Study Overseas | Best of

Introduction

Canada has a world-class education system, a wide range of cultural experiences, and beautiful landscapes that make it a popular place for foreign students to study. A lot of kids want to go to school in Canada because the tuition is cheap and the education is good. This detailed guide will look at some of the least expensive universities in Canada. It will include information on each school's tuition costs, scholarship choices, admissions requirements, courses offered, and ways to get in.

10 Cheapest / Affordable Universities in Canada

Note: Amount provided above are average tuition fees which was based on lowest and highest figures.

1. University of Calgary

Introduction:

One of the best colleges in Canada is the University of Calgary. Its low tuition fees make it a popular choice for students from other countries. With 14 faculties and 85 research groups and centres, UCalgary is in Alberta and is home to about 33,000 students.

Why Study at the University of Calgary?

• QS puts UCalgary 242nd in the world and in the top ten in Canada.

• The work-integrated learning makes it possible for 94% of graduates to get jobs.

• UCalgary has a lot of different programmes, and most of its students are happy with them.

Fees & Scholarship Options

• Undergraduate tuition: CA$24,408

• Graduate tuition: CA$8,243 - CA$21,597

• Scholarships include the University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship and CIBC International Entrance Scholarship.

Eligibility

• Admission requirements vary by program.

• Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 86) is required.

Courses Offered & Admission Process

• UCalgary offers a wide array of programs, including B.A., B.Sc., M.A., M.Sc., MBA, M. Eng., and Ph.D.

• The admission process involves submitting transcripts, an application fee of CA$145, and meeting program-specific criteria.

(Read More: A Guide to choose the best colleges in Canada)

2. University of Guelph

Introduction:

The University of Guelph is a public research university in Ontario, Canada, that has been around since 1964. It has seven main schools that offer a wide range of programmes. About 30,000 kids are welcome there.

Why Study at the University of Guelph?

• QS ranks UGuelph 591-600 worldwide and in the top 50 research universities in Canada.

• Renowned for veterinary and agricultural sciences programs.

• Offers over 100 different graduate programs and provides a personalized learning atmosphere.

Fees & Scholarship Options

• Average undergraduate tuition: CA$32,000

• Graduate tuition varies by program.

• Universities in Canada offers numerous scholarships and awards, including the Dr. Franco J. Vaccarino President’s Scholarship and Academic Leadership Entrance Scholarships.

Eligibility

• Undergraduate requirements: Completion of Class 12 with a minimum score of 80%.

• Language proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 89) is required.

Courses Offered & Admission Process

• UGuelph offers 94 undergraduate degrees, 48 graduate and doctoral programs.

• Admission criteria depend on the chosen program, along with an application fee of CA$90.

3. University of Manitoba

Introduction:

Western Canada's first university was opened in 1877 in Winnipeg as the University of Manitoba. It is famous for making important contributions to science, like canola oil and the way Rh hemolytic disease is treated.

Why Study at the University of Manitoba?

• QS ranks UManitoba 651-700 worldwide, emphasizing values such as academic freedom and sustainability.
• Offers updated curricula, innovative pedagogies, and high employment rates.
• Wide range of programs to choose from.

Fees & Scholarship Options

• Annual undergraduate tuition ranges from CA$17,000 to CA$25,000.
• Provides entrance scholarships and other funding, with awards totaling about CA$27.2 million in 2021-22.

Eligibility

• Undergraduate requirements: Completion of Class 12 with specified courses.
• Language proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 86) is required.
• Students must be able to meet these basic eligibility criteria to study in Canada

Courses Offered & Admission Process

• UManitoba offers over 200 programs, spanning bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels.
• Application includes a fee of CA$120 and meeting specific program requirements.

4. University of Saskatchewan

Introduction:

The University of Saskatchewan is a public research university in Saskatoon that has a long past that goes back to 1907. You may know it for the Canadian Light Source synchrotron. It is part of the U15 group of Canadian research universities.

Why Study at the University of Saskatchewan?

• QS ranks USask 473rd worldwide, and it emphasizes practical hands-on experience through internships and co-op programs.

• Offers high student support in a smaller university setting.

• Notable alumni include John Diefenbaker and Henry Taube.

