List of Top 298 Universities for Masters in Canada - Courses, Fees & Deadlines

Pursuing a Master’s degree in Canada is a strategic decision for international students, especially Indians, due to its combination of world-class education, welcoming policies, and promising post-study prospects. Canada stands out not just for its research-based universities, post work permit, being best ranked for safety and quality of life. 

Let’s explore the top reasons why students prefer Canada for Master’s studies:

U15 Group of Canadian Research Universities

Canada, with the U15 group, is at the forefront of research, especially in fields like AI, Biotechnology, Environmental Science, and Engineering. The U15 group consists of various universities in Canada, like the University of Toronto, the University of Alberta, UBC, and other universities.

Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)

The PGWP allows international graduates to work in Canada for up to three years after completing their degree. This not only gives you valuable work experience but also increases your chances of settling in Canada through work-based immigration programs.

Pathway to Permanent Residency

Canada offers various immigration streams, like Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) that favour international graduates. A Canadian degree and local work experience significantly improve your PR prospects.

Ranked #5 for Quality of Life

Canada scored 94.2 out of 100 in terms of quality of life. Cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal offer an ever-growing job market (98.6/100), economic stability (97.7/100), and a developed public education system (95.7/100). 

According to the world QS Ranking, Canada houses 28 top universities in the world, including the University of Toronto, McGill, UBC, the University of Montreal, and many others. The excellent faculty, advanced research facilities, and beautiful university campuses of Canada make it among the most attractive study destinations for international students. 

Here’s a list of the top 10 universities in Canada for Master's: 

1. University of Toronto

Founded in 1827 as King’s College, the University of Toronto is a public research university that proudly welcomes distinct minds from all over the world. The popular graduate courses offered at the university include those in the field of commerce, computer science, architectural studies, etc. The university offers extensive research facilities to students and has upheld its reputation by ranking as one of the best universities in Canada for MS.

2. McGill University

Established in 1821, McGill University is known as one of Canada's leading universities, providing a platform for greater learning in higher education. It has a renowned history of experiments and inventions. Research is one of the most important parts of their curriculum. As many as 145 students have bagged the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship from this institution.

3. University of British Columbia

Ranked constantly amongst the top 20 universities of the world for its innovative research programs, the University of British Columbia should be on the list for every international aspirant. Offering a conducive environment to students all over the world, the university builds careers by helping them transform their ideas into actions. 

4. University of Montreal

The University of Montreal is a French university founded in 1878. It is a leading name in the international circuit for teaching as well as research. The university offers a multitude of Master’s programs in French and English that pave the way for great internships as well as research-oriented career opportunities.

5. University of Alberta

The University of Alberta is located in one of the most picturesque cities in Canada. Founded in 1908, the University of Alberta is renowned for its conventional teaching methodology. The campus also witnesses a diverse group of students. Thus, providing you with global exposure. The university has five campuses, all equipped with high-class infrastructure to promote research and prepare students for the challenges of tomorrow. 

6. McMaster University

Founded in the year 1887, McMaster University has remained a research-intensive university. The university is popular for its graduate programs in various fields across science, arts, communications, and management. The university has four regional campuses. This means that you have the opportunity to choose the campus you wish to attend based on your locational preference. 

7. University of Waterloo

Founded in 1956, the University of Waterloo is known for investing in high-quality research and excellent faculty. Some of the most popular courses of the college are in the fields of arts, sciences, business management, environmental studies as well and engineering. 

8. University of Ottawa

The institution of Ottawa is the largest bilingual (English–French) institution in the world. It is situated in the centre of Canada's capital. The University of Ottawa is well-known for its public policy, social science, and law departments. It also has highly regarded STEM and health science programs. Students can access government offices, research facilities, and international organisations, all because of its downtown location.

9. Western University

Western University is often referred to as the University of Western Ontario. It is situated in London, Ontario. It ranks among Canada's leading public research institutions, providing more than 11 faculties and schools. Western excels particularly in the fields of business, health sciences, and engineering. The Master’s programs emphasise research, critical thinking, and leadership skills to equip students for careers on a global scale.

10. University of Calgary

One of the best universities in Canada for MS, the University of Calgary was established in the year 1908. The trained faculty and thus oriented towards shaping the future of its students. At the University of Calgary, you will be prepped with life skills and social responsibility that enhance your professionalism for a bright career. 

Canada offers a variety of scholarships for international students pursuing master's degrees, with amounts ranging from INR1.2 Lakhs to INR25 Lakhs. The table highlights 10 top scholarships from leading Canadian universities such as the University of Toronto, McGill, UBC, and Waterloo. These scholarships are typically merit-based, focusing on academic excellence, leadership, and research potential.

