degree certificates – Canadian universities may require that your university mails an official transcript, which should be in English or accompanied by a perfectly translated document.
• Writing sample (most likely for arts and humanities PhDs)
• Your Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Language test results, if needed
• Portfolio of creative work (if applying for an arts/humanities PhD)

Some Canadian universities may also ask you to attend an admission interview.

4. Once accepted, the next step is to apply for your study permit, which acts as your student visa for your stay. You should also take out health insurance, and check your university’s website for orientation advice.

phd fees in canada

Opening a world of opportunities, a Ph.D. in Canada allows you to work with leading experts and profit from the modern, high-tech facilities offered at Canadian universities. There are countless research opportunities in Canada to look out for as an international student after completion of their higher education. International applicants looking for pursuing the course must note that the degree lasts from 3-6 years. Both professional (Doctorate in Business Administration) and academic doctorate (Ph.D. in sciences and more) courses are available to choose from when pursuing higher education in Canada. 

The cost of pursuing a Ph.D. degree will vary, not only because each university will charge you differently but also because there are numerous TA (Teaching Assistantships) and RA (Research Assistantships) you can avail of. It can  cost as cheap as 4,000 CAD a year,  a lot cheaper alternative than Ph.D. in the US or UK. As an Indian student, you will be  spending anywhere from 3-10 lakhs on your tuition  and an additional  5.7 lakhs on your living and traveling expenses , annually. Alongside TA/RAs, there are various  scholarships for Ph.D. in Canada  that you can take advantage of. Post completion of your Ph.D. in Canada, you will be allowed to stay back for almost three years on a  PGWP (postgraduation work permit).  With a doctorate degree from Canada, you can earn as much as 140,000 CAD/year.  

Tuition fees for Bachelor’s degrees

Tuition range: 550 – 30,000 CAD/year. Bachelors in Medicine, Engineering, and Social Science are among the most expensive study programmes.

Tuition costs for popular disciplines:

• Bachelors in Business & Management: 550 – 56,000 CAD/year
• Bachelors in Computer Science & IT: 1,535 – 55,500 CAD/year
• Bachelors in Engineering & Technology: 1,350 – 55,000 CAD/year
• Bachelors in Social Sciences: 1,025 – 56,000 CAD/year
• Bachelors in Natural Sciences: 1,780 – 53,000 CAD/year

Tuition fees for Master’s degrees

Tuition range: 1,075 – 65,000 CAD/year. Masters in Business, Engineering, Computer Science and Law are the most expensive.

• Masters in Business & Management: 2,150 – 52,700 CAD/year
• Masters in Computer Science & IT: 2,150 – 52,500 CAD/year
• Masters in Engineering & Technology: 2,150 – 52,500 CAD/year
• Masters in Medicine & Health: 2,150 – 58,300 CAD/year
• Masters in Social Sciences: 2,150 – 37,000 CAD/year

The purpose of these tuition fee ranges for Bachelor’s and Master’s programmes is to help you figure out what kind of budget you need to study in Canada. You don’t have to choose the most expensive programmes because higher costs don’t always equal better education. Focus on finding the sweet spot between your budget, tuition, and what you want to get from your study programme.

There are also degrees which are very expensive, with tuition fees of 100,000 CAD/year or more. Due to their low number, we’ve decided not to include them in the tuition ranges.

Canadian universities

Like its near-neighbour, the USA, Canada is a  big  country. However, unlike the USA, a relatively small proportion of Canada is actually inhabited. This means that the Canadian university system isn’t as large as you might expect and, when it comes to PhD-level study, it’s actually relatively easy to make sense of.

Research universities and graduate schools

There are around  100 research universities  in Canada (other institutions such as liberal arts colleges and community colleges also exist, but these don’t tend to offer PhDs). These universities often run their doctoral programmes within dedicated  graduate schools  that house all the facilities and expertise necessary to support students through advanced postgraduate (or ‘graduate’) degrees.

Individual Canadian universities can be  public  or  private , depending on how they receive their funding.

Public universities (the great majority) are financially supported by their local province or territory and tend to offer more comprehensive study opportunities, including doctoral programmes. Private universities are funded by third-party sources (such as religious organisations) and tend to be smaller and more specialised.

Universities within Canadian provinces and territories

Canada’s vast geographical size and colonial history means the country has developed a federal structure, made up of  10 provinces  and  3 territories . Provinces are independent sovereign entities (similar to US states) whereas territories have their authority delegated by the central federal government.

The most important difference between Canadian provinces and territories for international PhD students is that  only provinces possess research universities  (with the ability to offer doctoral programmes).

Most provinces take a similar approach to doctoral training and international recruitment, but local policies can sometimes affect the amount (and type) of funding available. The part of Canada you choose to study in may also determine whether your university offers programmes in English, French or both.

