Canada has become a hotspot for international students seeking affordable and high-quality education. Pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) in Canada offers a great balance of cost-effectiveness and career opportunities. On average, tuition fees range from CAD 13,000 to CAD 20,000 annually. Renowned institutions like Humber College, Seneca College, and George Brown College offer PGD programs tailored to industry needs. Curious about the exact costs and potential benefits? Let’s break down the cost of studying PG Diploma in Canada.
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Total Costs of Studying for PG Diploma in Canada
The total estimated costs of studying for a PG Diploma in Canada range from CAD 20,000 to CAD 50,000. These include tuition costs, living expenses, and additional costs. Depending on the program and location, the costs of studying in Canada can vary significantly.
Low Range: CAD 20,000 to CAD 30,000
For students studying in less expensive cities and pursuing more affordable programs, the total annual cost typically falls between CAD 20,000 and CAD 30,000. This estimate includes:
- Tuition Fees: Programs such as Agricultural Sciences, Environmental Science, and Finance may cost around CAD 14,000 to CAD 20,000 annually.
- Living Expenses: Students living in cities like Guelph, Winnipeg, or Saskatoon may have lower accommodation and transportation costs, usually ranging from CAD 10,000 to CAD 12,000.
- Other Costs: Including health insurance (around CAD 600 to CAD 1,000), application fees, and miscellaneous expenses like food, transportation, and entertainment.
High Range: CAD 35,000 or More
In major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, or Montreal, the total annual cost can exceed CAD 35,000 due to higher tuition fees and living expenses. This higher range includes:
- Tuition Fees: Programs in fields like Engineering, Computing and IT, and Pharmacy typically cost between CAD 16,000 and CAD 25,000 annually.
- Living Expenses: Cities like Toronto and Vancouver have high rental prices. A student may spend CAD 12,000 to CAD 18,000 per year on accommodation and utilities, depending on whether they live on-campus, share accommodation, or rent a private apartment.
- Other Costs: Health insurance (CAD 600–1,000), application fees, and unforeseen expenses (around CAD 2,000).
Also Read: Get detailed information about the cost of studying MBBS in Canada. Make informed decisions about your medical career in top Canadian universities for MBBS.
Tuition Fees for PG Diploma in Canada
PG in Canada is one of the cheapest courses for international students in Canada. The tuition cost of pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma (PG Diploma) in Canada varies widely based on the institution, field of study, and program duration. On average, it ranges between CAD 13,000 to CAD 25,000 annually.
Programs in high-demand fields such as engineering, IT, and healthcare tend to have higher fees compared to business or humanities. These costs are complemented by living expenses, which typically range from CAD 10,000 to CAD 15,000 annually.
University- wise Tuition Fees
| Institution | Popular Courses | Annual Tuition (CAD) | Additional Details |
| Conestoga College | Project Management, IT, Accounting | 16,000 to 18,000 | Renowned for co-op programs offering work experience |
| Humber College | Business, International Business, HRM | 15,000 to 20,000 | Strong industry ties, great for networking |
| Centennial College | Marketing, Hospitality Management | 14,000 to 18,000 | Known for its career-focused programs |
| Niagara College | IT, Business, Healthcare | 13,000 to 16,000 | Focused on applied learning in cutting-edge facilities |
| Algonquin College | Financial Planning, Social Services | 15,000 to 17,000 | Combines technical education with practical training |
| University of the Fraser Valley | Data Analytics, Supply Chain Management | 15,000 to 20,000 | Specializes in practical programs for industry applications |
| Bow Valley College | Human Resource Management | 14,000 to 16,000 | Affordable options with flexible learning paths. |
| Saskatchewan Polytechnic | IT, Engineering Technology | 14,000 to 18,000 | Highly ranked for its engineering and technical courses |
Field-wise Tuition Fees
Programs in technical fields like engineering, IT, or healthcare typically fall on the higher end, while those in humanities or business may be more moderate. Here are the tuition fees for a PG Diploma in Canada in popular fields-
| Field | Program Examples | Annual Tuition (CAD) | Institutions |
| Engineering and IT | IT, Engineering Technology | 16,000 to 25,000 | Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Saskatchewan Polytechnic, University of Fraser Valley |
| Business and Management | International Business, Marketing, HRM | 14,000 to 20,000 | Humber College, Centennial College, Conestoga College |
| Healthcare and Sciences | Healthcare Administration, Biotechnology | 15,000 to 22,000 | Niagara College, Algonquin College |
Cost of Studying Top 10 PG Diploma Courses in Canada
Canada offers the most industry-focused affordable Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) programs. These courses are popular among international students looking for career advancement in fields such as Engineering, Computing and IT, Business Management, Pharmacy, and Agricultural Sciences. The costs for these programs vary depending on the field, institution, and location, ranging between CAD 14,000 to CAD 25,000 annually.
| Course | Average Annual Tuition (CAD) | Top Institutions |
| Accounting | 15,000 to 20,000 | Centennial College, Humber College, University of Fraser Valley |
| Business Management and Commerce | 14,000 to 20,000 | Conestoga College, Algonquin College, Niagara College |
| Computing and IT | 16,000 to 25,000 | Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Sheridan College |
| Biological and Life Sciences | 15,000 to 22,000 | Algonquin College, University of Guelph, Niagara College |
| Engineering | 16,000 to 25,000 | Saskatchewan Polytechnic, George Brown College, Sheridan College |
| Environmental Science | 14,000 to 22,000 | Fanshawe College, University of Fraser Valley |
| Health and Medicine | 15,000 to 22,000 | Centennial College, Conestoga College, Niagara College |
| Pharmacy | 15,000 to 23,000 | Algonquin College, Saskatchewan Polytechnic |
| Finance | 14,000 to 20,000 | Humber College, Centennial College, Conestoga College |
| Agricultural Sciences | 14,000 to 18,000 | University of Guelph, Saskatchewan Polytechnic |
Also Read: Plan your budget effectively and know the costs of studying for an MBA in Canada. Discover career prospects, and post-graduation opportunities in Canada’s competitive job market.
