This curated list of affordable universities will enable international students to study in Canada without going bankrupt.
Canada is known for its world-class education, high quality of life, and safe environment. However, the cost of studying in Canada can be a major concern for international students. In this article, we have highlighted ten Canadian universities with relatively low tuition fees and robust scholarship opportunities to help make your dream of studying in Canada more affordable.
Why Study in Canada as an International Student?
Before going into the details of the cheap universities in Canada, it is good to realize why Canada remains one of the top study destinations for international students.
According to the just-released data from Immigration, Citizenship and Refugees Canada (IRCC) published by ICEF Monitor, there are over a million international students in Canada as of 2023. Students are drawn by Canada’s reputation for offering high-quality education, its multicultural society, and its strong emphasis on safety and security. With numerous scholarships available and affordable universities to choose from, studying in Canada can be both an enriching and affordable experience for students from around the world.
General Requirements for International Students to Study in Canada
To study in Canada as an international student, you must meet specific admission requirements depending on the degree level and program you are applying to. Here’s a general overview:
- Undergraduate Degree: A high school certificate or equivalent is required.
- Master’s Degree: A Bachelor’s degree is typically required.
- PhD: A combination of previous degrees (Bachelor’s and Master’s).
In addition to academic transcripts, other necessary documents may include a CV, degree certificates, and standardized test results (e.g., GRE/GMAT for graduate applicants). You will also need to prove proficiency in either English or French, depending on the university and the program you choose. This is commonly demonstrated through tests such as IELTS or TOEFL, though some universities may waive this requirement depending on your country of origin or previous education.
10 Affordable Universities in Canada for International Students
If you’re looking for affordable universities in Canada, here are ten institutions that offer relatively low tuition fees for international students. The currency listed here is in Canadian Dollars (CAD).
Location: Wolfville, Nova Scotia
Tuition Fees:
– Undergraduate: CAD 21,000 for international students
– Graduate: CAD 19,000 for international students
Key Benefits: Acadia is known for its strong liberal arts programs and offers a close-knit community with a student-to-faculty ratio that fosters personal interaction.
Language Requirements: IELTS/TOEFL may not be required depending on previous education.
Scholarships: Acadia offers scholarships for international students; check their website for details.
Location: Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario
Tuition Fees:
– Undergraduate: CAD 18,000 for international students
Key Benefits: Algoma University celebrates Anishinaabe culture and offers unique programs in Indigenous studies.
Language Requirements: English proficiency tests may be waived for students from certain countries.
Scholarships: Scholarships and financial aid options are available for international students.
Location: Alberta (Distance Learning)
Tuition Fees:
– Undergraduate: CAD 17,190 for international students
– Graduate: CAD 17,490 for international students
Key Benefits: Athabasca University is an open university, focusing on accessible education through online learning. This flexibility allows students to study from anywhere in the world.
Language Requirements: Proof of English proficiency is required unless prior education was in English.
Scholarships: Scholarships are available; students can apply directly through the university’s online portal.
Location: Sherbrooke, Quebec
Tuition Fees:
– Undergraduate: CAD 23,292 for international students
– Graduate: CAD 25,455 for international students
Key Benefits: Known for its small class sizes and vibrant campus life, Bishop’s University is a predominantly undergraduate institution that provides personalized attention to its students.
Language Requirements: IELTS or TOEFL scores are typically required.
Scholarships: A range of scholarships are offered to international students.
Location: Brandon, Manitoba
Tuition Fees:
– Undergraduate: CAD 15,000 for international students
– Graduate: CAD 6,700 for international students
Key Benefits: Brandon University is a smaller institution known for its liberal arts and sciences programs. It boasts a low student-to-faculty ratio, allowing for a more personalized education.
Language Requirements: English language proficiency is required for non-native speakers.
Scholarships: International scholarships are available for students with academic merit.
Location: London, Ontario
Tuition Fees:
– Undergraduate: CAD 16,000 for international students
Key Benefits: Brescia University College is Canada’s only women’s university and is affiliated with Western University, providing students access to a broad range of academic resources.
Language Requirements: English proficiency tests are typically required.
Scholarships: Numerous scholarships are available for international students based on merit and need.
Location: St. Catharines, Ontario
Tuition Fees:
– Undergraduate: CAD 29,000 for international students
– Graduate: CAD 23,000 for international students
Key Benefits: Brock University’s proximity to major tourism hubs like Niagara Falls, combined with its strong academic programs, makes it an appealing choice for international students.
Language Requirements: IELTS or TOEFL scores are generally required for non-native English speakers.
Scholarships: Brock offers several scholarships for international students, including entrance scholarships.
Location: Sydney, Nova Scotia
Tuition Fees:
– Undergraduate: CAD 17,000 for international students
– Graduate: CAD 19,203 for international students
Key Benefits: With a focus on community engagement and experiential learning, Cape Breton University offers a unique, student-centered educational experience.
Language Requirements: Proof of English proficiency is required.
Scholarships: Cape Breton University has scholarships available for high-achieving students.
Location: Victoria, British Columbia
Tuition Fees:
– Undergraduate: CAD 27,000 for international students
– Graduate: CAD 8,000 for international students
Key Benefits: UVic is a major research institution, known for its work in environmental law, Indigenous law, and ocean research.
Language Requirements: English proficiency exams are typically required.
Scholarships: UVic offers a variety of scholarships and bursaries for international students.
Location: Abbotsford, British Columbia
Tuition Fees:
– Undergraduate: CAD 19,000 for international students
– Graduate: CAD 25,000 for international students
Key Benefits: With its small class sizes and hands-on learning environment, UFV is an excellent choice for international students looking for a personalized education experience.
Language Requirements: English language tests are required for most international applicants.
Scholarships: UFV offers scholarships and bursaries to help international students manage their tuition costs.
Concluding Thoughts
Studying in Canada offers a wealth of opportunities for international students, and with careful planning, it doesn’t have to be prohibitively expensive. By choosing one of these affordable universities and exploring available scholarships, you can gain a world-class education while minimizing costs. Be sure to check each university’s official website for up-to-date tuition fees and application details.
