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MS in Chemistry in Canada: Top Universities, Fees, Eligibility, Scholarships & Placements

AG
Anjali Gupta • 14 Mins read • 24 Jul 25
MS in Chemistry in CanadaMS in Chemistry in Canada

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The Master of Science in Chemistry in Canada (MS in Chemistry) is typically a 1 to 2-year full-time program. Master of Chemistry is Analytical, Operations Manager, Research Scientist, Account Manager, etc. 

The average fee ranges for masters in chemistry between CAD 12,669 to CAD 44,341 (₹ 8,00,000 - ₹ 28,00,000), and intake seasons include Spring, Summer, and Fall sessions.

The average cost of living in Canada generally ranges around ₹ 2,02,000 - ₹ 4,00,000. There are scholarships available for international students, such as the UVic Fellowship Award, the University of Calgary International Graduate Tuition Award, the McGill University Department of Chemistry Scholarships, and more. 


The average salary for MS graduates ranges between CAD 58,594 to CAD 98,185 (₹ 37,00,000 - ₹ 62,00,000). Top recruiters include AbCellera Biologics, Eli Lilly, Sobeys, Alberta Health Services, Walmart, Labstat, Shoppers Drug Mart, and more. The universities offering the course include Columbia University, the University of Waterloo, the University of Calgary, the University of Victoria, the University of Windsor, and more. 


MS in Chemistry in Canada: Quick Highlights

An MS in Chemistry in Canada is a postgraduate program that offers specialisation in diverse fields, such as medicinal chemistry, materials chemistry, nanoscience, and more. The course requires a minimum GPA of 3.0 out of a 4.0 scale to be admitted to top universities. 

Particulars

Details

MS in Chemistry full form

Master of Science in Chemistry

MS in Chemistry course level

Postgraduate

MS in Chemistry duration 

1-2 years

Eligibility criteria

A minimum four-year bachelor's degree is required in the related field.

Application mode

Online

Entrance test required

IELTS/TOEFL/PTE/GRE

Tuition fees

₹ 8,00,000 - ₹ 28,00,000

Average Salary

₹ 37,00,000 - ₹ 62,00,000

Highest Salary

₹ 61,73,000

Top colleges 

  • University of Victoria
  • University of Alberta
  • University of Saskatchewan
  • University of Montreal
  • Queen’s University
  • Columbia University
  • University of Manitoba

Top specializations

  • Analytical Chemistry
  • Chemical Synthesis
  • Chemical Biology
  • Organic Chemistry
  • Inorganic Chemistry
  • Chemical Synthesis

Top Recruiters 

  • AbCellera Biologics
  • Eli Lilly
  • Sobeys
  • Alberta Health Services
  • Walmart
  • Labstat
  • Shoppers Drug Mart


MS in Chemistry in Canada: Important Dates and Events

The Master's in Chemistry accepts IELTS exam scores for admission.

The IELTS exam is to be conducted in August, September, October, November, and December 2025 in various cities of India.  Check the table to know all the details of important dates and events.

Upcoming Events

Dates

IELTS Exam 2025 - August

2nd, 7th, 9th, 23rd August, 2025

IELTS Exam 2025 - September

6th, 13th, 18th, 27th September, 2025

IELTS Exam 2025 - October

4th, 9th, 18th, 25th October, 2025

IELTS Exam 2025 - November

1st, 6th, 15th, 22nd November, 2025

IELTS Exam 2025 -December

4th, 6th, 11th, 20th, 27th December, 2025


Application Deadlines for Top Universities

The deadline for the application for a Master of Chemistry in Canada varies from university to university. Generally, the application starts around September in the fall intake, and in the Winter intake, it generally starts around February, and for the Summer intake, around March. 

University

Start date

End date

McGill University

  • Fall Intake: September 15, 2025
  • Winter Intake: February 15, 2026
  • Fall Intake: January 15, 2026
  • Winter Intake: May 31, 2026

University of Calgary

       —

  • January Intake: August 1, 2025
  • Fall Intake: April 1, 2026


Why choose an MS in Chemistry in Canada?

Choosing a Master’s Program in Chemistry in Canada helps students build a strong career in the chemical industry. The course offers various career opportunities, which are always in high demand and offer a good salary in comparison to India. The candidate gets a high-quality education and is able to explore modern lab technical equipment. The Canadian universities always top in global rankings and give opportunities to work on different projects, which helps in the enhancement of knowledge.