The 10 Canadian provinces are as follows:

• Alberta  is a landlocked province in western Canada, famous for its vast forests, prairies and mountain ranges. There are  8 universities  offering PhD opportunities in Alberta and the official language is  English .
• British Columbia  is Canada’s westernmost province. Its rugged landscape is characterised by temperate rainforests and striking coastal fjords. There are  11 universities  offering PhD opportunities in British Columbia and the official language is  English .
• Manitoba  is a central province, home to vast prairies and some of Canada’s Great Lakes. There are  6 universities  offering PhD opportunities in Manitoba and the official language is  English .
• New Brunswick  is a small province on the eastern coast of Canada, home to forests, mountains and some of the oldest European settlements in North America. There are  four universities  offering PhD opportunities in New Brunswick and the official languages are  English and French .
• Nova Scotia  is a maritime province in Atlantic Canada, made up of a peninsula and neighbouring islands. There are  9 universities  offering PhD opportunities in Nova Scotia and the official language is  English .
• Newfoundland and Labrador  is Canada’s easternmost province, made up of the island of Newfoundland and the mainland region of Labrador, geographically defined by its subarctic tundra and striking mountains. There is  1 university  offering PhD opportunities in Newfoundland and Labrador and the official language is  English .
• Ontario  is Canada’s most populous province, located in the east of the country. It is home to the Canadian capital, Ottawa, as well as the famous Lake Ontario and Niagara Falls. There are  31 universities  offering PhD opportunities in Ontario and the official language is  English .
• Prince Edward Island  is a maritime province on the east coast of Canada – the smallest in the country. It is made up of the titular island, plus a network of smaller islands. There is  1 university  offering PhD opportunities in Prince Edward Island and the official language is  English .
• Québec  is Canada’s largest province, situated at the east of the country. It is home to a rich independent Québécois culture and is famous for its rivers, lakes and bays. There are  19 universities  offering PhD opportunites in Québec and the official language is  French .
• Saskatchewan  is a large landlocked province in central Canada, defined by its praries and lakes. There are  6 universities  offering PhD opportunities in Saskatchewan and the official language is  English .

Canada’s three territories are the  Yukon ,  Nanavut  and  Northwest Territories . They are home to colleges offering undergraduate degrees, but do not currently possess universities with doctoral programmes.

Canadian university cities

There are several cities in Canada with one or more universities and large numbers of students.

• Study in Montreal
• Study in Québec City
• Study in Edmonton
• Study in Vancouver
• Study in Toronto

Canadian university rankings

Not to be outdone by their North American neighbours, Canadian universities are world-leading in a range of fields and this is reflected in their international rankings.

University	THE 2020	QS 2020	ARWU 2019
University of Toronto	18	=29	24
University of British Columbia	34	51	35
McGill University	42	=35	90
McMaster University	72	=140	90
University of Montreal	85	137	151-200
University of Alberta	=136	113	101-150
University of Ottawa	=141	=281	151-200
University of Calgary	201-250	233	151-200
University of Waterloo	201-250	=173	151-200
Western University	201-250	31	29
Dalhousie University	251-300	280	201-300
Laval University	251-300	–	201-300
Queen’s University	251-300	=173	301-400
Simon Fraser University	251-300	=314	301-400
University of Manitoba	351-400	601-650	301-400
University of Saskatchewan	401-500	=439	301-400
University of Victoria	401-500	=364	301-400
York University	401-500	511-520	501-600
Carleton University	501-600	651-700	701-800
University of Guelph	501-600	571-580	301-400
World University Rankings, QS World University Rankings and Academic Ranking of World Universities. Visit their websites for more information.

Do rankings matter for PhD study?

University rankings can help you choose a PhD project or programme, provided you know what to look at. Our guide explains how to use rankings as a prospective postgraduate.

PhD structure

As in other countries, the Canadian doctorate is normally awarded as a final ‘terminal degree’ – the  highest level of academic qualification  a student can achieve following an undergraduate Bachelors degree and a postgraduate Masters.

A range of doctoral degrees are available alongside the familiar  academic PhD , including  professional doctorates  such as the Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) and Doctor of Education (EdD) qualifications.

Most courses require at least  three years  of full-time study and research, but some students study for longer, with a typical maximum registration of six years.

In most cases you’ll need to hold a Masters degree in order to gain admission to a standard Canadian PhD programme. However, some universities offer  doctoral stream Masters  routes that commence with one or two years of MA or MSc study. These are suitable for students coming straight from an undergraduate degree, but take longer to complete.

The Canadian PhD process

PhD study in Canada has more in common with the UK than the neighbouring USA. Whereas the US PhD normally begins with one or two years of taught classes and examinations before a student defines their thesis topic, a Canadian PhD is often more research-focused from the outset.

However, as in the UK, it is increasingly common for universities to offer more  structured PhDs  within dedicated  doctoral programmes .

These programmes are normally run by a university’s  graduate school  where academic cohorts of students benefit from collective teaching and training alongside their more independent research activities.

Courses often focus on key skills such as practical research techniques and methodological principles, or useful additional training in areas such as teaching, presentation or publication. Some doctoral programmes also arrange internships and professional placements.

