Smart Money Tips for International Students in Canada

Moving to Canada as an international student can be exciting—but managing expenses effectively is key to making the most of your experience. Here’s how to live affordably while studying, with practical tips on saving money in major aspects of student life.

1. Affordable Housing Options

• University Residences: Living on campus can be convenient and may save on commuting costs. Some schools offer budget-friendly dorms with meal plans included.
• Shared Rentals: Splitting rent with roommates in cities like Montreal, Halifax, or Winnipeg can be much cheaper than renting alone. In expensive cities like Toronto and Vancouver, suburbs like Mississauga or Surrey offer lower-cost housing with good transit access.
• Homestays: Staying with a local family can be a cost-effective way to enjoy affordable rent and home-cooked meals, plus it helps with cultural adjustment.

2. Grocery Shopping on a Budget

• Shop at discount grocery stores like No Frills, FreshCo, and Walmart for lower prices.
• Buy bulk staples at Costco or local markets to save over time.
• Look for student discounts and price-match deals at major supermarkets.
• Consider meal prepping to avoid expensive takeout.

3. Transportation Savings

• Use student transit passes, often available in cities like Toronto (PRESTO Card), Vancouver (Compass Card), and Ottawa (U-Pass).
• Opt for cycling or walking where possible instead of relying on buses or Uber.
• Look into carpooling or rideshare apps for occasional travel.

4. Smart Tuition and Books Spending

• Buy used textbooks or rent books from platforms like Amazon and Kijiji.
• Use library resources and online academic tools instead of purchasing books outright.
• Explore scholarships and financial aid offered by universities to lower tuition costs.

5. Part-Time Jobs and Extra Income

• Work on-campus or in student-friendly jobs like tutoring, retail, or food service.
• Consider freelancing or online gigs for flexible income.
• Check government rules on work hours for international students to maximize earnings legally.

Final Thoughts

Saving money as an international student doesn’t mean sacrificing quality of life it means being strategic with expenses. By finding affordable housing, shopping smart, using transit deals, and working part-time, students can live well while keeping costs manageable.

If you’re feeling unsure about where to start, Hakademy has your back. From helping you find budget-friendly living options to guiding you on financial aid and job opportunities, we’re here to make your transition to student life in Canada as smooth as possible.

Want to take control of your finances and focus on your studies? Check out Hakademy today!