If you decide to study in Canada, it is known for its top-ranked universities, high quality of life, low crime rates, and a welcoming environment for international students.
However, Canadian universities are not exactly cheap. Even if tuition fees are lower than in the United States, costs can vary between:
- 650 and 30,000 Canadian dollars per academic year for undergraduate programmes.
- 1,000 and 65,000 Canadian dollars per academic year for master’s programmes.
Public universities and colleges are more affordable than private universities, but you should still do some research to find programs that fit your budget.
We have created two lists of the cheapest universities in Canada, one for undergraduate studies and one for postgraduate study. We set the budget at about $6,700 CAD per year, which equates to about $5,000 USD.
Remember that universities may add or remove programs periodically. If a university on these lists no longer offers an affordable degree, just use our site filters to find other Canadian universities that do.
Reasons why you should study in Canada in 2023?
- Dominant Service Sector – Canada’s service sector employs more than two-thirds of its population and acts as a driving force for increasing the country’s GDP. With this sector prevalent in services, there is always a growing demand for skilled labour. This directly means that there will rarely be a shortage of job opportunities for international and domestic students who graduate from a Canadian institution.
- Excellent Quality of Life – Canada proudly claims first place in the list of the 78 best countries to live in, according to an article published in 2021 by U.S. Magazine. News & World Reports. Note a transformative change in global international relations following the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. Canada has developed strongly in terms of social respect, respect for human rights and social conformity.
- Affordable Education – Canada’s educational system is built on the principles of providing abundant research opportunities and affordable education to all. Hence it is quite surprising how Canadian provinces figure so prominently on every student’s aspiration to study abroad list. As a world leader in education, degrees awarded by Canadian institutions are highly respected around the world.
- Multiple funding and grant options – Most PhD and thesis-based programs are funded by the institution you are affiliated with. For self-funded undergraduate and graduate degrees, the Canadian government offers partial scholarships and partial job opportunities for international students. Some of the scholarships offered by EduCanada include Canada-ASEAN Scholarships, Educational Exchanges for Development (from CAD 10,200 to 12,700) and the Study in Canada Scholarship (from CAD 10,200 to 12,700).
- Rich Cultural Diversity – Canadian politics has long expressed how cultural diversity is a valuable and rich quality of national life. When students from multiple cultural backgrounds live together, they foster the virtues of cultural sensitivity, empathy, and acceptance of the differences in others. According to recent official reports from Statisque Canada, the number of immigrants in Canada is 23%, which is evidence of the country’s advanced policies.
- Safe Communities – Canadian provinces are a symbol of cultural diversity. The country has one of the lowest crime rates in the Western Hemisphere. The highly tolerant environment helps create safe communities with freedom of speech and expression supported by the Canadian government.
It is very important that you look for universities that offer an excellent and affordable education if you are an international student. We have listed the top 20 universities in Canada for international students where you can study the program of your choice to help you with that.
1. The Memorial University
The Memorial university is located in the charming province of Newfoundland and Labrador in the Atlantic Ocean. It is a university that was established nearly 100 years ago and is considered one of the oldest universities in Canada. The name of the university is in honor of those Newfoundland people who died in the First World War.
Why Memorial University?
The university mainly focuses on innovation, creativity, research and delivery of quality education and learning process. The university has won numerous national and international awards including the SSHRC Insight Award as a world class research university.
The university is ranked from #751 to #800 in the QS World University Rankings 2022. According to the 2022 World University Rankings, Memorial University is ranked from #601 to #800.
- Tuition and Fee Range for 2022-2023 – Between 3,200 and 20,000 CAD
- Scope of Programs – Undergraduate, Postgraduate and Masters degrees
- Popular Programs – Arts, Education, Medicine, Engineering, Business, and Science
- Teaching language – English
- University ranking in Canada – 24th place
- Number of Campuses – Three (St. John’s Campus, Greenfield Campus, Ocean Institute)
- Province – Newfoundland and Labrador
2. Brandon University
Brandon University is considered one of the best universities in Canada and one of the cheap universities in Canada. The university was established as a baptistery institution named Brandon College in 1899. At that time, Brandon College belonged to McMaster University and received university status in 1967.
The main campus of the university is located in the provincial capital of Manitoba. The university cooperates with many other universities, colleges and institutes in the country, such as the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada (AUCC), the Association of Combined Universities (ACU), the Canada Association for Interuniversity Debates (CUSID), and the University of Sport.