Generally, students complete these courses in the first year of their PhD, before moving on to focus on researching and writing their doctoral thesis.

In some cases a university may require PhD students to sit a  comprehensive exam  at the end of their first or second year. This tests a student’s general knowledge of their field before they are allowed to proceed to much more specific research. It is somewhat similar to the MPhil upgrade or ‘confirmation review’ used in UK universities.

Graduate vs postgraduate

Like the USA, Canadian universities usually refer to Masters and PhDs as ‘graduate’ degrees, rather than ‘postgraduate’ degrees. We’ve used postgraduate here to be consistent with the rest of the FindAPhD website.

Academic year

The Canadian academic year generally runs from September to April, but exact semester dates vary between individual provinces and their universities.

Supervision and research

You’ll complete your PhD under the guidance of at least one  academic supervisor . They’ll be an expert in your general subject and field, though they won’t have researched on your specific topic before (it  wouldn’t be a PhD , otherwise).

Other members of your graduate school may also contribute to your supervision and training, particularly if your programme involves additional classes and coursework.

The main criteria for your degree will be the completion of a substantial doctoral thesis. As in other countries, this must represent a rigorous and significant research body of research, making a substantial new contribution to knowledge.

If your qualification is a  professional doctorate  such as a DBA or EdD, you’ll focus on practical work and case studies as well as / instead of academic research. You’ll still be required to submit a thesis, but this may be shorter and supplemented by other materials.

Types of PhD

Our guides help explain the different types of PhD (and other doctorates) available in Canada and elsewhere.

Assessment and examination

The main criteria for the assessment of a Canadian PhD is the originality and quality of your  doctoral thesis . You’ll normally begin drafting this during the middle part of your PhD before writing up a final version based on feedback from your supervisor.

Once you submit your dissertation a committee of examiners (including at least one external expert) will be appointed to read and consider it. Your PhD will then proceed to an  oral defence .

This procedure may be slightly more involved than the viva voce used in the UK and elsewhere. Instead of discussing your work in a ‘closed room’ situation, you may be expected to offer a presentation on your research before being questioned on the content and significance of your thesis.

The examiners will then meet separately to decide if your examination performance was satisfactory. If it was, you will be awarded your PhD!

Some Canadian PhD programmes also include  coursework and examinations  prior to your thesis. However, these will normally be checkpoints for your progression, rather than factors determining your final result.

Cotutelle programmes

As well as the conventional PhD process described above, some Canadian universities work with other international institutions to offer a collaborative route to a PhD, known as a ‘cotutelle’ (French for ‘co-tutored’).

These programmes involve a student spending time at two different universities, each of which is involved in supervising, examining and awarding the PhD project.

In this sense a cotutelle is somewhat like a joint PhD. However, unlike some other joint PhDs, a cotutelle arrangement is usually specific to the student’s project rather than an ongoing partnership between a pair (or network) of universities. In that sense, it’s helpful to think of a cotutelle as a specific  kind  of joint PhD.

The availability of this option varies between individual Canadian universities. Check with your institution for more information.

Fees and funding

Studying abroad in Canada is more affordable than you might think, despite the fact that universities typically charge higher fees for international students.

Canadian PhD fees

Representative international fees for a Canadian PhD programme are around CAD  $10,000-20,000 (USD $7,655-15,300) per year. This is more than a domestic student pays, but still less than in other popular countries like the  UK  and  USA .

If your PhD is part of a more structured programme its  fees may vary from year to year ; stages of the degree that involve taught classes and assessments are normally more expensive than those that focus on independent research.

In addition to tuition you may also be asked to pay some smaller supplementary costs for student services and union fees.

Recent fee changes for international students

The size of Canada’s higher education system and the administration of universities by separate provincial governments means that the representative PhD fees quoted here should be used as a guideline only.

However, it’s worth being aware of some new initiatives for international students at specific universities.

• The University of Toronto has begun charging the same fees to domestic and international PhD students from 2018. This means that you’ll pay the same for your PhD as a local Canadian student.
• Brock University has begun fully covering international PhD fees through its own fellowships.

Canadian PhD funding

Canada welcomes international students and provides a wide range of scholarships and other funding opportunities for PhD study at its universities.

Here are some of the options available for international students in Canada:

• Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Scholarships – funding for international students on selected PhD projects at Canadian universities
• IDRC Doctoral Research Awards – provides up to CAD $20,000 (USD $15,300) over 3-12 months for students from developing countries studying a PhD in Canada
• IDRC Research Awards – offers a salary of at least CAD 40,000 (USD $30,600) for PhD students from developing countries to complete an internship at the International Development Research Centre
• Trudeau Doctoral Scholarships – provide PhD funding for international students in a range of subjects
• Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships – provide international students with CAD $50,000 (USD $38,280) per year for three years of PhD study in Health Sciences, Natural Sciences, Engineering, Social Sciences or Humanities

The Government of Canada website features an interactive database of funding opportunities for international students.

