Everything you Need to know about Study in Canada

Canada attracts students from around the world with its diverse range of university and college programs. Eligible international students may work while studying. After graduation, they may also qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), subject to current eligibility requirements.

Canada has introduced several changes to its international education system in recent years. Study-permit planning now includes 2026 targets and provincial or territorial allocations. Some applicants also need a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL).

Financial requirements for study permits have also been updated. Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) rules now include language requirements. Many non-degree programs may also have field-of-study requirements.

This guide explains the key aspects of studying in Canada in 2027. It covers tuition and living costs, study-permit procedures, and post-study work options. Requirements can change, so applicants should check the latest official rules before applying.

Why Study in Canada?

Canada has several universities with strong positions in global rankings. Four Canadian institutions were placed in the top 100 of the 2026 QS World University Rankings: the University of Toronto, McGill University, the University of British Columbia, and the University of Alberta. University rankings can help students compare institutions.

Canada is culturally diverse and has established Bangladeshi communities, including in Toronto and other major cities. The size of these communities and the support available to students can vary by location.
Tuition fees for international students differ by institution, program, and province. For 2026/2027, Statistics Canada reports average annual tuition of CAD 42,062 for international undergraduate students and CAD 24,693 for international graduate students. These are weighted national averages for full-time international students at publicly funded Canadian degree-granting institutions. The 2026/2027 figures are preliminary.

Eligible international students can work during their studies if they meet the applicable conditions. Graduates of eligible programs at eligible designated learning institutions may qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), provided they meet the relevant requirements.

Canadian institutions also offer co-op, internship, and other work-placement opportunities in many programs. Some placements may be paid, depending on the program and employer. From April 1, 2026, eligible international students no longer need a separate co-op work permit for qualifying student work placements.

Canada provides study options across many academic and career fields. Eligible graduates may also have access to post-study work opportunities under current immigration rules.

Study Programmes in Canada

Canadian institutions offer several levels of study. Each comes with a different duration.

Certificate and diploma programs differ in length depending on the institution and field of study. Certificate programs often take one to two years. Diploma programs commonly take two to three years. Colleges and polytechnics offer many of these programs. They often focus on practical skills in areas such as business, hospitality, and information technology.

Bachelor’s degrees generally require three to four years of full-time study. The duration depends on the institution, province, and program. Quebec follows a different education structure, so program lengths and admission pathways can differ.

Master’s degrees commonly take one to two years of full-time study. Course-based programs may be shorter. Research-based programs can take longer.
Doctoral (PhD) programs often take three to five years. The actual duration depends on the field, institution, and progress of the research.

International students can choose from many fields, including business, computer science, engineering, health sciences, and hospitality. Program duration can affect the length of a PGWP. However, PGWP eligibility also depends on other requirements, including the institution, program type, language proficiency, and, where applicable, the eligible field of study.

Do You Need to Take a Language Test?

International applicants generally need to demonstrate English or French language proficiency. The required test, minimum score, and exemption rules vary by institution, program, and applicant background. These requirements also apply to applicants from Bangladesh.

IELTS Academic and TOEFL iBT are widely accepted. However, institutions may accept different tests or set different minimum scores. Always check the language requirements for your specific program before booking a test.

Canada ended the Student Direct Stream (SDS) on November 8, 2024. New applicants generally follow the regular study-permit process unless another applicable pathway or exemption applies.
Check whether your chosen institution has a validity period for language-test results. Take the test early enough to receive your results before the relevant application deadline.

Academic Intakes for International Students

Canadian institutions may have Fall, Winter, or Summer intakes. Available programs and intake dates differ by institution. Fall is a common intake, while fewer programs may begin in Winter or Summer.
Before applying, check the program’s intake date and application deadline. Also review scholarship deadlines and housing availability if these are relevant to your plans.
Many study-permit applicants need a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL). Since January 1, 2026, eligible students entering degree-granting master’s or doctoral programs at public designated learning institutions (DLIs) are exempt from the PAL/TAL requirement. Quebec follows separate provincial requirements.
Canada’s official guidance recommends starting the planning process well in advance. Applying about one year before the intended start date can provide additional time for admission and study-permit procedures.

Top Universities in Canada

Canada has 30 universities listed in the 2027 QS World University Rankings. Several Canadian universities may be of interest to international students, including applicants from Bangladesh.

Overall rankings are only one factor to consider when comparing institutions. Review the specific program, accreditation, co-op or internship options, location, tuition fees, and expected living expenses. These factors can differ significantly between institutions and programs.

How Much Does It Cost to Study in Canada?

Tuition fees

For 2026/2027, Statistics Canada reports average annual tuition of CAD 42,062 for international undergraduate students and CAD 24,693 for international graduate students. These figures are national weighted averages for full-time international students at publicly funded Canadian degree-granting institutions. The figures are preliminary, and actual tuition can vary significantly by institution, program, and province.
Tuition costs also differ across provinces. In 2026/2027, the average international undergraduate tuition is CAD 50,088 in Ontario and CAD 18,911 in Newfoundland and Labrador.

Accommodation

Accommodation can be a major part of a student’s expenses after tuition. Housing costs depend on the city, neighbourhood, accommodation type, and whether the space is shared. Check current rental or student-housing prices in your chosen city. Use these figures when preparing your study budget.