Why Brandon University?
According to the Maclean University Rankings, Brandon University ranked 18th overall among universities in Canada in 2021.
Type of University | Public University |
Location | Brandon, Manitoba |
Courses Offered | 25+ UG programs 5 PG programs |
Popular Programs | Education, Arts, Life Sciences, and Music |
Annual Tuition fee for International Students | $17,071 annually for Health Sciences $7,000- 10,000 annually for graduate students |
Scholarships Offered | Entry scholarships are only for domestic applicants, those who hold an International Baccalaureate Diploma and students who are outstanding in AP courses. Canada Graduate Scholarships – Masters Program (CGS-M) |
3. University of Winnipeg
The University of Winnipeg fosters a community of 1,400 international students from nearly 80 countries. Founded in 1967, the institution has flourished as a privately and locally funded institution of higher education.
Currently, the university’s programs seek to foster academic talent with an emphasis on original excellence. It also contains a dedicated science complex that includes advanced research facilities.
Type of University | Public University |
Location | Winnipeg, Manitoba |
Courses Offered | 50+ UG programs offered by 5 faculties20+ PG programs offered by 3 faculties |
Popular Programs | Economics, Business Administration, Humanities |
Annual Tuition Fee for International Students | $20,047 – $26,846 |
Scholarships Offered | International Special Entrance Scholarship Program ($3,000)President’s Scholarship for World Leaders ($5,000) |
4. University of Northern British Columbia
Nestled in the stunning landscapes of northern British Columbia, UNC is one of Canada’s best small universities with a passion for teaching, discovery, people, the environment and the North. The university provides fantastic learning opportunities for undergraduate and postgraduate students that explore cultures, health, economics, science, and the environment.
University of Northern British Columbia undergraduate tuition fees range from $5,644 to $22,461, while postgraduate tuition fees range from $3,499 to $5,400.
5. Mount Allison University (MTA)
Mount Allison University carries over 180 years of history. The university was founded in 1843 (it was granted university status in 1849) and is one of the oldest and cheapest universities in Canada. International students come from all over the world. According to enrollment figures from nearly 50+ countries, students study at Mount Allison University.
Why study at MTA?
- MTA University ranks first in scholarships and financial aid.
- According to Maclean’s Magazine, MTA is one of the highest rated universities for undergraduate programs.
- It is located in a small and beautiful town called Sackville.
- A variety of programs are available, including over 50+ certificate, undergraduate and graduate degree programs. Additionally, there are over 6 degree programs.
- The university is home to more than 2,300 domestic and international students.
Features
Tuition and Fee Range for 2022-2023 – between CAD 5,000 and 20,000
Scope of Programs – Undergraduate and Masters degree programmes
Popular Programs – Undergraduate degree programs (Sciences, Arts, Commerce, Fine Arts, Music). Master’s Programs (Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Certificates in Multilingualism)
Teaching language – English
University ranking in Canada – 49th place
Campus – One Campus (Sackville)
Province – New Brunswick
6. University of Saskatchewan
The University of Saskatchewan ranks among the world’s top institutions for sustainability and social impact, and encourages its students to engage with relevant global issues. With a network of 169,000 alumni worldwide and 72 Rhodes scholars, the University of Saskatchewan has succeeded in becoming one of the leading institutions of scientific research.
The Health Sciences Building is built on the principle of using an interdisciplinary approach, bringing together eight areas of health sciences. The practical and interactive learning environment helps empower students and prepares them to succeed in the job market after graduation.
Type of University | Public University |
Location | Saskatoon |
Courses Offered | 80+ UG programs50+ PG programs |
Popular Programs | Science, Agriculture, Bioresources |
Annual Tuition Fee for International Students | $25,751 annually for undergraduate $9,396 annually for thesis-based graduate $4,700 annually for course-based graduate |
7. The University of Toronto (U of T)
The University of Toronto is a well-known public research university. It is one of the oldest publicly funded universities in Canada, carrying more than 90 years of history in the Canadian education sector. The University of Toronto also makes the list of cheapest universities in Canada for international students and also offers the highest number of programs.
Why the University of Toronto?
- The university has a very competitive admission policy, which means that international students will also get a fair chance to compete in the admission process.
- Students from more than 170 countries give priority to studying at the university.
