GENERAL

Masters in Animation in Canada: Eligibility Requirements, Tuition Fee and Placements

KS
Khushi Singh • 10 Mins read • 26 Jul 25
Masters in Animation in CanadaMasters in Animation in Canada

Masters in Animation in Canada is one of the popular choices among animators professionals and creatives looking for advanced levels of training in storytelling, character development, storyboarding, graphic designer, 3D modeling, and digital production and much more. Masters in Animation in Canada is a 1–2 year PG Program. Some of the Top Canadian institutions who offer Masters in Animation in Canada are Sheridan College, Emily Carr University, and OCAD University and more. Canada is one of the perfect destination for Animation studies because of its good and high quality Education System, Global Exposure, and Booming Digital Entertainment Industry.

Masters in Animation in Canada average tuition fee ranges between CAD 18,000 to CAD 45,000 (₹11 to ₹27.5 lakhs) annually and Living expenses of Canada is around CAD 10,000 to CAD 15,000 (₹6 to ₹9.2 lakhs) per year. For doing Masters in Animation in Canada students must have a bachelor's degree in a relevant field with portfolio, and English language proficiency score IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL 90+. After finishing the course, graduates average salary is between CAD 45,000 to CAD 80,000 per year.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about pursuing a Master in Animation in Canada. From top universities to fees, scholarships, eligibility, job opportunities and salaries, you will get to know about every detail in the same blog.


Masters in Animation in Canada: Quick Highlights

The table below highlights all the important points about the Masters in Animation in Canada, which includes from top universities to fees, scholarships, eligibility, job opportunities and salaries.

Particulars

Details

Course Name

Masters in Animation in Canada

Course Duration

1–2 years

Top Universities

Sheridan College, Emily Carr University, OCAD University, and Concordia University.

Course Eligibility

  • 4-year Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts.
  • A minimum GPA of 3.0 on the scale of 5.0 or an overall average of 75 - 80%. 
  • English language Proficiency: IELTS: 7.5, TOEFL-IBT: 105, PTE: 59
  • Work samples and a Portfolio

Entrance Tests Required

GMAT/GRE and TOEFL/IELTS 

Average Annual Tuition Fee

CAD 18,000 to CAD 45,000 (₹11 to ₹27.5 lakhs)

Living Expenses

CAD 10,000 to CAD 15,000 (₹6 to ₹9.2 lakhs) annually

Average Salary Package

CAD 45,000 to CAD 80,000 per year

Application Mode

Online

Intake Sessions

  • Fall (September)
  • Winter (January) 
  • Spring (May)

Top Recruiters

Disney, Ubisoft, DreamWorks, Sony Pictures, Pixar, EA Games, Nelvana.


Masters in Animation in Canada: Important Dates and Events

The important dates and events for taking admission and studying Masters in Animation in Canada are mentioned below in tabular form.

Important Events 

Tentative Dates

Fall enrollment

September 2025

Winter Intake

January 2026

Spring Intake

Starts from May 2026

Application Deadline

6–9 months before intake


Masters in Animation in Canada: Visa Application Timeline

If you are planning to study for a Masters in Animation in Canada. Then, Check out the following table to understand the visa processing times in the USA for international students.

Events

Timeline

Study Permit Application

4 to 8 weeks

Biometrics & Interview

Within 30 days of receiving request

Final Decision

Typically within 60 days

Apply for Visa

After receiving Letter of Acceptance (LOA).


Masters in Animation in Canada: Course Fees

Masters in Animation in Canada Tuition fee is highlighted below in the table format in Canadian Dollar($) and Indian rupees(₹) both for better understanding.

University

Annual Tuition Fees in Dollars (CAD$)

Annual Tuition Fees in Indian Rupees (₹)

Sheridan College

$32,000

₹19.6 lakhs

Emily Carr University of Art + Design

$19,500

₹12 lakhs

OCAD University

$24,000

₹14.7 lakhs

Concordia University

$18,000

₹11 lakhs

Vancouver Film School (PG Diploma)

$35,000

₹21.4 lakhs


Cost of Studying Masters in Animation in Canada

The Monthly Cost of Studying Masters in Animation in Canada is mentioned below in a detailed breakdown of total costs involved for studying in Canada.

Types of expenses

Average Cost (CAD$)

Accommodation

$7,500 – 10,000 per year

Food

$3,000 – 4,500 per year

Transportation

$800 – 1,200 per year

Internet & Utilities

$1,000 per year

Miscellaneous

$1,000 – 1,500 per year


Why Choose Masters in Animation in Canada?

Here's detailed information provided for studying MA in USA.

  • The top universities of animation are in Canada, like Sheridan and OCAD and more.
  • The employment rate is more than 90% which indicates the graduates are guaranteed to work for world-class animation studios post their studies.
  • Masters in Animation in Canada has Top recruiters like Disney, DreamWorks, and EA Sports.
  • After finishing the course, graduates' average salary is between CAD 45,000 to CAD 80,000 per year.