Funding from Canadian universities

In addition to the general scholarship opportunities listed above, there’s a good chance your prospective university will also have funding available. Most Canadian institutions provide some form of support for international PhD students.

You can start searching for university funding by browsing our listings of current PhD projects or programmes in Canada. Many of the opportunities featured on FindAPhD will already have funding attached, but even if they don’t, you can use the contact details to check for other scholarships at that institution.

Graduate teaching assistantships

Some universities in Canada offer their PhD students contracts as  graduate teaching assistants . As the name suggests, these arrangements require you to complete a certain amount of teaching (usually as an undergraduate tutor) during your PhD. In return, you’ll be paid a salary and / or have some of your doctoral fees waived by the university.

This work can be personally rewarding (as well as financially rewarding) and will enhance your CV for future academic positions, or other jobs that involve teaching. However, a GTA position will place extra demands on your time. It’s a good idea to establish just what these will be in advance.

PhD funding guides

There’s plenty of support out there for you to complete a doctorate in Canada (or elsewhere). Our PhD funding guides will help you make sense of your options.

Applying for a PhD in Canada

Most Canadian universities organise their PhDs within doctoral programmes run by their  graduate schools  and its here that you’ll normally apply. Some universities will have separate graduate schools for different subject areas; others may just have one large school administering all of their advanced degree programmes.

Admission requirements

The  minimum requirement  for a PhD in Canada will normally be a  Masters degree  in a related subject. Unlike in the UK and USA it is relatively rare to go straight from undergraduate study to a doctorate. Some universities may allow you to do so, but will normally extend the length of your PhD to accommodate additional Masters-level training.

Admission to a Canadian doctoral programme can be quite competitive. Students will often progress through classes and modules together and graduate schools may only have places for a certain number in each year’s cohort.

This means that your previous academic attainment will probably be examined quite closely.

In particular, you will usually be asked to provide a  Grade Point Average (GPA)  score instead of just submitting your final degree result. GPA is the system used in the USA and Canada (as well as some other countries) but is less common in the UK and Europe. It provides a more nuanced representation of your overall performance across a course of study.

Don’t worry if your previous universities didn’t use a GPA system: it’s possible to convert most other grades into a GPA. The following table provides a rough guide to GPA equivalents for UK degree honours:

UK % grade	UK result	Approximate GPA
70+	1st / Distinction	4.0
60 – 69	2.1 / Merit	3.0 – 3.3
50 – 59	2.2 / Pass	2.7 – 3.0
40 – 49	3rd / Pass	2.0 – 2.3
30 – 39	Unclassified	1.0

You’ll normally need a  GPA of 3.0 or higher  for admission to a Canadian PhD programme.

Graduate admissions tests

You may also be asked to provide a score from a Graduate Records Examination (GRE) or Graduate Management Admissions Test (GMAT) exam as part of your application. This allows universities to assess applicants’ suitability for advanced graduate work and potentially decide between candidates with similarly good academic records.

Specific requirements (and expected scores) will vary between universities and graduate schools, so check in advance.

What are graduate admissions tests?

Though they aren’t commonly used in countries like the UK, tests like the GRE and GMAT are sometimes used to assess applicants for postgraduate study in the USA, Canada and elsewhere. Our guide explains how they work and what they involve.

Language requirements

You’ll have the option of completing a Canadian PhD in either English or French, depending on which province you choose to study in. English is the most common language of instruction, but universities in Québec will normally teach in French, as will some in New Brunswick.

Whichever language you choose to study in, you’ll need to demonstrate that you’re sufficiently proficient in it to complete a PhD. If you’re a native French or English speaker or have already studied at university-level in either language that will normally be sufficient. Otherwise, you’ll need to complete a language test and submit the score as part of your application.

Our guides introduce some of the common English language tests and French language tests that are suitable for PhD study, but you should always check which system your university prefers

Application process

There are normally two routes to applying for a Canadian PhD:

• Find an advertised project and apply for it. Many projects will already have a scholarship or stipend attached and will be looking for the ideal candidate, rather like a conventional job opportunity.
• Apply to a university’s doctoral programme with your own research project. The first step in this case is usually to identify a suitable supervisor and / or research group and contact them to discuss your interest. You may need to apply for funding separately.

Depending on the kind of opportunity you apply for, you’ll normally need to provide the university or graduate school with the following:

• Details (and evidence) of your  previous study and qualifications . As well as confirmation of your final result (and  GPA ), Canadian universities may ask to see  transcripts  of your Bachelors and Masters, including information on your specific modules and grades. Your previous universit/ies should be able to provide this, but you’ll need to give them enough time.
• Information on your  project details and plans . If you’re suggesting your own topic you will normally need to submit a research proposal for it. If you’re applying for an advertised opportunity you may be asked to provide a personal statement explaining your academic interests and ambitions.
• Two  letters of recommendation . These will serve as your academic references and should therefore be provided by tutors or instructors who know your work at undergraduate or postgraduate level. Make sure to check that these people are happy to serve as your referees and give them plenty of notice.
• Evidence of  test scores  for any language tests or graduate admissions exams you’ve been asked to complete.

