Master of Science [MS] (Applied Computing Data Science)
Field of Study:
$63,000 /Yr
The Master of Science in Applied Computing (MScAC) with a Data Science concentration is a 16-month professional master's program offered by the Department of Computer Science at the University of Toronto. The program combines eight months of advanced graduate coursework in computer science, statistics, and data science with an eight-month applied research internship in industry. Data science is a highly interdisciplinary field combining expertise from statistics and computer science to solve complex, real-world problems. The program is designed to educate the next generation of world-class innovators who can bridge academic research and industrial applications.
The MScAC program has an average internship salary of CAD 65,000 over eight months, with 100% of graduates securing internships to date. International students are eligible for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) valid for up to three years after graduation, enabling them to work in Canada and gain professional experience. University of Toronto ranks 1st in Canada and 22nd globally in Computer Science according to Times Higher Education 2026 rankings.
Current Admission Status:
Fall 2026 applications are now closed. The application deadline was December 1, 2025 (11:59 PM ET). The program has one intake (Fall) only; no Winter or Summer start dates are available.
For Fall 2027 applications, the deadline will typically be in early December 2026. Admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis between December and April, with all applicants expected to hear decisions by no later than April.
- Why Study Data Science at University of Toronto MScAC
- University of Toronto MScAC Data Science Tuition Fees for International Students 2025-26
- Cost of Living in Toronto for International MScAC Students
- Admission Requirements for International Students
- English Language Requirements for International Students
- University of Toronto Computer Science Rankings
- Scholarships for International Students in MScAC Data Science
- Placement Data and Job Outcomes for MScAC Data Science Graduates
- Return on Investment for MScAC Data Science (International Students)
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why Study Data Science at University of Toronto MScAC
- University of Toronto ranks 1st in Canada and 22nd globally for Computer Science according to Times Higher Education 2026 rankings.
- The program guarantees 100% internship placement rate with an average salary of CAD 65,000 over eight months, offsetting tuition and living costs.
- International students are eligible for a three-year post-graduation work permit (PGWP) upon graduation, allowing them to work in Canada and gain professional experience.
- The program offers access to 500+ partner companies across diverse industries including tech giants, startups, healthcare, finance, and research institutions.
- Graduates progress to roles such as AI Software Engineer, Big Data Engineer, Machine Learning Engineer, Data Scientist, and Technical Operations Strategist.
- The cohort-based model ensures all students meet program milestones together, fostering strong peer networks and collaboration opportunities.
University of Toronto MScAC Data Science Tuition Fees for International Students 2025-26
The MScAC program is a 16-month professional master's program with tuition and fees covering the entire duration of the program.
Exchange Rate Note: All INR conversions based on CAD 1 = INR 66.90 as of April 7, 2026. Exchange rates are subject to change.
| Fee Component | Amount (CAD) | Amount (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Program Tuition & Fees (16 months) | 90,050 | 60.25 Lakhs |
| Mandatory Pre-Program Activities Fee | 2,200 | 1,47,180 |
| Total Cost (International Students) | 90,050 | 60.25 Lakhs |
Key Fee Details:
- The CAD 90,050 fee includes tuition, incidental fees, and mandatory pre-program activities (May-August) that support internship preparation.
- Pre-program activities are delivered before the academic year begins and include professional skills development, interview training, and internship search support.
- Domestic students (Canadian citizens and permanent residents) pay CAD 33,325 for the same program.
- Payment schedule: Semester 1 (Fall) fees due by mid-September; Semester 2 (Winter) fees due by end of November; Semester 3 (Summer) no payment required; Semester 4 (Fall) fees due by mid-September of year 2.
- Average internship salary during Semesters 3-4 is CAD 65,000, which typically offsets tuition and living costs for many students.
