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Average salary in Canada for Indians is a crucial factor when considering international education. Knowing the potential earnings, high-demand job sectors, and typical pay scales helps Indian students plan for their financial future while studying in Canada. This guide explores 2025 Canadian salary trends, high-paying courses, employability rates, and factors that shape salaries post-graduation for Indian students.
Average Salary in Canada for Indian Graduates in 2025: Updated Figures
| Sector | Average Starting Salary (CAD) | Example Job Titles |
|---|---|---|
| Information Technology | 55,000 – 75,000 | Data Analyst, Software Developer |
| Engineering | 58,000 – 80,000 | Civil Engineer, Petroleum Engineer |
| Healthcare | 62,000 – 120,000 | Registered Nurse, Pharmacist |
| Business & Finance | 50,000 – 70,000 | Financial Analyst, Business Consultant |
On average, Indian graduates earn between CAD 52,000–75,000 per year in Canada after their studies, with higher salaries typically in urban areas and technical/healthcare fields.
Key Factors That Impact Salaries for Indian Students in Canada
- Educational background: Canadian degrees and high-demand courses (STEM, healthcare, business) increase starting salaries.
- Relevant work experience: Prior internships, Canadian internships, or overseas experience result in better offers.
- Location: Salaries vary by province—cities like Toronto and Vancouver pay higher than smaller towns due to living costs.
- Industry/sector demand: Tech, medicine, and finance sectors offer higher starting salaries due to skills shortages.
- Language proficiency: Strong English (or French) skills, proven by tests like IELTS or TOEFL, improve job prospects.
It's essential to compare these factors before making career plans. For more on global grading and conversions, see our page: What is CGPA?
Top Canadian Universities for Indian Students: Graduate Employability
| University | QS Graduate Employability (2025) | Strongest Sectors for Placements |
|---|---|---|
| University of Toronto | High | IT, Finance, Engineering, Healthcare |
| University of British Columbia | High | Biotech, Software, Business |
| McGill University | Very High | STEM, Medicine, Consulting |
| University of Waterloo | Very High | Engineering, Computer Science |
Many Canadian universities offer excellent job placement rates for international graduates. Combining your degree with internships or co-op programs increases your starting salary and job prospects. Curious about the top global institutions? Explore the Top Universities in the World.
Required Exams & Eligibility for Indians Applying to Canada (2025)
- IELTS: Overall 6.5+ (no band less than 6.0) for most postgraduate courses.
- TOEFL iBT: 86–100+ as minimum for many top universities.
- GRE/GMAT: Required for MS, MBA, or specialized master’s. Range: GRE 300+, GMAT 600+ for competitive programs.
- Academic Requirements: Minimum 60–70% in undergraduate studies; strong CGPA preferred (check specific program).
- Other requirements: Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LOR), and resume/CV.
Some programs may waive standardized test requirements for outstanding academic profiles. For exam specifics, visit our guides on the IELTS Exam and GRE Syllabus.
Tuition Fees & Scholarships: Affordability for Indian Students
| Degree Type | Average Tuition (CAD/year) | Top Scholarships for Indians |
|---|---|---|
| Bachelor’s | 24,000 – 35,000 | Vanier CGS, University Entrance Scholarships |
| Master’s | 18,000 – 30,000 | India First Year Excellence, Shastri Indo-Canadian |
| MBA/MS (Specialized) | 32,000 – 50,000 | Ontario Graduate Scholarship, Mitacs |
- Scholarship deadlines are often 6-10 months before intake.
- Applicants with high CGPA and strong profiles are preferred.
- Consider applying for assistantships and external funding.
To maximize affordability, compare your eligibility for university and government scholarships. For more on funding and merit-based awards, check our Scholarships resource.
Canadian Student Visa 2025: Process & Work Rights
- Apply for a study permit (student visa) with university acceptance letter and proof of funds.
- Biometrics, student visa interview (if applicable), and GIC proof (for SDS applicants).
- Work rights: Up to 20 hours per week part-time during semesters; full-time during breaks.
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): Open work permit for 1–3 years after graduation.
A valid student visa lets you gain Canadian work experience, improving your long-term job prospects. For full details, see our Canada Student Visa Guide.
Industry-Wise Salary Comparison for Indian Graduates (2025)
| Profession | Average Annual Salary (CAD) | Average Hourly Wage (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Software Developer | 68,000 | 33–38 |
| Civil Engineer | 75,000 | 36–42 |
| Registered Nurse | 80,000 | 38–42 |
| Financial Analyst | 61,000 | 30–36 |
| Management Consultant | 77,000 | 37–45 |
These are estimated averages for 2025. Figures may differ based on location, company, and level of experience. You can also explore the Top 10 Highest Paying Jobs in the World to benchmark pay scales globally.
