For international students seeking an inexpensive degree, studying in Canada is a great option. Both native and foreign students can enroll in Canada at low tuition rates. In addition, you’ll be studying in a highly developed nation in English (or French!). Canada’s educational system is respectable and on par with that of the U.S. and the U.K.
Because of the affordable tuition, the easy and comfortable living conditions, and the excellent reputation of the universities, many international students opt to study in Canada. Here are ten Canadian institutions with low tuition fees that accept international students, for those seeking cheaper degrees!
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Table of Contents
Why study in Canada?
1. Education is affordable.
Top Canadian colleges provide degrees at far lower costs than those of the United States, the United Kingdom, and other English-speaking nations.
2. The reputation.
Universities in Canada live up to the country’s reputation as having one of the greatest educational systems in the world.
3. Simplicity in life.
While studying abroad can be intimidating, it is simpler for international students to get along with their peers if they choose to do so in a first-world, English-speaking nation.
4. There are enough jobs.
The demand for skilled workers is always rising due to the dominance of the service sector. This suggests clearly that after graduating from a Canadian institution, there will rarely be a shortage of employment for both foreign and domestic students.
5. Excellent quality of life.
According to a 2021 U.S. News & World Reports article, Canada proudly holds the #1 spot on the list of the 78 greatest nations to live in. Global foreign relations have undergone a significant shift since the COVID-19 epidemic rocked the planet. Social harmony, respect for human rights, and social respect have all significantly improved in Canada.
6. Affordable education.
The foundations of the Canadian educational system are plentiful research opportunities and universally accessible education. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that Canadian provinces top the lists of all those considering studying abroad. As a global leader in education, Canadian universities are respected widely for their degrees.
7. There are multiple funding and scholarship options.
The Canadian government provides overseas students with part-time employment opportunities and partial grants for self-financed undergraduate and graduate degrees.
8. It enhances the diversity of cultures.
Politicians in Canada have long emphasized the positive and enriching effects of cultural variety on the country’s life. Living together, kids from different ethnic backgrounds cultivate values such as cultural awareness, empathy, and acceptance of others’ differences.
9. Secure neighborhoods
The provinces of Canada have a very friendly atmosphere, which contributes to the development of safe communities where the Canadian government strongly supports freedom of speech and expression.
The 10 Best Low-Tuition Universities in Canada
International graduate students ought to budget approximately $21,000 for their academic expenses during a single academic year. We have compiled a list of the top ten reasonably priced Canadian institutions that provide high-quality education based on these numbers.
1. Canadian Mennonite University
A comprehensive liberal arts university in Manitoba, Canadian Mennonite University was founded in 2000 and is officially sponsored by the Mennonite Church of Canada. It provides graduate and baccalaureate degrees with recognized 3- and 4-year programs that include a mandatory practicum.
Through community and workplace participation, a practicum component provides students with chances for work-integrated learning, preparing them for the workforce. It should be mentioned that, despite having 12% of its student body composed of internationals, Canadian Mennonite University awarded over $720,000 in financial aid to qualified candidates in 2022–2023.
| Type of University | Private University |
| Location | Winnipeg, Manitoba |
| Courses Offered | 19 BA majors (UG), 4 MA degrees and a collaborative MBA (PG) |
| Popular Programs | Sociology, Theological Studies, and Philosophy |
| Annual Tuition Fee for International Students | $11,920 annually for undergraduate students$12,230 annually for graduate students |
| Scholarships Offered | Full-Tuition Awards for international students |
2. Brandon University
Currently offering a variety of degree programs to 3000 full- and part-time students both on and off campus, Brandon University is situated in Manitoba. With one of the most reasonable tuition rates in the nation, this public university makes an effort to provide financial assistance to deserving students.
BU offers a few well-chosen professional programs in addition to liberal arts courses.
| Type of University | Public University |
| Location | Brandon, Manitoba |
| Courses Offered | 25+ UG programs 5 PG programs |
| Popular Programs | Education, Arts, Life Sciences, and Music |
| Annual Tuition fee for International Students | Annual Tuition Fee for International Students |
| Scholarships Offered | $17,071 annually for the most expensive UG program (Health Sciences) and $7,000–10,000 annually for graduate students |
3. University of Winnipeg
Almost 80 nations are represented among the 1,400 foreign students at the University of Winnipeg. The institute has thrived as a post-secondary institution sponsored by both private and provincial sources since its founding in 1967.Â
Currently, the university emphasizes indigenous quality while fostering academic potential through its programs. Additionally, it contains a separate science complex with cutting-edge research facilities.
| Type of University | Public University |
| Location | Winnipeg, Manitoba |
| Courses Offered | 50+ UG programs offered by 5 faculties20+ PG programs offered by 3 faculties |
| Popular Programs | Economics, Business Administration, and Humanities |
| Annual Tuition Fee for International Students | $20,047 annually for the most expensive UG program (Business)$26,846 annually for the most expensive PG program (Management) |
| Scholarships Offered | International Special Entrance Scholarship Program ($3,000)President’s Scholarship for World Leaders ($5,000) |
4. University of Northern British Columbia
One of Canada’s top small, inclusive, research-intensive universities, UNBC is situated in the lush interior of British Columbia. Regarded highly for its dedication to sustainability, UNBC is recognized as one of the “Greenest Employers in Canada.”