Some scholarships, like the Lester B. Pearson Scholarship at U of T, cover full tuition, while others, such as the IMAE at Waterloo, offer term-based financial aid. Most application deadlines fall between January and April 2026, so planning early is crucial to secure funding.

These scholarships can significantly ease your financial burden and boost your chances of getting into competitive programs in Canada.

Top MS universities in Canada, like the University of Toronto and McGill, boast placement rates above 85%, with average salaries ranging from INR44 Lakh to INR52 Lakh per year. These institutions offer excellent research infrastructure, strong industry tie-ups, and co-op/internship programs that enhance employability. Graduates commonly secure jobs in sectors such as tech, finance, consulting, and healthcare.

For students planning to study MS in Canada in 2025–26, this data confirms that a degree from a top Canadian university translates into strong career outcomes and return on investment.

Let me know if you'd like to expand this with salary breakdowns by field or top recruiters per university.

The cost of pursuing a master's degree in Canada varies widely depending on your university and lifestyle choices. Tuition fees typically range between INR12 Lakh and INR31 Lakh annually, making it a significant investment. Living expenses, including accommodation, food, transportation, and miscellaneous costs, add up to approximately INR7 Lakh to INR14 Lakh per year, depending on the city and your personal spending habits.

Tuition Fee

Before you choose a university, here are some facts about tuition fees in Canada that many students don’t know:

• The most expensive course is an MBA at the University of Toronto. It costs about INR 80 Lakh for the full program.
• A master’s in subjects like Botany at the University of British Columbia costs only around INR 5.7 Lakh per year. Some science programs at UBC are very cheap.
• If you do a research-based course at McGill, you can pay much less. Some students get fee waivers and pay only INR 6 to 7 Lakh per year instead of INR 14 Lakh.
• Some universities charge per subject, others by semester. Some also offer discounts if you study full-time or get a scholarship.
• Professional programs like MBA or MEng are 2 to 4 times more costly than research programs. So, choosing a thesis-based course can save you a lot of money.

Cost of Living in Canada

On average, your living costs alone may equal or exceed half of your tuition fee, so it's important to plan for both. Factoring in both tuition and daily expenses, a master’s degree in Canada can cost anywhere between INR 19 Lakh and INR 45 Lakh per year.

When selecting the right university for your master's studies in Canada, consider the following factors:

Program Relevance

Start by checking if the university offers the exact course or specialisation you want. Some universities are known for specific fields like AI, public health, or finance. Make sure the curriculum matches your career goals. You should also review the course structure, electives, and thesis or non-thesis options.

Faculty Expertise

Look into the professors teaching your subject. See if they have experience in the topics you're interested in. Many university websites list faculty profiles with their research areas and past work. Choosing a university with strong faculty ensures better learning and mentoring.

Research Opportunities

If you want to do research, check if the university has labs or funded projects in your field. Look for research centres or recent publications by the department. Some programs offer research assistant roles, which also help you earn while studying. A strong research environment can help you build skills for a PhD or research job later.

Location

Think about the city where the university is. Is it affordable? Does it snow a lot? Are there jobs in your field nearby? These things affect your living costs, comfort, and chances of finding work during or after your course.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Compare tuition fees between universities and check if scholarships are available. Some universities offer teaching or research assistantships that cover part of your fees. Look at total expenses. Not just tuition, but costs like housing, books, and insurance. This helps you plan your budget better.

Alumni Network

A good alumni network can help you connect with graduates working in top companies. These connections often lead to internships or job referrals. Some alumni also mentor current students. Check LinkedIn to see where alumni from your program are now working.

Internship and Co-op Programs

Internships and co-op options give you work experience during your studies. They help you apply what you learn in class and build a strong résumé. Some universities even make co-op a part of the course. Having real work experience can make job hunting easier after graduation.

Many students feel confused while planning their master’s journey in Canada. Picking the right university, understanding tuition fees, and handling visa steps can get overwhelming. Without the right help, it’s easy to make mistakes or miss deadlines. Some students even end up choosing the wrong course or a university that doesn't fit their goals. This makes the whole process stressful and time-consuming.

That’s why thousands of students trust Yocket Premium. Our expert counsellors help you shortlist the best universities, understand the costs, and guide you step-by-step through your applications and visa process. You also get personal support to avoid delays and costly errors. If you’re feeling stuck or unsure, don’t worry! Book a free call with a Yocket Counsellor today and make your study abroad journey smoother and smarter.