List of Cheapest University in Canada for International Students. Studying abroad can be amazing but it can be very costly. As an international student you might find it overwhelming to manage the costs of studying in a new country—application fees, flight bookings, visa fees and of course tuition fees.
When looking for a destination that offers good education but is also affordable, Canada is a good option to consider. Known for its friendly environment, diverse culture and world class universities, Canada is a great place to learn and grow.
However tuition fees in Canada can vary a lot depending on the university and program you choose. Yes Canada is more affordable than countries like US or UK but the costs can still add up especially for international students.
There are many universities in Canada that offers good education at affordable prices. So if you are dreaming of studying in Canada but worried about tuition fees, keep reading to find out affordable universities that can make your dream come true.
List of Cheapest University in Canada for International Students
When it comes to choosing the most affordable universities in Canada, several institutions stand out for offering low tuition fees and good academic standards.
These universities not only offers affordable education but also offers various scholarships and financial aid options to help international students ease their financial burden.
Let’s take a look at some of the best and most affordable universities in Canada.
1. University of Calgary
Located in Calgary, Alberta, University of Calgary is one of the most affordable public universities in Canada. Founded in 1966 it has grown into a renowned institution with over 34,000 students. Despite its good reputation the University of Calgary keeps its tuition fees low, making it a top choice for international students.
The university offers programs in fields like engineering, business, law and social sciences. Undergraduate tuition fees start from CA$27,000 per year and graduate tuition fees range from CA$8,243 to CA$21,597 depending on the program.
The University of Calgary also offers scholarships like Calgary International Entrance Scholarship which provides CA$20,000 to international students for their first year of study.
With good education, lively campus life and a city that has plenty of job opportunities, University of Calgary is a great option for students looking for affordable education in Canada.
Eligibility & Requirment
You must meet academic requirements which include having a high school diploma or equivalent. Specific subject requirements vary by program and minimum grades apply to those subjects
English is the language of instruction so English proficiency is required. You can prove this through:
- Accepted English tests (e.g. IELTS 6.5, TOEFL 86)
- 3 years of study at an English-instruction high school or 2 years at a recognized post-secondary institution in an English-exempt country.
- Completion of the Academic Communication Certificate (ACC) program at the University of Calgary, which can also grant conditional admission
2. University of Guelph
Founded in 1964, located in Guelph, Ontario. Known for agriculture, veterinary sciences and food security research. Over 30,000 students. Many undergraduate and graduate programs.
Admission Requirements:
- Undergraduate:
- High school completion with good grades.
- Program specific requirements (e.g. math and science for STEM programs).
- English proficiency through TOEFL (89 or above) or IELTS (6.5 overall). Exemptions for students from English speaking countries.
- Graduate:
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with good GPA.
- Statement of purpose, academic references and research experience for thesis based programs.
- English Language Options:
- Students can also qualify through the English Language Certificate Program (ELCP) at the university.
- Apply: OUAC. Pay and upload documents. Deadline.
- Tuition Fees:
- Undergraduate: CA$35,000/year
- Graduate: CA$15,000–CA$30,000/year (program dependent)
They have scholarships for international students like the International Entrance Scholarship which is between CA$18,500–CA$21,500.
The University of Guelph is a good choice if you want an affordable research based education in Canada with practical learning opportunities.
3. University of Manitoba
Located in Winnipeg, Manitoba, the University of Manitoba was founded in 1877. It’s the largest university in the province and has over 100 programs for undergraduate and graduate students. Known for research and academic quality, it’s a top choice for affordable education.
Admission Requirements
- High School Completion: Must have completed high school with required courses.
- Minimum Grades: 70-85% in 40S Grade 12 courses, 60% in each subject.
- Program-Specific Requirements:
- Engineering: 80% in English, Pre-Calculus, Chemistry, Physics.
- Health Sciences: 85% in English, Pre-Calculus/Applied Math, Biology, Chemistry.
- Arts: 70% in English, Math, two additional academic courses.
- Commerce: 85% in English, Pre-Calculus, two academic courses.
- Supplementary Requirements: Fine Arts or Music programs may require portfolios, auditions, recommendations.
- English Language Proficiency: Non-native speakers only (IELTS, TOEFL).
- Notes: Dates vary; check program.