Be sure to check the specific requirements at your graduate school (or ask the supervisor you’re applying to work with).

Specific  deadlines  for Canadian PhD applications will often be set by graduate schools. Actual dates will vary, but you should generally apply in the spring for an autumn start, or vice versa. Make sure to allow enough time to put together all of your application materials (and sort your visa, if you need one).

Universities in Canada may arrange a PhD interview to evaluate your application and potential or get to know you better. If so, you may be given the opportunity to conduct your interview via Skype, or a similar video conferencing platform.

What happens during a PhD interview?

Your interview for a PhD in Canada will follow a fairly standard format (even if the actual process takes place online). Our guides explain what happens at a PhD interview and look at some of the questions you might be asked.

Student visas

Canada is a friendly and welcoming country with an active interest in attracting international students. This is reflected in its student visa and immigration system.

You’ll normally need two documents to enter Canada as a student and remain there during your PhD: an  electronic travel authorisation  and a  study permit .

Applying for a Study Permit

As its name suggests, a study permit entitles you to live (and study!) in Canada during a course. The Permit lasts for the duration of your PhD, plus an extra 90 days (giving you time to arrange travel or apply for a post-study work visa once your course is finished).

You should normally apply for a Study Permit in your home country before you travel to Canada. You can begin the process online, but may need to take your passport and other information to a Canadian visa office. You’ll need a letter of acceptance from your university before you can apply (a good reason to start your PhD application early).

Students from China, India, Vietnam or the Philippines can apply through a special Student Direct Stream for faster processing.

Applying for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA)

Most international students will need permission to enter Canada. You can get this by applying for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA). This serves as your visa and allows you to come into Canada.

The application process for an eTA is relatively simple and takes place online. You will need to provide your passport details and payment information for a fee of CAD $7 (USD $5.35).

Note that your eTA allows you to enter Canada, but does not entitle you to live there for the duration of your PhD. To do that you will need to have applied for your Study Permit (described above).

Excellent universities and cosmopolitan culture make Canada a great place to pursue a doctorate, but the country could also become your longer-term home.

Can I work in Canada after my PhD?

Yes. As a PhD graduate you’ll be a great candidate for a range of jobs in higher education, research and other areas. What’s more, Canada will be very keen to keep you and its post-study visa system is designed to make that option as attractive as possible.

Canada’s  post-graduation work permit (PGWP)  allows international graduates from its universities to live and work in Canada for up to three years after completing a doctorate.

You’ll need to have studied for your PhD full-time and have successfully completed your programme. The fee is normally CAD $255 (USD $195) and the processing time is approximately 56 days for an online application.

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• FindAMasters

Masters-Study-In-Canada

• Masters Scholarships in Canada – 2024

Masters Fees and Funding in Canada

Written by Mark Bennett

International tuition fees for a Masters in Canada are usually cheaper than in the UK and America. Most programmes cost somewhere between CAD $2,500 and CAD $21,100 (USD $1,830 - 15,425). Arts and Humanities subjects will be at the lower end of this scale, and Dentistry, Architecture and Business & Management will be nearer the top. Domestic Canadian students generally pay around half the amount of international students.

There are several funding opportunities for international students in Canada, including scholarships, loans and grants. Individual universities also offer scholarships designed to attract talented overseas postgraduates, which we’ve outlined below.

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Masters funding for international students in canada.

As an international student in Canada you won’t be eligible for the same public funding as domestic postgraduates. This means you won’t normally be able to apply for loans (though some research council funding may be available).

Don’t worry though – there’s plenty of other funding available for international Masters students in Canada. In fact, several scholarship programmes exist purely to attract and support postgraduates studying overseas at Canadian universities.

Scholarships administered by Global Affairs Canada and provinces / territories

Global Affairs Canada (GAC) is the Canadian government department that oversees its foreign affairs. GAC maintains and administers a wide variety of international scholarships for Masters in Canada from the government and other providers (including the Canadian research councils).

You can view a list of the scholarships offered by Global Affairs Canada on their website. Note that not all of the options presented will be applicable to Masters students.

In some cases, provinces and territories offer funding for talented postgraduates looking to study in Canada. You can find out more by contacting the appropriate Department of Education or by taking a look at GAC’s list of provincial and territorial awards for foreigners .

Funding from international partnerships

Canada maintains academic exchange programmes and academic partnerships with various countries around the world. If your country is included in these, you may be able to apply for funding to study a Masters abroad in Canada:

• The Agence Universitaire de la Francophonie (AUF) is a network of francophone higher education providers around the world. If your country is a member, you may be able to apply for a bursary to study a Masters in Canada for up to 10 months.
• Fulbright Canada supports education exchange between Canada and the USA, including funding for US students to study abroad in Canada.

