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Join the Thriving Tech Industry: Study Computer Science in Canada

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Explore the World of Computing at Canadian Universities

Computer science is a very diverse field that is becoming increasingly important in everyday life. It is a popular subject for international students studying in Canada because it is comprehensive, offers job security, has a good starting salary, provides a wide range of employment opportunities, and has limitless potential for professional growth.

Many students from around the world choose to pursue a career in computer science in Canada because of the high quality of education and research opportunities offered by universities in the country . Canada has shown its excellence in the computer and technology fields. According to QS World University Rankings 2025 by subject, five of the top universities for computer engineering courses are in Canada. Know all about studying computer science in Canada.

Why study computer science in Canada?

Computer Science is an increasingly popular field of study in Canada, offering a range of opportunities for students to develop their skills and pursue rewarding careers. From cutting-edge research to innovative startups, the Canadian tech industry is booming, and computer science graduates are in high demand. Here are the top reasons why you should study computer science in Canada:

  1. Computer science is a field that is always changing and developing. Therefore, it's important to choose universities that can provide modern education. A Canadian degree in computer science equips you with a comprehensive grasp of computer systems so you can advance in your job.

  2. Canada's emphasis on education has contributed to the country's progress in both the economy and technology. When it comes to the study of computer science, Canadian universities are among the best in the world.

  3. Canada is home to some of the world's most prominent IT centres, meaning the country continues to draw top-tier professionals from all over the globe. Google, Siemens, and Fujitsu are just a handful of the world's leading tech firms that have established offices in Canada. This country is a leader in innovation and provides ample opportunity for lifelong learning.

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Eligibility criteria for studying the computer science course

  1. Applicants have been evaluated on at least four (4) academic courses (including English, Mathematics, Chemistry, and physics in Class 11 and 12). It should be noted that courses with an applied/vocational/technical focus are not acceptable. Subjects such as dance, home science, legal studies, painting, and physical education are examples of this.

  2. Depending on the program applied to, there are certain minimum requirements for in-progress grades, which include overall averages and subject requirements with a minimum of 65%. It's common to expect higher results when the final Class XII results are presented.

  3. Admission to top-ranked Canadian universities is competitive and dependent on space availability; applicants who meet the basic requirements are not assured admission.

  4. You are required to complete a certification with excellent results in the grade 12 prerequisite requirements, with one of the following boards:

  • All India Senior School Certificate awarded by CBSE or

  • Indian School Certificate (awarded by CISCE) or

  • Year 12 State Board Exams with excellent results

6. If English is not your first language, you must take an English language proficiency test like the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) for admission consideration, unless you qualify for an exemption.

Tuition fees and living cost to study computer science in Canada

Comparatively to many other nations, studying in Canada is quite economical. Annually, you will likely require between CA$ 20,000 and CA$ 45,000 to cover your tuition fee. This range is simply an average and university fees can vary from year to year, and there may be changes depending on the city or degree program.

The cost of living for a student typically depends on how they choose to live. The cost of accommodation, food, and other living expenditures will vary based on your location and needs, but a yearly estimate of CA$ 12,000 to CA$ 15,000 is reasonable. Furthermore, the cost of housing would change depending on whether you opted to live on campus or outside. Depending on the university you apply to, you may be able to use the on-campus centre.

The best practice is to submit a separate application for on-campus housing. The cost of a shared apartment, however, would be between CA$ 600 and CA$ 800 a month (monthly). It is dependent on their location and the time of year you rent it.

Canadian computer science awards, bursaries, prizes, and scholarships

Canadian universities offer a wide variety of resources aimed at helping overseas students get financial aid and scholarships to cover the costs of their education in Canada. Scholarships are one means by which this is accomplished. Many colleges and universities provide financial aid to international students who come to study at their institutions. As an example, some of these scholarships are:

  • Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship Program: To be eligible, you must have strong leadership abilities as well as an outstanding academic record

  • UBC Scholarships: More than CA$ 30 million per year is allocated by UBC to awards, scholarships, and other types of financial support for overseas undergraduate students in recognition of their academic accomplishment

  • University of Waterloo Scholarships Entrance scholarships : This university has several admission scholarships available to students starting their first year of full-time studies. Students who apply to any program will be automatically considered for several scholarships

  • President's International Distinction Scholarship University of Alberta: Students with a superior entrance GPA and established leadership skills who begin their first year of an undergraduate degree on a Student Visa Permit may be eligible for up to CA$ 120,000 (payable over 4 years)

  • University of Alberta International Leader Scholarship: Well-rounded leaders with outstanding academic credentials may be eligible for up to CA$ 10,000

  • University of Alberta: Admission-based scholarships - no application required. International Admission Scholarship , based on admission average, top students may receive up to CA$ 5,000

  • Carleton University: It has one of the most comprehensive scholarship and bursary programs in Canada. Almost 15,700 scholarships and bursaries totalling more than $31.9 million were awarded to undergraduate students last year

  • University of Guelph : International Undergraduate Entrance Scholarships: Entrance scholarships are rewards provided to students who demonstrate one or more of the following characteristics: academic performance, leadership ability, extracurricular activity, and research proposals. Some entrance scholarships require students to apply, although many are given to students automatically depending on their admission average

Read more about the scholarships to study in Canada.

