Finance Courses in Canada: Best Guide for International Students in 2024



Of the many places where international students can pursue a career in finance, Canada stands out as an ideal destination. There are many reasons for this – from its world-class universities and top-rated courses to the quality of life and availability of opportunities. But, more importantly, Canada offers a wide range of finance courses that are a great fit for international students. Pursuing finance courses in Canada can be a very rewarding journey.

Here’s a superb guide that will give you an overview of the best finance courses available in Canada for international students in 2024, including the different types of programs offered, their duration and cost, and the various career opportunities available upon completion. Additionally, this guide will provide some tips on how to make the most out of your studies in Canada.


Why study finance courses in Canada?

Canada is a great place to study finance. With its strong economy and world-class universities, the country offers a wide range of opportunities for those interested in pursuing a career in finance. The courses offered in Canadian universities are designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge needed to excel in the field.

From understanding financial markets and investments to learning how to analyze data, these courses provide students with the tools they need to succeed. Studying finance courses in Canada also provides students with access to internships and job opportunities, giving them an edge when it comes to their future career prospects.

With its competitive tuition fees, generous scholarships, and strong job market, Canada provides an ideal platform for international students to develop their skills in finance and advance their careers. By studying finance in Canada, students can benefit from the country’s high standards of education, excellent job prospects, and vibrant multiculturalism.

Canada also has a low barrier of entry in both welcoming new citizens and allowing international students to quickly obtain a work visa and begin working within the Canadian context. This is especially useful while pursuing a lucrative career in finance.

Low crime rates and a good standard of living characterize Canada as a safe nation. Its educational system is multilingual, its cultures are diversified, and its society is accepting. Along with having a great employment market, Canada is home to some of the world’s top institutions and schools.

Finally, Canada is a hub for so many international students because it is a hub for scholarships and many employment opportunities for those who are studying. Canada has a high minimum wage and an extended number of working hours as well as many positions open as teaching assistants, research assistants, etc.

What are the career opportunities after studying finance in Canada?

Studying finance in Canada can open up a world of career opportunities. With a degree in finance, you can pursue a range of jobs in the banking and financial services sector, such as financial analyst, corporate financial planner, investment banker, certified professional accountant or portfolio manager.

You can also find employment in the corporate world as a controller or chief financial officer. In addition to these traditional roles, there are also numerous opportunities for those with an interest in technology and data science.

With the rise of fintech startups and other tech-based companies, there is an ever-growing need for professionals with expertise in finance who understand how to apply their knowledge to new technologies.

Many employers are now looking for candidates with an understanding of the latest technologies such as blockchain and cryptocurrency. By studying finance in Canada, you’ll be well-equipped to take advantage of these new opportunities and secure a successful career path.

With the right qualifications, you can pursue a variety of roles in banking, investments, financial planning, and more. You may also find yourself working in government or non-profit organizations that require financial expertise.

The average salary of finance graduates in Canada is about CAD $66,000 to CAD$71,000. This can vary a lot more since most experienced professionals earn about CAD $120,000. The average can also vary from region to region, Ontario is currently on top with an average salary of CAD $87,750 for its graduates.

It is useful to mention that most of these rates are reflective of students having graduated from a post-graduate program. Although undergraduate programs in finance do exist, the large majority of these programs are in the postgraduate level. As such the figures above are largely skewed to reflect the same.

The Post Graduate Work Permit (PWGP) also allows those with a valid student visa to continue staying in Canada for a period of 8 months to 3 years (depending on the duration of your finance course) after graduation. You can either work or look for work in this duration, reducing the pressure of having to get a job before graduation.

Canada has historically had a very low unemployment rate, with the current rate being less than 5%. Furthermore, more and more jobs are opening up in the skilled employment sector especially due to Canada’s strong focus on education and its relative ease of accessibility/affordability. As such, Canada is a great place to start, if not build, a career and life for those looking to work/live abroad.

What is the cost of studying finance in Canada?

Studying finance in Canada can be an expensive endeavor. The cost of tuition, living expenses, and other associated fees can add up quickly. However, there are a variety of ways to reduce the cost of studying finance in Canada. Financial aid, scholarships, and bursaries are all available to help students cover the cost of their studies.

Additionally, many universities offer flexible payment plans that allow students to spread out their payments over the course of their studies. With careful planning and research, it is possible to study finance in Canada without breaking the bank.