Cost of Living in Toronto for International MScAC Students
Living expenses in Toronto for international students typically range from CAD 1,800 to CAD 3,000+ per month, excluding tuition. The Greater Toronto Area experiences four distinct seasons, requiring appropriate clothing for temperatures ranging from 30°C (86°F) in summer to -25°C (-13°F) in winter.
| Expense Category | Monthly Cost (CAD) | Annual Cost (CAD) | Annual Cost (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing (shared apartment) | 1,130 - 2,700 | 13,560 - 32,400 | 9.07 Lakhs - 21.67 Lakhs |
| Food & Groceries | 350+ | 4,200+ | 2.81 Lakhs+ |
| Utilities (Hydro/Electricity) | 65+ | 780+ | 52,182+ |
| Internet | 60 - 115 | 720 - 1,380 | 48,168 - 92,262 |
| Phone Bill | 50 - 100 | 600 - 1,200 | 40,140 - 80,280 |
| Transportation (TTC Monthly Pass) | 0 - 143 | 0 - 1,716 | 0 - 1,14,798 |
| Tenant's Insurance | 30 - 50 | 360 - 600 | 24,084 - 40,140 |
| Clothing & Seasonal Wear | 50 - 100 | 600 - 1,200 | 40,140 - 80,280 |
| Entertainment & Social Activities | 200 | 2,400 | 1,60,560 |
| Books & Course Supplies | - | 400/semester | 26,760/semester |
| Total Monthly (Estimated) | 2,000 - 3,200 | 24,000 - 38,400 | 16.05 Lakhs - 25.68 Lakhs |
Annual Total Cost (Tuition + Living for 16 months): CAD 114,050 - CAD 128,450 (approximately 76.30 Lakhs - 85.93 Lakhs INR)
Accommodation Options for International MScAC Students
On-Campus Residence:
On-campus housing is available for graduate students, though not guaranteed. Most international MScAC students prefer off-campus shared housing due to cost and flexibility, as the program is intensive and students often prioritize proximity to internship locations during Semesters 3-4.
| Residence | Room Type | Annual Cost (CAD) | Annual Cost (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Graduate House | Single, Economy | 13,491 - 16,357 | 9.03 Lakhs - 10.94 Lakhs |
| Innis College | Standard Single | 13,706 | 9.17 Lakhs |
| Woodsworth College | Standard Single | 13,920 | 9.31 Lakhs |
| Oak House (Suite Style) | Single, Standard | 29,100 | 19.47 Lakhs |
| CampusOne Student Residence | Shared (12 months) | 28,945 - 37,865 | 19.37 Lakhs - 25.33 Lakhs |
Off-Campus Housing:
Private rental apartments near campus typically cost CAD 1,130 - CAD 2,700 per month for shared accommodations. International MScAC students often prefer shared apartments in neighborhoods like Kensington Market, Chinatown, or near Bloor Street to reduce costs and build community. Many students relocate closer to their internship companies during Semesters 3-4.
Note: On-campus residence fees are NOT included in tuition fees and must be paid separately. Off-campus housing costs are the student's responsibility.
Part-Time Work Opportunities for International MScAC Students
International students on valid study permits can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during regular school sessions (Semesters 1-2) and full-time during the internship phase (Semesters 3-4). The internship is a mandatory, paid component of the program.
Minimum Wage in Ontario: CAD 16.55 per hour (as of 2026)
Common Part-Time Jobs for International Students in Toronto (Semesters 1-2):
- On-Campus Employment: CAD 15.00 - CAD 22.00/hour (teaching assistant, research assistant, library support)
- Tutoring & Academic Support: CAD 18.00 - CAD 30.00/hour (peer tutoring, programming tutoring, test prep)
- Tech & Software Development: CAD 20.00 - CAD 40.00/hour (freelance coding, web development, app development)
- Data Analysis & Research: CAD 18.00 - CAD 35.00/hour (data entry, research support, analytics projects)
- Retail & Customer Service: CAD 16.55 - CAD 18.50/hour (retail stores, customer support, delivery services)
Internship Phase (Semesters 3-4):
- Average internship salary: CAD 65,000 over eight months (approximately 43.48 Lakhs INR)
- Internship is full-time employment (35-40 hours/week) and is a mandatory requirement of the program
- 100% of MScAC graduates to date have secured paid internships
Admission Requirements for International Students
The MScAC Data Science concentration is highly competitive, with only 5-10% of applicants being admitted each year. Admission is based on academic achievement, relevant coursework, work/research experience, and demonstrated interest in data science.