Masters in Animation in Canada: Qualification

The Masters in Animation in Canada has eligibility criteria requiring a qualification is Bachelor degree in arts degree 3-4 years' minimum, with GPA of 3.0 on the scale of 5.0 or an overall average of 75 - 80%.

English language proficiency IELTS: 7.5, TOEFL-IBT: 105, and PTE: 59, and a few work samples with a Portfolio.


Masters in Animation in Canada: Eligibility

Here's the table below showing the course eligibility for Masters in Animation in Canada.

Category

Eligibility Details

Academic Qualification

Bachelor in arts degree 3-4 year's minimum

Academic Performance

GPA of 3.0 on the scale of 5.0 or an overall average of 75 - 80%.

Language Requirements

IELTS: 7.5, TOEFL-IBT: 105, and PTE: 59

Application Materials

A few work samples with a Portfolio.

Additional Tests

Not mandatory (GRE/GMAT not usually required)


Masters in Animation in Canada: Application Process

The following is the detailed application process for applying to the Masters in Animation in Canada.

STEP 1:  Do verify and Research about the chosen programs and check their deadlines. And then give the IELTS/TOEFL and GRE exam if it is required.

STEP 2:  Prepare SOP, LORs, Resume, and transcripts before applying.

STEP 3:  Apply online through university portals or platforms and websites, and pay the application fees, which can be between CAD 100–150.

STEP 4:  Receive the offer letter and accept it by signing and replying to it and the last and final step, apply for a Canadian Study Permit which is a Visa.


Masters in Animation in Canada: SOP, LOR, and Resume

A Masters in Animation in Canada requires a few documents for enrolling in the course, applying to competitive programs or scholarships. 

Document

Details

Statement of Purpose (SOP)

Write 1000–1500 words by explaining to the college committee about future career goals, why you think to should pursue a Masters in Animation in Canada, and why you believe a specific program is the right fit for you. 

Letters of Recommendation (LOR)

Need two letters of recommendation, usually from supervisors or professors by highlighting the skills and achievements of past academics.

Resume

Your resume should clearly outline your work experience, academic achievements, internships, achievements, leadership roles, and any relevant extracurricular activities.


Masters in Animation in Canada: IELTS/TOEFL Tips

For Masters in Animation in Canada international students have to give an English proficiency test, IELTS or TOEFL, which is usually required. Here are some of the tips for preparing it.

  • Understanding the Test Structure for Both IELTS and TOEFL. 
  • Focus on and master the reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills of English. 
  • Read English newspapers and academic articles, listen to English podcasts and news, and practice speaking with native speakers or study partners.
  • Improving vocabulary and a solid grammar foundation are crucial for all sections of both tests. 
  • Practice animation-specific vocabulary and use previous mock papers and sample sheets.


Masters in Animation in Canada: Cutoff

Listed below is the cutoff for the Masters in Animation in Canada.

  • requiring a qualification of Bachelor degree in arts degree 3-4 years' minimum
  • A GPA of 3.0 on the scale of 5.0 or an overall average of 75 - 80%.
  • There are no specific entrance exam cutoffs like GRE or GMAT for admission into a Masters in Animation in Canada. However, English language proficiency scores IELTS cutoffs accepted by top universities.
  • English Proficiency Test Scores: IELTS: 7.5, TOEFL-IBT: 105, and PTE: 59


Masters in Animation in Canada: Syllabus

Masters in Animation in Canada has a syllabus based on arts, designing, storytelling, character development, storyboarding, graphic designer, 3D modeling, digital production and much more. 

Program structures vary by institution, but core topics remain constant.

Core Subject

Description

Foundations

Life drawing, animation principles, storytelling, layout and design

Technical Tools

Toon Boom, Maya/Blender, Nuke, Substance Painter, Zbrush

Advanced Production

2D/3D pipelines, character rigging, lighting & compositing, VFX

Special Projects

Capstone film/animation thesis, short film workflows

Industry Preparation

Co‑op/work term, internships, professional practice, portfolio development

Electives & Expanded Media

VR/AR, stop-motion, sound design, visual storytelling, installation


Masters in Animation in Canada: Electives & Specializations

Students who are pursuing a Masters in Animation in Canada have multiple specializations like character development, storyboarding, graphic design, 3D modeling, digital production, and much more. Some are listed below as well.

  • 2D/3D Animation
  • Game Design
  • Visual Effects (VFX)
  • Character Animation
  • Motion Graphics
  • Storyboarding
  • Digital Media


Best Universities for Masters in Animation in Canada

Down here mentioned some of the best universities for Masters in Animation in Canada with its QS Ranking and its total number of seats.

