Are you an international student struggling to afford your studies in Canada? We’ve got a solution for you. Check out our list of the most affordable universities in Canada.
Studying abroad can be expensive, but there are affordable options. The universities listed here not only have low tuition fees but also offer recognized degrees, vibrant international communities, and opportunities for part-time work.
Why Study in Canada?
Canada offers more financial aid and scholarships compared to the US and UK. Tuition fees and living costs are lower, especially in smaller cities. With high academic standards and a stable environment, Canada is a great choice for international students.
Documents Required for Admission in Canada
To apply to universities in Canada, you will need:
- Academic transcripts
- References (academic or employer)
- Statement of purpose
- Degree certificates
- Valid travel documents
- Proof of funds
- Passport photo
- Application fee (varies by institution)
10 Cheapest Universities in Canada for International Students
- University of Calgary (Calgary, Alberta)
- About: Established in 1966, the University of Calgary is a public institution with over 34,000 students. It is known for offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with a strong emphasis on research.
- Tuition Fees: Undergraduate: ~CA $27,000, Graduate: CA $8,243 – $21,597
- Scholarships: The Calgary International Entrance Scholarship ($20,000) is offered annually to first-year international students and is renewable. The CIBC International Entrance Scholarship awards $10,000 to incoming undergraduate students.
- Location: Calgary, Alberta
- University of Guelph (Guelph, Ontario)
- About: Founded in 1964, this public research university is renowned for its veterinary and agri-food research programs. It has seven faculties and serves over 30,000 students.
- Tuition Fees: Undergraduate: ~CA $35,000, Graduate: CA $15,000 – $30,000
- Scholarships: The International Entrance Scholarship ranges from $18,500 to $21,500. The Dr. Franco J. Vaccarino Presidential Scholarship, worth $42,500, is awarded to students who have shown outstanding contributions to their community.
- Location: Guelph, Ontario
- University of Manitoba (Winnipeg, Manitoba)
- About: Established in 1877, the University of Manitoba is the largest and most research-intensive institution in Manitoba. It offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs.
- Tuition Fees: CA $17,800 – $30,000
- Scholarships: The International Undergraduate Student Entrance Scholarships are awarded based on high school grades. The University of Manitoba Graduate Fellowship supports master’s and PhD students with financial needs.
- Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba
- University of Alberta (Edmonton, Alberta)
- About: One of the top universities in Canada, ranked among the top 100 globally. The university serves over 41,000 students and offers a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
- Tuition Fees: CA $15,000 – $30,000
- Scholarships: The International Admission Scholarship awards up to $5,000 to new students. The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships provide $50,000 per year for doctoral students.
- Location: Edmonton, Alberta
- McGill University (Montreal, Quebec)
- About: Founded in 1821, McGill University is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Canada. It offers over 700 programs to students from over 150 countries.
- Tuition Fees: CA $22,102.57 – $41,815.92
- Scholarships: McGill’s Entrance Scholarship Program and the In-Course Financial Aid Program support both newly admitted and current students.
- Location: Montreal, Quebec
- University of Northern British Columbia (Prince George, British Columbia)
- About: Known for its research and teaching excellence, this university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
- Tuition Fees: CA $21,000
- Scholarships: The Global Citizen Scholarship provides up to $10,000 for undergraduate students. The Aga Khan Foundation’s International Scholarship Programme supports master’s and PhD students with partial funding.
- Location: Prince George, British Columbia
- University of Prince Edward Island (Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island)
- About: Established in 1969, this university hosts students from over 101 countries and offers a variety of scholarships and awards.
- Tuition Fees: CA $25,000 – $38,000
- Scholarships: Entrance awards for international students range from $1,000 to $3,000.
- Location: Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
- University of Saskatchewan (Saskatoon, Saskatchewan)
- About: Founded in 1907, this university is known for its research-intensive programs and offers hands-on experience in various fields.
- Tuition Fees: CA $19,895 – $40,060
- Scholarships: The University of Saskatchewan Graduate Scholarship offers tuition waivers and stipends for outstanding students.
- Location: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
- Memorial University of Newfoundland (St. John’s, Newfoundland)
- About: Established in 1925, this university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is renowned for its marine and ocean engineering programs.
- Tuition Fees: CA $21,000
- Scholarships: The School of Graduate Studies offers fellowships and assistantships ranging from $4,000 to $12,000.
- Location: St. John’s, Newfoundland
- Dalhousie University (Halifax, Nova Scotia)
- About: Founded in 1818, Dalhousie University is a leading research-intensive institution offering over 200 programs to a diverse student body.
- Tuition Fees: CA $27,000 – $38,000
- Scholarships: The Abdul Majid Bader Graduate Scholarship provides $40,000 for one year, while the Nova Scotia Graduate Scholarship offers $10,000 per year for master’s degrees.
- Location: Halifax, Nova Scotia
