Cheapest Universities in Canada for International Students 2025
Canada is one of the top countries offering quality higher education. According to the 2022 US News report, it is the fourth-best country for education globally. Nowadays, Canada has become a top destination for students worldwide. However, the cost of studying abroad is a big issue for many students. This article aims to guide you to the cheapest universities in Canada for international students.
Benefits of Studying in Canada
Canada has many world-class universities that offer quality education. Most Canadian universities have a well-deserved reputation for high academic standards, diverse student populations, and strong research programs.
Post-graduation work permits are another key reason for studying in Canada. This program helps students gain work experience after graduation.
Studying in Canada opens the door to experiencing multiculturalism. As Canada is a very diverse country, there are people from all over the world. This allows students to experience this diversity and learn about different cultures. Also, the Canadian people are very welcoming. Students will find that Canadians are friendly and helpful. The crime rate in Canada is very low, which makes it safe for foreigners to live here.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a University
International students should consider several crucial factors when choosing a university. Here are some key considerations to ensure the best academic and personal experience:
Location and Lifestyle
The university’s location plays an important role in the overall educational experience. First, Consider the type of environment you prefer: urban, suburban, or rural. Lifestyles and cultures of different areas can affect one’s daily life and comfort level. Students must research the cost of living in different locations. This ensures they have affordable study costs.
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees are a primary consideration for most international students. University tuition fees can vary from one another. They must compare the costs of different universities to find an affordable one.
Available Programs
Canadian universities offer a wide range of higher educational programs for international students. They need to find a program by considering its reputation and career success rate.
Scholarship Options
Scholarships can reduce the financial burden of the university. The university, government agencies, and private organizations in Canada offer many scholarships.
Eligibility Requirements
Each university has its own admission requirements. This includes academic transcripts, standardized test scores, and letters of recommendation. Students must consider the specific requirements for the programs they’re interested in.
Top 10 Cheap University in Canada for International Students
Here’s a carefully chosen top 10 cheapest universities in Canada for international students:
1. Brandon University
Brandon University is a small and welcoming university in Manitoba, Canada. It offers a friendly environment where students can focus on their studies. The university provides various programs. It’s highly known for being affordable for international students.
Location: Brandon, Manitoba
QS World University Ranking 2025: Not Ranked
Tuition Fees: USD 25,559 (Bachelor’s Degree), USD 5,124 (Graduate Degree)
Programs:
- Arts and Humanities
- Business and Management
- Engineering and Technology
- Life Sciences and Medicine
- Natural Sciences
Scholarship Options: Entrance scholarships available
Eligibility: High school certificate (GPA must be 75%), TOEFL (minimum score: 80), IELTS (minimum score: 6.5).
2. University of Northern British Columbia
International students seeking quality education at a suitable cost find UNBC very attractive. This university is popular for its reputation and affordable tuition fees. UNBC is a great choice if you’re interested in studying environmental sciences or social issues. The university also provides ample opportunities for hands-on learning and research.
Location: Prince George, British Columbia
QS World University Ranking 2025: Not Ranked
Tuition Fees: USD 18,089 (Bachelor’s Degree), USD 7,494 (Graduate Degree)
Programs:
- Anthropology
- English
- Environmental and Sustainability Studies
- Accounting
- Finance
- General Business
- Human Resources Management
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Computer Science
Scholarship Options: International Major Entrance Scholarships, Outstanding International Student Awards, International Scholars Program.
Eligibility: High school certificate (GPA must be 75%), TOEFL (minimum score: 90), IELTS (minimum score: 6.5), DET ((minimum score: 105).
3. University of Calgary
Another popular option is The University of Calgary for its low-cost education facilities. It’s a top research university in Canada as well. The vibrant campus life ensures that students have a well-rounded experience. Despite being a larger university, it offers affordable tuition fees for international students.
Location: Calgary, Alberta
QS World University Ranking 2025: 198
Tuition Fees: USD 14,605 (Bachelor’s Degree), USD 4,319 (Graduate Degree)
Programs:
- Arts
- Science
- Business
- Engineering
- Medicine
- Law.
Scholarship Options: University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship.
Eligibility: High school certificate (GPA must be 75%), TOEFL (minimum score: 80), IELTS (minimum score: 6.5).
