Canada

Cost of Studying in Canada from Pakistan (2026 Guide)

By Zain Ahmed•7 min read

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Complete Financial Roadmap for Pakistani Students Heading to Canada

Canada continues to be a premium destination for students from Pakistan. With the Student Direct Stream (SDS) changes, students need to plan their finances carefully. Here is the realistic cost of studying in Canada in 2026.

1. Tuition Fees

Tuition fees vary significantly depending on your program and university.

Undergraduate Programs: C$15,000 to C$35,000 per year.

Postgraduate Programs: C$18,000 to C$40,000 per year.

Colleges/Diplomas: C$12,000 to C$22,000 per year.

2. The GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate) Requirement

From 2024 onwards, Canada increased the GIC requirement to C$20,635 for a single applicant to reflect the true cost of living. This must be deposited into a Canadian bank (like Scotiabank, CIBC, or Simplii Financial) before applying for a study permit. You will receive this money back in monthly installments during your first year.

3. Visa Fees & Biometrics

Study Permit Fee: C$150 (approx. PKR 31,000 depending on exchange rate).

Biometrics Fee: C$85 (approx. PKR 17,500).

4. Flight Tickets

A one-way ticket from Karachi, Lahore, or Islamabad to Toronto or Vancouver typically ranges from PKR 250,000 to PKR 450,000 (C$1,200 to C$2,200) depending on the airline and season.

5. Health Insurance

International students must have health insurance. Some provinces include it in tuition or offer provincial plans, while others require private plans. Budget around C$600 to C$1,000 per year.

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