Top 10 Cheapest Universities in Canada for your Study in Canada Journey.
Well, You want to study in Canada but with the pool of information available on the internet, choosing your dream university seems like a neverending nightmare. What if you mess up? After all, finding the affordable and cheapest universities in Canada takes a lot of effort.
Canada is popular among International students for having quality education, low tuition fees, the comfort of living, and the exceptional reputation of the university.
Easier said than done, without proper consultation and research getting into a Canadian university can be a far-reaching goal. A big decision like this requires careful consideration.
This guide contains everything from the top 10 cheapest universities in Canada for your study in Canada Journey to bonus tips to make your Canadian journey a smooth one.
Checklist for selecting Universities in Canada
So, what’s the guarantee that the explanations we gave you hold true? After all, you are a rational human being who seeks an explanation before jumping to a conclusion.
Selecting a Canadian University for International students requires consideration of a large number of factors. Some of them are mentioned as given:
1. Tuition fees
Tuition fee is a key aspect when it comes to applying to Canadian University for international students. The cost of tuition fees depends upon the type of major, level of study, and the University you decide to choose. Tuition fees are significantly minimum in comparison to countries like the USA and UK.
With individuals planning to pursue a degree in a Canadian university, the amount may range from CAD 550 to CAD 33000 per year. Bachelor in Medicine, Engineering and Social science tend to be most expensive while subjects like humanities, art, and education tend to be lower. The speculated tuition fees around this country are enlisted below:
| Level of study | Average annual cost |
| Bachelor’s | 1,800-20,000 |
| Master’s | 2,500-17,000 |
| PhD | 2,500-17,000 |
| Vocational | 2,000-18,000 |
| Language courses | 3,500-4,100 |
It is to be noted that these amounts might differ in large amounts due to the availability of scholarships and the location of the university.
2. Cost of living
Typically the universities in Canada offer on-campus residence facilities for international students. Off-campus accommodation is also available where you can choose to share space with other international students.
On-campus housing facilities may vary from somewhere between CAD 8,000 to CAD 10,000 annually. Students opting for rented apartments might have to pay CAD 400 to CAD 800 per month. This rent is very much dependent on location and facilities available.
The rented apartment might come with an extra cost of basic utilities like electricity, garbage, or water of around CAD 150 per month and internet service with a charge of CAD 50-70 per month.
There is also a provision of homestay where you can reside with a host family in Canada. You are expected to pay a placement fee of CAD 200 and a fee of CAD 750-950 monthly in exchange for meals and rooms.
3. Healthcare Insurance
International students must get healthcare insurance before initiating their study journey. Healthcare insurance includes visiting doctors, medical professionals, hospital stays, and medical procedures.
Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Prince Edward Island, and Saskatchewan have special provisions for international students under their provincial health care plans. However, this is determined on the basis of your stay duration.
The cost can range from $600 to $ 900 per year.
4. Other costs
As other costs are concerned, food expenses and transportation expenses are important. Food expenses are around CAD 300 per month with access from local markets and groceries. The restaurant meals might vary from CAD 10- 25 per meal.
Public transportation is the most opted form of transportation among international students in Canada. Students aged between 18 to 25 will get a discount upon purchasing a monthly transport pass. The total cost for a transport pass is CAD 90 per month.
List of 10 cheapest Universities in Canada
The understanding of the cheapest universities in Canada is determined by a lot of factors such as location, cost of living, assistance with scholarships, and many more. These 10 universities offer courses on budget and help students abroad. They are :
- York University
- Lambton College
- Fanshawe college
- University of Winnipeg
- University of Manitoba
- University of Prince Edward Island
- Centennial College
- Seneca College
- University of Saskatchewan
- Langara College
1. York University
What if you could be part of a University that is also attended by some of the celebrities? Pretty cool, right!! Here’s a chance to brag with York university which has some of the popular people such as Rachel Mcadams, Lily Singh as its alumni.
York University is one of the affordable universities across the country. Situated in Toronto, Ontario, Canada; this university happens to be the second-largest university in Ontario and the third-largest university in the country. The average tuition fee for this reputed university is $22417 and the cost of living across residence and dormitories might range from CAD3000 to 7500 per year.
They offer internships, community placements, co-ops, and capstone projects in order to provide students with meaningful careers, long-term success, and critical knowledge for their work. They provide Bachelor’s degrees in science, business, law, engineering, health, environmental studies, education, and many more.
2. Lambton College
Ranked number 1 in the report of Canada’s Top 50 Research Colleges 2020 as per the Research Infosource Inc., this institute is spread around Sarnia, Mississauga, and Toronto, Ontario. With a reputation for applied arts and technology, this university also emphasizes on sports and athletic development of its members.
It offers courses in nursing and healthcare, engineering and technology, businesses and management, and many more. This college offers financial aid for students up to 7600 USD, making it extremely compatible. The tuition fee costs about $7000 per year and the cost of living including residence, meals, and other expenses can range from $6000 to $6500.