Living expenses

Living expenses extend beyond accommodation. Students should also plan for groceries, transportation, mobile and internet services, and health insurance. Costs vary according to location and lifestyle.
For study-permit applications submitted on or after September 1, 2026, a single applicant studying outside Quebec must show CAD 23,448 for one year of living expenses. This amount does not include tuition or transportation costs. Higher financial amounts apply when family members accompany the applicant.
The required amount is a financial requirement for the study-permit application. Actual living expenses may be higher, depending on the city and lifestyle. Health-insurance requirements and coverage differ by province and institution. Check the requirements that apply to your chosen institution before preparing your budget.

Part-Time Work Opportunities

Eligible international students may work in Canada while studying. This can help cover some day-to-day expenses.

During regular academic sessions, eligible students can generally work up to 24 hours per week off campus. They may work unlimited hours during scheduled breaks that meet the applicable requirements. Students must meet the relevant eligibility conditions, including being enrolled in an eligible program at a designated learning institution (DLI) and having started their studies. Students in their final semester may also qualify while studying part-time if they meet the other conditions.

Student jobs can include retail, food service, campus work, and tutoring. Available positions depend on the location, employer, and student’s qualifications. A Social Insurance Number (SIN) is required to work in Canada. Students should obtain one before starting employment.

Part-time employment should be treated as a way to help with living expenses. Students should not rely on future employment income to meet their study-permit financial requirements or to cover tuition costs.

What Can I Do After I Graduate in Canada?

Eligible graduates may be able to obtain a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). Eligibility depends on the institution, program, and other applicable requirements. Completing an eligible program does not automatically result in a PGWP.

The length of a PGWP depends on the program and the rules that apply when the application is assessed. A program lasting at least eight months but less than two years may qualify for a permit of up to the program’s length. Programs lasting two years or more may qualify for a PGWP of up to three years. Eligible master’s programs lasting at least eight months may qualify for a three-year PGWP even if the program is shorter than two years.
Graduates generally must apply within 180 days of receiving confirmation that they completed their program. Their study permit must also have been valid at some point during that 180-day period.
Current PGWP applications are subject to language requirements. Graduates of bachelor’s, master’s, doctoral, and other eligible university programs generally need English or French proficiency at CLB/NCLC 7 in all four language abilities. Graduates of eligible college, polytechnic, and other non-university programs generally need CLB/NCLC 5.

For many non-degree programs, the field of study can also affect PGWP eligibility. This requirement generally applies when the study-permit application was submitted on or after November 1, 2024, subject to applicable exceptions.
Canadian work experience may support eligibility for certain permanent-residence pathways, including the Canadian Experience Class and some Provincial Nominee Programs. Each pathway has its own requirements. A PGWP does not guarantee permanent residence.

Study Permit Checklist for Canada

Depending on your circumstances and the personalized IRCC checklist, you may need the following:

• Letter of acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
• Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL), unless you are exempt. Since January 1, 2026, eligible master’s and doctoral students at public DLIs are exempt. Students planning to study in Quebec should check the Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) and separate Quebec requirements.
• Proof of financial support for tuition, transportation, and living expenses. For applications submitted on or after September 1, 2026, one applicant studying outside Quebec must show at least CAD 23,448 for one year of living expenses, excluding tuition and transportation.
• Valid passport with sufficient validity for the intended stay.
• Language-test results, where required by the institution or program.
• Academic transcripts and certificates.
• Letter of explanation, where appropriate or requested.
• Photographs, if required by the personalized IRCC checklist.
• Immigration medical examination, if required under current IRCC rules based on factors such as travel or residence history, intended stay, or intended work.
• Police certificate, if required by IRCC or the relevant visa office.
• Study-permit fee: CAD 150
• Biometrics fee: CAD 85 per person, where required.
• Document and fee requirements can change. Review the current IRCC requirements and personalized checklist before submitting your application.

How to Study in Canada from Bangladesh

Here is a practical pathway for Bangladeshi students planning to study in Canada:

• Check the institution and program: Confirm that your chosen institution is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Check the specific program’s eligibility for benefits such as a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).
• Research your options: Compare programs and institutions based on your academic background, budget, location, and career plans.
• Complete any required language test: Take an accepted English or French language test, if required. Check your institution’s accepted tests and minimum scores before booking the test.
• Apply to institutions: Submit applications to your selected institutions. If admitted, obtain your Letter of Acceptance (LOA).
• Complete post-admission requirements: Follow your institution’s instructions for accepting the offer. Obtain a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) if required. If studying in Quebec, check the Quebec Acceptance Certificate (CAQ) requirements.
• Prepare your finances: Show that you can cover your tuition, living expenses, and transportation without depending on future employment in Canada. If your program lasts more than one year, explain how you plan to fund the remaining study period. Depending on your circumstances, acceptable evidence may include bank statements, education loans, scholarships, tuition payments, or a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC).
• Apply for a study permit: Submit your application online through the IRCC account or application portal applicable to you. Include the required documents and information.
  Complete biometrics and medical requirements: Provide biometrics and undergo a medical examination if IRCC requires them.
• Prepare for travel: Once your application is approved, follow IRCC’s instructions. Arrange accommodation and travel. Carry the required approval documents, passport, and other relevant travel documents when travelling to Canada.

Study-permit processing times vary. Apply early enough to accommodate your chosen intake and processing period.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right country, university, and programme is a big decision. Getting it right the first time saves you both time and money. If you’d like personalized support, from shortlisting universities to preparing your study-permit application, the counsellors at Career Paths can guide you through your Canada study journey.