Benefits of studying an MS in Chemistry in Canada

  • Canadian degrees are accepted internationally, providing opportunities to work in various fields related to chemistry.
  • The Canadian universities also offer scholarships that help the candidates with their finances.
  • The candidate gets a high salary as a fresher, which is higher than that of freshers in India working in the same field.
  • The candidate gets to work on different projects and experiment in a modern lab with new equipment.

Check: Why Study In Canada ?

MS in Chemistry in Canada: Fees

The MS in Chemistry in Canada fees vary from university to university. The total fees for the international students include the tuition fees, living costs, books, health insurance, etc. The average fees for the program range around ₹ 8,00,000 - ₹ 28,00,000. Check the table below to know the fees of the different universities.

University

Total fees (CAD)

Total fees (INR)

University of Ottawa

35,830

₹2,16,800

York University

20,274

₹12,26,000

McGill University

19,154

₹11,58,000

University of Waterloo

4,508

₹2,72,000

McMaster University

60,060

₹36,34,000

University of Victoria

10,560

₹6,38,000

Dalhousie University

33,720

₹20,40,000

University of British Columbia

18,626

₹11,26,000

Western University

14,856

₹8,90,000


Cost of Living in Canada

The cost of living in Canada is generally higher than in India. The expenses include accommodation, food, health insurance, transportation, etc. Check the list below for the cost of living in Canada for MasteMaster's degree in Chemistry

Expense type

Expenses in CAD

Expenses in INR

Food

CAD 1200

₹ 76,186

Accommodation

CAD 1000- 2500

₹63,488 - ₹ 1,58,721

Health Insurance

CAD 40-45

₹2,539 - ₹2,856

Transporation

CAD 100

₹6,348

Miscellaneous

CAD 1000

₹ 63,488


MS in Chemistry in Canada: Qualification

The MS in Chemistry in Canada qualification requires a bachelor’s degree in chemistry or a related field. The students also need to pass the English language proficiency test to be qualified for the courses. 

Particulars

Details

Education qualification

A minimum four-year bachelor's degree is required in a related field such as biochemistry.

English proficiency test

The candidate must pass the English proficiency test, such as IELTS/TOEFL.


MS in Chemistry in Canada: Eligibility Criteria

The MS in Chemistry in Canada eligibility criteria require a bachelor’s degree in a related field like biochemistry, English proficiency, a minimum GPA, as most of the universities require, and other requirements such as LOR, SOP, Resume, etc. The candidate must qualify for the English proficiency tests IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE to pursue a Master's in Chemistry in Canada. Most of the universities also require GRE scores to take admission. Check the table below to know the required eligibility criteria.

Particular

Details

Academic requirements

The candidates should have a four-year bachelor's degree in Chemistry or a related field such as biochemistry or chemical engineering.

IELTS/TOEFL

Most universities accept proof of English proficiency, such as IELTS with a 7.0 score.

GPA

A minimum 3.0 out of 4.0 scale is required.

GRE

Some universities require the GRE (Graduate Record Examination).

LOR (Letter of Recommendation)

2-3 minimum LORs are required from academic sources.


MS in Chemistry in Canada: Application Process

The MS in chemistry in Canada application process requires fulfilling eligibility criteria, qualifying for an English proficiency test, submitting required documents, and paying the application fees. 

Step 1: The candidate must fulfil the eligibility criteria that require a minimum four-year bachelor’s degree in a related field.

Step 2: The candidate must score the minimum marks specified by IELTS, that is, 7.0, and TOEFL, that is, between 90-100.

Step 3: The candidate’s GPA score must be 3.0 out of 4.0, as most universities accept the GPA score.

Step 4: To proceed with the further process, the candidates need to submit the essential documents.

Step 5: The candidate should shortlist the universities offering the course and check their admission requirements and deadlines.

Step 6: At last, the candidate has to pay the application fee of the university within the specified time.


Documents Required: 

If a candidate is applying for an MS in Canada, the candidate must know about he documents required for the process. It includes an academic transcript, IELTS/TOEFL score, SOP, LOR, and Resume. Each of these has its own important role to showcase the candidate’s profile. 

  • SOP: The Statement of Purpose is required to check the candidates’ academic background. It is an essay that includes why a candidate wants to pursue an MS in chemistry, the history of projects or lab work that have been done, why a candidate wants to study in Canada, future ambitions, etc.
  • LOR: The Letters of Recommendation are written by the professors or employees who know the candidate’s academic background. The LOR includes strengths, lab skills, academic record, etc.
  • Resume: The resume includes the candidate’s educational qualifications, experience in projects or internships, research work, academic achievement, etc.
  • Academic Transcript: The academic transcript includes the marksheet of the bachelor’s degree. 
  • IELTS/TOEFL: The IELTS/TOEFL score is required to take admission in the universities of Canada for a master’s degree. 
  • GRE: The GRE test is also required to take admission in universities in Canada, as it checks that if a candidate is ready or not to take admission at the graduate level.