3. Fanshawe College
This is a public college situated in southwestern Ontario of Canada, -approximately a two-hour drive from Toronto and Niagra Falls. Apart from being an affordable college for abroad students, this college also happens to be the largest in the country. International students have to bear tuition fees ranging between $13,623 and $14,223.
Fanshawe college caters to diverse students with more than 200 academic programs, including 2-year diplomas, 3-year advanced diplomas, post-graduate programs (1 year), and honors bachelor degrees (4 years).
This institute has a special Arrival Service Package known as Fanshawe cares for all international students where international students are provided with different facilities and assistance during their entrance period. London Downtown Campus, London South Campus, Elgin/St. Thomas Regional Campus and Woodstock/Oxford Regional campus 4 major campuses under it.
It spends about $5 million in scholarships, awards, and bursaries each year,
4. University Of Winnipeg
The University of Winnipeg saw the day of light after it merged into a single institute from different colleges(Manitoba colleges and Wesley college). This university stands out because of its easy application procedure and any prospective students with good grades can get into this university upon fulfilling basic requirements.
Located in Winnipeg, Manitoba; this is a public research university. This university has reputation for graduate and undergraduate programs in the field of art, business, economics, education, science, kinesiology, and applied health.
The tuition fee can vary on the basis of courses pursued and normally ranges from CAD14,700 to CAD 17,700 per academic year. The application fee is 120 CAD and the accommodation cost can cost about 8000-15000 CAD.
5. University of Manitoba
It is a public research university located in the province of Manitoba, Canada offering more than 100 degrees, diplomas, and certificates at the undergraduate level. It also offers postgraduate programs inclined towards more clinical skills like Reproductive endocrinology/ fertility, gynecological oncology, adolescent gynecology/family planning, and many more.
The tuition fee ranges from USD 10,000 TO USD 18,000 per academic year.
6. University of Prince Edward Island
This university is the only university in the province of Prince Edward Island. This public university offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. It is one of the affordable universities which offers scholarships to international students.
The courses at UPEI cost between USD 9,650 and USD 16,650 per year. However, the program in the fields of health can cost up to USD 47,200.
7. Centennial college
Centennial college is a publicly-funded post-secondary institution in Ontario, Canada. It is a college of applied arts and technology. The certificate and diploma courses cost around $14,080 and the degree program costs around $18,366.
It also has an option for online courses with 24-hour access to it. Centennial online program objectives are meant for personal development, professional and business growth.
8. Seneca College
Seneca College is among other on-budget Canadian colleges funded by the government. It is located in Ontario, Canada. They offer more than 146 full-time programs and 135 part-time programs.
It offers science and arts courses for CAD15,16. Seneca College provides 10 renewable scholarships of$1000 each based on merit purpose making it quite prospective for international students. They have a community campus that specializes in training and reemployment services. They also provide assistance for students looking for second career program funding.
9. University of Saskatchewan
With an acceptance rate of over 70%, this university should be under consideration for students planning to go to Canada for pursuing their dream subjects. It is situated in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan.
This happens to be on the list as it is located in Saskatchewan, which happens to be a city with a low cost of living. The city also has low utility costs and low commuting costs. The tuition fees cost about CAD 17,504 making it quite affordable.
10. Langara College
Popular with the name of ‘’House of teachings’’, this is a public institution located in Vancouver, BC, Canada. This offers more than 90 programs and 850 courses. International students are expected to pay an application fee of CAD 155.
It manages homestay and off-campus accommodation with modern facilities. The tuition fee ranges from 11,460 to 18,410 USD per year. It provides international students with scholarships 0f USD 850 each.
The college also conducts co-op and career development centers in which students’ skills are strengthened through career-oriented activities.
Why Study In Canada?
There are lots of Cheapest universities in Canada with quality education. Out of all the possible options, why should you study in Canada?
Apart from outstanding in the world through its politeness, Canada has a high reputation for delivering quality education and high quality of life. This is the reason why it has gradually transpired to be the go-to place for education in the context of international students.
Some of the reasons to pursue education in Canada include:
1. World-class education
Canadian Universities are recognized across the world for providing world-class education. Canadian Universities are in favor of supporting cross-disciplinary studies and fostering transferable skills such as critical thinking, teamwork, communication, and overall development.
Certificates from Canada’s academic institutions are highly recognized and hold significant power in your career in the future. They also provide a wide range of scholarships to international students.
High academic criteria and world-class education make it easier for students to pursue their dream subject while being able to reduce expenses through the affordable cost of living. This is the reason for the popularity of Canadian universities for international students.
2. Inclusive culture
Canada is widely praised for embracing the diverse culture and cherishing differences among people. Canadians have proudly carried the stereotype of polite, warm, and friendly for a reason. This country has been known to provide residence to a large number of immigrants. So, it might even come across as a second home to many international students.
Their enriched culture is evident by the presence of the various festivals that you must experience if you happen to cross paths in Canada. Some of them include:
- The Montreal International Jazz film Festival
- Calgary Stampede
- NHL hockey
- Engage in Poutine week – A treat, which is an amalgamation of the french fries, gravy, and cheese curds, enjoyed by locals and tourists.
