Here are some typical costs for items and services in Canada to help you budget for your new life as an international student. These amounts are estimates only and may vary significantly.
Online resources such as Numbeo, Livingcost, and Viva Engage (our official communities for international students looking for housing and cost of living information), can be helpful budgeting tools. Please ensure you bring enough funds to support you through your first year in Canada.
| Item | Monthly cost (CAD) | Description |
|---|---|---|
|
Housing | $850 | Average monthly cost per person for a private room in an apartment or house with shared bathroom, living room, and kitchen facilities |
| $1810 | Average monthly cost for a 1-bedroom apartment with private bathroom, kitchen and living space | |
| $2250 | Average monthly cost for a 2-bedroom apartment | |
| $2840 | Average monthly cost for a 3-bedroom apartment or house | |
Please note: Most landlords require you to pay your first and last month's rent upfront when you sign your lease. Examples of rental rates listed above reflect the average rates for rentals across our campus communities. Many factors determine rental rates such as location, amenities, quality and size of the unit, etc. | ||
| Utilities | varies | Costs for heating, air-conditioning, water, electricity, and Wi-Fi may not be included in your monthly rental rate. Before signing the lease agreement, ask your landlord what the average monthly cost is for any additional utilities. |
| Groceries | $450+ | Grocery costs vary depending on where you shop, the types of food you buy, and how much you consume. Some examples of the current cost of food in Canada:
|
| Transit | varies | For detailed information on student transit passes in your campus city, visit Public transit. |
| Phone/Internet | $50-100 | Costs depend on your phone, how much data you add on, and what speed your Internet is.
|
| Personal items | $200+ | Cost of personal items is dependent upon individual spending habits and need. Expect to spend more on items like winter coats and warm clothing. |
| Academic materials | $500+ per term | Check your booklist here for pricing. |
Disclaimer: Conestoga College has no affiliation with resources provided as information to assist international students. Any inclusion of information or resources shall not be construed as an endorsement or approval by Conestoga College. Further, Conestoga College makes no warranty or representation regarding any companies and services that are listed on our website, or any links provided herein. All students are strongly encouraged to do their due diligence and exercise common sense and good judgment when using these resources.