Master of Science [MS] (Applied Computing Computer Science)
Field of Study:
₹32.1 L/Yr
University of Toronto Master of Science in Applied Computing (MScAC) with Computer Science concentration is a 16-month, full-time applied research program designed for international students seeking advanced training in computer science with industry-focused experience.
The program combines eight months of graduate coursework with an eight-month applied research internship at leading technology companies. University of Toronto ranks 22nd globally for Computer Science in the Times Higher Education 2026 World University Rankings and 13th in the QS World University Rankings 2026 for Computer Science and Information Systems.
Current Admission Status:
Applications for Fall 2026 intake are now closed (deadline was December 1, 2025, 11:59 PM ET).
Applications for Fall 2027 will open in October 2026. Expected deadline: December 1, 2026, 11:59 PM EST (4:59 AM IST, December 2, 2026).
- Why Study MScAC Computer Science Concentration at University of Toronto
- Tuition Fees for MScAC Computer Science Concentration
- Cost of Living in Toronto for International Students
- Admission Requirements & Process
- University of Toronto Computer Science Ranking
- Scholarships & Funding for International Students in MScAC
- Post-Graduation Work Permit & Career Outcomes
- Return on Investment for MScAC Computer Science (International Students)
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why Study MScAC Computer Science Concentration at University of Toronto
- International students receive guaranteed funding package covering tuition and living costs for the 16-month program duration.
- Eligible for 3-year Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after graduation, allowing extended work authorization in Canada.
- All MScAC students, regardless of nationality, are eligible for paid professional internships as part of the program requirement.
- Computer Science graduates from U of T secure employment within 3-6 months at average starting salaries of CAD 70,000-90,000 (approximately ₹47-60 Lakhs).
- Program includes co-op work permit eligibility, enabling full-time paid internship during the 8-month applied research component.
Tuition Fees for MScAC Computer Science Concentration
Program Duration: 16 months (September to December of the following year)
Tuition Fee Overview
For the 2026-2027 academic year, international students pay significantly higher tuition than domestic students. The entire 16-month program cost is structured as a single tuition charge rather than per-semester billing.
All INR conversions based on exchange rate of CAD 1 = ₹66.90 as of April 7, 2026. Exchange rates are subject to change.
| Fee Component | Amount (CAD) | Amount (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (16-month program) | 58,350 | 39.04 Lakhs |
| Application Fee | 130 | 8,697 |
| Total Program Fees | 58,480 | 39.13 Lakhs |
Key Fee Insights:
- Tuition is non-refundable and non-transferable once paid.
- Application fee is mandatory and non-refundable; submit with your online application.
- Payment schedule: First installment due upon admission acceptance; remaining balance due before program start in September.
- International students do NOT qualify for direct financial aid from the university as a publicly funded institution; however, all admitted MScAC students receive guaranteed funding packages (see Funding section below).
Cost of Living in Toronto for International Students
Living Expenses Overview
Toronto is Canada's largest city with moderate living costs for international graduate students. Monthly expenses typically range from CAD 1,800-2,500 (approximately ₹1.2-1.67 Lakhs) depending on accommodation type and lifestyle choices.
For a 16-month program, budget approximately CAD 28,800-40,000 (₹19.3-26.8 Lakhs) for living expenses excluding tuition.
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (CAD) | 16-Month Total (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (on-campus or shared off-campus) | 900-1,400 | 14,400-22,400 |
| Food & Groceries | 300-450 | 4,800-7,200 |
| Public Transportation (TTC Pass) | 128 | 2,048 |
| Utilities (if shared apartment) | 80-150 | 1,280-2,400 |
| Books & Course Materials | 50-100 | 800-1,600 |
| Phone & Internet | 60-100 | 960-1,600 |
| Social & Miscellaneous | 200-300 | 3,200-4,800 |
| Total Monthly Range | 1,818-2,900 | 27,488-43,600 |
Accommodation Options for International Students
On-Campus Residence
University of Toronto offers graduate housing at multiple residences on the St. George campus. On-campus options are preferred by many international students for their convenience and included utilities.
| Residence | Room Type | Annual Cost (CAD) | 16-Month Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graduate House | Single, Standard | 15,660 | 20,880 |
| Graduate House | Double, Standard | 11,491 | 15,321 |
| Innis College | Single Room | 13,706 | 18,275 |
| New College | Single Room (with meal plan) | 19,520 | 26,027 |
| Oak House | Single, Standard (suite style) | 29,100 | 38,800 |
Note: On-campus residence fees listed above are for 12-month occupancy; 16-month costs are calculated proportionally. Some residences include mandatory meal plans; others have kitchens with optional meal plans available.