Maclean’s placed UNBC in the upper echelons of minor universities in 2022 by ranking it second overall in the Primarily Undergraduate category. The university provides international applicants with a lively campus life in addition to a diverse student body of over 4,000.
| Type of University | Public University |
| Location | Main Campus: Prince GeorgeOther campuses include Prince Rupert, Terrace, Quesnel, and Fort St. John. |
| Courses Offered | 40+ UG programs30+ PG programs |
| Popular Programs | Education, International Studies, English, and Social Sciences |
| Annual Tuition Fee for International Students | $23,818 annually for undergraduate students $7,495 annually for graduate students |
| Scholarships Offered | Graduate Entrance Research Scholarship ($15,000)UNBC Board of Governors Bursary ($1,500) |
5. University of Saskatchewan
The University of Saskatchewan, ranked among the world’s greatest institutes for sustainability and social impact, encourages its students to address pressing global concerns. The University of Saskatchewan has established itself as one of the leading research-intensive schools, with a global network of 169,000 alumni and 72 Rhodes Scholars.
The Health Sciences Building on campus incorporates eight health science specialties and was designed with an interdisciplinary approach in mind. A practical, hands-on learning atmosphere helps students gain the experience they need to excel in their future jobs.
| Type of University | Public University |
| Location | Saskatoon |
| Courses Offered | 80+ UG programs50+ PG programs |
| Popular Programs | Science, Agriculture, and Bioresources |
| Annual Tuition Fee for International Students | $25,751 annually for undergraduate students $9,396 annually for thesis-based graduate programs $4,700 annually for course-based graduate programs |
| Scholarships Offered | Guaranteed Entrance Scholarships ($3,000)University of Saskatchewan International Excellence Awards ($10,000)International Baccalaureate (IB) awards ($20,000)Canadian Curriculum Schools Awards ($15,000) |
6. University of Calgary
The University of Calgary is one of the cheapest universities in Canada, with a 94% employment rate after graduation. Promoting an entrepreneurial atmosphere among students, the university is regarded as a top startup creator among all Canadian research universities. A Master in Data Science from this university is a popular program since it has a vibrant tech sector.
Furthermore, international students account for 10% of the institute’s overall student body, promoting the development of an equal, diverse, and inclusive community.
| Type of University | Public University |
| Location | Calgary and Doha Main Campus, West Campus, Health Sciences Campus, Downtown Campus—in Calgary Qatar Campus- in Doha |
| Courses Offered | 105 UG programs 102 PG programs |
| Popular Programs | $26,408-$35,000 annually for undergraduate students and $10,240- 23,600 annually for graduate students |
| Annual Tuition Fee for International Students | $26,408-$35,000 annually for undergraduate students $10,240- 23,600 annually for graduate students |
| Scholarships Offered | International Entrance Scholarship ($20,000)CIBC International Entrance Scholarship ($10,000) |
7. University of Manitoba
The University of Manitoba (UM) is Western Canada’s oldest university. The main campus of the university has over 30,000 students and more than 60 teaching and research buildings.
The university’s diversified, intercultural environment is reflected in its worldwide applicant numbers. With a reputation of distinction, the University of Manitoba today combines modern facilities to enhance learning experiences and provide students with a wealth of options.
| Type of University | Public University |
| Location | Winnipeg |
| Courses Offered | 100+ UG programs; 146 PG programs (99 Master’s and 47 Doctoral) |
| Popular Programs | Social Science, Engineering, Pharmacy |
| Annual Tuition Fee for International Students | $28,965 annually for the most expensive undergraduate program (Law) $17,274 annually for the most expensive PG program (Finance) |
| Scholarships Offered | $28,965 annually for the most expensive undergraduate program (Law)Â and $17,274 annually for the most expensive PG program (Finance) |
8. University of Alberta
The University of Alberta is one of the top 120 universities in the world, according to the QS Rankings for 2022. One out of every five students at the institution receives financial aid, with the university providing $34 million in awards and scholarships each year.
The university’s business administration courses are extremely popular among international students, ranking second in Canada for graduate employment. The Executive MBA program is well regarded, and other popular concentrations include engineering, nursing, and agriculture.
| Type of University | Public University |
| Location | Edmonton |
| Courses Offered | 200+ UG programs 130+ PG programs |
| Popular Programs | Business, Engineering, Nursing, and Agriculture |
| Annual Tuition Fee for International Students | $31,500 42,000 annually for undergraduate students $13,800 annually for graduate students |
| Scholarships Offered | President’s International Distinction Scholarship ($120,000 payable over 4 years)University of Alberta International Leader Scholarship ($10,000)Gold Standard Scholarship ($6,000)The University of Alberta International Admission Scholarship ($5,000) |
9. Simon Fraser University (SFU)
Maclean’s ranked SFU as Canada’s #1 comprehensive university in 1965 when it was founded as a distinguished public research institution.Â
With over 145 countries represented on the college’s three campuses, financial help is available through scholarships and bursaries to honor outstanding academic accomplishments.Â
SFU’s co-op education program, one of Canada’s largest, engages 8,500 students in worldwide corporations, providing ample job prospects for university graduates.
