Canada is renowned for its high-quality education system and globally recognized universities. Because Canadian degrees are widely respected and valued in the job market, international students studying a master's in Canada will have a competitive edge in their respective fields upon graduation.

Many master's in Canada can also be completed within two years, allowing students to take advantage of the post-graduation work permit, enabling them to stay in the country for the same duration of time as the course they take up. Keep reading ahead to find all the relevant information if you want to study master's in Canada.

Learn more about studying an MS in Canada below and if you would like to begin your application, or have any further questions answered, contact SI-Canada today for a free consultation on your future.

Why Study a Master’s in Canada?

Every year, thousands of international students choose to study in Canada, and many take up master's programs in their respective fields.

1. Academic excellence

Canadian universities are renowned worldwide for their educational programs in multiple disciplines. Many universities in Canada consistently rank among the top in global university ranking systems, offering high-quality education and exceptional research opportunities in their master's programs. Canada’s education system is also known for its cooperative programs, which allow students to gain hands-on experience through internships. 

2. Diverse and inclusive environment

Canada has a multicultural society wherein individuals from different cultural backgrounds live and thrive together. This environment provides an inclusive and welcoming atmosphere for students from around the world, enhancing their overall learning experience. 

3. Post-graduation work opportunities

Canada allows its students to stay back in the country for a duration of up to 3 years after their graduation. The post-study work permit also acts as a favorable immigration policy, allowing graduates to add their work experience as part of their permanent residence application if they decide to settle in Canada. 

4. Bilingual environment

Students who are proficient in either English or French can apply to study in Canada. The country is officially bilingual, enabling students with knowledge of either language to advance in their academic fields. People who are proficient in both languages stand to gain even more attractive opportunities in the job market. 

Types of Master's in Canada

In Canada, students pursuing master's degree programs can choose from various disciplines.

• Master of Arts (MA): This degree is typically awarded in humanities and social science disciplines, including literature, history, sociology, and political science.
• Master of Science (MSc): Awarded in scientific and technical disciplines, the MSc is common in engineering, computer science, physics, and biology.
• Master of Business Administration (MBA): An MBA is chosen by students seeking advanced business and management knowledge. It often includes courses in finance, marketing, strategy, and leadership.
• Master of Engineering (MEng): This degree is focused on engineering disciplines and provides an advanced level of training in areas such as civil, mechanical, electrical, or aerospace engineering.
• Master of Education (MEd): Geared towards educators and professionals in the education sector, an MEd covers curriculum development, educational leadership, and instructional design.
• Master of Laws (LLM): Aimed towards educating law professionals, an LLM provides advanced knowledge in specific legal areas such as international law, environmental law, or human rights law.
• Master of Fine Arts (MFA): This degree is awarded in creative disciplines such as visual arts, creative writing, or performing arts and often involves a significant creative or artistic project as part of the course. 

Master’s Costs and Fees in Canada

The cost of pursuing a master's degree in Canada would generally vary on factors such as the university, specific program, and the location in which your institution is situated. For international students, master's program tuition fees typically range from CAD 10,000 to CAD 60,000 per year, with professional programs like MBA potentially costing even more.

Apart from the tuition costs, students also need to consider the living costs, which can range from CAD 10,000 to CAD 20,000 per year. The final actual prices would vary depending on your city, as these costs are higher in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver.

Eligibility Criteria for MS in Canada

You must find the eligibility criteria for the program you wish to study in Canada, as there might be variations according to the specific university or courses you apply to. However, certain common factors in the Canadian education system exist, which are discussed below:

• Bachelor's degree: Most master’s programs require applicants to hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution.
• Academic performance: A competitive GPA (Grade Point Average) is often a major requirement by renowned universities. The minimum GPA can vary by program and institution, but competitive programs may require a higher GPA.
• English language proficiency: Since most master's programs in Canada are taught in English, international students are usually required to demonstrate proficiency in the language. Commonly accepted language proficiency tests include TOEFL and PTE. 
• Standardized tests: Some programs may ask you to present the scores of standardized tests such as the GRE or GMAT, especially for fields like business or engineering.
• Portfolio (for certain programs): Applicants to creative or arts-related programs may be required to submit a portfolio showcasing their work or achievements in the respective field.
• Interview (if applicable): Some programs or universities may conduct interviews in person or via video conferencing as part of the selection process.
• Work experience (if applicable): Certain programs, particularly professional or executive master's programs like the MBA, may require applicants to have relevant work experience and academic qualifications.
• Additional program-specific requirements: Depending on the field of study, some programs may have specific prerequisites or requirements. For instance, a master's in Public Health may require a background in health-related fields.

Admission Requirements for MS in Canada

If you are eligible to apply to the program of choice, you must apply to the university’s official website. The overall admission requirements for master's programs in Canada vary among universities and specific courses, but there are common elements that many institutions consider. The major admission requirements are mentioned below:

• Strong educational background: A completed undergraduate degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution is a fundamental requirement, and it is better if your degree is in the field in which you wish to pursue the master’s program. Your academic record should also be strong, especially if you want to take up professional programs. 
• English language proficiency: International applicants whose primary language is not English are usually required to demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized test scores. 
• Standardized tests (if applicable): Some programs, especially in business or engineering, may require standardized GRE or GMAT test scores. 
• Letters of recommendation: Most master's programs require letters of recommendation from professors or professionals who can attest to your academic abilities and potential for success in the graduate program.
• Statement of purpose (SOP) or Personal Statement: A well-articulated statement of purpose is often required as part of the admission process. This document should outline your academic and career goals, reasons for choosing the specific program, and what you hope to achieve.
• Resume: A detailed resume or CV is usually required for master’s programs, which outlines your academic and professional experiences, achievements, and skills.
• Interview (if applicable): Some programs or universities may conduct interviews during selection.

Master's Scholarships in Canada

Canada offers numerous scholarships for international students pursuing master's degrees, supporting them in achieving their academic goals. Some prominent scholarships for master's in Canada include:

• Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program: Administered by the Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE), this scholarship program provides opportunities for students from Commonwealth countries to pursue master's programs in Canada.
• IDRC Research Awards: The International Development Research Centre (IDRC) offers research awards to graduate students, including those at the master's level, conducting research in areas related to international development.
• Ontario Graduate Scholarship: OGS is a merit-based scholarship available to international students pursuing graduate studies in Ontario, and it is awarded to eligible candidates based on academic excellence and research potential.
• University-specific scholarships: Many Canadian universities offer scholarships for international master's students. Examples include the University of Toronto's Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship and the University of British Columbia's International Leader of Tomorrow Award.
• Canadian Francophonie Scholarship Program (CFSP): This scholarship supports students pursuing master’s programs from francophone countries, and French-speaking students can take advantage of this scholarship program to study master's courses in Canada. 

Job Opportunities

Master's graduates in Canada can get many job opportunities across various sectors. Academia and research roles in universities or research institutions are common for master’s students, as are positions in the corporate sector, such as business analytics, consulting, and project management. In healthcare, graduates can find roles in healthcare management, public health, and research roles. Information technology offers software development, data analysis, and artificial intelligence opportunities. Engineering graduates may work in research and development or project management. Government agencies can offer positions in public policy development, while non-profit and NGOs address social impact and advocacy.

Study an MS in Canada

Do you want to apply to study a master's course at a Canadian university or college? Contact SI-Canada today for a free consultation on your future.