- India ranks second in providing the highest number of international students.
- Students can get the opportunity to study in the Toronto Financial Center in Canada.
- According to the ranking of the best world universities, the university ranks 16th in the world.
- The university has 40 libraries and is the third largest library system in North America.
Features
- Tuition and Fee Range for 2022-2023 – Between 6,000 and 60,000 CAD
- Scope of Programs – Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees
- Popular Programs – Humanities and Social Sciences, Life Sciences, Natural Sciences and Mathematics, Business and Management, Computer Science, Engineering, Kineology and Physical Education, Music and Architecture.
- Teaching language – English
- University ranking in Canada – 02 position
- Campus Three (University of Toronto Mississauga, University of Toronto Main Campus, University of Toronto Scarborough (UTSC))
- Province – Ontario
8. University of Calgary
With an employment rate of 94% upon graduation, the University of Calgary tops the list of the most available universities in Canada. Fostering an entrepreneurial spirit among students, the university is considered one of the best start-up creators among all the research institutions in Canada. The university prides itself on having a popular technology ecosystem, and the master’s program in data science from this university is a popular program.
In addition, international students make up 10% of the total student population at the university, which supports the creation of an equal, diverse and inclusive society.
Type of University | Public University |
Location | Calgary and Doha |
Courses Offered | 105 UG programs 102 PG programs |
Popular Programs | Computer Science, Engineering, Health, Humanities |
Annual Tuition Fee | $26,408-$35,000 annually for undergraduate students $10,240- 23,600 annually for graduate students |
Scholarships Offered | International Entrance Scholarship ($20,000) CIBC International Entrance Scholarship ($10,000) |
9. Simon Fraser University (SFU)
The university was founded in 1965. The university is founded in the West Coast spirit. According to Maclean’s Magazine, SFU has been ranked as the best university in Canada for twelve out of thirteen years. With over 35,700 students in undergraduate, postgraduate and doctoral studies, the university is known as “Canada’s committed university”.
Why Simon Fraser University?
- According to the QS World University Rankings 2023, SFU consistently ranks number one in the world for research.
- It ranks #201-250 in the World University Rankings.
- According to the QS WUR Ranking based on subject, the university ranks #51-100 in Anthropology.
- According to the QS Global World University Rankings 2022, SFU is ranked #298.
- Furthermore, in the Graduate Employability Ranking, the university ranks #301-500 in 2022.
- SFU is among the top 50 universities for archeology and anthropology in the world.
Features
- Tuition and Fee Range for 2022-2023 – Between CAD 4,000 and 30,000
- Scope of Programs – Bachelor’s, Master’s and Ph.D
- Popular Programs – Archaeology, Anthropology, Computer Science and Information Systems, Communication and Media Science, Economics and Econometrics, Life Sciences and Medicine, and Psychology.
- Teaching language – English and French
- University Ranking in Canada – Rank 04
- Campus – three (Burnaby, Surrey and Vancouver)
- Province – British Columbia
10. University of Manitoba
The University of Manitoba (UM) is the oldest university in western Canada. With over 30,000 students, the university’s main campus consists of more than 60 teaching and research buildings.
The diverse and intercultural atmosphere of the university is evident in the numbers of international applicants. With a tradition of excellence, the University of Manitoba now combines the use of modern facilities to enrich learning experiences and open up a plethora of opportunities for its students.
Type of University | Public University |
Location | Winnipeg |
Courses Offered | 100+ UG programs 146 PG programs (99 Master’s and 47 Doctoral) |
Popular Programs | Social Science, Engineering, Pharmacy |
Annual Tuition Fee | $28,965 annually for the most expensive undergraduate program (Law) $17,274 annually for the most expensive PG program (Finance) |
11. College of the North Atlantic (CNA)
The College of the North Atlantic is recognized as one of the largest public colleges in Newfoundland and Labrador and in the entire Atlantic region. The college has approximately 19,000 alumni, 700 faculty members, more than 300 online and other courses, and an enrollment of more than 7,000 students per year. The College of the North Atlantic ranks high in the list of the most affordable universities in Canada. The College of the North Atlantic was founded in 1997, but has a history that dates back to 1963.
Why College of the North Atlantic?
2020 was one of the most remarkable years for the College of the North Atlantic (CNA).
According to Webometrics University Rankings, the college is ranked 7th among national universities.