Living Expenses in Canada
Canada is one of the most welcoming countries for international students, offering excellent educational opportunities. However, the cost of living in Canada can vary significantly depending on factors such as location, lifestyle, and housing preferences. For students pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma (PGD), it is essential to budget effectively to cover accommodation, food, transportation, and other expenses.
| Category | Cost Range (CAD/year) | Details |
| Accommodation | 6,000 to 12,000 | On-campus housing is convenient but costly; shared off-campus apartments are cheaper. |
| Food and Groceries | 2,500 to 4,000 | Monthly grocery bills range from CAD 200 to 300; dining out increases costs. |
| Transportation | 500 to 1,500 | Monthly public transit passes range from CAD 50 to 150, depending on the city. |
| Miscellaneous | 2,000 to 4,000 | Covers utilities, internet, entertainment, clothing, and personal expenses. |
| Health Insurance | 600 to 900 | Mandatory for international students, varies by province and coverage plan. |
Additional Costs of Studying for PG Diploma in Canada
In addition to tuition and living expenses, international students must plan for other costs associated with studying in Canada. These include health insurance, application fees, maintaining a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) Account, and setting aside a buffer for unforeseen expenses.
Health Insurance
Health insurance is mandatory for international students in Canada, with costs and coverage varying by province. For students in provinces without public coverage (e.g., Ontario, Quebec), private insurance costs between CAD 600 and CAD 1,000 per year. Institutions often include health insurance in the tuition fee or offer plans via third-party providers.
Application and Visa Costs
- Application Fees: Each institution charges approximately CAD 50 to CAD 150 per program for the Canada visa application fee.
- Visa Application Fee: Students need to pay CAD 150 to apply for a study permit.
- Biometric Fee: Required for visa applications, costing CAD 85.
- English Proficiency Tests: If required, students may need to take IELTS (CAD 250) or TOEFL (CAD 300). Retakes may add to this cost.
Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC)
To meet Canada’s financial requirements under the Student Direct Stream (SDS) for study permits. All international students must open a GIC account with a Canadian bank (e.g., Scotiabank, CIBC and maintain a minimum bank balance for a Canada student visa.
You are required to deposit CAD 10,000, which covers the first year’s living expenses. The amount is returned in monthly instalments once the student arrives in Canada.
Buffer for Unforeseen Expenses
International students should set aside funds for unforeseen costs, such as:
- Emergency Medical Needs: Not covered under basic health insurance, such as dental or vision care.
- Seasonal Expenses: Winter clothing costs CAD 300 to 500.
- Inflation and Currency Fluctuations: Ensure a buffer for any unexpected increases in living or tuition costs.
| Expenses | Estimated Cost (CAD) | Comments |
| Health Insurance | 600 to 1,000 | Varies by province and institution. |
| Application Fees (per application) | 50 to 150 | Depends on the institution. |
| Visa Application Fee | 150 | Non-refundable. |
| Biometric Fee | 85 | Required for visa processing. |
| English Proficiency Tests (if needed) | 250 to 350 | IELTS or TOEFL test fees. |
| GIC Account | 10,000 | Required under SDS for living expenses. |
| Buffer for Unforeseen Expenses | 1,000 to 2,000 | Covers emergencies, inflation, and miscellaneous costs. |
The cost of studying a PGD in Canada can vary greatly depending on the program and the city in which you study. On average, you should budget between CAD 20,000 and CAD 30,000 per year for a more affordable experience. However, if you plan to study in cities like Toronto or Vancouver, where both tuition and living expenses are higher, the cost could exceed CAD 35,000 annually.
By planning and budgeting carefully, international students can manage their finances effectively, ensuring a smooth and successful academic journey in Canada.
To learn more about education loans, the best bank accounts for students, forex, banking experience for global students, or international money transfers, reach out to our experts at 1800572126 to help ease your experience with studying abroad.
FAQs
A PG Diploma is a shorter, industry-focused program designed to enhance specific skills. It’s more practical and faster to complete than a Master’s degree.
Top institutions for PG Diplomas include the University of Toronto, Centennial College, Humber College, and George Brown College. These universities offer high-quality, career-oriented programs.
Tuition fees range from CAD 13,000 to CAD 25,000 annually, depending on the program. Living expenses typically add another CAD 10,000 to CAD 18,000 per year.
Additional costs include health insurance (CAD 600–1,000), application fees (CAD 50–150), and visa fees (CAD 150). Living expenses vary by location.
Yes, international students need a study permit if studying for more than six months. You’ll also need proof of funds, like a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC).
International students can work up to 20 hours per week during studies and full-time during breaks. Work experience helps offset living costs and gain practical skills.
Yes, many institutions offer merit-based or need-based scholarships. You can also apply for government-funded scholarships like the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships.
Graduates can pursue careers in business, IT, engineering, and healthcare. Canada’s demand for skilled professionals offers strong job prospects.
Yes, PG Diploma holders can apply for permanent residency through programs like Express Entry or the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP). A Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) can help.
Most programs require a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, English proficiency, and proof of funds. Some institutions may also request letters of recommendation or a statement of purpose.
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