4. Simon Fraser University
Simon Fraser University (SFU) combines affordable tuition with great academic programs. SFU is known for its innovative teaching and strong ties to the community. They have a wide range of programs and multiple campuses, giving you lots of options.
Location: Burnaby and Surrey, British Columbia
QS World University Ranking 2025: 319
Tuition Fees: USD 19,454 (Bachelor’s Degree), USD 6,075 (Graduate Degree)
Programs:
- Anthropology
- Criminology
- Economics
- English
- Communication
- Contemporary Arts
- Interactive Arts and Technology
- Publishing
Scholarship Options: Entrance scholarships are available.
Eligibility: High school certificate (GPA must be 75%), TOEFL (minimum score: 85), IELTS (minimum score: 6.5).
5. University of Saskatchewan (USask)
Known for its affordable tuition and research, USask can be another great option, especially if you are interested in agriculture, engineering, and health sciences. Engaging in cutting-edge research projects is a highlight for students here. Its scenic campus, strong academic programs, and supportive community attract students.
Location: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
QS World University Ranking 2025: =340
Tuition Fees: USD 26,675 (Bachelor’s Degree), USD 3,000 – USD 5,000 (Graduate Degree)
Programs:
- Agriculture and Food Sciences
- Arts and Humanities
- Engineering
- Hard Sciences
- Health Sciences
- Pharmacy and Nutrition
- Social Sciences.
Scholarship Options: Guaranteed Entrance Scholarship.
Eligibility: High school certificate (GPA must be 75%), IELTS (minimum score: 6.5).
6. Université de Saint-Boniface
Université de Saint-Boniface (USB) is Western Canada’s oldest post-secondary educational institution. The Campus provides a unique academic environment for students seeking multicultural experiences. As a French-language institution, it provides a unique cultural experience along with lower tuition fees.
Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba
QS World University Ranking 2025: Not Ranked
Tuition Fees: USD 10,570 – USD 16,850 (Bachelor’s Degree), USD 7,500 (Graduate Degree)
Programs:
- Arts
- Social Work
- Translation
- Science
- Nursing, Business
Scholarship Options: Entrance scholarships are available.
Eligibility: High school certificate (GPA must be 50%), IELTS (minimum score: 6.00), TOEFL (minimum score: 60).
7. Canadian Mennonite University
CMU combines low tuition fees with a focus on community and faith-based learning. The university offers various programs and emphasizes personal growth and community service. They also provide a supportive learning environment for international students.
Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba
QS World University Ranking 2025: Not Ranked
Tuition Fees: USD 10,000 (Bachelor’s Degree), USD 4,000 (Graduate Degree)
Programs:
- Arts and Humanities
- Social Sciences
- Sciences
- Business
- Communications and Media
- Theological Studies
Scholarship: Business Merit Award, Science Merit Award, Anni (Dyck) Wiebe Scholarship, CMU CSMA Scholarship.
Eligibility: High school certificate (GPA must be 75%), IELTS (minimum score: 6.00), TOEFL (minimum score: 80).
8. Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN)
MUN stands out for its exceptionally low tuition fees and high-quality education. Offering a wide range of programs, MUN focuses on research and community involvement. The friendly and safe environment in St. John’s makes it a great choice for international students.
Location: St. Johns, Newfoundland
QS World University Ranking 2025: 661-670
Tuition Fees: USD 20,000 (Bachelor’s Degree), USD 7,058 (Graduate Degree)
Programs:
- Anthropology
- Archaeology
- Communications Studies
- Economics
- English
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
Scholarship: Entrance scholarships are available.
Eligibility: High school certificate (GPA must be 75%), IELTS (minimum score: 6.5), TOEFL (minimum score: 90).
9. University of British Columbia
UBC is ranked among the top universities globally. The university is well known for its strong emphasis on research, innovation, and sustainability.
Location: Vancouver and Kelowna, British Columbia
QS World University Ranking 2025: 38
Tuition Fees: USD 40,318 – USD 45,703 (Bachelor’s Degree), USD 9,500 (Graduate Degree)
Programs:
- Arts
- Sciences
- Applied Science
- Medicine
- Law
- Business
Scholarship: International Major Entrance Scholarship, Outstanding International Student Award, UBC Okanagan International Welcome Award
Eligibility: High school certificate (GPA must be 90%), IELTS (minimum score: 6.00), PTE (minimum score: 65).