It is ranked 369th in North American Universities Ranking by Webometrics University.
In 2020, another ranking agency named Unirank ranked the college 86th.
The college’s education pattern is built around industry needs and offers transfer opportunities.
Features
- Tuition and Fee Range for 2022-2023 – Between 3,500 and 15,000 CAD
- Scope of Programs – Bachelor’s, Master’s and Ph.D
- Popular Programs – Academies, Polytechnics, Business Studies, Engineering Technology, Health Sciences, Industrial Trades, Information Technology, Natural Resources, Tourism.
- Teaching language – English
- University ranking in Canada – 78th
12. University of Alberta
According to the 2022 QS Ranking, the University of Alberta is one of the top 120 universities in the world. The university provides $34 million annually in awards and scholarships, with one in five students receiving financial support.
Ranked second in Canada in terms of graduate employment, business management courses at the university are very popular with international students. The Executive MBA program is highly reputable, in addition to other preferred majors such as Engineering, Nursing, and Agriculture.
Type of University | Public University |
Location | Edmonton |
Courses Offered | 200+ UG programs 130+ PG programs |
Popular Programs | Business, Engineering, Nursing, and Agriculture |
Annual Tuition Fee for International Students | $31,500 42,000 annually for undergraduate students $13,800 annually for graduate students |
13. University of Waterloo
The University of Waterloo is one of the leading and affordable universities in Canada. The university was established in 1957. The university began its educational journey with 74 students majoring in engineering. At present, according to 2021 statistics, the university accommodates more than 42,000 students.
Why University of Waterloo?
The University of Waterloo has one of the largest alumni networks in Canada with nearly 250,000 alumni.
According to Maclean’s Magazine 2021, the university ranks first in Computer Science, Engineering and Mathematics.
In terms of experiential learning, the University of Waterloo is ranked #1 among comprehensive universities as well, according to Maclean’s Magazine 2021.
Additionally, according to THE University Impact Rankings 2020, the University of Waterloo was ranked second in the country for social and economic impact based on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
The university offers more than 100 bachelor’s degree programs and more than 190 master’s and doctoral degree programs.
Features
- Tuition and Fee Range for 2022-2023 – Between CAD 4,000 and 40,000
- Scope of Programs – Bachelor’s, Postgraduate, Master’s and Ph.D
- Popular Programs – Urban Engineering, Computer Science, Energy and Fuel, Engineering, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Mathematics, Water Resources, and more.
- Teaching language – English
- University Ranking in Canada – Rank 06
- Campus – three (Cambridge, Kitchener and Stratford)
- Province – Ontario
14. Mount Allison University
Mount Allison University has been ranked Canada’s number one university for undergraduate study on several occasions by Maclean’s Magazine. Research and creative activities are a cornerstone of the Mount Allison experience – both for faculty and students. Scholars at the university provide leadership in their various disciplines and promote exceptional experiential learning.
Tuition fees for basic undergraduate students range from $9,440 to $19,040, while tuition fees for postgraduate students can be as low as $5,010.
15. University of Sasketchawan
The University of Sasketchawan (USask) is one of the cheapest universities in Canada. The university’s main campus is located in the vibrant city of Saskatoon on the territory of the 6 Treaty and the traditional homeland of the Métis. USask is one of Canada’s premier research medical universities, housing world-leading research in areas of global importance.
Tuition fees for basic undergraduate students range between $6,710 and $20,131, while tuition fees for postgraduate students range between $2,982 and $5,397.
16. Northern Lights College
With affordable tuition and a low cost of living, Northern Lights College is one of the most reputable colleges in British Columbia. It gives you the added advantage of applied work learning in college and the opportunity to apply for a Post-Study Work Permit (PGWP) upon completion of the programme. The campuses are strategically located with active local job markets. It becomes easier for skilled workers to find a job within three months of completing the course.
Tuition fees for one year range from CAD 10,900 to CAD 18,556, depending on the program.
17. Bow Valley College
Bow Valley College was established in 1965 as a community institution, and its main campus is located in downtown Calgary, Alberta. Subsidiaries are located in Airdrie, Banff, Canmore, Cochrane, High River, Okotoks, and Strathmore. With a student population of 17,000 students, this college is one of the most accessible colleges in Canada.
Why is it good to study here?