MS in Chemistry in Canada: Admission (University-wise)

The universities offering an MS in Chemistry in Canada have their own admission process, including academic qualifications, GPA scores, and documents required. The admission process differs depending on the university. Check the table to know the admission requirements of each university:

University

Admission process

McMaster University

It requires a four-year bachelor’s degree/honours degree.

University of Ottawa

It requires a bachelor’s degree with a specialisation in Chemistry.

McGill University

It requires a B.Sc. degree or a related degree (Chemistry/Physics/Biochemistry)/GPA score of 3.0 out of 4.0

University of British Columbia

It requires a four-year bachelor’s degree/equivalent.

University of Windsor

It requires an undergraduate degree with a minimum of 70%.

University of Victoria

It requires a bachelor’s degree in chemistry or equivalent.

Dalhousie University

It requires a four-year bachelor’s degree/Undergraduate honours degree/ GPA 3.0.

York University

It requires an undergraduate degree with a GPA of 70-74%.

University of Calgary

It requires a four-year bachelor’s degree/equivalent/ GPA 3.0/2 LORs.


MS in Chemistry in Canada: Entrance Exams

The entrance exam required for the Master's Chemistry in Canada includes an English proficiency test, such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, and GRE. Most of the universities accept these entrance exams score to accept the admission.

Exam

Details

TOEFL 

The Test of English as a Foreign Language.

IELTS

The International English Language Testing System.

PTE

The Pearson Test of English.

CAEL

The Canadian Academic English Language Assessment.

GRE

Graduate Record Examinations.


IELTS Preparation Strategy

If you are preparing for the IELTS test, the candidate should understand the exam format, English skills, and focus on the strengths and weaknesses to score high. Here are the tips for IELTS preparation:

  • The candidate must understand the exam pattern and its format, which includes four sections, i.e., Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.
  • The candidate should make their vocabulary and grammar strong, and read articles, newspapers, and magazines to enhance their skills.
  • The candidate should practice writing essays daily and engage in conversations, as it will help in developing English skills.
  • The candidate should check the performance in the mock test and work on their weak topics.


GRE Preparation Strategy

If you are preparing for the Graduate Management Admission Test, you must know about the exam pattern and how the scoring is done. The right preparation will lead to good performance in the test, as it assesses the candidate’s readiness for admission. Here are he tips for GRE preparation: 

  • The candidate must know about the pattern of the exam, how many questions each section contains, the authentic resources to study, etc.
  • The candidate must make a chart of topics and divide the time accordingly. They must focus on the topics which has been asked continuously in the test.
  • The candidate must practice daily, as it will help in time management during the exam, and it will help in identifying mistakes.
  • The candidate should not waste their time on one question, as it will lead to losing time and scoring low; always give equal time to each question.


MS in Chemistry in Canada: Scholarships

The scholarship is provided for international students to help them with the tuition fees and living expenses. Here is the list of MS in Chemistry in Canada Scholarships and their benefits.

Scholarship

Benefit

Eligibility 

Western Graduate Research Scholarships

Variable amount

A minimum of 70% is required in academics.

McGill University Department of Chemistry 

CAD 25,000 - CAD 26,000

It is applicable to all graduate students.

UVic Fellowship Awards

CAD 17,500

A-Average (or 6.0/9.0) in the last two years of coursework is required.

UVic Graduate Awards

CAD 10,000

A minimum GPA of A- or 7.0 on the UVic scale is required.

University of Calgary International Tuition Award

CAD 3,000 

A minimum GPA of 3.2 is required.


MS in Chemistry in Canada: Cutoff

The MS in Chemistry in Canada cutoff is generally a minimum GPA score of 3.0 out of a 4.0 scale. The GPA score varies depending on the university; some universities accept higher scores according to the courses. 


IELTS score Cutoffs

If a candidate wants to pursue an MS in Canada, they should be aware that the IELTS score which is different for each university. The score generally ranges between 6.5 - 7.0; each university has its own IELTS score.

University

IELTS score

McMaster university

6.5 -7

University of Toronto

7 -7.5 

McGill University

6.5 - 7.5

University of Alberta

6 - 7

The University of British Columbia

6.5 - 7.5

Western University

7

University of Windsor

6.5

Dalhousie University

7

York University

6.5


Best universities for MS in Chemistry in Canada 

The universities for MS in Canada offer the best education, research opportunities in various fields, and help in exploring modern lab techniques. The Canadian University for MS gets the top ranking in the QS World University Ranking.