That being said, it would be prudent to know that a finance degree in Canada can have a tuition fee between CAD $30,000 and CAD $88,000. Furthermore, the cost of living per month in Canada can average anywhere between CA $900 and CAD $1,235 without rent for a single person. And the rent for a single bedroom can be about CAD $1,370 by itself.

While these are worrying figures for those aspiring to study abroad, one must always remember that there are a lot of scholarships, bursaries, jobs, and even sponsorships that can help lighten the financial load of the experience. One must also spend time exploring all the opportunities in this regard to find the best possible way to study finance in Canada.

What are the best universities in Canada for finance courses?

In this section, we will be covering some of the top Canadian universities to pursue a postgraduate or a bachelor’s degree in the field of finance. While we are looking at finance degrees as a whole, you can also look at specialisations that include options such as corporate finance, investment banking, financial management, financial engineering, risk management, portfolio management and so on.

QS Ranking 2024 University Average tuition fee in CAD
15 University of Toronto 45,000-60,500
26 University of British Columbia 20,000-25,000
48 McGill University 5,172-25,000
101-150 University of Alberta 13,000-39,000
151-200 University of Waterloo 9,000-71,000

Source: QS World University Ranking for Accounting and Finance 2024

1. University of Toronto

Founded in 1827, the University of Toronto is one of the world’s leading research universities and a top-ranked institution in Canada. It is home to over 70,000 students from around the globe and offers more than 700 undergraduate and graduate programs.

With its cutting-edge research facilities, diverse student body, and world-class faculty, the University of Toronto provides an unparalleled educational experience for its students. The university also has a strong commitment to public service and community engagement, offering a variety of programs that promote social responsibility and global citizenship.

Why is it good to study here?

The University of Toronto offers a comprehensive and rigorous finance education that prepares students for successful careers in the financial industry. With an excellent faculty, leading research centers, and a wide range of courses and programs, U of T is one of the top universities for finance studies. Students can choose from a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs in finance, accounting, economics, and other related fields.

Additionally, U of T provides students with access to industry professionals through its numerous networking events and career fairs. Studying finance at U of T will give you the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in today’s competitive financial world.

Fees

The fee for studying finance at the University of Toronto is between CAD $45,000 and CAD $60,500 depending on the course of your choice. The exact rate of which can be ascertained by using the tuition lookup tool.

Eligibility

A bachelor’s degree from an accredited university with a final year average grade of a mid-B or its equivalent is required for applicants to submit a master’s application. Higher standards can be needed for some programmes.

Within 24 months after applying, students must also complete an English language competence test. You must have an IELTS score of at least 7.0, with a minimum of 6.5 in each band or an equivalent English proficiency score.

Courses offered & admission process

The University of Toronto offers a master’s of finance, master’s of mathematical finance, master’s in accounting and finance and bachelor’s in business administration which specializes in management and finance.

Before submitting an application to the University of Toronto, choose your degree and review the website’s detailed admission criteria. The admission form must be filled out with your personal information and academic background when you create a profile on their online application site. You must pay a $125 Canadian application fee (Canadian Dollars).

2. University of British Columbia

The University of British Columbia (UBC) is one of Canada’s oldest and most respected universities. Founded in 1908, UBC has been offering world-class education to students from all over the world for over a century. With two campuses in Vancouver and Okanagan, UBC is home to a diverse student body of over 60,000 students from more than 140 countries.

UBC offers a wide range of academic programs at both undergraduate and graduate levels across its various faculties, including Arts, Science, Medicine, Engineering, and Business.

In addition to its traditional academic offerings, UBC also provides unique opportunities for research and experiential learning through its research institutes and international partnerships. UBC prides itself on providing an enriching environment where students can learn from experts in their field while pursuing their passions.

Why is it good to study here?

The University of British Columbia offers a comprehensive and highly regarded finance program that provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in the competitive world of finance.

With an emphasis on practical learning, students are able to gain hands-on experience through internships, case studies, and other experiential learning opportunities. The faculty members are highly experienced professionals who have worked in the industry and have a wealth of knowledge to share with their students.

Furthermore, UBC’s finance program is accredited by the Chartered Professional Accountants (CPA) of Canada, which gives graduates an added advantage when entering the job market. Studying finance at UBC provides students with a unique opportunity to gain valuable skills for a successful career in this field.

Fees

The undergraduate program has a per-credit rate of CAD $190 in the first year and CAD $282 in the following years. Whereas the postgraduate programs have a range of about CAD $20,000-35,000 depending on the exact specification for a full-time program.

