Total Cost to Study in Canada from Nepal Guide 2026
Canada is one of the most popular study destinations for Nepali students, offering world-class education, post-study work rights, and a clear PR pathway. The total first-year cost typically ranges between NPR 25 -55 lakhs, depending on your program, province, and lifestyle.
Tuition Fees
Tuition is the largest expense. Costs vary by program level where diploma programs are the most affordable entry point, while master’s degrees sit at the higher end.
| Program | Annual Cost (CAD) | In NPR |
| Diploma | 10,000 -15,000 | 10 -15 Lakhs |
| Bachelor’s | 12,000 -30,000 | 12 -30 Lakhs |
| Master’s | 18,000 -35,000 | 18 -35 Lakhs |
| PhD | 15,000 -25,000 | 15 -25 Lakhs |
Living Expenses
Living costs depend heavily on which province you choose. Manitoba and Saskatchewan are significantly cheaper than Ontario or British Columbia often saving students NPR 5 -7 lakhs per year.
| Expense | Annual (CAD) | In NPR |
| Accommodation | 7,000 -12,000 | 7 -12 Lakhs |
| Food & Groceries | 3,000 -5,000 | 3 -5 Lakhs |
| Transport & Utilities | 1,000 -2,000 | 1 -2 Lakhs |
| Miscellaneous | 1,000 -2,000 | 1 -2 Lakhs |
| Total | 13,000 -20,000 | 13 -20 Lakhs |
Student Visa Cost from Nepal
Applying for a Canadian study permit involves three fees. Budget NPR 33,500 -38,500 and start the process at least 2–3 months before your intended intake.
| Fee | CAD | NPR |
| Study Permit | 150 | 15,000 |
| Biometrics | 85 | 8,500 |
| Medical Exam | 100 -150 | 10,000 -15,000 |
| Total | 335 -385 | 33,500 -38,500 |
Additional Expenses
Beyond tuition and rent, there are several one-time and recurring costs most students underestimate. Set aside an extra NPR 3 – 5 lakhs before departure.
| Expense | Cost (NPR) |
| University Application Fees | 5,000 -15,000 per university |
| Health Insurance | 60,000 -1,00,000/year |
| English Test (Prep + Exam) | 35,000 -40,000 |
| Airfare | 1,00,000 -1,50,000 |
| Books & Supplies | 40,000 -50,000/year |
| Initial Settlement | 1,00,000 -1,50,000 |
Cheapest Courses in Canada for Nepali Students
These diploma and certificate programs offer lower tuition, strong job demand, and good PR pathways making them the most practical choice for budget-conscious students.
| Course | Annual (CAD) | In NPR |
| Office Administration | 12,000 -16,000 | 12 -16 Lakhs |
| Early Childhood Education | 13,000 -16,000 | 13 -16 Lakhs |
| Hospitality Management | 13,000 -17,000 | 13 -17 Lakhs |
| IT & Computer Technician | 14,000 -17,000 | 14 -17 Lakhs |
| Business Administration | 14,000 -18,000 | 14 -18 Lakhs |
| Supply Chain Management | 14,000 -18,000 | 14 -18 Lakhs |
| Health Care Assistant | 14,000 -18,000 | 14 -18 Lakhs |
Most Affordable Universities in Canada
These publicly funded universities offer quality education at below-average tuition rates. Brandon University in Manitoba is the most affordable option for Nepali students, with tuition starting at just CAD 8,000 per year.
| University | Province | Annual (CAD) | In NPR |
| Brandon University | Manitoba | 8,000 -12,000 | 8 -12 Lakhs |
| Memorial University | Newfoundland | 10,000 -15,000 | 10 -15 Lakhs |
| University of Prince Edward Island | Prince Edward Island | 12,000 -16,000 | 12 -16 Lakhs |
| University of Regina | Saskatchewan | 12,000 -17,000 | 12 -17 Lakhs |
| University of Manitoba | Manitoba | 12,000 -18,000 | 12 -18 Lakhs |
| Thompson Rivers University | BC | 15,000 -18,000 | 15 -18 Lakhs |
| Cape Breton University | Nova Scotia | 15,000 -18,000 | 15 -18 Lakhs |
Bank Balance Required
To get a Canadian study permit, you must show proof of funds covering one full year of tuition plus at least CAD 22,895 (approx. NPR 23 lakhs) for living costs. Most Nepali students need to demonstrate NPR 45 -70 lakhs in total. Gathering your financial documents early with insufficient funds is one of the most common reasons for visa refusal.
