Study in Canada in 2025: A Complete Guide for International Students | Updated with Financial Requirements

Thinking of studying in Canada in 2025? Learn about new visa requirements, tuition fees, scholarships, and top universities. Let StudyCo guide your study abroad dream.

STUDYABROADCANADASCHOLARSHIPSSTUDYINCANADAINTERNATIONAL STUDENTS

AJ Asif

7/6/20253 min read

Toronto building with lights
Toronto building with lights

In 2025, Canada remains a top-tier destination for international students seeking a high-quality education, a multicultural environment, and pathways to permanent residency. With recent updates from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on financial requirements for study permits, it’s crucial to be informed and well-prepared. As someone working with thousands of international students each year, I’ve seen the real impact Canada has on their lives and careers. In this in-depth blog, we’ll explore everything from top universities and in-demand programs to visa processes, updated financial requirements, and how StudyCo can guide you throughout your journey.

Why Choose Canada to Study in 2025?

Canada continues to be one of the most popular study-abroad destinations for students from Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. According to Times Higher Education, Canadian universities consistently rank among the best globally.

Key Advantages:

  • Globally Recognized Degrees from institutions like University of Toronto, McGill University, and UBC.

  • Safe and Multicultural Society with student-friendly cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.

  • Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for up to 3 years.

  • Express Entry & PNP pathways for permanent residency.

Stay informed with real-time updates from GlobalStudyNews.com.

Top Universities in Canada for 2025

Here are some of the most sought-after universities for international students in 2025:

  • University of Toronto – Best for research, AI, medicine, and humanities.

  • University of British Columbia – Highly ranked for sustainability, engineering, and IT.

  • McGill University – Known for healthcare and legal studies.

  • University of Waterloo – Leader in co-op programs and tech innovation.

  • Western University – Excellent for business, finance, and arts.

Explore more on StudyCo’s platform.

In-Demand Programs in 2025

Canadian job trends shape student interest. Top career-ready fields include:

  • Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence

  • Cybersecurity & Data Analytics

  • Nursing & Public Health

  • Renewable Energy & Environmental Science

  • Business Administration

  • Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Software)

Job Bank Canada highlights high-demand sectors for graduates. Check this blog for detailed guidance.

Tuition and Living Costs in 2025

Studying in Canada is more affordable compared to countries like the USA and UK. Here's an estimate:

Tuition:

  • Undergraduate: CAD 15,000–35,000/year

  • Postgraduate: CAD 18,000–45,000/year

Living Expenses:

  • Accommodation: CAD 8,000–12,000/year

  • Food & Utilities: CAD 3,000–6,000/year

  • Health Insurance: CAD 600–1,200/year

New update from IRCC:

As of September 1, 2025, all study permit applicants must show CAN$22,895 for one year of living expenses excluding tuition and travel.

Family SizeFunds Required1CAN$22,8952CAN$28,5023CAN$35,040

This aligns with Canada’s effort to reflect rising living costs. Read more.

Accepted proof of funds includes:

  • Bank statements (past 4 months)

  • GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate)

  • Education loans

  • Scholarship proof

For personalized cost analysis, speak with StudyCo’s advisors.

Scholarships for International Students in 2025

Scholarships can reduce financial burden significantly. Major awards include:

  • Lester B. Pearson Scholarship (University of Toronto)

  • Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Postgraduate, CAD 50,000/year)

  • UBC International Scholars Program

  • StudyCo Partnership Scholarships – Exclusive for our students

ScholarshipsCanada.com and EduCanada offer regularly updated databases.

Learn more about top scholarships here.

Canada Student Visa Process

You must secure a Study Permit from IRCC. Here's what’s needed:

  1. Letter of Acceptance from a DLI

  2. Financial Proof (as per the updated IRCC requirement)

  3. Medical & Biometrics

  4. IELTS/TOEFL/PTE Scores (minimum 6.0 IELTS bands for UG)

  5. Statement of Purpose (SOP)

  6. Tuition Fee Receipt or GIC

IRCC’s portal provides complete instructions.

StudyCo offers complete assistance—from document prep to final application tracking. Talk to us now.

Part-Time Work & Post-Study Opportunities

Students can work 20 hours/week during semesters and full-time during breaks.

PGWP (Post-Graduation Work Permit):

  • Valid up to 3 years based on course duration

  • Allows real-world work experience

High-demand job areas:

  • IT & Engineering

  • Health & Social Services

  • Logistics

  • Retail & Finance

Visit Job Bank Canada for openings.

StudyCo helps students build resumes, prepare for interviews, and access job portals.

PR Pathways After Graduation

Graduates can settle permanently via:

  • Express Entry – Canadian Experience Class

  • Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

  • Atlantic Immigration Pilot

The new Express Entry draws prioritize graduates from DLIs.

Check eligibility on Canada.ca. StudyCo also provides post-study immigration counseling.

How StudyCo Helps You Succeed

With operations across 17+ countries, StudyCo is your one-stop solution for studying in Canada. We provide:

  • Free Application Support to over 200 Canadian institutions

  • Tailored Counseling to match your goals with the right program

  • Visa Filing & SOP Assistance

  • Accommodation & Arrival Services

  • IELTS/PTE Coaching & Scholarship Guidance

Whether you’re from Pakistan, UAE, Egypt, Sri Lanka, or Oman, UAE, KSA, India we are with you at every step.

Explore how we’ve helped students like you.

Final Thoughts

Studying in Canada in 2025 is more competitive, but also more rewarding. From revised financial requirements to world-class universities, the journey needs careful planning and expert help.

As a regional head at StudyCo, I personally guide students and teams across regions. I’ve seen lives change when students make informed, strategic choices.

Let StudyCo be your guide in 2025.

Written by: AJ Asif
Regional Operations Manager – StudyCo
📧 asif.javed@studyco.com
📞 +971 50 881 8156