Why Study in Canada?
Canada is a popular destination for international students for many reasons. Some of the key benefits include:
High-Quality Education: Canada is home to some of the best universities in the world, renowned for their high academic standards and cutting-edge research facilities. Canadian degrees are globally recognized and highly valued by employers.
Multicultural Society: Canada is a melting pot of cultures, religions, and backgrounds. Studying here provides the opportunity to learn from and interact with people from all over the world, enriching your cultural experience.
Safe and Friendly Environment: Known for its low crime rate and high quality of life, Canada is one of the safest and most peaceful countries in the world. Canadians are known for their friendliness and hospitality, making international students feel welcome.
Beautiful Natural Scenery: Canada boasts stunning natural beauty, from vast landscapes and mountains to lakes, forests, and wildlife. Whether you enjoy skiing, hiking, camping, or sightseeing, there's always something to explore.
Immigration Opportunities: Canada offers various pathways for international students who wish to stay and work after graduation. You can apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP), allowing you to work in Canada for up to three years. Additionally, there are permanent residency options through programs like Express Entry or the Provincial Nominee Program.
How Much Does It Cost to Study in Canada?
The cost of studying in Canada varies based on several factors, including the level of study, program, university, location, and living expenses. Generally, tuition fees in Canada are more affordable compared to other popular study destinations like the US or the UK. According to Statistics Canada, the average tuition fee for international undergraduate students was CAD 32,019 for the 2021/2022 academic year. However, many universities charge significantly less, especially public universities or colleges.
To help you find affordable options, here's a list of some of the cheapest universities in Canada for international students, along with their tuition fees, admission requirements, and other benefits:
1. Memorial University of Newfoundland
- Tuition Fees: CAD 11,460 per year for undergraduate programs
- Admission Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Benefits: Offers a wide range of programs, low cost of living in Newfoundland, and numerous scholarships and financial aid options for international students.
2. University of Regina
- Tuition Fees: CAD 16,000 per year for undergraduate programs
- Admission Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Benefits: Strong focus on experiential learning and co-op programs, diverse student body, and support services for international students.
3. University of Prince Edward Island
- Tuition Fees: CAD 13,590 per year for undergraduate programs
- Admission Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Benefits: Small class sizes, personalized attention from faculty, and a welcoming campus community.
4. Brandon University
- Tuition Fees: CAD 15,000 per year for undergraduate programs
- Admission Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Benefits: Low student-to-faculty ratio, strong focus on undergraduate education, and affordable cost of living in Brandon, Manitoba.
5. University of Manitoba
- Tuition Fees: CAD 18,100 per year for undergraduate programs
- Admission Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Benefits: Wide range of programs, vibrant campus life, and numerous research opportunities.
6. Simon Fraser University
- Tuition Fees: CAD 29,400 per year for undergraduate programs
- Admission Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Benefits: Located in British Columbia with access to beautiful natural surroundings, strong co-op programs, and diverse academic offerings.
Cheapest Universities in Canada for International Students
1. Memorial University of Newfoundland
- Tuition Fee: $12,000 – $13,000 per year
- Admission Requirements: High school diploma with a minimum 70% average; English language proficiency test (IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 80)
- Benefits:
- One of the largest and most comprehensive universities in Atlantic Canada
- Offers more than 100 programs across six faculties
- Ranked among the top 500 universities in the world by QS World University Rankings
- Located in St. John’s, a vibrant and historic city with a rich cultural heritage
2. University of Prince Edward Island
- Tuition Fee: $13,560 – $15,000 per year
- Admission Requirements: High school diploma with a minimum 70% average; English language proficiency test (IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 80)
- Benefits:
- The only university in Prince Edward Island that offers more than 60 programs across nine faculties
- Ranked among the top 20 primarily undergraduate universities in Canada by Maclean’s magazine
- Located in Charlottetown, a charming and scenic city with a friendly atmosphere.
