Cost of Living
The cost of living in Canada, and in particular Toronto, can be high. An important aspect of planning your move to Toronto is to have a realistic idea of the amount of money you will need for living expenses in Canada, and to arrange your finances accordingly. Your choice of accommodation is a major factor in establishing the cost of living as a student in Toronto.
The following is an estimate of the amount of money a single student would need to cover living expenses for 8 months in Toronto (2008-09). Costs vary and often exceed this estimate; accordingly the figures below should be used only as a guideline:
Expense |
Cost |
|---|---|
Accommodation (not including meals) |
Cdn$4,800 |
Food |
Cdn$3,200 |
Personal Expenses* |
Cdn$1,800 |
Books & Instruments |
Cdn$500 to 1,000 |
Health Insurance (Cdn$63 per month) |
Cdn$504 |
Local Transportation (optional) |
Cdn$800 |
Approximate Total for 8 months |
Cdn$12,000 |
*Personal Expenses: items include postage, stationery, dry cleaning and laundry, pharmacy supplies, entertainment and recreation, etc. This amount will permit an adequate but far from luxurious standard of living.
While it is possible to live very simply and economically, many students may wish to take advantage of opportunities outside the university to see more of the city and the country, and to actively participate in the life of the community. That would involve additional costs beyond this general guideline.
Federal and Provincial Sales Taxes
On most purchases in Ontario, both the provincial sales tax (PST) of 8% and the 5% federal goods and services tax (GST) apply - 13% sales taxes on many purchases. GST and PST are not typically included on the price tags of goods or a quote on services, so expect to pay more on your purchases when you give payment. There is no GST on most grocery items, but restaurant meals are taxed both GST and PST.
Tipping is customary in Canada. While the amount is discretionary, a gratuity of 15% is usually considered appropriate under most circumstances. It is customary to tip hairstylists, barbers, restaurant servers, taxi drivers, bartenders and other service industry personnel.
Working On Campus
Exchange students who have a Canadian Study Permit are also allowed to seek employment on campus (however, exchange students are not eligible for the Off Campus Work Program). The UofT Career Centre has information about available jobs and how to apply for them.
For information about working in Canada visit the International Student Centre website at http://www.isc.utoronto.ca/preparingforuoft/working.htm
It is not realistic to expect to meet travel and living expenses through part-time work. You should also consider the demands of your academic program, particularly if this is your first time taking courses in an English-speaking environment.