Documents required for studying the computer science course

If you're planning to study computer science in Canada , you will need to prepare several documents for your application. These documents will not only help you to secure admission into a computer science program but also to seek a study permit and visa for Canada. Here are the most common required documents you need when applying to study in Canadian universities :

  • Secondary school transcript, showing all years of study including current interim results

  • Class 10 board examination results

  • Predicted 12th board grades, if provided by the school

  • 12th board admit card, when available in February-March

  • Passport copy

  • Proof of English Language proficiency such as IELTS

  • Letter of Recommendation (LOR)

  • Statement of Purpose (SOP)

  • Extracurricular activities certificate to consider your profile for scholarship and awards

List of specialisations offered by Canadian colleges and universities

As Canada continues to establish itself as a hub for international education, its colleges and universities offer a wide range of specialisations to cater to the diverse academic interests of students. Here is a comprehensive list of the computer science specialisations offered by Canadian colleges and universities:

  • Artificial Intelligence/ Machine learning

  • Full stack development

  • Cyber security / Cyber Systems Engineering/ Computer and Internet Security

  • Data science and Analytics / Information Systems/ Computer Science and Mathematics

  • Cloud computing / Mobile Computing

  • Game design and AR / Game Programming / Game Engineering/ Computer Game Development

  • Network Engineering/ UI/UX design

  • Software Engineering / Software Development

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Computer science specialisations in community colleges

Bachelor's degree programmes typically last four years and can only be found at universities. Some community colleges now provide them, especially in the provinces of Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia. These are some of the best community colleges in Canada with particular specialisation:

  • Conestoga College:

    • Bachelor of Computer Science

    •  Bachelor of Engineering -Cyber Systems Engineering (1550C)

  • Centennial College: Bachelor of Information Technology (Computer and Communication Networks), Honours

  • Durham College: Honours Bachelor of Artificial Intelligence (HBAI)

  • Georgian College: Bachelor of Science in Computer Science Degree with Computer Programming Diploma

  • Northern College: Bachelor of Computer Science Degree from Algoma University

  • Humber College: Bachelor of Engineering: Information Systems Engineering

  • British Columbia Institute of Technology:  Bachelor of Technology in Computer Systems

  • North Alberta University of Technology:

    • Bachelor of Applied Information Systems Technology - Information Systems

    • Bachelor of Applied Information Systems Technology - Network Management

  • Sheridan College:

    • Honours Bachelor of Computer Science  - Cloud Computing

    • Honours Bachelor of Computer Science Data Analytics

    • Honours Bachelor of Computer Science), Game Engineering

    • Honours Bachelor of Computer Science, Mobile Computing

    • Honours Bachelor of Computer Science, Network Engineering

    • Honours Bachelor of Computer Science, Modeling, Simulation and Visualization

    • Honours Bachelor of Information Sciences (PBAIS) Cyber Security

  • Seneca College:

    • Bachelor of Engineering (Software Engineering)

    • Bachelor of Information Technology Design and Management (Honours)

    • Bachelor of Data Science and Analytics (Honours)

    • Bachelor of Technology - Informatics and Security (Honours)

    • Bachelor of Technology - Software Development (Honours) (BSD)

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And many other programs are available at these universities.

Popular professions in the computer science field

Canada is home to the world's largest digital centres, which are expanding and attracting creative talent from around the globe. Among others, the ten largest technology companies in the world invest frequently in Canada's diverse, highly educated, and expanding IT labour pool. The Canadian information and communications technologies (ICT) industry comprises more than 45,000 businesses, of which more than 40,000 are involved in the software and computer services sectors.

The annual growth rate of the software and computer service businesses' operational revenues in Canada is 14.2%, according to the most available data. Canada is home to a plethora of IT and Computer giants, such as Constellation Software Inc., OpenText Corporation, CGI Inc., Descartes Systems Group Inc., and Shopify are five of the major Canadian software companies. Shopify is not just the largest Canadian software firm, but it is also the most valued publicly traded corporation in the country.

Here are some of the most popular professions that you can go ahead with after the completion of your course in Canada:

  • AI developer: Canada is a global leader in artificial intelligence (AI) research, and there are many high-growth job possibilities in this field. Over the next five years, more than 35,000 new innovative employment are anticipated to be generated.

  • IT Consultant: IT consultants advise clients on the planning, design, and installation of information technology systems.