10. University of Toronto
The University of Toronto (U of T) is Canada’s best-known university. It’s famous for its excellent academics and vibrant campus life, even though the tuition is comparatively high. Despite that, it also offers numerous scholarships and financial aid options. With its strong reputation and programs, U of T is a worthwhile investment for your future.
Location: Downtown Toronto, Ontario
QS World University Ranking 2025: 25
Tuition Fees: USD 40,318 (Bachelor’s Degree), USD 20,000 (Graduate Degree)
Programs:
- Arts
- Social Sciences
- Sciences
- Engineering
- Medicine
- Law
- Business
Scholarship: Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship, U of T Mississauga Guaranteed Entrance Scholarship, U of T Scarborough Entrance Scholarships, President’s Scholars of Excellence Program
Eligibility: High school certificate (GPA must be 93%), IELTS (minimum score: 6.5), TOEFL (minimum score: 90+).
[Note: Each university’s tuition fees and eligibility criteria may vary over time. It also depends on the program you’re interested in.]
The Comprehensive List of the Top Cheapest Universities in Canada
Here is a table listing the top cheapest universities in Canada, along with some key details such as tuition fees, location, and notable programs:
| University Name | Location | Average Tuition Fees (CAD) | Notable Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brandon University | Brandon, Manitoba | $7,000 | Music, Nursing, Education |
| Université de Saint-Boniface | Winnipeg, Manitoba | $7,500 | Business Administration, Education |
| Memorial University of Newfoundland | St. John’s, NL | $8,000 | Engineering, Business, Computer Science |
| University of Northern British Columbia | Prince George, BC | $9,000 | Environmental Science, Business |
| University of Manitoba | Winnipeg, Manitoba | $10,000 | Medicine, Law, Engineering |
| University of Saskatchewan | Saskatoon, SK | $11,000 | Agriculture, Veterinary Medicine |
| University of Regina | Regina, SK | $12,000 | Engineering, Business |
| Athabasca University | Athabasca, Alberta | $12,500 | Distance Education, Psychology |
| University of New Brunswick | Fredericton, NB | $13,000 | Law, Engineering |
| University of Prince Edward Island | Charlottetown, PE | $13,500 | Veterinary Medicine, Business |
| University of Winnipeg | Winnipeg, Manitoba | $14,000 | Education, Business, Science |
| Thompson Rivers University | Kamloops, BC | $14,500 | Tourism, Business |
| Lakehead University | Thunder Bay, Ontario | $15,000 | Engineering, Education |
| Mount Allison University | Sackville, NB | $15,500 | Arts, Science |
| Concordia University | Montreal, Quebec | $16,000 | Business, Engineering, Fine Arts |
| Saint Mary’s University | Halifax, NS | $16,500 | Business, Arts |
| Université de Moncton | Moncton, NB | $17,000 | Nursing, Education |
| University of Lethbridge | Lethbridge, Alberta | $17,500 | Management, Health Sciences |
| MacEwan University | Edmonton, Alberta | $18,000 | Arts, Business |
| Simon Fraser University | Burnaby, BC | $18,500 | Business, Computing Science |
Tips for International Students
Students face so many problems while applying for or studying abroad. With proper guidance, they can overcome those problems. Here are some tips for international students in Canada:
Financial Planning
Budgeting is essential. You should create detailed budgets for tuition, living expenses, and other costs. To save money, you can also take advantage of student discounts on transportation, food, and entertainment. Also, skipping unnecessary costs can enhance their cost efficiency.
Applying for Scholarships
Canadian Universities, government agencies, and external organizations offer many scholarships, which can reduce the financial burden of international students. You can easily find the scholarships on the university’s official website.
Work Opportunities While Studying
Earning can bring valuable experience while studying. Many universities often have on-campus jobs for students, such as research assistants, library assistants, cafeteria, food Services, and so on. Students can also apply for off-campus work permits to work part-time during their academic year.
Cost-Effective Living Arrangements
Living expenses are another burden for international students. It can be reduced by applying a proper arrangement. Renting a shared apartment or renting an apartment that is far from campus can reduce living costs. On-campus residence is another better option for cost-effective living.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the cheapest universities in Canada for international students?