| Type of University | Public University |
| Location | 3 campuses in Burnaby, Surrey, and Vancouver |
| Courses Offered | 100+ UG courses offered by 8 faculties 70+ PG courses offered by 8 faculties |
| Popular Programs | Computer Science, Engineering, Art, and the Health Sciences |
| Annual Tuition fee for International Students | $32,724 (including the public transit pass)- all UG courses $6,075 annually for the first 6 terms—all regular PG courses |
| Scholarships Offered | Undergraduate Scholars Entrance Scholarship ($20,000 up to an amount sufficient to cover tuition and mandatory supplementary fees) |
10. University of Guelph
With almost 2000 international students, the University of Guelph combines a solid foundation in key principles with targeted studies in specific areas.
Forbes ranks this university as one of the largest employers in Canada, and it receives over $80 million in research money. It emphasizes the role of research by providing students with experience-based learning opportunities, including 45+ co-op programs designed for the same aim.
The University of Guelph distinguishes itself by providing its students with innovative financial ways to pay for their studies. They are encouraged to work part-time while attending classes, and over 4,000 on-campus positions are provided on a competitive basis.Â
| Type of University | Public University |
| Location | Ontario |
| Courses Offered | 80 UG programs 100+ PG programs |
| Popular Programs | Agriculture, Architecture, and Science |
| Annual Tuition Fee for International Students | International Entrance Scholarships ($17,500 – CAD 20,500)Quinn Memorial Scholarship (CAD 2,000)Hardy International Student Scholarship (CAD 2,000) |
| Scholarships Offered | International Entrance Scholarships ($17,500 – $20,500 CAD)Quinn Memorial Scholarship (CAD 2,000) Hardy International Student Scholarship (CAD 2,000) |
Cost of living for international students in Canada
Despite having some of the world’s most prestigious colleges, even the greatest Canadian towns for international students are rather reasonable when compared to the US and the UK.
Living expenses range from CAD 15,000 to CAD 20,000 per year, depending on the province of residency, the kind of housing, and other personal spending patterns. The table below might help you determine the typical cost of living as an international student in Canada.
Some variables to consider include:
| Variables | Average Expenditure Per Year |
| Food | CAD 2,400-3,600 |
| Transportation | CAD 1,400-3,000 |
| Accommodation | On-campus: CAD 3,000-7,500 Off-campus: CAD 9,000-26,000 |
| Health insurance | CAD 600-1,000 |
| Miscellaneous | CAD 7,200-8,400 |
FAQ
What is the cost of living in Canada for Students?
The cost of living in Canada, like in most major countries, varies greatly across the vast country. According to the Canadian Rental Housing Index, many large metropolitan regions are unaffordable; nevertheless, there are still some areas where a student budget can be satisfied.
Here is a breakdown of the average costs for a student in Canada (in $CAD):
- Basic lunch and drink: $23
- Monthly rent in a 45-square-meter furnished studio: $1,729
- Monthly utilities: $166
- Monthly internet: $56
- Monthly public transport: $109
- Monthly gym membership: $64
- Pair of jeans: $77
- Private doctor visit: $115
- Toothpaste: $3.47
- Cappuccino: $5.13
Note that to obtain a student visa, the Canadian government requires applicants to provide evidence that they have $10,000 CAD above their tuition; however, you will probably need more.Â
How can International Students find funding and Support?
While studying in Canada may save you money on tuition, you should still apply for financing and scholarships. There are numerous scholarships and awards accessible to international students, as well as scholarships that are only open to students from specific countries.
How do I apply to Canadian Universities?
Your application to a Canadian university as an international student will be subject to additional procedures. In addition to the standard student application materials such as letters of recommendation, resumes, and school histories, you may be asked to provide the following:
- Proof of finances
- English proficiency
- International application
- Passport information
- A translated copy of your transcript
Remember that if you plan to study in Canada for more than six months, you will need a student visa. The application is $150 CAD and can be completed online. The Canadian government will need proof of finances, proof of health and general well-being, proof of no criminal record, and a letter of acceptance from your university. It is strongly advised that you begin your student visa application as soon as you have been accepted to a Canadian university.
Overall, studying in Canada as an international student will provide you with a renowned internationally recognized degree while also allowing you to save money! If you are still undecided and want to study in the United States, consider these affordable U.S. universities for international students.
Start With Us
Do you want to study abroad? Note that obtaining a bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree in this field helps to improve your chances in the labor market. Studying abroad is no joke for international students due to the cost. However, you can achieve your dreams without breaking the bank by applying for student loans, which you can pay for as long as 10 years.
MPower Finance and Prodigy Finance are some of the best student loan providers for international students. They also do not require a cosigner or collateral before an application. Reach out to us today, and let’s help you get started.
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