Fees & Scholarship Options

• Tuition for international students ranges from CA$19,130 to CA$55,000, depending on the program.

• Offers scholarships like the University of Saskatchewan International Excellence Awards and International Baccalaureate (IB) Excellence Awards.

Eligibility

• Undergraduate requirements: Completion of Class 12 and language proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 86).

• Graduate requirements include a bachelor’s degree and language proficiency.

(Read More: Embark on Work opportunities during study abroad in Canada)

Courses Offered & Admission Process

• USask provides over 200 programs, with options for bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees.

• Admission requirements vary by program, and an application fee is required.

5. Memorial University of Newfoundland

Introduction:

Memorial University of Newfoundland is a public university that has been around since 1925. Its main campus is in St. John's, Newfoundland. It has many different types of programmes, including certificate, diploma, bachelor, graduate, and postgraduate.

Why Study at Memorial University?

• Ranked 751-800 in QS World University Rankings for 2023.
• Known for programs in Ocean studies, Marine Engineering, and Naval engineering.
• Offers programs to over 19,000 students from 115 countries.

Fees & Scholarship Options

• International undergraduate tuition: CA$11,460.
• Various scholarships, including Memorial University of Newfoundland International Entrance Scholarship and Narhari Sharma Memorial Award, are available.

Eligibility

• Undergraduate requirements: Completion of Class 12 and language proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 79).
• Graduate requirements include a bachelor’s degree and language proficiency.

Courses Offered & Admission Process

• MUN offers over 100 programs across five campuses and online.
• Admission process includes an application fee, transcripts, and meeting program-specific criteria.

6. Bow Valley College

Introduction:

Bow Valley College began in 1965 as a community college in Calgary, Alberta. Since then, it has grown into a full-service school with campuses all over the area. The college has 17,000 students, making it one of the cheaper ones in Canada.

Why Study at Bow Valley College?

• Bow Valley College emphasizes competency-based education and applied research projects.

• Studying in Canada offers a wide range of programs which includes diploma courses as well.

• Collaborates with prospective employers to ensure graduates meet industry standards.

Fees & Scholarship Options

• Diploma and certificate program fees range from CA$18,000 to CA$35,000.

• Bow Valley College offers entrance and in-course scholarships to international students.

Eligibility

• Eligibility criteria vary by program.

• Language proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.0) is required.

Courses Offered & Admission Process

• Bow Valley College offers a diverse range of programs across seven specialized schools.

• The admission process includes submitting transcripts, an application fee, and meeting program-specific criteria.

7. Humber College

Introduction:

Humber College is a well-known school in the middle of Toronto that offers many different kinds of programmes, such as bachelor's degrees, diplomas, certificates, and advanced certificates.

Why Study at Humber College?

• Humber College offers over 150 programs, including pathway programs guiding students into specialized degrees.

• Known for its skill development opportunities and practical career paths.

• Over 40 fields of study to choose from.

Fees & Scholarship Options

• International student annual fees range from CA$12,000 to CA$22,000.

• Humber College provides various scholarships, including Humber Entrance Scholarships and Awards for EAP Graduates.

(Read More: Why are Canada Universities becoming popular?)

Eligibility

• High school graduation with a minimum score of 70% is required for undergraduate programs.

• Language proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 90) is necessary.

Courses Offered & Admission Process

• Humber College offers a wide array of programs in fields like business, arts, media design, nursing, pharmaceutical management, and hospitality.

The application process includes submitting transcripts, an application fee, and meeting specific program criteria.

8. Algonquin College of Applied Arts and Technology

Introduction:

Algonquin College is a public college in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. It has been around since 1967 and focuses on applied arts and science. It is a part of Polytechnics Canada and provides postsecondary education that is focused on the workplace.

Why Study at Algonquin College?

• Algonquin College provides a student-oriented atmosphere and a multicultural ethos.

• Offers a wide range of programs, including over 200 bachelor’s degrees, diplomas, and certificates.

• Known for diverse areas of studies and on-campus training.

Fees & Scholarship Options

• Annual tuition fees for international students range from CA$16,000 to CA$22,000.

• Scholarships include the Arnold Smith Royal Commonwealth Society Scholarship and David Phillipe Duguay Scholarship for Academic Achievement.