University

QS World Ranking 2025

McMaster University

176 

Dalhousie University

283

University of Ottawa

189

Queen’s University

191

York University

184

Western University

120

University De Montreal

159

University of Alberta

96


Public universities

The list includes the government universities in Canada for MS offering better quality education and career opportunities. Check the table with the details, including global ranking and fees: 

University

QS World University Ranking 2025

Trent University

1616

McGill University

29

University of Ottawa

189

University of Waterloo

115

University of British Columbia

38

Western University

120

University of Calgary

198

University of Victoria

741-750


MS in Chemistry in Canada vs India

Both countries offer excellent opportunities after pursuing an MS program in Canada. In Canada, the course fee is a little bit higher in comparison to India, and if we talk about the cost of living. It is higher than India.

Particulars

Canada

India

Universities

McGill University, University of Waterloo, University of Victoria, Western University

IIT Bangalore, IIT Bombay, IIT Madras, IIT Delhi

Duration

1-2 years

2 years

Cost of Living

CAD 880 to CAD 1,400

₹ 15,000 to ₹ 25,000

Tuition fees

₹ 8,00,000 - ₹ 28,00,000

₹ 20,000 - ₹ 4,00,000

Career opportunities

Analytical chemist, Research associate, Quality assurance director, Chemist

Research scientist, quality control chemists, organic chemist, materials scientist

Average salary

₹ 37,00,000 - ₹ 62,00,000

₹ 3,00,000 - ₹ 12,00,000


MS in Chemistry in Canada: Career opportunities

The MS course in Canada offers career opportunities in diverse fields, such as industry, academia, and research. The course offers a good salary and growth for the candidates. The career scope includes analytical chemists, research scientists, forensic scientists, etc. Check the table below for job opportunities with responsibilities and salary: 

Particulars 

Details

Analytical Chemist

It focuses on the substances that are made up of and tests the quality and safety of the products.

Chemist

Deals with experimenting in labs and with chemicals and making new products. 

Research Scientist

Researching projects and inventing new technologies are required in the job profession.

Research Associate

Experimenting with lab tests and managing the reports related to lab tools.

Quality Assurance Director

Ensures that the products are of high quality and safe.


Top Recruiters

The top recruiters for MS programs in Canada include pharmaceutical companies, government institutions, universities, and research institutions. Check the list below to know the top recruiters:

  • AbCellera Biologics
  • Eli Lilly
  • Sobeys
  • Alberta Health Services
  • Walmart
  • Labstat
  • Shoppers Drug Mart


MS in Chemistry in Canada: Salary package

The MS programs in Canada for international students offer various career opportunities with a good salary package. If we talk about the average salary in Canada, it is around CAD 65,000 annually. The salary varies depending on the job roles; a fresher gets around CAD 50,000 - CAD 70,000. 


Average Salary in Canada

If we talk about the average salary of job roles in Canada, it is higher than in India. The average salary after pursuing an MS in chemistry in Canada at the entry level is ₹ 37,00,000 to ₹ 47,00,000, and in India, it is ₹ 3,00,000 to ₹ 4,00,000 LPA.  List of job roles with average salary in Canada: 

Job roles

Average salary (CAD)

Average salary (INR)

Analytical chemist

CAD 56,000

₹ 35,47,252

Product manager

CAD 78,000

₹ 49,40,816

Product supervisor

CAD 49,000

₹ 31,03,846

Operations manager

CAD 85,000

₹ 53,84,223

Research scientist

CAD 57,000

₹ 36,10,596


FAQs


Ques 1. What are the eligibility criteria for an MS in Chemistry in Canada?

Ans 1. The candidates should have a four-year bachelor's degree in Chemistry or a related field such as biochemistry or chemical engineering.


Ques 2. Is an MS in Chemistry in Canada worth it for Indian students in 2025?

Ans 2. Yes, it is worth it for Indian students as it offers various career opportunities internationally and helps in career growth.


Ques 3.  Can freshers apply for an MS in Chemistry in Canada?

Ans 3. Yes, freshers can apply for an MS in Chemistry in Canada; only a four-year bachelor's degree is required.


Ques 4. Do MS in Chemistry in Canada degrees help in settling abroad?

Ans 4. Yes, it helps in settling abroad as it is in high demand in Canada in research and pharmaceutical companies.


Ques 5. What are the career opportunities after an MS in Chemistry in Canada?

Ans 5. The career opportunities include Analytical Chemist, Research Scientist, Research Associate, Quality Assurance Director, etc