3. Brandon University
- Tuition Fee: CAD 14,000 – 15,000 per year
- Admission Requirements: High school diploma with a minimum 60% average; English language proficiency test (IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 79)
- Benefits:
- A small, student-centered university in Manitoba
- Offers more than 50 programs across five faculties
- Ranked among the top 50 primarily undergraduate universities in Canada by Maclean’s magazine
- Located in Brandon, a diverse and affordable city with a strong sense of community
4. University of Regina
- Tuition Fee: CAD 15,000 – 16,000 per year
- Admission Requirements: High school diploma with a minimum 65% average; English language proficiency test (IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 83)
- Benefits:
- A dynamic and innovative university in Saskatchewan
- Offers more than 120 programs across 10 faculties
- Ranked among the top 600 universities globally by QS World University Rankings
- Located in Regina, a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with a rich cultural and recreational life
5. University of Winnipeg
- Tuition Fee: CAD 15,000 – 16,000 per year
- Admission Requirements: High school diploma with a minimum 65% average; English language proficiency test (IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 80)
- Benefits:
- A modern, urban university in Manitoba
- Offers more than 50 programs across nine faculties
- Ranked among the top 20 primarily undergraduate universities in Canada by Maclean’s magazine
- Located in Winnipeg, a diverse and multicultural city with a thriving arts and culture scene
6. University of Lethbridge
- Tuition Fee: CAD 16,000 – 17,000 per year
- Admission Requirements: High school diploma with a minimum 70% average; English language proficiency test (IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 80)
- Benefits:
- A liberal arts and research university in Alberta
- Offers more than 150 programs across six faculties
- Ranked among the top 1000 universities globally by QS World University Rankings
- Located in Lethbridge, a sunny and scenic city with a low cost of living.
Athabasca University
- Tuition Fee: CAD 16,000 – 17,000 per year
- Admission Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent; English language proficiency test (IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 86)
- Benefits:
- Canada’s leading online and distance education university
- Offers over 90 programs across four faculties
- Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Provides flexible and convenient learning options for students globally
University of Saskatchewan
- Tuition Fee: CAD 17,000 – 18,000 per year
- Admission Requirements: High school diploma with a minimum 70% average; English language proficiency test (IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 86)
- Benefits:
- A research-intensive and internationally recognized university
- Offers more than 200 programs across 17 colleges and schools
- Ranked among the top 400 universities worldwide by QS World University Rankings
- Located in Saskatoon, a lively and diverse city with a high quality of life
University of Northern British Columbia
- Tuition Fee: CAD 18,000 – 19,000 per year
- Admission Requirements: High school diploma with a minimum 70% average; English language proficiency test (IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 88)
- Benefits:
- A small and student-focused university
- Offers over 60 programs across five faculties
- Ranked among the top 20 primarily undergraduate universities in Canada by Maclean’s magazine
- Located in Prince George, a friendly and affordable city surrounded by nature
Mount Royal University
- Tuition Fee: CAD 19,000 – 20,000 per year
- Admission Requirements: High school diploma with a minimum 65% average; English language proficiency test (IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 83)
- Benefits:
- A teaching-oriented and community-engaged university
- Offers more than 60 programs across four faculties
- Ranked among the top 50 primarily undergraduate universities in Canada by Maclean’s magazine
- Located in Calgary, a dynamic and multicultural city with a thriving economy
Conclusion
These universities offer affordable tuition rates while providing high-quality education and a supportive environment. From flexible online learning at Athabasca University to the diverse academic programs at the University of Saskatchewan, there are many options available to fit your needs and budget. To explore more universities, their admission processes, scholarships, and student reviews, consider using platforms like Edvoy, Yocket, Leverage Edu, and others.
Studying in Canada not only allows you to save money but also provides an enriching educational experience that can greatly benefit your future career. Don’t miss the opportunity to apply to these affordable universities and embark on your educational journey in Canada!