If you want to know why you should opt for studying PhD in Canada, check out our top insights on programs, universities, fees, requirements, admissions and more.

PhD degree is often required when you apply for high-level management jobs, government expert positions, and careers like a university professor, researcher, or scientist in many fields.

Why choose Canada?

In fact, more than a third of Canada’s overall research is conducted at its prestigious universities, which makes the country attractive in terms of facilities availability and work prospects for graduates. Apart from the fact that Canadian Institutions are known for providing consistently high-quality education, Canada offers:

  • Internationally recognised degrees.

  • Globally competitive state-of-the-art facilities.

  • High graduate employability rates.

  • Post-study work options as you can stay and work for up to 3 years.

  • Culturally diverse experience for international students.

  • Low cost of living & tuition fees compared to English-speaking countries.

  • High quality of life & high living standards.

  • One of the world’s most peaceful countries.

Top PhD programs in Canada

PhD degrees in Canada are offered in a wide range of studies, including natural sciences, arts, and technical fields:

  • Business

  • Economics

  • Medicine

  • Engineering

  • Education

  • Biological sciences

  • Physics

  • Mathematics

  • Political sciences

  • Anthropology

  • Sociology

  • Psychology

How many years does it take to study PhD in Canada?

Programs in the universities of Canada are mostly research thesis-based, and last for 4 to 6 years. Generally, Canadian doctorate programs have more in common with the UK than the neighbouring USA. Unlike the American programs which begin with 1 or 2 years of taught classes and examinations before defining a thesis topic, the Canadian PhD program is often more research focused.

How much does it cost to do PhD in Canada?

There are many scholarships dedicated for PhD programs at the universities of Canada. But generally speaking, the cost of PhDs in Canada varies between CAD 8,000 to 20,000 annually depending on the program, specialisation and the university.

Check out more on the cost of study and living in Canada

How to choose the right university in Canada?

There are several higher education institutions, colleges, and universities in Canada that award internationally accredited PhD degrees. To choose the perfect place for your study, you need to consider some important factors, such as:

  • Program availability

  • University ranking

  • Faculty and staff reputation

  • Research facilities

  • Scholarships and funding options offered by the university

  • Graduate employability rate

  • Tuition fees

  • Location

PhD requirements in Canada

PhD admission requirements in Canada vary based on the university and the field of study. But in general, most universities in the country require the below from international students applying for PhD degree there:

  • Completed application form

  • Resume

  • Accredited master’s degree in a related field with strong grades and proven research ability and potential

  • Transcripts for your university degree or courses

  • Statement of Purpose

  • GMAT or GRE scores

  • Recommendation letters

  • English language test, such as IELTS or TOEFL

  • Application fee

Can I work while doing PhD in Canada?

You can work in Canada as an international PhD student for as long as you’ve a valid study permit for your PhD degree. Furthermore, doctorate graduates in Canada can enjoy one of the world’s most generous post-study work visa schemes upon graduating. The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows you to live and work in Canada after graduation for up to 3 years.

Read more about Canada student visa
Kick start your education journey to Canada! Speak with your IDP Education counsellor now to turn your study ambition into action!