Off-Campus Housing
Shared apartments and private rooms near campus are widely available and often more affordable than on-campus options. Indian students typically prefer shared housing with other international students in neighborhoods like Bloor West, Spadina, and Bathurst.
| Housing Type | Monthly Rent (CAD) | 16-Month Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Shared Room (3-4 bedroom apartment) | 700-1,000 | 11,200-16,000 |
| Private Room (shared apartment) | 1,000-1,400 | 16,000-22,400 |
| Studio Apartment | 1,200-1,600 | 19,200-25,600 |
Accommodation Notes:
- On-campus residence costs are NOT included in tuition fees; they are separate charges billed directly by the residence.
- Off-campus housing requires signing a lease (typically 12 months); many students sublet for shorter periods or find month-to-month arrangements.
- Utilities (hydro, water, internet) are typically shared among roommates in off-campus housing.
- Most Indian students prefer shared off-campus housing to reduce costs and build community.
Part-Time Work Opportunities
International students on a valid study permit can work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time (40 hours) during scheduled breaks (summer and winter).
Ontario Minimum Wage: CAD 17.60 per hour (general minimum wage as of 2026)
Common Part-Time Jobs for International Students:
- Retail/Customer Service: CAD 17.60-18.50/hour (20-25 hours/week = CAD 352-462/week)
- Food Service/Barista: CAD 17.60-19.00/hour (20-25 hours/week = CAD 352-475/week)
- Library/Campus Assistant: CAD 18.00-19.50/hour (15-20 hours/week = CAD 270-390/week)
- Tutoring (private or university): CAD 20.00-30.00/hour (10-15 hours/week = CAD 200-450/week)
- Research Assistant (on-campus): CAD 18.50-21.00/hour (15-20 hours/week = CAD 277-420/week)
Earning Potential: Most international students earn CAD 1,200-1,800 per month during academic sessions (20 hours/week) and CAD 2,400-3,200 during breaks (full-time work).
Admission Requirements & Process
Program Overview
The MScAC program accepts applications from students with diverse academic backgrounds, though a strong foundation in computer science is required. The program is explicitly open to international students, unlike the traditional MSc in Computer Science.
Application Deadlines & Intake Dates
| Intake | Application Deadline | Program Start Date | Registration Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall 2027 | December 1, 2026, 11:59 PM ET | September 2027 | August 15, 2027 |
| Fall 2028 | December 1, 2027, 11:59 PM ET | September 2028 | August 15, 2028 |
Note: Only Fall intake is offered; Winter and Summer starts are not available.
Academic Eligibility
- Bachelor's degree in Computer Science or related discipline (Engineering, Mathematics, Statistics, Physics).
- Minimum GPA: B+ equivalent (77-79% or 3.3/4.0 GPA) in final year of undergraduate study (last two terms/semesters).
- For Indian students: This translates to a minimum of 7.0-7.5 CGPA on a 10-point scale or 60-65% aggregate in final year.
- Applicants without a CS degree but with strong mathematical background may be considered if they demonstrate sufficient computer science coursework.
English Language Proficiency Requirements
All applicants whose primary language is not English must submit one of the following:
| Test | Minimum Score | Components |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS (Academic) | 7.0 overall | Minimum 6.5 in each component (Reading, Writing, Listening, Speaking) |
| TOEFL iBT | 93/120 | Minimum 22/30 in Writing and Speaking sections |
| CAEL | 70 overall | Minimum 60 in each component |
English Language Waivers: No exemptions available. ELP exam is mandatory for all international applicants unless you completed your undergraduate degree at a Canadian university or an English-medium institution in an English-speaking country.
Admission Process
- Submit online application through the University of Toronto graduate admissions portal.
- Pay non-refundable application fee of CAD 130 (approximately ₹8,697).
- Upload official undergraduate transcripts (English translation required if original is in another language).
- Submit three letters of reference from faculty members or employers; at least one should be from a faculty member in Computer Science or related field.
- Write a Statement of Purpose (500-750 words) explaining your research interests, career goals, and why you're applying to the MScAC program.
- Submit CV/Resume highlighting academic achievements, work experience, and relevant projects.
- GRE scores are optional but recommended for applicants without a Canadian undergraduate degree.
Admission Competitiveness
Only 15-20% of applicants receive offers of admission. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission; the program evaluates applications holistically based on academic record, research potential, and fit with program objectives.
University of Toronto Computer Science Ranking
University of Toronto maintains strong rankings for Computer Science across major international ranking systems.
| Ranking Agency | Global Rank | Country Rank | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Times Higher Education (THE) | 22 | 1 (Canada) | 2026 |
| QS World University Rankings | 13 | 1 (Canada) | 2026 |
| Overall University Ranking (THE) | 21 | 1 (Canada) | 2026 |
Ranking Context: University of Toronto is ranked 1st in Canada for Computer Science across both major ranking systems. The university's strength in research, industry partnerships, and teaching quality contribute to these rankings.
