1 Year Master's Programs in Canada for International Students

You should pursue a 1-year master’s in Canada as it offers world-class education, lower tuition costs, faster entry into the job market, and a strong pathway to work opportunities and permanent residency.

Canada is a popular choice amongst students for overseas education. As of 2024,, the country is home to more than 900,000 international students and this number is going up every year. 

Here are some reasons to pursue a year master's in Canada

• High-Quality Education: Canada has 11 universities in the QS World Top 250, offering research-driven and industry-relevant master's degrees in business, engineering, IT, healthcare, and more.

• Lower Tuition Fees & Living Costs: A 1-year master's costs between CAD 15,000 - 45,000 (INR 9-27 lakhs), which is 50% cheaper than a two-year programme, helping students save money.

• Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): Canada offers special benefits to its international students such as a post-graduation work permit if the student is eligible. This allows them to work part-time on-campus or outside for up to 20 hours per week during their academic session.

• Industry-Focused & Job-Ready: The curriculum is packed with internships, co-op placements, and real-world projects, ensuring students gain hands-on experience and build industry connections.

• High Salary Potential: Graduates from 1-year master’s programmes earn an average salary of CAD 65,000 - 90,000 (INR 40-55 lakhs), depending on the industry and job role.

• Strong PR Opportunities: A Canadian degree and work experience significantly boosts your chances of permanent residency (PR) under Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programmes (PNPs).

Suggested: Top 10 Reasons to Study in Canada

You can pursue a one-year master's program in Canada from top-ranked universities in the world offering an array of degree programs. 

Universities in Canada like the University of Toronto, McGill University, and UBC provide intensive, research-driven programs across fields such as engineering, business analytics, and data science. These programs not only offer world-class education but also provide strong industry connections and co-op opportunities. The tuition fees vary significantly, ranging from INR 9 lakhs to 51 lakhs (CAD 15,000 - 86,000) depending on the university and course. 

Listed below are the top 10 universities in Canada according to QS Universities, that offer a year Master's in Canada for international students:

Let’s look at the top 5 of these universities with details about their course, fee ranking, etc.

1. University of Toronto

The University of Toronto, Ontario, offers one of the best 1-year master's programs in the country. Some of the top one-year master's courses are in management analytics, physiology, and family and community medicine. The duration of the courses is between 11 months to 1 year. Students will gain a proper understanding of different concepts such as management, medicine, physiology, and much more.

2. McGill University

McGill University is a reputed public research university in Canada and is ranked among the top 30 research institutes in the country. Excellent master's programs are being offered here in specializations such as master of science in food science and master of science in microbiology and immunology. Pursuing a 1-year master's course in Canada will enable students to combine all master's level concepts into a single year and gain insights into the food services and healthcare industries.

3. University of British Columbia

The University of British Columbia is consistently ranked among Canada's top 20 public research universities and is deemed a global center for research and teaching. The University offers one-year master's programs in diverse subjects such as food sciences, business analytics, data science, etc. Students will also be trained in the aspects of science, technology, and analysis from these MS programs.

4. Queen's University

Queen’s University at Kingston is a leading research university offering one-year MS courses for students. One can choose from diverse specializations offered at the university, such as a master in management in artificial intelligence or a master of science in biostatistics. These courses allow students to take part in research activities, projects, and seminars. The curriculum also includes scientific studies, thesis writing, and internship opportunities for students.

5. University of Alberta

The University of Alberta, Edmonton, is among the leading public research-intensive universities in the world. The university is renowned for offering numerous academic opportunities to students. They can get their one-year MS degree in different specializations such as environment engineering, public health, etc. Even though the total duration is 15-20 months for these courses, students can complete them in 1 year according to their pace.

You can choose a one-year master’s course in Canada in fields like finance, computer science, marketing, law, and more. In 2024, the demand for tech and business professionals in Canada is very high. Careers in data science, AI, and finance are among the best-paying options right now.

Many students from top programs such as the MSc in Data Science at UBC (around INR 37 lakhs) or the MBA in Global Banking and Finance at York University (around INR 44 lakhs) get high-paying jobs after graduation. These degrees are a smart choice if you want a good return on your investment.

Some of the popular 1-year master's programs in Canada are listed below:

To apply for a 1-year master’s programme in Canada, you need to submit specific documents. The most important ones include academic transcripts, English proficiency scores, and a Statement of Purpose (SOP). Many universities also require work experience, GRE/GMAT scores, and proof of finances.

