Studying for a master's degree in Canada is an excellent choice for international students. Canada offers a wide range of master's programs, including 2-year master's programs for international students, along with various scholarships for international students. Whether you're interested in arts, humanities, social sciences, life sciences, or chemistry, there are plenty of options to choose from. 

Why study Master’s in Canada? 

Canada offers an array of advantages to students planning to study for a master’s degree at Canadian universities, especially those seeking 2-year master’s programs in Canada for international students: 

  • Internationally renowned universities: One of the advantages of studying in Canada is the internationally renowned universities it offers. With 12 universities in the top 300 of the QS World University Rankings® 2024, you can be assured of a high-quality education. 

  • Work while studying: International students in Canada can work up to 20 hours per week during school terms and up to 30 hours per week during scheduled vacation breaks, without the need for a work permit. Several degree programs, including 2-year master's programs, offer internship or work experience opportunities. 

  • Research rigour: Canada is renowned for its research-intensive universities and offers research opportunities supported by the government and industry players. 

  • Post-study work opportunities: Canada is one of the few nations that allow international students to stay and work for up to 3 years upon graduating from their studies. 

  • Multicultural and peaceful environment: People in Canada are friendly, and you’ll find it easy to make friends, settle in, and network with key contacts. 

  • Experience the wonders of nature: Whether it's the stunning Great Lakes of Ontario and the majestic Rocky Mountains, or the untouched wilderness of the expansive Northwest Territories, there are countless opportunities for exploration during your memorable adventure. 

How to select the right university for your master’s? 

Several institutions in Canada offer master’s degrees in a variety of disciplines. However, choosing the right institution is a decision that should be made after due consideration. Everyone wishes for different things from their chosen institutions, but here are a few basic factors that can be considered: 

  • Academic Excellence – Research on reviews and teaching professors can give a good insight into course curricula, in addition to course descriptions. A good experience can move beyond traditional education boundaries and provide excellent teaching support for the track you wish to pursue. 

  • Location – Popular choices for study include Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta and Quebec. Choose the city that fits best in terms of lifestyle, budget and university choices. 

  • Cost – Tuition fees and scholarships can vary between universities, along with the kind of financial assistance and scholarships available. 

  • International Student Support – Find a university that offers well-planned support for international students, as they can advise on essentials such as accommodation, student welfare, and post-graduate employment opportunities. 

Top universities for master's in Canada 

Choosing the right university is a big step in your study-abroad journey. Here are some of Canada’s leading universities for master’s programs, their top fields of study, and average tuition fees. 

University Name 

QS World Ranking 2026 

Top Programs 

Yearly Average Tuition (CAD) 

McGill University 

27 

Medicine, Artificial Intelligence, Law, Arts 

18,000–50,000 

University of Toronto 

29 

Engineering, Computer Science, Public Health, Business 

20,000–60,000 

University of British Columbia (UBC) 

40 

Environmental Science, Data Science, Education, MBA 

15,000–55,000 

University of Alberta 

=94 

Energy Studies, Engineering, Medicine, Computer Science 

15,000–35,000 

University of Waterloo 

=119 

Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Business 

18,000–45,000 

Western University 

151 

Business, Health Sciences, Engineering, Social Sciences 

20,000–45,000 

Simon Fraser University 

=308 

Big Data, Public Policy, Education, Economics 

15,000–35,000 

Queen’s University 

- 

 Business, Finance, Engineering, Education  

20,000–50,000 

Which master’s degree is most in demand in Canada? 

Currently, some of the most in-demand master's degrees in Canada include those in fields like computer science, data analytics, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, environmental science, healthcare management, and business analytics. These fields are experiencing rapid growth and require skilled professionals to meet the evolving demands of industries. 

How long is a master's degree in Canada? 

Usually, a master’s course in Canada is a 12 to 24-month course, depending on the field of specialisation chosen by the student.  

How much does a master’s degree cost in Canada? 

The indicative prices of this prestigious degree can cost you between CAD 20,000 - 30,000 annually. The cost of study varies depending on many factors, including the university, your program of study and location. 

Many universities in Canada offer scholarships for qualified international students. You can benefit from these scholarships to lower the cost of your studies there. 

Your IDP counsellor can provide the latest information about the cost of studying in Canada and help you choose the best university that suits your budget. They can also assist you in exploring and applying for scholarships for a master’s degree in Canada , ensuring that you have access to financial support during your studies.  

How to apply for a master's degree in Canada? 

Different eligibility criteria exist for various master's courses in Canada. Nevertheless, some common requirements for applying to a master's program include: 

  • Educational Qualifications: Most educational institutions expect qualifications equivalent to a Canadian Bachelor's degree. 

  • Recommendation Letter: Reference letters are often necessary and can be initiated by college lecturers, academic professors, or employers, depending on the university. 

  • Work Experience: Depending on the chosen master's course, students may be asked to provide relevant work experience in their field of study. 

  • Language Proficiency Test: Students whose first language isn't English may be required to take an English proficiency exam, typically IELTS or TOEFL. 

  • Work Samples: Some institutions may also ask for written samples or copies of your published work as a part of their eligibility criteria. 

  • Additional Tests: For specific programs in Management or Engineering, a few institutions may require GMAT/GRE  test scores as a prerequisite for admission. 

Scholarships for master's students in Canada 

There are many options for overseas students in Canada, and scholarships can help with living expenses and tuition fees. Here are several that are worth looking into: 

  • Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships – For exceptional students pursuing research-based courses. 

  • Mitacs Globalink Research Awards – Financing for research partnerships and internships. 

  • Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) – For international students enrolled at participating universities in Ontario. 

  • IDP Partner University Scholarships – Special discounts for students applying through IDP. 

  • Global Affairs Canada Scholarships – For students from eligible countries. 

Career opportunities after a master's in Canada 

Completing a master’s degree in Canada doesn’t just get you a globally recognised qualification; it can also open doors to career opportunities and permanent residency pathways. With a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), you can gain valuable Canadian work experience for up to three years. This experience is key when applying for permanent residency programs such as Express Entry or the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). Top in-demand fields for graduates include: 

  • Data Science and Artificial Intelligence 

  • Health Sciences and Nursing 

  • Engineering and Renewable Energy 

  • Business and Finance 

  • Education and Public Policy 

 To apply for a master's degree in Canada, you can start by researching universities and their specific program requirements. Once you have chosen the programs you are interested in, visit the university websites or speak with an IDP Education counsellor for detailed information on the application process.  

FAQs 

  • Can I get PR after 2 years of a master’s in Canada? 

Yes, completing a master’s degree makes you eligible to apply for permanent residency through Express Entry or PNP, especially if you gain work experience under a PGWP. 

  • How much does a 2-year master’s cost in Canada? 

Tuition fees range from CAD 30,000 to 70,000 for a two-year program, depending on your university and program. 

  • Is a master’s in Canada 2 years? 

Yes, many master’s programs in Canada last 2 years, though some can be completed in 1 year. 

  • Which master's degree is most in demand in Canada? 

Degrees in Computer Science, Data Science, Engineering, Healthcare, and Business are highly sought after in Canada’s job market. 

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