- Tuition Fees:
- CA$17,800–CA$30,000/year
International students can apply for scholarships like International Undergraduate Student Entrance Scholarships which is awarded based on high school grades.
The University of Manitoba is good value for the tuition fees and has a good reputation so it’s a good option for international students.
4. University of Alberta
The University of Alberta is in Edmonton, Alberta and one of the top universities in Canada. With over 41,000 students it’s in the top 100 universities globally. Known for programs in engineering, business and health sciences.
Admission Requirements
- Academic Requirements: High school diploma with specific grade 12 courses for your program. Required subjects vary by faculty but usually include English, Math and Sciences or Humanities.
- Language Proficiency: Non-English speakers must provide proof of English proficiency through TOEFL or IELTS. Scores vary by program.
- International Students: Must meet both academic and English proficiency requirements. International qualifications will be assessed on a case by case basis.
- Program Specific Requirements: Some programs like Engineering or Nursing have additional requirements like higher grades in certain subjects or prior coursework.
- Transcripts: High school transcripts and post-secondary records (if applicable).
- Deadlines: Most programs open in October with different deadlines for different programs and types of applicants.
- Extra Requirements: Some programs may require essays, portfolios or interviews.
- Tuition Fees: CA$15,000–CA$30,000/year (program dependent)
International students can apply for scholarships like International Admission Scholarship which is up to CA$5,000 for new students.
If you want to attend a prestigious and affordable university, the University of Alberta is a great option.
5. McGill University
McGill University in Montreal, Quebec is one of the top universities in Canada. Founded in 1821, McGill has a global reputation for being excellent. While it’s a bit more expensive than some other universities, it’s still cheaper than universities in the US or UK.
For international students, McGill charges between CA$22,102 and CA$41,815 per year depending on the program. Despite being more expensive, McGill has many scholarships for international students including the McGill Entrance Scholarships. They also have financial aid programs for currently enrolled students who need help.
McGill’s quality education, research opportunities and diverse student population makes it a good option for students looking for an internationally recognized degree at a relatively affordable price.
Undergraduate Admission Requirements
- Academic Qualifications: Must have completed secondary school equivalent to Canadian high school diplomas (A-Levels, IB, local national diplomas).
- Prerequisites: Meet specific course requirements for the program (math or science for STEM fields).
- English Proficiency: TOEFL (86) or IELTS (6.5) if not English speaking.
- Supporting Documents: Transcripts, personal statement, letters of recommendation.
- Apply: Online through McGill’s application portal, program specific deadlines
Graduate Admission Requirements
- Academic Qualifications: Relevant bachelor’s degree (min 3.0/4.0 or equivalent).
- Additional Documents: Statement of purpose, CV, two letters of recommendation, research proposal or faculty supervisor agreement.
- English Proficiency: Required for non-English speaking applicants (TOEFL/IELTS scores).
- Apply: Online through McGill’s graduate application portal, program specific deadlines
6. Memorial University of Newfoundland
Located in St. John’s, Newfoundland, Memorial University of Newfoundland is another option for international students looking for affordable education in Canada. They focus on research and community engagement and have programs in many fields including engineering, business and marine studies.
Tuition fees at Memorial University start at CA$1,400 per year for undergraduate students making it one of the most affordable universities in Canada. Graduate tuition fees are also lower than many other institutions so it’s a cost effective option for those pursuing a graduate degree.
In addition to low tuition fees, Memorial University has scholarships for international students like the Entrance Scholarships. If you’re looking for a budget friendly university with a good reputation, Memorial University is a great option.
International student admission requirements:
- Apply online through the Memorial University application portal.
- Academic: Secondary education equivalent to Canadian high school with required courses (e.g. English, math).
- English: Proof of English language proficiency through IELTS (min 6.5) or TOEFL (min 86) depending on the program.
- Supporting Documents: High school transcripts, certificates and translations if applicable. Proof of financial support to cover tuition and living expenses.
- Visa/Study Permit: Bring acceptance letter and proof of funds.<
Conclusion
Canada has many affordable options for international students looking to study without burning a hole in their pocket. From University of Calgary to Memorial University of Newfoundland, there are many universities across the country that offer good education at lower tuition fees than US or UK.
These universities not only have affordable tuition fees but also many scholarship opportunities to help you out. Whether you’re interested in business, engineering or arts, there’s a university in Canada that can cater to your academic needs and budget.