Ranked 101 in the list of best colleges in Canada according to Webometrics ranking, applied research projects are one of the strengths of this school. Competency-based education is the motto of Bow Valley College. Potential employers play a large role in building these competencies so that a graduate of Bow Valley College will be prepared to meet industry standards upon graduation.
Fees and scholarship options
Fees range from CAD 18,000 to CAD 35,000 for diplomas and certificates.
The College offers scholarships for international students either for admission or during the course of study. In addition, students of the Diploma in Arts program (two years program) are eligible to apply for the CEA Diploma Scholarship.
18. Humber College
Humber College is located in the center of Toronto, and its official name is Humber Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning. It was established in 1967 and currently has two main campuses: the North Humber Campus and the Lakeshore Campus.
Why is it good to study at Humber College?
The college is very popular among international students due to the opportunities it offers. This college includes more than 150 programs – bachelor’s degrees, diplomas, certificates, postgraduate certificates, and professional training programs in more than 40 subject areas. Their track programs are particularly popular. These programs are directed toward a specialized degree with a specific career path. The opportunities for skill development here are practically endless.
Annual Fees for International Students
Annual fees for international students range from 12,000 to 22,000 CAD, depending on the program.
19. Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology
Founded in 1967, Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology is a public college in Ottawa. It is a member of Polytechnics Canada and provides a work-focused post-secondary education.
Why is it good to study here?
Algonquin College is one of the largest colleges in Canada. The student-oriented atmosphere and multiculturalism create an exceptional learning atmosphere. The college is well known for the diversity of its fields of study and the practical oriented training that is provided on campus. The college offers more than 200 bachelor’s degrees, diplomas, postgraduate diplomas, and certificate programs. Algonquin’s college sports teams have also achieved recognition by participating in six OCAA regional-level sports.
Fees and scholarship options
For an international student, fees (tuition fees + health insurance + student services) range from 16,000 to 22,000 CAD.
Here are some of the scholarship options for international students
- Arnold Smith Royal Commonwealth Society Scholarship- Ottawa Chapter
- David Phillipe Duguay Scholarship
- Gary Neville Memorial Scholarship
- guard.me International Student Scholarship
- Out of this World Scholarship
- Paramedic Scholarship of Excellence
- Revera Living Scholarship
20. Conestoga College
One of the leading colleges in the province of Ontario, Conestoga is known for its programs in applied technology.
Why is it good to study here?
Conestoga College provides opportunities for students to engage in applied research. You can work with real industrial clients and develop solutions for them. It helps you to keep abreast of the latest industry needs and shape your career path accordingly. The school also has more than 300 programmes, giving you a wide variety and choice.
Fees
For international students, tuition fees range from 10,500 to 12,000 CAD per year. These fees are significantly lower compared to other Canadian colleges.
A student at Conestoga may be eligible for an international scholarship or a regional scholarship. It is awarded based on merit. There is also the Narhari Sharma Memorial Award for International Students.
Conclusion
Here are the top 10 cheapest colleges in Canada based on analysis. However, as given below, there are some other universities and colleges that you should check out if you are planning to study in Canada and looking for some cost-effective programs.
- University of Moncton
- St. Thomas More College
- McMaster University
- University of Calgary
- University of St. Michael’s College
- Dalhousie University
- Emily Carr University of Art and Design
- University of Victoria
- University of Saint-Boniface
- Ambrose University
What are the eligibility criteria for foreign students in Canada?
International students will need to hold an undergraduate degree in a related field with a GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. All previous academic transcripts, 2-3 LORs, and English Language Proficiency Test (ELP) test scores must be submitted. In addition, students may also need to sit for standardized tests like GRE, TOEFL, and more.
How can foreign students fund their studies while studying in Canada?
Canadian institutions offer financial assistance in the form of awards, grants, and scholarships to deserving international students. Loans are also offered by many third-party organizations at low interest rates.
What is the average cost of education in Canada for international students?
Statistics Canada states that an undergraduate student can expect to spend $36,000 per year in tuition for one academic year. Likewise, international graduate students must estimate their tuition budget to fall within $21,000 for one academic year.
What are the top 5 most affordable universities in Canada?
The top 5 affordable universities in Canada are:
1. University of Saskatchewan
2. University of Toronto
3. Memorial University of Newfoundland
4. University of Guelph
5. University of Northern British Columbia
Is studying in Australia or Canada cheaper?
Tuition fees and other living expenses to study in Canada are lower than in Australia