Eligibility

• Eligibility criteria vary by program.

• Language proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.0 or TOEFL 83) is required.

Courses Offered & Admission Process

• Algonquin College in Canada offers various programs including PG Diploma, business management, community services, health and life sciences, and more.

• The admission process includes submitting transcripts, meeting specific program criteria, and an application fee.

9. Northern Lights College

Introduction:

Northern Lights College is one of the best-known schools in British Columbia. It is known for being affordable and for teaching students how to use what they learn in real life. Because of its strategic sites and active local job markets, graduates have a lot of great job options.

Why Study at Northern Lights College?

• Affordable tuition fees and cost of living.

• Applied practical learning and the opportunity to apply for a Postgraduate Work Permit (PGWP) upon course completion.

• Strategically located campuses with high employability rates for skilled workers

Fees & Scholarship Options

• Tuition fees range from CA$10,900 to CA$18,556 per year.

• Offers both general and program-specific scholarships for international students.

Eligibility

• High school graduation and minimum language proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.0) are required.

Courses Offered & Admission Process

• Northern Lights College offers a range of programs, including business management, teacher training, clean energy technology, and early childhood education.

The admission process includes meeting program-specific criteria, submitting transcripts, and an application fee.

10. Conestoga College

Introduction:

Conestoga College, which can be found in Ontario, is well-known for its polytechnics classes and provides more than 300 different programmes in a wide range of academic fields.

(Read More: Why should one choose Canada as their Study Abroad destination?)

Why Study at Conestoga College?

• Conestoga College provides opportunities for students to participate in applied research.

• Offers a broad spectrum of programs, including bachelor’s degrees, diplomas, certificates, and postgraduate certificate courses.

• Focuses on skill development and prepares students for real-world industry needs.

Fees & Scholarship Options

• Tuition for international students ranges from CA$10,500 to CA$12,000 annually, making it considerably affordable.

• Conestoga College offers international and regional scholarships based on merit.

Eligibility

• Eligibility criteria vary by program, but a high school education is necessary.

• Language proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.5) is required.

Courses Offered & Admission Process

• Conestoga College provides a diverse range of programs in fields like applied computer science, health and life sciences, and hospitality.

• The admission process involves submitting transcripts, an application fee, and meeting program-specific criteria.

FAQs

1. Is it cheap for foreign students to go to school in Canada?

A: Yes, studying in Canada can be cheaper than going to some other famous places to study. There are many types of scholarships available in the country, and many schools give programmes that are affordable.

2. How much does it cost to live in Canada for foreign students?

A: Cost of living in Canada varies by place, but on average it can be between CA$12,000 and CA$15,000 per year. This includes costs for food, lodging, transportation, and other things.

3. Do schools and universities in Canada give scholarships to students from other countries?

A: Yes, many Canadian schools do give scholarships and other forms of financial help to foreign students who do well in school and in extracurricular activities, among other things. With these scholarships, the general cost of school can go down by a lot.

4. What kinds of part-time jobs are there in Canada for foreign students?

A: Yes, foreign students in Canada can work part-time while they are there. During the school year, they can work up to 20 hours a week, and during breaks, they can work full-time. This can help pay for some of your living costs.

5. What kinds of jobs are there for foreign students in Canada after they graduate?

A: Through the Post-Graduation Work Permit Programme (PGWPP), Canada has great job possibilities for people who have graduated. International students who have finished a programme of study can work in Canada for up to three years through this programme. They can gain useful job experience and may even be able to become permanent residents.

Conclusion

These universities strike a great balance between providing a high-quality education and keeping costs low. This makes Canada a desirable place for international students wanting a cheap college education. When you're thinking about these choices, make sure you look into the programmes and requirements of each school to find the best fit for your academic and job goals.

International students can have a great time and save a lot of money by choosing to study in Canada. There are a lot of different schools in the country that are both affordable and good at what they do. From well-known universities to well-known colleges, these schools offer top-notch programmes and scholarship chances, which makes Canada a desirable place to go to college. Also, Canada's friendly and multicultural atmosphere makes sure that kids not only get a great education but also learn about a lot of different cultures, which helps them grow as people.