Canada’s international student acceptance rate stands at approximately 60%, with top universities like Toronto, UBC, and McGill being more competitive. Submitting a strong application with all required documents can significantly improve your chances of admission.

Eligibility Criteria and Admission Requirements for 1-year Masters (MS) in Canada

International students are required to fulfill admission requirements for 1-year post-graduate courses in Canada. Following are some basic admission requirements for international students:

• Bachelor’s Degree
• Entrance Test Scores
• Work Experience
• English Language Proficiency Test Scores
• Canada Student Visa
• Additional Requirements

Suggested: Check Eligibility for Indian Students to Study in Canada

Documents Required for 1 Year Masters Programs in Canada

Here are some of the basic documents you’ll need for applying to a university in Canada:

• Bachelor’s Degree: You need a recognised undergraduate degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 - 4.0 (or equivalent). Some programmes may require a higher GPA.

• English Language Proficiency Test: If English is not your first language, you must submit IELTS (6.5 - 8.0) or TOEFL (90 -120) scores. Some universities also accept PTE.

• GRE/GMAT Scores (If Required): Some technical and business programmes may ask for GRE (300+) or GMAT (550-600+) scores. Check your university’s specific requirements.

• Statement of Purpose (SOP): A well-written SOP explains why you’re applying for the programme, your career goals, and why you chose that university.

• Letters of Recommendation (LORs): You typically need 2-3 LORs from professors or employers who can vouch for your skills and academic potential.

• Academic Transcripts: Official mark sheets and degree certificates from your undergraduate studies are required.

• Valid Passport: You need a passport with at least six months of validity beyond your intended stay in Canada.

• Proof of Finances: You must show you can fund your tuition and living expenses through bank statements, scholarships, or sponsorship letters. Minimum proof required is CAD 20,635 (INR 12.5 lakhs) per year.

Students pursuing a one-year master's course in Canada need to follow the proper procedures to ensure that their applications are accepted by the university along with the necessary documents. 

Canada received over 800,000 study permit applications. Applying early and ensuring a strong application can boost your chances of getting admitted.

This requires following the given steps for the admissions process:

1. Shortlist Universities & Courses: Visit the official university website and search for the relevant course

2. Gather Necessary Documents: Upload all relevant documents, such as your CV, English Language Proficiency Test, SOP, etc 

3. Pay Application Fees: Pay the fees for the application 

4. Submit Online Applications: Apply after checking all essential information 

5. Interview: Once the application is accepted you might be called for an interview with the institution.

6. Accept Offer & Pay Tuition Deposit: Once accepted, confirm your seat by paying a deposit, usually around CAD 1,000 - 5,000 (INR 60,000 - 3 lakhs).

7. Apply for a Canada Study Visa: After that, you can get your Canada student visa made and start the course.

Universities and colleges in Canada offer scholarships for students with an academic track record. These scholarships in canada provide financial assistance to students who are pursuing their education in Canada.

The Canadian government and universities award over CAD 500 million (INR 3,000 crores) in scholarships to international students annually. Applying for these scholarships can save you up to 50% on tuition fees.

Some popular scholarships for one-year masters in Canada are mentioned below.

The average cost of living for international students in Canada is INR 9-15 lakhs per year (CAD 15,000 - 25,000), depending on the city, lifestyle, and accommodation type. Living in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver is more expensive than smaller towns like Halifax or Winnipeg.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of living costs in Canada:

The average annual salary after completing a 1-year master's in Canada ranges from INR 50 - 85 lakhs (CAD 85,000 - 140,000), depending on the industry, location, and level of experience. The highest-paying jobs in Canada for master’s graduates are in tech, healthcare, and business management.

According to Statistics Canada (2024), the employment rate for master's graduates in Canada is over 90% within six months of graduation, making it one of the best study destinations for career-focused students.

Here’s a list of high-paying job roles after a 1-year master's in Canada:

Suggested: 10 Highest Paying Jobs in Canada for International Students

In the pursuit of a one-year Master's in Canada, international students unlock a gateway to top-tier education and dynamic career prospects. With renowned universities like Toronto, McGill, and UBC offering condensed programs, learners delve into high-demand fields for a comprehensive skill set. The immersive experience, coupled with post-graduate work permits, positions graduates for success in diverse sectors. 

Looking to pursue a 1-year Master's in Canada? Navigate your path with Yocket! Unlock valuable insights into top universities, courses, and admission processes. Our expert guidance ensures you make informed choices for a transformative international education experience. Explore Yocket Premium and embark on a journey toward a rewarding one-year Master's program in Canada.