Part-Time Work for Indian Students: Earnings & Typical Roles
| Job Role | Average Hourly Wage (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Retail Assistant | 14 – 16 |
| Barista/Waiter | 14 – 16 |
| Tutor | 17 – 22 |
| IT Support | 18 – 25 |
| Delivery/Ride Sharing | 16 – 21 |
- Common part-time student jobs pay between CAD 14–25 per hour in 2025.
- On-campus jobs are easier to access and often more flexible with student schedules.
- Part-time earnings help offset living expenses, but should be balanced with academic commitments.
Part-time work can also improve your resume and increase employability after graduation. For more on personal statements, explore our SOP (Statement of Purpose) page.
Cost of Living vs Salary: Canada 2025
Cost of living in Canada varies by city. For most students, major expenses include accommodation, food, transport, and insurance. On average:
- Monthly cost for Indian students: CAD 1,200–2,000 (urban centres are at the higher end)
- Salary after tax: Median net salary for new graduates ranges CAD 3,400–4,500/month
- $70,000 per year is considered a good salary in most Canadian cities for a single person's comfort
If you're interested in a cross-country comparison, see our insights on Average Salary in USA as well.
Sources & References
- Statistics Canada (High authority, government data—updated 2025)
- Job Bank Canada (Accurate wage and job outlook information)
- EduCanada (Official resources for study and living in Canada)
- QS World University Rankings 2025 (Global authority for university employability)
In summary, Indian students in Canada can expect strong starting salaries in high-demand sectors, especially if they graduate from top-ranked universities and build Canadian work experience. Salary growth is linked to skills, location, and industry. With effective financial planning and the right career track, studying in Canada offers solid long-term ROI for international students.
FAQs on How Much Do Indians Earn in Canada? 2025 Salary Insights
1. How much do Indians earn in Canada on average?
Indians working in Canada earn a range of salaries based on their profession, experience, and location. On average, skilled professionals from India can expect to earn between CAD $45,000–$75,000 per year before taxes. Entry-level roles or part-time jobs may pay less, while in-demand fields or experienced professionals can earn more.
2. Is $75,000 a good salary in Canada?
Yes, $75,000 per year is considered a good salary in Canada for most cities. It allows for a comfortable lifestyle, especially outside the most expensive urban areas. However, in cities like Toronto or Vancouver, living costs are higher, so budgets may need to be adjusted accordingly.
3. What is a good salary in Canada?
A good salary in Canada generally ranges from CAD $55,000 to $80,000 per year for a single individual, depending on the city and standard of living. Higher salaries are typical for roles in IT, engineering, and healthcare, while entry-level positions may offer lower pay.
4. Is 30k a good salary in Canada?
A salary of CAD $30,000 per year is below the national average and may be challenging for covering all expenses in major cities. While it might be enough for students or part-time workers in smaller towns, most residents will find higher salaries necessary for a comfortable lifestyle in urban areas.
5. What is the average salary in Canada for Indians per month?
Indians working in Canada can expect an average monthly salary ranging from CAD $3,500 to $6,200, depending on job role, industry, and experience. Most skilled migrants and professionals earn towards the higher end of this range.
6. What is the minimum salary in Canada for Indians per month?
The minimum wage in Canada varies by province, generally ranging from CAD $15 to $17 per hour as of 2024. For full-time work (about 40 hours/week), this results in a monthly paycheck of CAD $2,400 to $2,900 before taxes, regardless of nationality.
7. What is the average salary in Canada per month in Indian Rupees?
The average monthly salary in Canada is approximately CAD $4,500, which is around INR 2.75 lakh (₹2,75,000), depending on the exchange rate. Actual earnings vary by profession and experience level.
8. What is the average salary in Canada for Indians per hour?
Most Indian professionals in Canada earn between CAD $20 to $35 per hour. Wages depend on qualifications, sector, and location, with higher rates in skilled fields like IT or engineering.
9. What is the minimum salary in Canada per month for any worker?
The minimum salary for full-time work in Canada typically totals CAD $2,400 to $2,900 per month before tax, based on the prevailing provincial minimum wage (around CAD $15–$17 per hour).
10. How much is the average salary in Canada per month after taxes?
After taxes, the average monthly take-home salary in Canada is usually between CAD $3,200 and $3,800. Taxes deducted depend on total annual income, province, and eligible tax credits.
11. What is the average salary in Canada per month for students?
Most international students in Canada working part-time earn about CAD $1,000 to $1,500 per month, depending on the number of allowed work hours and the province's hourly minimum wage.
12. What is the average salary in Canada compared to the US, in USD?
The average annual salary in Canada is around CAD $60,000 (roughly USD $45,000–$47,000 as per recent exchange rates). In comparison, the average salary in the US is typically higher, at approximately USD $60,000–$65,000 per year before taxes, but costs of living and healthcare expenses differ.
