Who's assisting you with this...? Not trying to be mean but the majority of your questions can be answered through the process and you should have these answers before you start applying for unis.
What's the process like? How long did it take for you to receive your student visa?
It depends. Nobody can give you their personal experience because, well, they are personal experience. You can have the same application as someone else and be denied for a number of reasons. Visa approvals are up to the immigration agent's discretion.
Best advice anyone can give you is to read and follow the guidelines and requirements.
If my program is 4 years then am I granted a 4 year visa
Yes
do I have to renew it yearly
No. You have to be in school and in good academic standing.
how long would it take to renew
Visa applications, either a new or a renew application vary in time.
can I do it from Canada or do I have to travel back home after every year
Yes. No.
Did it cost anything
Any visa application cost money
What is the minimum financial requirement proof for it to be successful? Is it based off the tuition of my university?
You should read this
Is it any different for a 17 year old minor like me, can I travel alone?
That's a legal question. Reddit can't answer whether or not you can travel as a minor.
Based on your questions, you either need a representative or a parent/guardian to do this process for you.