Study destination · English-speaking

Study in Canada from Pakistan

Canada combines respected universities and colleges, off-campus work rights and a post-graduation work permit. A national cap on study permits and the end of the Student Direct Stream mean applications now need careful sequencing — provincial attestation, funds and a strong study plan.

  • Bachelors
  • Masters
  • PGWP
  • Co-op programs
  • PAL guidance

Canada at a glance

Tuition
CAD 15,000 – 40,000 / year
Living
≈ CAD 23,000 proof of funds (single applicant)
English
IELTS 6.0–6.5 (some programmes 7.0)
Intakes
September, January, May
Work
Off-campus up to 24 hrs/week (term)
After study
PGWP up to 3 years (field & language rules apply)

Study in Canada: overview for Pakistani students

Canada’s education system combines universities for degrees and research with public colleges for career-oriented diplomas, advanced diplomas and degrees. Co-op programmes put paid work experience into the course itself.

Since the Student Direct Stream closed in November 2024, all Pakistani applicants use the regular study-permit stream. For 2026 IRCC plans to issue about 408,000 study permits nationally, so most applicants also need a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) — master’s and doctoral students at public institutions are now exempt.

Levels we support in Canada

  • Bachelors
  • Masters

Popular fields of study

  • Computer Science & AI
  • Engineering Technology
  • Business & Project Management
  • Health Sciences & Nursing
  • Data Analytics
  • Hospitality & Tourism
  • Cyber Security
  • Supply Chain Management

Why study in Canada?

Co-op & work rights

Paid co-op terms and part-time work (up to 24 hours/week off-campus) offset living costs.

Safe & welcoming

Multicultural cities with large Pakistani communities and strong student support.

Respected qualifications

Universities such as Toronto, UBC, McGill and Waterloo are globally ranked.

College + university routes

Choose diplomas, advanced diplomas or degrees, with credit transfers between them.

PGWP pathway

Eligible graduates can gain Canadian work experience through the Post-Graduation Work Permit.

Research strength

Strong funding and labs in AI, health, clean-tech and engineering.

Cost of studying in Canada

Indicative costs for international students. Exact fees vary by university, course and city — we give you a personalised first-year budget during counselling.

ItemTypical amount
Tuition — undergraduateCAD 18,000 – 40,000 per year
Tuition — college diplomaCAD 14,000 – 22,000 per year
Tuition — master’sCAD 15,000 – 35,000 per year
Living funds (visa proof)≈ CAD 23,000 (single applicant)
Study permit + biometricsCAD 150 + CAD 85

Figures reviewed October 2026. Government fees, funds requirements and rules change — always confirm the latest before you pay.

Entry requirements for Canada

Typical requirements for applicants from Pakistan. Each university sets its own criteria.

  • Letter of Acceptance from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
  • Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL), unless exempt (e.g., master’s/PhD at public universities)
  • Proof of funds: tuition + living costs (about CAD 23,000 for a single applicant, updated yearly) — often shown via GIC, bank statements and sponsor documents
  • English test (IELTS Academic 6.0–6.5 typical) and a clear study plan / statement of purpose
  • Biometrics at the visa application centre and medical exam if required

Popular universities in Canada

These institutions are commonly chosen by international students. Listing does not imply partnership or guaranteed admission — we shortlist universities that suit your grades, budget and goals.

  • University of Toronto
  • University of British Columbia
  • McGill University
  • University of Waterloo
  • University of Alberta
  • University of Calgary
  • Simon Fraser University
  • York University
  • Seneca Polytechnic
  • Humber Polytechnic
  • Conestoga College

Scholarships for Canada

Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship

University of Toronto’s fully-funded undergraduate award for exceptional students.

UBC International Leaders of Tomorrow

Need- and merit-based awards for international undergraduates at UBC.

University entrance awards

Many universities offer automatic merit scholarships based on high-school/FSc grades.

Browse all scholarships

Canada study visa process

What to expect when applying from Pakistan:

  • File online through IRCC; PAL is requested before the application where required.
  • Submit biometrics at the application centre in Islamabad as soon as your biometric instruction letter arrives.
  • The study plan must connect your background, chosen programme, finances and return plans.
  • Choose programmes eligible for the PGWP and aligned with your previous education to improve credibility.

How Abroad In Consultants helps

  1. 01

    Profile review & shortlist

    We assess your academic profile and shortlist Canada universities and courses that fit your budget.

  2. 02

    Applications & scholarships

    SOP, documents, applications and scholarship forms prepared and submitted for you.

  3. 03

    Funds plan & visa file

    We organise financial evidence and complete the visa file to the authority’s standards.

  4. 04

    Interview readiness & departure

    Mock interviews where relevant and a pre-departure briefing before you fly.

Thinking about visiting Canada first?

We also prepare tourist, family-visit and business visit visa files.

Canada visit visa

Study in Canada — frequently asked questions

Is the SDS available for Pakistani students?

No. IRCC closed the Student Direct Stream in November 2024, so Pakistani students now apply under the regular study permit stream with full financial and study-plan documentation.

What is a PAL and do I need one?

A Provincial Attestation Letter confirms that your province has allocated space for you within the national cap. Most college and undergraduate applicants need one; master’s and PhD applicants at public universities are exempt from 2026.

How much money do I need to show for Canada?

For a single applicant outside Quebec, IRCC’s living-cost requirement is about CAD 23,000 (reviewed every year), plus first-year tuition and travel costs. Add more if family members accompany you.

Can I stay and work after graduating?

Eligible graduates can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit, with duration depending on programme length. Field-of-study and language requirements apply, so we check PGWP eligibility before you choose a programme.

Latest Canada guides

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