Studying in Canada as an international student can be expensive. But there are multiple ways to budget in order to save money, by applying for scholarships and financial aid, using student discounts wherever applicable, and sharing accommodation with flatmates/roommates.
The following are some intelligent, practical tips to assist you in stretching your dollars and getting the most out of your student experience:
Apply for Scholarships & Financial Aid
Several Canadian universities provide generous scholarship opportunities to international students. With these, you can wipe off much of the expenditure on tuition and travel. Early and proper applications pay off, quite literally.
Share Accommodation to Cut Costs
As a student in Canada, your largest monthly expenditure will be on housing. You will find that sharing an apartment can bring your rent down by CAD 600 (INR 36,000), which is half the amount you would pay for a one-bedroom apartment, CAD 1,200 (INR 73,000). Utilities such as heating and the internet also become cheaper.
Make the Most of Student Discounts
From travel and technology to food and clothing, most Canadian merchants and service companies provide discounts of as much as 20% for students. Presenting your student ID is all it takes to tap into bargains that keep living easy without sacrificing enjoyment.
Work Part-Time on Campus
Foreign students in Canada can work for a maximum of 20 hours a week during term time. On-campus jobs pay approximately CAD 13- 15 per hour (INR 700-900). This amount can greatly increase your purchasing power while you get some local experience and interact with people.
Purchase Used Textbooks
Books for courses are unexpectedly pricey, but you don’t need to pay the full price every time. Most campus bookstores and websites offer second-hand or electronic copies at a 50% discount or more.
Use Public Transport
Some cities, such as Vancouver, provide monthly student transit passes for around CAD 98 (INR 6000), which provide you with unlimited travel on buses, subways, and trains. It's a secure, efficient, and cost-effective alternative to taxis or ride-shares.