QS Ranking 2024

University

Seats

2

Sheridan College

150+ seats

551–560

Concordia University

200+ seats

47

University of British Columbia

does not publish

242

University of Calgary

does not publish

328

Simon Fraser University

100+ seats


Masters in Animation in Canada: Canada Vs. India

Some detailed comparisons of Masters in Animation in Canada vs. in India, covering duration, eligibility, fees, curriculum, and career scope.

Aspect

Australia

India

Duration

1-2 years

2 years

Eligibility

Bachelor degree in arts 3-4 years minimum with GPA of 3.0 on the scale of 5.0 or an overall average of 75 - 80%.

IELTS: 7.5, TOEFL-IBT: 105, and PTE: 59.

Bachelor degree from a recognized university, typically with a minimum 50% aggregate score.

Entrance Exams

No national exam, Portfolio and English test required

CUET PG.

Top Universities

Sheridan College, Concordia University, University of British Columbia, University of Calgary, Simon Fraser University.

IIT Madras, IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay, and IIT Kanpur, BHU and more.

Average Tuition Fees

CAD 18,000 – 45,000 (₹11 – ₹27.5 lakhs)

₹1 – ₹5 lakhs annually

Top Recruiter

Disney, Pixar, Ubisoft, Sony

Green Gold, Toonz Media, Reliance.


Masters in Animation in Canada: Scholarships

Masters in Animation in Canada provides a few scholarships to its perfectly eligible students. The table below shows the eligibility criteria and amount for applying to the scholarship scheme.

Scholarship

Eligibility

Amount

Jam Filled Diversity in Animation Scholarship

Animation students at specific colleges

CAD 3,000

Spin Master Entertainment Scholarship

Equity‑seeking animation students

CAD 12,500

Sheridan Animation Scholarships

Sheridan animation students

CAD 2,500+

Algonquin Awards

Algonquin animation/VFX students

Varies (merit/need-based)

VFS Future Scholarship Fund

Animation, film, game design students

Full tuition fees

International Tuition Awards, UBC

International master’s students

CAD 3,200/year

QS Academic Excellence Scholarship, UBC

Master’s students with strong academics

Up to CAD 13,500

Golden Key Graduate Scholar Award, UBC

Eligible master’s students

CAD 3,379

Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS)

Full-time grad students in Ontario

CAD 5,000 per term 

Quebec Merit Scholarship / Commonwealth Program

International students in eligible provinces

Varies

Mitacs Graduate Internships

Graduate students (incl. animation/digital arts)

Stipends, research funding

Schmeelk Canada Fellowship

Bilingual master’s students at select universities

CAD 10,000/semester


Career Scope After Masters in Animation in Canada

After completing the Masters in Animation in Canada there is so much career scope in digital marketing, graphic designing, storytelling, and many more. The list below shows some of the Career scopes available after completion of Masters in Animation in Canada.


  • 2D/3D Animator
  • VFX Artist
  • Character Designer
  • Storyboard Artist
  • Game Designer
  • Art Director
  • Animation Director
  • Multimedia Specialist
  • Motion Graphics Designer
  • Concept Artist


Masters in Animation in Canada: Top Recruiters

Below are some of the top Recruiters of Masters in Animation in Canada. 

  • Walt Disney Animation Studios
  • Ubisoft
  • Pixar
  • DreamWorks Animation
  • EA Sports
  • Nelvana
  • Sony Pictures Animation
  • Technicolor
  • Bardel Entertainment
  • Guru Studio


Masters in Animation in Canada: Salary Package

The table below shows the Annual Salary for various job roles in CAD($) and Indian rupee(₹) offered to Masters in Animation in Canada.

Job Title

Average Annual Salary (CAD$)

Equivalent Salary INR (₹)

3D Animator

$60,000

₹36 lakhs

VFX Artist

$55,000

₹33 lakhs

Game Designer

$65,000

₹39 lakhs

Character Animator

$58,000

₹35 lakhs

Storyboard Artist

$54,000

₹32 lakhs

Motion Graphics Designer

$60,000

₹36 lakhs

Art Director

$80,000

₹49 lakhs


Frequently Asked Questions


Ques: What is the duration or time needed for completing Masters in Animation in Canada?

Ans: The duration is 1–2 years, depending on the university and program structure for doing Masters in Animation in Canada.


Ques: Do I need a portfolio to apply for Masters in Animation in Canada

Ans: Yes, a strong creative portfolio is mandatory for admission into most programs of Masters in Animation in Canada.


Ques: Is GRE required for Masters in Animation in Canada?

Ans: No, a GRE is not required for Masters in Animation in Canada.


Ques: What are the average fees for a Masters in Animation in Canada?

Ans: Tuition fees range around CAD 18,000 – 45,000 per year for completing Masters in Animation in Canada.


Ques: Can I get a work visa after completing a Masters in Animation in Canada?

Ans: Yes, international graduates can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit valid upto 3 years after completing Masters in Animation in Canada.