Scholarships and exchange programmes may be offered in other countries. You may be able to find out about available opportunities by contacting the Canadian embassy or consulate in your normal country of residence. View an official list of international Canadian embassies and consulates .

International scholarships from individual Canadian universities

Some Canadian universities offer their own Masters scholarships to help them recruit high quality international postgraduates.

The availability of these varies between institutions. The best way to find out what’s available to you may therefore be to check the information published by individual universities.

Alternatively, you can use our course search to find a specific Masters programme in Canada and then get in touch to inquire about international scholarships – all of the courses listed on FindAMasters.com have contact details and many also include details of available funding.

Masters bursaries for international students in Canada

Bursaries are financial support granted based on a student's economic need. Canadian universities and colleges often offer bursaries to students who meet particular requirements.

You'll be asked to go through a needs assessment and provide information about your or your parents' income. The amount you are awarded is decided based on certain thresholds which differ depending on your funding provider.

Masters student loans for international students in Canada

Even though federal and provincial loans from the Canadian government are reserved for domestic students, international students are free to take a loan with a commercial banks ot other third-party organisations. These loans have a specific interest rate and you'll have to adhere to a strict repayment schedule.

Sometimes banks offer student-friendly interest rates, however, you must think carefully about how you'll manage repayments so you don't accumulate debt.

Masters funding from Canadian research councils

Government grants and loans aren’t the only form of funding available to you as a Masters student in Canada.

Like the UK , Canada operates publicly funded research councils, providing support for academic work in specific fields. Their responsibilities include providing support to future researchers – like you!

Most postgraduate funding from Canadian research councils is directed at PhD -level research, but some programmes are available specifically for Masters students.

Canada Graduate Scholarships-Masters Program

The Canada Graduate Scholarships-Masters Program (CGS-M) is offered by Canada’s three main research councils, in collaboration. It provides merit-based support of CAD $17,500 for up to 3,000 Canadian students each year, studying postgraduate courses at eligible Canadian higher education institutions . A broad range of subject areas are supported, including some professional qualifications.

Accelerate Programe

The Accelerate Program provides opportunities for fully-funded, four-month research and development business-oriented internships for Masters students with a stipend of CAD $10,000. Domestic and international students are eligible.

Other Masters scholarships from the Canadian research councils may also be periodically available. You can check for these on the individual websites of the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council , the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council and the Canadian Institute of Health Research .

Government funding for domestic Canadian Masters students

One of the most important sources of financial support for Masters students in Canada is the Canadian government. As a Canadian citizen you can apply for two types of government financial aid for your Masters degree: grants and loans .

Regional availability

Due to the country’s federal government system, Masters funding in Canada may be provided by the national Canadian government, or by local student finance bodies in individual provinces or territories. In some cases funding will be available from both sources; in other cases you will only be able to apply for a grant or loan from federal or local government.

The type of funding you can apply for depends on your normal province or territory of residence, not the province or territory in which you plan to study your Masters degree:

• Students from the Yukon may only apply for grants or loans from the federal government.
• Students from Nunavut , the Northwest Territories and Quebec may only apply for grants or loans from local finance authorities.
• Students from Alberta , Manitoba , Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island may apply for funding from the federal government and / or local finance authorities.
• Students from British Columbia , New Brunswick , Newfoundland and Labrador , Ontario and Saskatchewan may apply for funding jointly offered by the federal government and local finance authorities.

You can read more about government loans and grants for Masters students in Canada below.

Provincial and territorial grants

The Northwest Territories, Nunavut and Quebec do not participate in the Canada Student Grants programme (or the Canada Student Loans programme).

This doesn’t mean that students from these provinces and territories can’t apply for a grant to study a Masters in Canada. Instead, each offers their own student grant programme.

Grant amounts, eligibility criteria and applications procedures will be broadly similar to those for the Canada Student Grants programme, but may still vary slightly between the three provinces and territories.

For more information, consult the website of the student finance authority in your province or territory:

• Students from the Northwest Territories should apply for Masters grants via the Department of Education, Culture and Employment’s Student Financial Assistance website.
• Students from Nunavut should apply for Masters grants via the Department of Family Services website.
• Students from Quebec should apply for Masters grants via the Aide financière aux études website.

Loans for Canadian Masters students

There are two main types of student loan available for Masters degrees in Canada: the Canadian government’s national Canada Student Loans scheme and alternative schemes offered by local provincial or territorial student finance bodies.

The type of loan you apply for will depend on the Canadian province or territory in which you are normally resident (not that in which you are applying to study).

Canada Student Loans

Canada Student Loans are awarded by the Canadian federal government. They provide need-based finance for students at all levels of university study, including Masters degrees.

Availability

Canada Student Loans are available in 10 of Canada’s 13 territories (Quebec, Nunavut and the Northwest Territories are solely covered by their own student loan systems ).

Regardless of the system used in your province, your Canada Student Loan will be handled by the National Student Loans Service Centre (NSLSC) .