Academic Requirements:
- Completion of an appropriate undergraduate degree (bachelor's or higher) from a recognized university
- Minimum standing equivalent to B+ (77-79% or 3.3/4.0 GPA) in the final year of study (equivalent of 5 full credits or 10 half credits)
- For international credentials, use the University of Toronto's International Credentials Equivalencies Tool to determine equivalent standing
Data Science Concentration-Specific Requirements:
- Undergraduate degree in a related area such as statistics, computer science, mathematics, or any discipline with significant quantitative component
- Background academic preparation typically includes intermediate or advanced undergraduate courses in:
- Algorithms and Complexity, Database Systems, or Operating Systems
- Statistical Theory/Mathematical Statistics, Probability Theory, or Regression Analysis
- Demonstrated ability to conduct and communicate applied research at the intersection of computer science, statistics, and a domain area
- Work experience (including co-op placements or internships) is preferred but not required
- Research experience (including summer research assistantships) is preferred but not required
Required Application Documents:
- Official academic transcripts from all undergraduate and graduate institutions
- Resume/CV (1-2 pages) detailing educational background, work experience, research experience, publications, and projects
- Program-specific essay answers addressing research interests, reasons for applying to MScAC, and career goals
- Three letters of reference (preferably at least two from academic referees; industry referees acceptable if in senior capacity)
- English Language Proficiency (ELP) test scores (if applicable)
- Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores (strongly recommended for non-Canadian applicants)
- Links to relevant projects, GitHub repositories, research papers, or portfolio work (optional but encouraged)
Admission Process:
- Submit application through School of Graduate Studies (SGS) application portal
- Pay non-refundable SGS application fee (approximately CAD 100-150)
- Provide all supporting documents by application deadline
- Selected applicants invited for interview (rolling basis, December-April)
- Admissions decisions made on rolling basis; all applicants notified by April
English Language Requirements for International Students
English is the language of instruction at University of Toronto, and all international students whose first language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency.
Exemptions Available:
- Undergraduate degree earned at a university where language of instruction and examination is uniformly English
- Four or more years of full-time study in a recognized English-language school in a country where English is the dominant language (USA, UK, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, etc.)
- Canadian citizens who studied at a Canadian university where language of instruction is French
Accepted English Proficiency Tests:
| Test | Minimum Score Required |
|---|---|
| IELTS Academic | Overall band 6.5, no band below 6.0 |
| TOEFL iBT (tests on/after Jan 21, 2026) | Overall 4.5, Writing 4.5, Speaking 4.0 |
| Duolingo English Test | Overall 120, Production 120 |
| PTE Academic | Overall 65, no part below 60 |
| Cambridge C1 Advanced | Overall 180, minimum 170 in each component |
| CAEL | Overall 70, no part below 60 |
Key Points:
- Test results must be sent directly by the testing agency to University of Toronto (TOEFL institution code: 0982, department code: 78)
- Results must be received by application deadline (typically early December)
- Scores are valid for two years from test date
- If you don't meet minimum requirements but are otherwise admissible, you may be considered for English Language Transition Programs
University of Toronto Computer Science Rankings
University of Toronto is ranked among the top computer science schools globally and in Canada.
| Ranking Body | Global Rank | Canada Rank | Year |
|---|---|---|---|
| Times Higher Education (Computer Science) | 22nd | 1st | 2026 |
| Times Higher Education (Overall) | 21st | 1st | 2026 |
| QS World University Rankings (Overall) | 29th | 1st | 2026 |
Note: The MScAC program is ranked among the top applied computing programs in Canada, with 300+ graduates and 500+ partner companies represented.