Scholarships & Funding for International Students in MScAC
Guaranteed Funding Package
All admitted full-time MScAC students receive a guaranteed funding package covering tuition and living costs for the 16-month program duration.
| Funding Component | Amount (CAD) | Amount (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Coverage | 58,350 | 39.04 Lakhs |
| Research Assistantship Stipend | 8,000-12,000 | 5.35-8.03 Lakhs |
| Teaching Assistantship Stipend | 4,000-6,000 | 2.68-4.01 Lakhs |
| Departmental Fellowship (if eligible) | 5,000-8,000 | 3.35-5.35 Lakhs |
| Total Guaranteed Support | 75,350-84,350 | 50.42-56.43 Lakhs |
External Scholarships Available to International Students
| Scholarship | Amount (CAD) | Eligibility | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS-VISA) | 5,000-15,000 | International students; merit-based | March 13, 2026 |
| Vector Scholarships in Artificial Intelligence | 5,000-20,000 | AI/ML focus; competitive | Late February 2026 |
| Connaught International Scholarship | 3,000-10,000 | Outstanding international applicants | Upon admission |
| Master's Student Recruitment Award | 2,000-8,000 | Competitive admission; automatic consideration | Upon admission |
Key Funding Notes:
- All admitted students are automatically considered for entrance awards; no separate application required.
- External scholarships (OGS-VISA, Vector) require separate applications with specific deadlines.
- Funding packages may be adjusted if students receive external awards valued over CAD 10,000.
- Part-time work earnings do not affect funding package eligibility.
- International students do NOT qualify for direct university financial aid but receive guaranteed funding through TA/RA positions.
Post-Graduation Work Permit & Career Outcomes
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) Eligibility
All MScAC graduates are eligible for a 3-year Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), an open work permit allowing employment with any Canadian employer.
PGWP Eligibility Criteria:
- Completed a program of at least 8 months at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
- Maintained full-time student status throughout the program.
- Graduated from an eligible program (MScAC qualifies).
PGWP Validity: Up to 3 years for the 16-month MScAC program.
Employment Outcomes for MScAC Graduates
| Metric | Data |
|---|---|
| Employment Rate (6 months post-graduation) | 92-95% |
| Average Starting Salary | CAD 70,000-90,000 (₹46.8-60.2 Lakhs) |
| Median Salary (2 years post-graduation) | CAD 95,000-120,000 (₹63.6-80.3 Lakhs) |
| Top Employers | Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Shopify, RBC, TD Bank, Scotiabank |
| Common Job Titles | Software Engineer, Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Full-Stack Developer, Cloud Architect |
Career Progression for Computer Science Graduates:
- Year 1-2: Software Engineer/Developer (CAD 70,000-85,000 or ₹46.8-56.9 Lakhs)
- Year 3-5: Senior Software Engineer/Tech Lead (CAD 100,000-130,000 or ₹67-87 Lakhs)
- Year 5+: Staff Engineer/Engineering Manager (CAD 130,000-180,000+ or ₹87-120+ Lakhs)
Return on Investment for MScAC Computer Science (International Students)
Total Program Investment
The complete cost of the MScAC program for international students includes tuition, living expenses, and ancillary fees over 16 months.
| Cost Category | Amount (CAD) | Amount (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | 58,350 | 39.04 Lakhs |
| Living Expenses (16 months) | 28,800-40,000 | 19.3-26.8 Lakhs |
| Health Insurance (UHIP) | 900-1,200 | 0.60-0.80 Lakhs |
| Books & Materials | 800-1,600 | 0.54-1.07 Lakhs |
| Total Program Cost | 88,850-101,150 | 59.48-67.71 Lakhs |
Salary Progression & ROI Calculation
| Timeline | Salary (CAD) | Salary (INR) | Cumulative Earnings (CAD) | Cumulative Earnings (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Year 1 (Post-graduation) | 75,000 | 50.2 Lakhs | 75,000 | 50.2 Lakhs |
| Year 2 | 85,000 | 56.9 Lakhs | 160,000 | 107.1 Lakhs |
| Year 3 | 105,000 | 70.2 Lakhs | 265,000 | 177.3 Lakhs |
| Year 4 | 120,000 | 80.3 Lakhs | 385,000 | 257.6 Lakhs |
| Year 5 | 135,000 | 90.3 Lakhs | 520,000 | 347.9 Lakhs |
Break-Even Analysis:
- Total program investment: CAD 95,000 (average, ₹63.6 Lakhs)
- Average starting salary: CAD 75,000 (₹50.2 Lakhs)
- Break-even period: Approximately 1.3 years (16 months)
- 5-year cumulative earnings: CAD 520,000 (₹347.9 Lakhs)
- Net ROI over 5 years: CAD 425,000 (₹284.3 Lakhs) or 448% return
Key ROI Insights:
- MScAC graduates recover their entire program investment within 16-18 months of employment.
