Best of

Study in Calgary

Calgary, a bustling city in Alberta, Canada, is a beacon for quality education and cultural diversity. 
Home to some of the world's finest institutions, it offers a welcoming environment for domestic and international students.
As you contemplate studying abroad, Calgary beckons alongside renowned cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver.

Why Calgary Colleges?

• Globally Recognized Education and Work Opportunities:

Calgary boasts institutions like the University of Calgary, Bow Valley College, and CDI College, placing it among the top educational universities in Canada. It's not just about learning; the city's corporate landscape ensures high employability through internships and on-the-job training.

• Cost of Living:

Calgary strikes a balance between metropolitan living and affordability, ranking as the ninth-most affordable city in North America. With housing, utilities, and living expenses, it offers a financially sound choice for students.

• Quality of Life:

Calgary excels in providing a friendly environment, evident in its political stability, healthcare, infrastructure, and diverse community. It proudly shares the third spot in the Global Liveability Index, making it one of the world's most livable cities.

Cost Breakdown for Studying in Calgary

• Tuition Fee:

Annual tuition ranges from CA $9,750 to CA $45,208, depending on the institution and program.

• Application Fee:

Varies from CA $70 to CA $150, depending on the college or university.

• Study Permit Fee:

CA $150 per person, essential for obtaining your student visa.

• Cost of Living:

With housing at CA $750 – CA $1,000 per month, public transport at CA $500, and additional costs for insurance, phone bills, and food, Calgary offers an affordable lifestyle.

Scholarships for International Students for Study in Canada at Calgary

Explore various scholarships to study in Canada to ease the financial burden, including:

• University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship
• Mount Royal University Awards
• SAIT Student Awards
• Bow Valley Scholarships for International Students
• AUA Awards and Scholarships

Top Colleges in Calgary, Canada for International Students

1. University of Calgary

Overview:

Founded in 1944, UCalgary boasts 14 faculties, 85 research institutes, and a 94% employment rate after graduation.

Fees:

The average undergraduate program fee for international students is CA $24,408.

Eligibility:

Standard 12 board examination or equivalent, and English language proficiency.

Courses:

B.A., B.Sc., M.A., M.Sc., MBA, M. Eng., and Ph.D. programs.

2. Mount Royal University

Overview:

Established in 1911, Mount Royal University offers 12 degrees, emphasizing future-focused programs with small classroom settings. 

Fees:

Tuition fee for international students: $23,810 – $25,698.

Eligibility:

Completed Grade 12 transcript with relevant courses and English language proficiency.
 

(Read More: What is the cost of living in Canada for Foreign nationals?)

Courses:

Arts, sciences, health, social services, education, communications, business, and aviation.

3. Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT)

Overview:

Canada’s first publicly funded technical institute, SAIT offers industry-oriented courses and stands out for its hospitality and tourism programs.

Fees:

Tuition fee for international students: CA $19,000 – CA $25,000.

Eligibility:

Completion of high school, English proficiency through TOEFL or IELTS.

Courses:

Three baccalaureate degrees, 86 diploma, and certificate programs, and 27 apprenticeship trades.

4. Bow Valley College

Overview:

Established in 1965, Bow Valley College focuses on Competency-Based Education, ranking 101 of the top colleges in Canada.

Fees:

Fee ranges from CA $18,000 to CA $35,000 for diploma and certificate courses.

Eligibility:

Minimum score of 6.0 in IELTS or 83 in TOEFL iBT or equivalent. 

Courses:

Over a hundred diploma courses and under-graduation courses in Canadian schools are available. 

5. St Mary’s University

Overview:

A private Catholic university focused on teaching and research, St Mary’s offers transferable university courses in 35 academic disciplines.

Fees:

The annual cost for an international student: is CA $26,580.

Eligibility:

English language proficiency with a minimum TOEFL iBT score of 80 or an IELTS score of 6.0.

Courses:

Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts programs.

6. ABM College

Overview:

ABM College is a private institution offering specialized education in healthcare, technology, and business administration.

Fees:

Approximate tuition fee for a year-long diploma: CA $13,000.

Eligibility:

Minimum secondary school graduate or Grade 12 equivalent, English proficiency through IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE.

Courses:

Diplomas and certificates in healthcare, technology, and business.
 