  • User experience designer: UX professionals continue to be extremely popular as Canada's technology industry booms. A recent study indicates that Toronto has the fastest-growing technology market in North America, while Vancouver's 42.6% increase in tech jobs over the past five years indicates that it is not far behind.

  • Software Engineer: A software engineer combines management and technological skills to create and test software that advances business objectives. Senior software engineers are responsible for building teams and managing the technical aspects of computer software projects.

  • Web developer: According to the Canadian Occupational Projection System, web development jobs are projected to grow faster than average compared to all other occupations. As a result, 54% of new jobs will be created.

  • Game developer: The gaming business in Canada is the third largest in the world, and the country is sometimes referred to as the "gamers' country." The Canadian gaming business is likewise thriving, with a diverse spectrum of companies. Companies such as Ubisoft and Electronic Arts, among others, operate in Canada.

  • Software Engineer: Software engineers are in high demand across Canada. Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta, Quebec, and Saskatchewan are the top 5 provinces with a robust IT industry and significant marketplaces for IT career prospects.

  • Machine Learning Engineer: If you're interested in computer programming, statistics, and data analysis, a job in machine learning is a wonderful fit. Canada is among the nations with the most employment prospects for professionals in Machine Learning and AI.

  • Business Analyst: Business analysts in Canada have a promising employment future. Through 2028, there will be over 14,800 brand-new positions available for business analysts, according to Job Bank.

  • Business Intelligence (BI) Analyst: A Business Intelligence Analyst in Canada has a lot of work prospects. According to a recent survey, IT project managers, software engineers, and business analysts are in high demand, with less supply than needed. Professionals with specialised knowledge are in high - demand.

  • Data Scientist: In Canada, the average salary for data scientists is higher than in most other nations. Students can choose from a variety of jobs because of the demand for and versatility of a data science degree.

  • Cloud Architects: Around ninety-two percent of Canadian companies already use cloud computing in some capacity. It is estimated that by 2023, Canadians would have spent $10.3 billion on cloud services.

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Average salary of a computer science professional

The average salary for entry-level professionals can range from $35,000 per year, and the most experienced professional`s salary can range to $1,00,000 per year.

Jobs after studying computer science in Canada

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As the Canadian IT and computer science industries are now thriving, there are many opportunities for experts in the field. In terms of technology, Canada is among the world's leading nations. Due to its developing economy and the great need for qualified workers, Canada is the best place to start or advance your career. It has an abundance of talent in the software development industry.

Canada's software companies benefit from substantial market expansion as well as access to a large labour pool. Here are the four most popular companies in Canada to provide employment:

Microsoft: Microsoft is one of the top firms and the largest IT company in the world, generating more than $125.8 billion in annual revenue. In 1975, William Gates and Paul Allen formed Microsoft Corporation, one of the leading information technology businesses. Its main office is located in Redmond, Washington.

Google: Google's search engine is the most well-known feature of the American company. Although the company originated as a search engine and continues to generate the vast bulk of its revenue from advertising, it has diversified into a variety of other sectors, such as cloud computing, software, and hardware.

Apple:  Apple Inc. is an American-based international technology company specialising in software, internet services, and consumer goods. Apple Inc. (Apple) designs, manufactures, and distributes mobile devices such as tablets and smartphones, in addition to accessories and wearable technology. It also provides an extensive selection of related services.

SAP: SAP SE is a multinational software and information technology company headquartered in Germany that provides enterprise software to manage customer relationships and business processes. SAP, one of the largest IT companies in the world, is the third-largest software company by market capitalisation. SAP has over 335,000 clients in over 180 countries.

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Read more: Expert tips for creating an impressive resume for the Canadian job market

Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP) Canada

Obtaining a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP Canada) while studying in Canada depends a lot on your course and its duration. Typically, a work permit under the PGWP is provided for the duration of the study program. In Canada, the maximum length of the PGWP is three years. This means that if your degree lasts two years, you may be eligible for a three-year PGWP visa. You can’t get eligible for a PGWP after graduating from a Designated Learning Institute (DLI) automatically. A candidate has 180 days after receiving their final grades (or notification of program completion) to apply for a PGWP. Likewise, make certain that your study permit does not expire before you receive your final grades.

Read more: Post-Graduation Work Permit in Canada

Canada is an excellent destination for studying computer science, offering high-quality education, a multicultural environment, and ample opportunities for career advancement. With its world-renowned universities, research facilities, and booming tech industry, Canada provides a supportive and innovative ecosystem for computer science students to thrive. Pursuing a degree in computer science in Canada can open up a world of possibilities and help you achieve your academic and career goals.

Hope this blog will help you understand all about studying computer science in Canada. Also, if you are looking forward to starting your journey of studying the same in Canada you can get in touch with our international education experts at IDP. They will help you with the procedure.

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