Scholarships for International Students in MScAC Data Science
International students in the MScAC program are not eligible for departmental funding. However, they are eligible for several university-wide and external scholarships.
| Scholarship | Award Amount (CAD) | Eligibility | Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| School of Graduate Studies Awards | Varies (CAD 500 - CAD 10,000+) | Merit-based, available to current students | Apply via Award Explorer tool |
| University of Toronto Graduate Scholarships | Varies | Merit-based, new and current students | Automatic consideration for admitted students |
| External Scholarships | Varies | Country-specific, merit-based | Apply directly to funding organizations |
| Prodigy Finance | Up to CAD 90,050 | International students, income-based | Apply directly to Prodigy Finance |
| MPOWER Financing | Up to CAD 90,050 | International students, income-based | Apply directly to MPOWER |
Key Points:
- MScAC students are not eligible for departmental research assistantships or teaching assistantships
- Internship remuneration (average CAD 65,000 over 8 months) typically offsets tuition and living costs
- Many countries provide loans or scholarships specific to their citizens; check with your home government
- Use Award Explorer tool (awardexplorer.utoronto.ca) to search for scholarships matching your profile
- International student loan companies like Prodigy Finance and MPOWER offer financing options (not endorsed by U of T)
Placement Data and Job Outcomes for MScAC Data Science Graduates
Employment Statistics:
- 100% internship placement rate to date; all graduates have secured paid internships
- Average internship salary: CAD 65,000 over eight months (approximately 43.48 Lakhs INR)
- Historically, almost all MScAC graduates either continue at their internship company or move to another company directly after finishing their internship
- 5-10% admission rate; only superior students demonstrating strong commitment are admitted
Career Paths for Data Science Graduates:
- Data Scientist (tech companies, finance, healthcare, e-commerce)
- Machine Learning Engineer (AI/ML research labs, tech companies, startups)
- Big Data Engineer (data infrastructure, cloud platforms, analytics companies)
- AI Software Engineer (product development, research and development)
- Technical Operations Strategist (operations, business intelligence, consulting)
- Data Analytics Consultant (management consulting, business analytics)
- Startup Co-founder (leveraging technical skills and industry connections)
Partner Companies (500+):
- Tech Giants: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Meta, Apple, IBM, Shopify
- Finance: RBC, TD, BMO, CIBC, Scotiabank, Bloomberg
- Healthcare: Unity Health Toronto, Sunnybrook Research Institute
- Startups & Scale-ups: Across diverse sectors including fintech, biotech, climate tech
Return on Investment for MScAC Data Science (International Students)
Total 16-Month Cost Breakdown:
| Cost Component | Total (CAD) | Total (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees (16 months) | 90,050 | 60.25 Lakhs |
| Living Expenses (16 months at CAD 2,500/month) | 40,000 | 26.76 Lakhs |
| Total Cost | 130,050 | 87.01 Lakhs |
Internship Earnings & Post-Graduation Salary:
- Average internship salary (8 months): CAD 65,000 (43.48 Lakhs INR)
- Entry-level salary (post-graduation): CAD 80,000 - CAD 120,000 (53.52 Lakhs - 80.28 Lakhs INR)
- Mid-career salary (3-5 years): CAD 120,000 - CAD 180,000 (80.28 Lakhs - 1.20 Crores INR)
- Senior-level salary (5+ years): CAD 150,000 - CAD 250,000+ (1.00 Crore - 1.67 Crores+ INR)
Break-Even Analysis:
- Total 16-month investment: CAD 130,050 (87.01 Lakhs INR)
- Internship earnings offset: CAD 65,000 (43.48 Lakhs INR)
- Net cost after internship: CAD 65,050 (43.53 Lakhs INR)
- Break-even period: Approximately 6-12 months post-graduation at entry-level salary
- Long-term ROI: Graduates in mid-to-senior roles earn significantly higher salaries, representing strong long-term career growth
Key Insights:
- The program provides exceptional ROI with internship earnings offsetting majority of costs
- International students gain Canadian work experience through paid internship and PGWP (up to 3 years), increasing earning potential
- Data science careers offer continuous growth opportunities, with senior roles commanding significantly higher salaries
- Toronto's thriving tech ecosystem provides abundant job opportunities for graduates
- 100% internship placement rate ensures students gain professional experience and industry connections
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques: Is the MScAC internship guaranteed, and what is the average salary?