Eligibility

The eligibility criteria are as follows:
A four-year Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university is required when applying to a postgraduate program, along with a minimum GPA of 8 on a 10-point scale, for interested candidates. Additionally, they must show that they are proficient in English by taking the TOEFL, IELTS, or CAEL, and an IELTS score of 6.5, or a minimum TOEFL internet-based exam score of 90 is needed.

Courses offered & admission process

The University of British Columbia offers a bachelor’s in commerce (B.com) with a finance specialization. It also offers an MBA with a finance specialization as well as a master’s in science in finance (M.Sc) through the Sauder School of Business.

Students who wish to apply must complete an online application form and submit it together with the appropriate academic credentials, letters of recommendation, and English proficiency test results. A statement of intent must also be submitted by the students. For foreign students, the application price is $168 CAD.

3 McGill University

McGill University is a public research university located in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Founded in 1821, it is one of the oldest universities in Canada and one of the most prestigious institutions of higher learning in the country.

McGill has been ranked among the top universities worldwide by several international rankings. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across its 11 faculties and 12 professional schools.

With over 40,000 students from all around the world, McGill is renowned for its diverse student body and vibrant campus life. As an internationally recognized leader in research and teaching, McGill has helped shape our world with its innovative discoveries, groundbreaking research projects, and highly qualified graduates.

Why is it good to study here?

McGill University is one of the top universities in Canada, offering a wide range of courses and programs. One of the most popular choices among students is the Finance program at McGill. This program provides students with an in-depth understanding of financial markets, instruments, and theories that are essential for success in the business world.

Students also gain valuable skills such as financial analysis, portfolio management, risk management, and investment strategies. The university also offers a variety of extracurricular activities related to finance that can help students build their professional network and gain practical experience. Studying finance at McGill University provides students with an ideal foundation for launching a successful career in finance or related fields.

Fees

The Bachelor courses in commerce and finance around CA $69,000 for international students. The postgraduate courses range from around CAD $23,000- CAD $45,000 with a similar rate for the Ph.D. program as well.

Eligibility

Students must have a minimum GPA of 3.2 and a bachelor’s degree (when applying to a postgraduate program) in an area related to the programme they wish to enroll in order to be eligible. Additionally, they will need to provide evidence of their English language ability via the TOEFL, IELTS, or McGill Certificate programme. IELTS and TOEFL scores must be at least 6.5 and 86 respectively for applicants. There may be more stringent criteria for some courses.

Courses offered & admission process

McGill offers a Bachelor of Commerce in Finance, and also the same with a concentration in Finance. They also offer a Bachelor of commerce (honors) in investment management as well as a Bachelor of commerce joint honors in economics and finance.

In postgraduate studies, they offer an MBA with a concentration in Financial Management and a master’s of management in finance. Lastly, the university offers a Ph.D. specialization in the field of finance as well.

Discover all the admission requirements for your specific programme before filling out the online application form with all the necessary and supporting documentation. Additionally, reference letters will be required by the university. You may also need to submit a CV or a statement of purpose for some programmes. A $130 application fee is required.

4. University of Alberta

The University of Alberta is a public research university located in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Established in 1908 by Alexander Cameron Rutherford, the first premier of Alberta, and Henry Marshall Tory, its first president, it is widely recognized as one of Canada’s top universities.

Its main campus covers 50 city blocks with over 90 buildings and is home to more than 38,000 students from around the world. The university offers more than 400 undergraduate programs and 170 graduate programs across 18 faculties.

It also has a strong reputation for research excellence in areas such as engineering and medicine. With its commitment to innovation and excellence in teaching, the University of Alberta continues to be an important contributor to the province’s economy and culture.

Why is it good to study here?

The University of Alberta is a top-ranked institution for finance studies, offering students the opportunity to develop their financial knowledge and skills in an environment that encourages creativity and innovation. With a wide range of courses, from introductory to advanced levels, the University of Alberta provides students with the necessary tools to succeed in their chosen field.

From understanding financial markets and institutions to mastering the language of finance and understanding financial risk management, students at the University of Alberta will be prepared for a successful career in finance. They will also gain valuable experience through internships, research projects and networking opportunities that will give them an edge in their future profession.

Fees

Undergraduate finance specialization in the faculty of business costs a fee of about CAD $41,000. Whereas the fee for the postgraduate program can range from about CAD $13,000 to CAD $35,000 for the MBA in Finance specialisation..