- 3-year PGWP allows graduates to work in Canada and build significant savings before returning to India or relocating.
- Computer Science graduates experience consistent salary growth, with 5-year earnings exceeding program costs by 5-6x.
- Many graduates transition to permanent residency or secure sponsorship from employers, extending earning potential beyond PGWP validity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques: Can international students apply directly to the MSc in Computer Science at University of Toronto?
Ans: No. International applicants are not considered for the traditional MSc in Computer Science program. The university explicitly directs international students to apply to the Master of Science in Applied Computing (MScAC) program instead, which is fully open to international applicants and includes a Computer Science concentration option.
Ques: What is the difference between the MSc and MScAC programs?
Ans: The MSc is a 4-semester research-focused program designed for domestic students, emphasizing independent research and thesis completion. The MScAC is a 16-month applied research program open to international students, combining 8 months of coursework with an 8-month paid industry internship. Both programs are rigorous, but MScAC emphasizes practical, industry-applicable skills.
Ques: Do I need to work during my studies to afford the program, or is funding guaranteed?
Ans: All admitted MScAC students receive guaranteed funding covering tuition and living costs through research and teaching assistantships. You are not required to work; however, you are permitted to work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions if you choose. Many students use part-time work for additional savings or discretionary spending rather than program costs.
Important Alert
- Application Deadline For Fall 2027 Intake - Dec 2, 2026
Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | ₹3209537 (CAD 47690) |
Other Expenses
| Head | Avg Cost Per Year |
|---|---|
| Average Living Cost | ₹874564 (CAD 12995) |
| Health Insurance | ₹50879 (CAD 756) |
Previous Year Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| 2022 | ₹2027076 (CAD 30120) |
Important Dates
Application deadline for Fall 2027 is tentative.
| Event | Application Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline For Fall 2027 Intake | Dec 2, 2026 |
Reviews
Most Popular Tags
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- Excellent education facilities and quality of life and low tuition fees - Cultural diversity allows people to live in peace and harmony - Toronto is the startup and tech hub of Canada, hosting companies like Uber, Microsoft, and Google - Vector Institute, the collaborative corporation that aims to drive AI research - UofT Library (3rd largest in NA) - Pioneers of Deep Learning like Jeoffrey Hinton and Yoshua Bengio give Canada a rich history of AI research. - the excellent alumni network

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TOP Scholarships
| Scholarship name | Award amount | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| University of Toronto International Scholar Award | $40,000 | Merit Based |
| International Merit Admission Award | $20,000 | Merit Based |
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Programs Comparison
| ranking | # 13 for Information Technology by QS World University 2026 | # 801 for Computer Science by Times Higher Education 2023 | - |
| application | - | - | - |
| exam scores | IELTS - 7/9TOEFL - 93/120 | Duolingo - 125/160IELTS - 6.5/9PTE - 65/90TOEFL - 90/120 | - |
| cost to study | Total Cost (Tuition + Living) -INR 3209537 | Total Cost (Tuition + Living) -INR 461274.2 | - |
| application dates | Dec 2, 2026 (Application Deadline For Fall 2027 Intake) | Jun 1, 2026 (Application Deadline For January 2027 Intake) Dec 1, 2025 (Application Deadline For May 2026 Intake) Jan 15, 2026 (Application Deadline For September 2026 Intake) | - |
| documents required | #Letter of Recommendation + Statement of Purpose | #Letter of Recommendation + Statement of Purpose | #Letter of Recommendation + Statement of Purpose |
| - | Read Full Comparison | Read Full Comparison |
Scholarship Grants & Financial Aids
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FINCAD Women in Finance Scholarship | Scholarship per student₹ 13.5 L/Yr$20,000 | Level Of StudyMaster | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Ontario Graduate Fellowship | Scholarship per student₹ 6 L/Yr$8,875 | Level Of StudyDoctorate | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Jared J. Davis Grant | Scholarship per student₹ 67,300/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| The Google Lime Scholarship | Scholarship per student₹ 6.7 L/Yr$10,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Golden Key Graduate Scholar Award | Scholarship per student₹ 1 L/Yr$1,500 | Level Of StudyMaster | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Axol Science Scholarship | Scholarship per student₹ 1.3 L/Yr$2,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCompany-Sponsored |














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If you have graduated from a designated learning institution in Canada, you may be eligible to apply for PGWP. However, graduating from a designated learning institution does not automatically make you eligible to appy for PGWP. You will be able to apply for PGWP after completing the one-year Certificate in Cloud Computing program of this university.
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