Educads

Studying in Canada in 2026

Canada uses English and French in daily life, and international students apply for a Study Permit. There are 156 universities, including McGill, Toronto, UBC, Waterloo, McMaster, and Acadia.

The academic year varies by university, so check dates once you choose a program. Many students look at Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Waterloo, and Hamilton when deciding where to live and study.

Housing is usually arranged around the city and university you choose. For a new arrival, the first term is about settling into classes, learning how your university runs, and getting used to living in a place where English and French may both appear in daily life.

Canada’s price level was 93% of the United States in 2023. That gives a useful sense of everyday costs for someone comparing study options, though the exact amount will depend on the city and university.

If you are planning a move, start with the Study Permit and then narrow your choice by language, city, and course fit. With 156 universities, you can compare a range of settings from large cities to smaller university towns.

Universities in Canada

MC McGill University logo

McGill University

Montreal, Quebec, Canada · Public University

★ 77 QS World #29 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
CAD 43,000 – CAD 58,000/yr
Founded
1821
UT University of Toronto logo

University of Toronto

Toronto, Ontario, Canada · Public University

★ 75 QS World #21 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
CAD 52,000 – CAD 70,500/yr
Founded
1827
UB University of British Columbia logo

University of British Columbia

Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada · Public University

★ 75 QS World #34 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
CAD 46,000 – CAD 62,500/yr
Founded
1908
WA University of Waterloo logo

University of Waterloo

Waterloo, Ontario, Canada · Public University

★ 66 QS World #112 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
CAD 48,500 – CAD 65,500/yr
Founded
1957
MC McMaster University logo

McMaster University

Hamilton, Ontario, Canada · Public University

★ 63 QS World #176 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
CAD 46,000 – CAD 62,500/yr
Founded
1887
AU Acadia University logo

Acadia University

Canada · Public University

★ 27 Admissions open
Tuition (indicative)
Founded

All universities in Canada →

Questions about student life in Canada

What language will I use day to day in Canada?

English and French are both used in daily life.

How many universities are in Canada?

There are 156 universities.

What permit do international students need?

International students apply for a Study Permit.

Student cities in Canada

Each one has its own guide to life, costs and working.

More on Canada: destination overview · universities · scholarships · student visa

Stay updated

Get admission alerts, scholarship deadlines & university news — free.