Planning your living expenses is an important part of preparing to study in Canada. Your actual costs will depend on factors such as your city or province, accommodation, food, transportation, study requirements and lifestyle.

Use a student budget calculator to estimate your expected monthly and annual expenses before you travel. Building a realistic budget can help you understand how much you may need for accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, study materials and other day-to-day expenses.

Education costs

To apply for a Canadian study permit, you must demonstrate that you have enough money to support yourself and any accompanying family members during your stay. Your financial plan must account for tuition fees, living expenses and transportation to and from Canada.

For applications made on or after September 1, 2025, applicants outside Quebec must demonstrate CAD $22,895 for the first year of living expenses for one person, excluding tuition and transportation. Higher amounts apply when family members accompany the applicant. These financial requirements are updated annually, so always check the latest IRCC requirements before submitting an application.

The required living-expense amount is a minimum immigration requirement, not a guaranteed estimate of your actual cost of living. Your personal budget may need to be higher depending on your accommodation, city, transportation, food and other expenses.

What to Include in Your Canada Study Budget

Your overall budget should consider both study-related and day-to-day expenses, including:

• Tuition fees — based on your chosen institution and program
• Accommodation — residence, shared accommodation or private rental
• Food and groceries
• Local transportation
• Health insurance
• Books, supplies and other study materials
• Study permit and application-related costs
• Travel to and from Canada
• Personal and emergency expenses

Study Permit Application Fee

The Canadian study permit application fee is currently CAD $150 per applicant. Additional fees may apply in some circumstances, such as biometrics or other services. Check the official IRCC fee information before submitting your application because government fees can change.
It is also wise to keep an emergency fund for unexpected expenses during your studies. Your institution may have student support services that can help you understand available resources if you experience financial difficulties.

Financial Requirements for a Canadian Study Permit

Immigration requirements, financial thresholds and government fees can change. The information provided on this page is for general guidance and should be checked against the latest information published by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) before applying.