India Study Guide for Canadian Citizens

Created: Nov 13, 2025 | Updated: Jan 6, 2026

Studying in India is an increasingly attractive option for Canadian citizens seeking high-quality education, cultural immersion, and affordable tuition. India is home to globally respected universities, advanced research institutions, and one of the world’s most diverse academic ecosystems.

This guide provides a complete overview of studying in India as a Canadian citizen, including academic programs, admission requirements, student visa rules, costs, and document preparation. Accurate documentation is essential, and certified translations may be required for academic or legal documents issued in a language other than English. Translayte provides certified translations accepted by Indian universities and government authorities, helping ensure a smooth application process.


Table of Contents

Why Study in India as a Canadian Student?

India offers unique academic and professional advantages for international students:

  • Globally Recognised Institutions: Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs), Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), and top universities rank internationally.

  • Affordable Education: Tuition and living costs are significantly lower than in Canada, the US, or the UK.

  • Strong STEM, Medicine & Humanities Programs: India excels in engineering, IT, medicine, business, law, and social sciences.

  • Cultural and Global Exposure: Study in one of the world’s most diverse and fast-growing economies.

  • Research & Innovation Opportunities: India is a global hub for technology, pharmaceuticals, and sustainable development.

Popular Study Programs in India for Canadian Citizens

Canadian students commonly choose the following fields in India:

  • Engineering and Technology

  • Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence

  • Business Management and MBA Programs

  • Medicine, Public Health, and Ayurveda

  • Law and International Relations

  • Data Science and Analytics

  • Economics and Development Studies

  • Yoga, Philosophy, and Cultural Studies

Top Universities in India for International Students

Some of the most popular institutions for Canadian citizens include:

  • Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs)

  • Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs)

  • University of Delhi

  • Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU)

  • University of Hyderabad

  • Banaras Hindu University (BHU)

  • Manipal Academy of Higher Education

  • Amity University (International Programs)

Many Indian universities offer English-taught programs specifically designed for international students.

Types of Educational Institutions in India

  • Public universities: Government-funded institutions with strong academic reputations and low tuition fees.

  • Private universities: Offer modern facilities, international curricula, and flexible admission pathways.

  • Institutes of national importance: Includes IITs, IIMs, AIIMS, and NITs—highly competitive and globally respected.

  • Specialised & cultural institutions: Focused on medicine, law, yoga, languages, philosophy, and traditional studies.

Admission Requirements for Canadian Citizens Studying in India

Academic Requirements

  • High school diploma for undergraduate programs

  • Bachelor’s degree for postgraduate programs

  • Minimum GPA varies by institution and program

Language Requirements

  • Most programs are taught in English

  • Proof of English proficiency may be required (IELTS/TOEFL), depending on the institution

Entrance Exams

  • Some universities require entrance exams or interviews

  • Professional programs (medicine, engineering) may have additional testing requirements

India Student Visa Requirements for Canadian Citizens

Who Needs a Student Visa? All Canadian citizens studying in India for more than short-term courses must obtain an Indian Student Visa.

Student Visa Eligibility

  • Letter of Admission from a recognised Indian institution

  • Proof of financial means

  • Valid Canadian passport

  • Evidence of intent to study full-time

Visa Application Process

  • Apply online through the Indian visa portal

  • Submit biometrics and supporting documents

  • Student visas are usually issued for the full duration of study

Documents Required to Study in India

Commonly required documents include:

  • Canadian passport (valid for entire study period)

  • Admission letter from Indian institution

  • Academic transcripts and certificates

  • Proof of financial support

  • Passport-sized photographs

  • Medical certificate (if required)

Certified Translation Requirements

Indian universities and visa authorities require all documents to be submitted in English. Documents issued in French or other languages must be accompanied by certified English translations.

Documents that often require translation include:

  • Academic transcripts and diplomas

  • Birth certificates

  • Legal name-change documents

  • Medical or police certificates (if requested)

Translayte provides certified translations accepted by Indian educational institutions and immigration authorities, ensuring accuracy and compliance.

Cost of Studying in India for Canadian Students

Tuition Fees

  • Undergraduate programs: CAD 2,000–6,000 per year

  • Postgraduate programs: CAD 3,000–10,000 per year

  • Medical programs may cost more

Living Expenses

  • Average living costs: CAD 300–600 per month

  • Accommodation, food, and transport are significantly affordable

Visa & Additional Costs

  • Student visa fees

  • Health insurance

  • Document translation and verification fees

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Applying without confirming program language

  • Submitting incomplete or untranslated documents

  • Missing visa deadlines

  • Underestimating processing times

  • Not checking university accreditation

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