Eligibility criteria

In order to be entitled to a Canada Student Loan you must:

• Be a Canadian citizen (or otherwise have the right to live and remain in Canada).
• Be a permanent resident of a province or territory in which the Canada Student Loans system is offered.
• Be studying on a full-time or part-time basis at a recognised university.
• Demonstrate financial need. Amounts for Canada Student Loans are calculated using need-based criteria. The amount you can borrow will take into account your economic circumstances and background.
• Pass a credit check if you are over 22 and have not previously taken out a Canada Student Loan.

Payment of loan instalments in successive years of your programme may also depend on your making satisfactory academic progress.

Loan amounts

Canada Student Loans do not award a set amount to all students.

Instead loans are need-based, taking into account your personal background and financial circumstances. Other factors may include your mode of study, the province or territory you are studying in and the actual cost of your course (together with associated expenses).

Applications

Applications procedures for Canada Student Loans vary slightly between participating provinces and territories. You can check the Canadian government’s application guide to find out what process applies in your case.

Repayments and interest rates

Unlike student grants , Canada Student Loans must eventually be repaid in full. (Note that this applies even if you do not complete your Masters degree.)

There are three main periods involved in your loan:

• During your programme your loan is interest-free and repayments are not required.
• Upon completion (or termination) of your programme the interest-free period for your loan will end and interest will begin to be charged on your loan debt.
• Six months after you complete or exit your programme you will be required to begin repaying the loan principle and any interest it is accruing.

Interest rates for Canada Student Loans may be either fixed or variable. You can read more about current rates on the Canadian government’s website.

Provincial and territorial loans

Some Canadian provinces and territories offer their own separate student loans systems. These may be available alongside, or instead of, the federal government’s Canada Student Loans.

Provincial and territorial loan systems operate slightly differently from the federal government’s Canada Student Loans and from each other.

Seven of Canada’s provinces and territories offer their own student loans:

• In Alberta , Manitoba , Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island , provincial and territorial loans are offered alongside the federal government's Canada Student Loans.
• In the Northwest Territories , Nunavut and Quebec , provincial and territorial loans are the only student loans available .

Exact eligibility criteria vary slightly for different provincial and territorial loans systems. However, you can normally expect the following requirements to apply:

• You will need to be a Canadian citizen or have the right to reside indefinitely in Canada.
• You will need to be a permanent resident of the province awarding the loan. This does not necessarily mean you will need to be studying in that province.
• You will need to be studying at an institution recognised by the provincial or territorial authority you apply to. This does not mean that the institution must be within that province.
• You may need to demonstrate financial need.
• The total amount you can borrow may be subject to a cap or lifetime limit, shared with previous levels of study.

Further information

The application process, calculation methods and repayment criteria for Masters loans differs between individual Canadian provinces and territories.

The best way to find more information is therefore to visit the webpage of the student finance body in your province or territory of residence:

• Alberta – Student Aid Alberta
• Manitoba – Manitoba Student Aid
• Northwest Territories – Student Financial Assistance
• Nova Scotia – Nova Scotia Student Assistance
• Nunavut – Nunavut Department of Family Services
• Prince Edward Island – Prince Edward Island Student Financial Services
• Quebec – Aide financière aux études

Masters fees for Canadian students

As a Canadian citizen you’ll benefit from substantial government investment in higher education. This keeps Masters fees in Canada relatively low for domestic students, at around half the rate paid by international applicants.

In the 2022-23 academic year, the average cost of a Masters in Canada was CAD $7,437 (USD $5,467). Your university will usually calculate this total based on the price of a set number of instalments (the fees paid for each semester of study) plus any supplementary costs (such as administrative charges).

Note that individual Canadian universities set their own fees and these may vary. Certain degree programmes may also be more expensive – particularly those in professional subject areas such as Medicine. The average cost of an executive MBA, for example, is CAD $53,227 (USD $39,129).

As you can see in the table below, an MS in Canada in a subject like Engineering is more expensive than a Humanities degree. By contrast, on average Veterinary Medicine is the cheapest Masters programme in Canada.

Canada Masters fees by subject

Subject	CAD	USD
Executive MBA	$45,596	$33,335
Regular MBA	$31,028	$22,684
Business, Management and Public Administration	$14,293	$10,449
Dentistry	$13,282	$9,710
Mathematics, Computer and Information Sciences	$9,169	$6,703
Engineering	$7,696	$5,626
Physical and Life Sciences and Technologies	$7,052	$5,155
Nursing	$6,973	$5,098
Education	$6,957	$5,086
Architecture	$6,886	$5,034
Law	$6,227	$4,552
Social and Behavioural Sciences	$6,277	$4,589
Agriculture, Natural Resources and Conservation	$6,512	$4,761
Visual and Performing Arts, and Communications Technologies	$5,783	$4,228
Personal, Protective and Transportation Services	$6,600	$4,869
Optometry	$4,508	$3,296
Pharmacy	$4,109	$3,004
Veterinary Medicine	$4,236	$3,097
.

