USA and International Costs

Planning Your Finances

A university education is a big investment. It’s one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your future. It’s important to consider both the costs of tuition and living as well as your career opportunities after graduation.

Tuition and Living Costs

Here is how much you can expect to pay in an academic year at Carleton University.

Living on campus Cost CAD dollars*
Tuition and student fees 2023-2024** – see tuition by program $31,796 – $49,665
On-campus residence and meal plan – based on double room, includes an All Access meal plan and internet/wifi*** $12,385
Books and supplies – varies according to program $1,400
Personal expenses (entertainment, clothes, extras) $2,500
Total $48,081 – $65,950
Living Off Campus Cost CAD dollars*
Tuition and student fees 2023-2024** – see tuition by program $31,796 – $49,665
Off-campus housing – based on shared accommodation, utilities, food, and internet/wifi*** (prices vary depending on type of accommodation) $9,600 – $15,400
Books and supplies – varies according to program $1,400
Personal expenses (entertainment, clothes, extras) $2,500
Total $45,296 – $68,965

*Current exchange rates can be found at bankofcanada.ca.
**Tuition and student fees include the 2023-2024 University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP) fee of $756 (CAD) per person for 12 months.
***Based on 8 month academic year

For program-specific tuition fees, please visit Carleton’s Student Accounts Receivable website

Please note that all study permit applications must show the applicant meets financial requirements established by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada , which may be higher than living expenses shown here.

Funding your education

From scholarships to part-time jobs, international students have opportunities to offset their costs while studying at Carleton.

Paid full-time work placements


Carleton’s extensive co-operative education or “co-op” program gives students the opportunity to alternate academic terms and work terms during their degree:

  • Students get paid, full-time work experience in their field of study, working in world-class organizations like Microsoft, IBM, Amazon, Shopify, KPMG, Ernst & Young, and Deloitte.
  • The chance to apply your knowledge and skills in real-world situations gives you an advantage in preparing for your future career.
  • Salaries range from minimum wage ($16.55/hour) to $30/hour depending on the program. Students usually work 35 to 40 hours per week during a co-op term.
  • When you graduate, you could have up to 2 years of real world experience that employers will love!

Part-time jobs while studying


Looking for a job to help you pay for your studies? Most international students studying full-time can:

  • Apply for a job on campus at Carleton University.
  • Apply for a part-time job off campus during the school year (20 hours per week maximum).
  • Apply for full-time work during scheduled breaks (such as reading week, summer break).
  • Salaries range from minimum wage ($16.55/hour) to about $20/hour depending on the job. Students usually work 10 to 15 hours per week while studying full-time.

Visit the International Student Services Office website for details.

Automatic entrance scholarships


If you have been admitted to Carleton for fall entry, you will automatically be considered for a renewable Entrance Scholarship if:

  • You are entering Carleton for the first time from high school and have no previous attendance at post-secondary educational institutions.
  • Your admission average is 80 per cent or better.

Once you start studying at Carleton, keep your university grades up above 80 per cent so you can renew your scholarship every year. Explore more scholarships on this page.

Budgeting tips for international students

International students have different challenges when it comes to personal finance. Carleton offers events and support to students in budgeting and managing personal finances.

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