3. High quality of life
With the growing number of violence and rage spreading across the world, safety, for sure, is a major concern for many of us. Canada is constantly recognized across the world for being one of the safest countries in the world when it comes to safety issues.
This quality of life is evidenced by the affordable cost of living, which happens to be lower than those of developed countries like the US, France, and the UK. This is one of the reasons why Canada happens to be the home to the cheapest university.
With the provision of good medical care and provisions and mutual respect for diverse cultures, this country has a high standard of life, making it convenient for students from abroad.
4. Job opportunities
Undertaking courses in Canada is also beneficial as it offers a large number of prospective job opportunities. During their study period, students are allowed to perform part-time jobs both on-campus and off-campus.
There is no need for a work permit for students working on campus who can work up to a limit of 20 hrs per week. You can work off-campus without a permit upon fulfillment of the following conditions:
- A fully qualified student at a designated learning institution (DLI).
- Students enrolled under a post-secondary academic, vocational or professional training program
- Students enrolled under a secondary level vocational training program(Quebec only)
- The term of the study program must be at least 6 months long.
- The study program must guarantee a certificate, diploma, or degree.
- The study program should begin prior to taking the job.
- The student must have Social Insurance Number(SIN).
Job placement opportunities are quite high for foreign students.
5. Rich natural beauty
For individuals like you who have grown in the lap of nature, pursuing to study in Canada from Nepal may feel like a second home because of its richness in natural beauty.
Pursuing higher education in Canada is justified due to its enriched natural beauty, which makes the Canadian journey a memorable one. Home to majestic Niagara falls, this land offers four distinct seasons.
The cold weather offers foreign students to encounter dedicated skiers and ice skaters to practice sport in the surroundings. The pristine beaches of Prince Edward Island, the impressive fjords of the Saguenay, and the Percé Rock of the Gaspé in Quebec all make your journey to Canada worthwhile.
Students residing in the coastal line can appreciate the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean and the Pacific Ocean. Now getting into your dream college while living in a dreamy land is something worth it.
Requirements For Studying In Canada
So, a Canadian university for international students is basically the fairy godmother. Opening the door to countless possibilities, right? But hey, what makes you eligible for getting into Canadian University?
Getting into affordable and the cheapest universities in Canada requires the fulfillment of mandatory requirements. These requirements are the key to entering Canada and starting your dream journey. So, if you are an international student intending to get into Canadian education institutions, then pay attention to these factors:
- Study Permit
A study permit is a document that is issued by Citizen and Immigration (CIC) authorities that allows international students for studying in Canada. This is not a visa, but a permit to remain enrolled and pursue your education.
The study permit is accompanied by a visitor visa or Electronic Travel Authorization(ETA). In order to apply for a study permit you would need:
- A legal passport or travel document
- The letter of acceptance from the University
- Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
ETA is a document that grants you entry into Canada. It can be used to travel to Canada multiple times. It works for five years or up until the passport used for applying for ETA expires. It will cost you CAD 7.
- Evidence of funds
Another key element required for the processing of Canada is the evidence of funds. The fund should show that you would be capable of supporting your tuition fees and covering all your expenses.
These funds basically entail that you are a responsible adult and capable to look out for yourselves.
- English Proficiency Requirement
An international student aiming for a Canadian university means that he/she is required to exhibit good communication skills to sustain in the country. The majority of university expects students to present with English proficiency and thus they are vital.
Some of the approved language tests include:
- IELTS test
- TOEFL iBT
- PTE Academic
- C1 Advanced
Out of them, IELTS is really preferred and practiced by students going abroad.
If you’re in the mood to dive a little deeper and bring out the inner spy(?️), then feel free to check our blog on student visa requirements.
Wrapping up
Taking that big leap into the path of adulthood can really be hard. For something as crucial as education, that too in a foreign land, can be nerve-wracking. That’s why taking a careful decision is unavoidable. CIC education can be your companion in your journey to help you make the right decision at your convenience. So, let go of the stress and leave the rest of the issue to us.
Canadian University can really be the ultimate destination for international students due to its outstanding education, affordability, and environmental context. So choose these top 10 cheapest universities in Canada and pursue your dream.
FAQs on Cheapest Universities in Canada
1. Is there any free university in Canada?
There is no free university for International students in Canada. However, many Canadian universities offer scholarships as per your academic excellence and ultimately help you to access education without bearing any huge costs.
2. What is the cheapest place to study in Canada?
The cheapest place to study in Canada depends upon the course chosen, the location, and the facilities available. Some of the cheapest places to study in Canada include Alberta, Manitoba, Toronto, Scotia, Saskatchewan, and many more.
3. How can I get a full scholarship in Canada?
You are required to submit an essay as to why you deserve the scholarship. Scholarships are offered to international students by government and private organizations at undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. The scholarships are provided both need-based and merit-based.
4. Which city is the best in Canada for PR?
For any individuals to get into Canada through PR, they need to make sure that all the necessary guidelines and rules are followed. Some of the easiest cities for PR involve Alberta, Ontario, Saskatchewan, and Nova Scotia.