Ans: The internship is a mandatory requirement of the MScAC program, and to date, 100% of graduates have secured paid internships. The average internship salary is CAD 65,000 over eight months (approximately 43.48 Lakhs INR). While remuneration cannot be guaranteed, this is a reasonable expectation based on previous cohorts' experiences. The program facilitates many opportunities to interact with 500+ partner organizations and solicits custom-built applied research internship projects throughout the first two semesters.
Ques: What is the post-graduation work permit (PGWP) duration for MScAC graduates?
Ans: International graduates of the MScAC program are eligible for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) valid for up to three years. To date, all MScAC students who have applied for the PGWP have been granted a permit with three-year validity. The PGWP is an open work permit, meaning graduates can work for any employer anywhere in Canada, providing significant flexibility for career development and potential pathway to permanent residency.
Ques: Can I apply to MScAC Data Science if my undergraduate degree is not in Computer Science?
Ans: Yes, you can apply to the Data Science concentration with an undergraduate degree in a related area such as statistics, mathematics, or any discipline with significant quantitative component. The program will consider admitting candidates without a computer science background who demonstrate aptitude to excel in data science. Applicants should demonstrate potential to conduct applied research at the intersection of computer science, statistics, and a domain area. Exceptional applicants lacking precise background may be asked to participate in a technical interview or offered conditional admission pending satisfactory completion of specific coursework before program start.
Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | $63000 (CAD 87500) |
Other Expenses
| Head | Avg Cost Per Year |
|---|---|
| House Expenses | $9763 (CAD 13560) |
| Personal Expenses | $9461 (CAD 13140) |
Previous Year Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| 2024 | $63000 (CAD 87500) |
| 2022 | $29650 (CAD 41180) |

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TOP Scholarships
| Scholarship name | Award amount | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Adel S. Sedra Distinguished Graduate Award | $25,000 | Applicants must show exceptional academic progress, active engagement with evolving ideas in their field, leadership within the university, and meaningful community outreach—especially beyond their discipline. |
| Connaught International Scholarship | $10,000 | Applicants must be international (non-Canadian), not currently enrolled at U of T, admitted to a funded full-time doctoral program starting September, and hold an A- average in their last two years. |
Key Resources for Your Study Abroad Journey
Course Guides
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Masters in Data Science in Canada: Top Universities, Eligibility & Job Prospects
One year Courses in Canada for International Students: Fees 2024, Top Colleges, & Salaries
College Student Profiles
Scholarship Grants & Financial Aids
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forktip Women’s- Innovation Scholarship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| FINCAD Women in Finance Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 14,400/Yr$20,000 | Level Of StudyMaster | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Ontario Graduate Fellowship | Scholarship per student$ 6,390/Yr$8,875 | Level Of StudyDoctorate | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Jared J. Davis Grant | Scholarship per student$ 720/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| The Google Lime Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 7,200/Yr$10,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Golden Key Graduate Scholar Award | Scholarship per student$ 1,080/Yr$1,500 | Level Of StudyMaster | TypeMerit-Based |
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Application for undegraduate programs offered at the University of Toronto must be submitted through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre. You can find the link of this centre under the Undergraduate Admission section at the University of Toronto Admission.
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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