(Read More: What are the merits of study in Canada after 12th? Must know! )

7. Alberta University of the Arts (AUA)

Overview:

AUA, formerly ACAD, specializes in art and design education, offering a range of Bachelor of Fine Arts specializations.

Fees:

The average tuition fee for an international student is about CA $20,000.

Eligibility:

High School diploma, portfolio submission, and English proficiency through TOEFL or IELTS.

Courses:

Bachelor of Fine Arts, Master of Fine Arts, and certificate courses.

8. SAIT Polytechnic (Southern Alberta Institute of Technology)

Overview:

SAIT is Canada's first publicly funded technical institute, offering a range of industry-oriented programs. With over 14,000 students annually, it's a global institution welcoming students from over 90 countries. SAIT is particularly known for its highly-ranked hospitality and tourism courses.

Fees:

For international students, the tuition fee can range anywhere between CA $19,000 and CA $25,000, depending on the program.

Eligibility:

Admission requirements vary by program but generally include completion of high school (Grade 12) and proof of English proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS. Students can also study in Canada without giving IELTS.

Courses:

SAIT offers three baccalaureate degrees, three applied degrees, 86 diploma and certificate programs, 27 apprenticeship trades, and more than 1,100 continuing education, corporate training, and other open registration courses.

9. Bow Valley College

Overview:

Established in 1965, Bow Valley College is a community institution located in downtown Calgary with branch campuses in various locations. It's ranked 101 among the top colleges in Canada by Webometrics. Applied research projects and a competency-based education framework are highlights of this college.

Fees:

The tuition fee for diploma and certificate courses at Bow Valley College ranges from CA $18,000 to CA $35,000.

Eligibility:

Academic requirements vary by program, but English language proficiency is a common criterion with a minimum score of 6.0 in IELTS or 83 in TOEFL iBT.

Courses:

Bow Valley College offers a diverse range of courses through its seven specialized schools, including business, community studies, technology, health and wellness, and more.

10. Alberta University of the Arts (AUA)

Overview:

Formerly known as the Alberta College of Art and Design (ACAD), AUA specializes in art and design education. Established in 1960, it gained university status in 1995, offering Bachelor of Fine Arts degrees. AUA provides an immersive experience in various specializations in art and design.

Fees:

The average tuition fee for an international student is approximately CA $20,000.

Eligibility:

Requirements include a high school diploma equivalent to an Alberta high school diploma, a portfolio of imaginative work, and English proficiency with a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 in Canada.

Courses:

AUA offers Bachelor of Fine Arts programs with 11 different specializations, along with Master of Fine Arts and certificate courses.

11. University of Lethbridge - Calgary Campus

Overview:

The University of Lethbridge has a Calgary Campus, extending the university's reach to Calgary. Established in 1967, the university is known for its commitment to liberal education and research excellence. The Calgary Campus provides a range of programs and courses, contributing to the university's reputation for academic quality.

Fees:

The tuition fees for international students vary based on the program. For specific details, it's recommended to check the official university website.

Eligibility:

Admission requirements depend on the chosen program. Generally, applicants need to meet educational prerequisites and demonstrate English proficiency through tests like TOEFL or IELTS.

Courses:

The Calgary Campus offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including arts and sciences, business, education, and health sciences.

Conclusion

Calgary's colleges offer diverse educational opportunities in a vibrant, multicultural setting.

With reasonable costs, scholarships, and a welcoming community, studying in Canada at Calgary is a transformative experience.

Embrace the blend of opportunity and cultural richness, propelling yourself toward a successful future in a city where learning knows no bounds.

Let’s shape your future together.

FAQS - Frequently Asked Questions for the Top Colleges of Calgary

What is the ranking of Calgary College?

The University of Calgary is ranked #175 in Best Global Universities. Schools are ranked according to their performance across a set of widely accepted indicators of excellence.

Is it good to study in Calgary?

Calgary is an affordable and welcoming destination for international students. With its reasonable cost of living, average wage rates, and plentiful part-time job opportunities, it's a great place for students to live and study.

Do they speak English in Calgary?

The primary language spoken in Alberta, Canada is English. However, due to its diverse population, you can also hear other languages such as French, Spanish, Chinese, Punjabi, and others spoken in the province.