Continuation fees

Most Masters in Canada are between one and two years in length. If you exceed the normal duration of your programme you may be charged a continuing fee for additional years of registration. The cost of this is usually less than CAD $1,000 (USD $735), but may be more.

Supplementary fees

Most of the price of a Canadian Masters degree is made up of tuition fees, but universities may also levy additional charges for administrative costs, services and resources.

Registration and student services fees are quite common and normally cost less than CAD $100 (USD $75). Other charges will probably depend on your programme and could include fees for the use of laboratories and sports facilities, as well as examination fees.

These supplementary charges may be included in the advertised price of your Masters degree, but it’s worth checking to confirm this.

Health insurance

As a Canadian citizen you will be covered by the publicly funded Medicare system for most health-related expenses. In addition to this, universities may offer their own student health insurance, covering extra expenses such as dentistry and prescription charges.

The price of this cover varies, but is usually between CAD $200 and CAD $300 (USD $150-220). Some institutions may let you opt out of their health insurance, but others will make it a compulsory condition of registration. It may also be included in your tuition fee payment. You should contact your university for more information.

Masters fees in Quebec

Quebec organises its higher education system slightly differently to other parts of Canada, offering discounted fees to local residents.

This means that its universities operate three fee-tiers, with international students paying the most, followed by a lower rate for Canadian citizens and a further discount for Quebec residents.

Other aspects of the cost of a Masters degree in Quebec (such as continuation fees, health insurance and supplementary charges) are the same.

Masters fees for international students in Canada

Canada prides itself on being a historically multicultural country, welcoming students from around the world. This extends to the international fees for its degree programmes. Masters fees in Canada are higher than those for domestic students, but they’re often lower than other major Anglophone study abroad destinations.

Generally speaking you can expect to pay more than twice the tuition fee rate of an equivalent domestic student: the average international fee for a graduate programme in Canada is CAD $21,111 (USD $15,521).

Costs will vary between individual universities and degree programmes. Like domestic students, you’ll normally pay more for professional subject areas (particularly Medicine).

Whatever your tuition fees, funding for postgraduate study abroad in Canada is available from a wide range of sources .

Canada Masters fees for international students

Subject	CAD	USD
Ontario	$28,152	$20,581
Nova Scotia	$22,768	$16,645
British Columbia	$23,441	$17,137
Quebec	$20,034	$14,647
Alberta	$18,108	$13,173
New Brunswick	$13,654	$9,982
Manitoba	$12,748	$9,320
Prince Edward Island	$11,502	$8,409
Saskatchewan	$8,965	$6,554
Newfoundland	$4,806	$3,514
.

Health insurance for international students in Canada

Health insurance is compulsory for international students in Canada. The following Canadian provinces cover international students under their normal public healthcare plans:

• British Columbia
• New Brunswick
• Newfoundland and Labrador
• Saskatchewan

However, if you’re studying in Nova Scotia, Ontario, Prince Edward Island or Quebec, you’ll need to purchase specific international student health insurance, the cost of which is normally between CAD $600 and CAD $1,000 per year (USD $440-735)

The Canadian government’s immigration service maintains a page with details of provincial health ministries .

If in doubt, contact your prospective university. They should be able to confirm your requirements and most will offer their own student healthcare.

Other costs

Masters degrees in Canada sometimes incur additional costs alongside standard tuition fees. These include compulsory charges for administration and student services as well as specific course-related expenses. Costs won’t usually be higher for international students; expect to pay an average of CAD $955 (USD $730

The only additional fee that applies specifically to students studying abroad in Canada is an international application fee. This is usually between CAD $100 and CAD $170 (USD $75-125) but is not required by all universities.

Cost of living in Canada

The full cost of a Masters degree in Canada also includes accommodation and living expenses; it’s important that you budget for these in advance and ensure sufficient savings or funding to support yourself while you complete your degree abroad.

As a rough guide, you should budget approximately CAD $12,000 (USD $8,825) per year to cover your living costs, excluding tuition fees. This should be sufficient to cover accommodation, food and travel expenses. See our guide to life as a Masters student for more information on the cost of living in Canada.

Search for a Masters in Canada

Ready to start looking for your ideal study abroad opportunity? Browse and compare Masters degrees in Canada on FindAMasters.com

Our postgrad newsletter shares courses, funding news, stories and advice

Want to study a Masters in Canada? We have all the information about how to apply for a Masters course including the required documents.

Most international students will need a permit to study in Canada. Our guide explains the Canadian study permit system, with information on the documents you'll need to provide and helpful tips for your application.

What's it like to live in Canada as a Masters student? Read a detailed guide to postgraduate accommodation, living costs and working while studying.

Looking for the best universities for Geography in Canada? Compare ranking tables from top sources here, along with their methodologies.

Looking for the best universities for Law in Canada? Compare ranking tables from top sources here, along with their methodologies.

Looking for the best universities for Nursing & Health in Canada? Compare ranking tables from top sources here, along with their methodologies.

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