Eligibility

Students must have earned a four-year bachelor’s degree from an accredited university with a minimum GPA of 3 on a 4-point scale in order to be eligible for a master’s degree. Students must get an English language proficiency score of at least 90 on the TOEFL, with at least 21 in each band, or 6.5 on the IELTS, with at least 6.0 in each band. GMAT/ GRE scores may also be required for some postgraduate programs.

Courses offered & admission process

Applicants to the University of Alberta can apply to the CFA designation program or Bachelor in commerce with a finance specialization. For postgraduate, they can apply for an MBA in finance.

You can apply by completing the online application form after selecting a programme and making sure that it meets all eligibility conditions. Official documentation, academic records, test results for your English language proficiency, and other essential documents like a resume or statement of purpose must all be submitted in PDF format. After you submit the form, the university will send you requests for letters of recommendation. The cost of the application is $135, CAD.

University of Waterloo

The University of Waterloo is a public research university located in the city of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada. Founded in 1957, it is one of Canada’s leading universities and is ranked among the world’s top institutions for its commitment to excellence in teaching and research.

With over 36,000 students enrolled across six faculties and 10 professional schools, the University of Waterloo offers an extensive range of academic programs from undergraduate to doctoral studies.

The university is also home to numerous research institutes and centers that are dedicated to advancing knowledge in areas such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, nanotechnology, health sciences, and more. Additionally, the University of Waterloo has a vibrant student life with more than 200 clubs on campus and a wide variety of student services available.

Why is it good to study here?

The University of Waterloo offers a world-class finance education for students interested in pursuing a career in the financial sector. It’s renowned for its research and teaching excellence in finance, and its cutting-edge curriculum is designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the competitive world of finance.

At Waterloo, you’ll have access to top-notch faculty members who are experts in their field, as well as an array of resources and support services to help you reach your goals. You’ll also gain valuable hands-on experience through internships, co-op placements, and other experiential learning opportunities. With its strong reputation for producing industry leaders, studying finance at the University of Waterloo is an excellent way to give yourself a leg up on your competition.

Fees

The cost of financial management and other finance courses at the University of Waterloo is between CA $55,000 and $60,000 per year. The cost of a postgraduate program can range from CAD $25,000 to CAD $71,000 depending on the specialization in question.

Eligibility

The University of Waterloo requires a four-year Honors Bachelor’s degree with a minimum overall standing of 75% in order to admit students to any postgraduate programme. You will also need to show that you are proficient in English by taking the TOEFL, IELTS, CAEL, and Cambridge English Tests. For the TOEFL, IELTS, and CAEL, the required minimum scores are 90, 7.0, and 70 respectively.

Courses offered & admission process

The University of Waterloo offers undergraduate courses in accounting and financial management, sustainability and financial management, computing and financial management as well as CPA recognised courses such as biotechnology CPA and mathematics CPA.

The university also offers postgraduate programs in master of accounting, master of taxation, master of quantitative finance and Ph.D. in accounting. Create an online application account, submit the necessary files, and provide the referees’ contact information to apply. Each programme you apply to will cost you $125 CAD for the application.

A few more business schools to consider for finance courses in Canada

  • Queen’s University, Kingston, Ontario
  • University of Montreal, Montreal, Quebec
  • Western University, London, Ontario
  • York University, Toronto, Ontario
  • University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta
  • University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario

For bachelor’s degrees and graduate certificate programs

  • Centennial College, Toronto, Ontario
  • Humber College, Toronto, Ontario
  • Seneca College, Greater Toronto Area, Ontario

How to apply to study finance in Canada?

Preparing to study abroad can be overwhelming. There’s a lot to plan and consider. This is why it’s a great idea to get the best guidance and support you can. The easiest way to reduce your stress is to sign up with TC Global.

We simplify international education, learning, and mobility through connecting students, universities, and a global community on a single platform where there are over 1000+ education providers and over 80,000+ courses.

Our platform enables students to study anywhere in the world in just a few steps. From search and discovery and finding the right course fit for you, to applications, visas and departure – we see you through it all.

To move forward with us, download our app or visit tcglobal.com and sign in to create an account on our student platform and onboard with us in quick, easy steps.! 🚀

Then simply set up a visit Calendly.com/tcglobal to pick a Relationships Team closest to you and choose a slot to meet with a Relationship Member. With the support of our RM, find yourself as one of the international students studying finance courses in Canada.

Let’s shape your future together.

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Date added
12.04.2024

Filed under:

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