Brandon University, Université de Saint-Boniface, Memorial University of Newfoundland, and the University of Northern British Columbia offer the lowest tuition fees. Annual fees range from 7,000 to 7,000 to 18,500 CAD for undergraduate programs.
What are the cheapest universities in Canada for postgraduate international students?
Brandon University (Graduate Degree: 5,124USD), University of Northern British Columbia (5,124USD), University of Northern British Columbia (7,494 USD), and University of Calgary (4,319USD) offer low tuition for postgraduate studies. Memorial University of Newfoundland (4,319 USD) offers low tuition for postgraduate studies. Memorial University of Newfoundland (7,058 USD) and Université de Saint-Boniface (CAD 7,500) are also affordable. Fees vary by program.
Can you suggest the cheapest university in Canada for international graduate students?
The University of Calgary charges $4,319 USD annually for graduate programs, making it one of the most budget-friendly options. Programs include Engineering, Medicine, and Law.
Which is the cheapest medical university in Canada for international students?
The University of Saskatchewan offers Health Sciences programs with graduate tuition between 3,000–3,000–5,000 USD. The University of Manitoba lists Medicine at $10,000 CAD annually.
Are there any of the cheapest public universities in Canada for international students?
Yes. Public universities like Memorial University of Newfoundland (8,000 CAD), BrandonUniversity (8,000 CAD), BrandonUniversity (7,000 CAD), and the University of Northern British Columbia (CAD 9,000) provide affordable tuition.
What are the options for the cheapest universities in Canada for international undergraduate students?
Brandon University ($7,000CAD), UniversiteˊdeSaint−Boniface ($7,000CAD), UniversiteˊdeSaint−Boniface ($7,500CAD), and Memorial University of Newfoundland ($8,000CAD) have low undergraduate fees. Programs include Business, Engineering, and Nursing.
Which are the cheapest universities in Toronto, Canada, for international students?
Toronto universities like the University of Toronto (40,318 USD) have higher fees. For lower costs, consider universities outside Toronto, such as the University of Northern British Columbia (40,318 USD), with higher fees. For lower costs, consider universities outside Toronto, such as the University of Northern British Columbia (9,000 CAD) or Brandon University (CAD 7,000).
Do you know of the cheapest university in Montreal, Canada, for international students?
Concordia University in Montreal charges CAD 16,000 annually for undergraduate programs. It offers degrees in Business, Engineering, and Fine Arts.
Which Canadian universities offer scholarships for international students?
Simon Fraser University, the University of Calgary, and the University of Toronto provide scholarships like entrance awards, merit-based grants, and program-specific funding. Check each university’s website for eligibility and deadlines.
Can international students work while studying in Canada?
Yes. Students with a valid study permit can work up to 20 hours per week during school terms and full-time during breaks. On-campus jobs like library assistants or research aides are common options.
What are the English language requirements for Canadian universities?
Most universities require IELTS (6.0–6.5) or TOEFL (80–90). French-language schools like Université de Saint-Boniface may require French proficiency tests instead.
How much does it cost to live in Canada as an international student?
Living costs range from 10,000 to 15,000 CAD annually. Shared housing, public transportation, and student discounts help reduce expenses.
Do Canadian universities offer post-graduation work permits?
Yes. Graduates can apply for a Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) valid for up to three years, which allows them to gain work experience in Canada.
What documents are required to apply to Canadian universities?
Most universities require academic transcripts, a valid passport, proof of English/French proficiency, letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose.
Which Canadian provinces have the lowest tuition fees?
Manitoba, Newfoundland, and Saskatchewan offer affordable tuition. Universities like Brandon University (Manitoba) and Memorial University (Newfoundland) charge under CAD 10,000 annually.
Can international students stay in Canada after graduation?
Yes. The PGWP allows graduates to work in Canada. After gaining work experience, they may qualify for permanent residency through programs like Express Entry.
Are international students allowed to bring family to Canada?
Students with valid study permits can apply for spouse or children visas. Family members may also be eligible for work or study permits.
Conclusion
Studying in Canada can be much more affordable if you make the right choice. Besides choosing the cheapest universities in Canada for international students, you also need to consider other aspects, like living expenses, available scholarships, and the quality of education. Start your research, and don’t miss Canada’s high-quality education at reasonable costs.
