Top 30 Cheapest Universities in Canada You Will Love

1. Memorial University of Newfoundland

Founded: 1925
Tuition fee: An Average of CAD 11,460 per year

Memorial University, a university located in Newfoundland and Labrador, is a large Atlantic Canada university that offers over 300 program options to nearly 19,000 students.

The university focuses on innovation, creativity, research, quality education, teaching, and learning, it is recognized for its global research status.

The university’s unique facilities, faculty, and hands-on experience make it a top choice for students seeking a unique and diverse education.

2. Brandon University

Founded: 1890
Tuition fee: The cost of tuition for international undergraduate students is approximately CAD 19,000 per year.

Brandon University is Canada’s top regional university, the university focuses on teaching and learning through academic and professional programs.

Undergraduate and graduate degrees in the arts, education, health studies, science, and the school of music are available from Brandon University.Brandon University is affiliated with McMaster University and has its main campus in Manitoba.

The university is affiliated with various institutions, including the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada (AUCC), the Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU), the Canadian University Society for Intercollegiate Debate (CUSID), and U Sports.

In 2021, Brandon University ranked 18th among undergraduate universities in Canada, according to Maclean’s ranking.

3. University of Guelph

Founded: 1964
Tuition fee: The estimated average tuition fees per year for domestic students at Guelph University is $7,490.07

The University of Guelph is a public research university in Ontario, Canada.

It offers seven programs including life sciences, agriculture, veterinary sciences, business, arts, and social sciences. The university has a moderately selective admission policy with an acceptance rate of around 66%.

The average tuition fee for international students is around 8.33 lakhs-26.72 annually. The university offers financial aid programs up to CAD2,500.

4. University of Northern British Columbia

Founded: 1990
Tuition fee: $748.71 per credit hour

The University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) is a research-intensive university in Canada known as Canada’s Green University. It has an acceptance rate of 70-75%, and it offers over 122 academic programs at undergraduate and graduate levels.

The university’s undergraduate programs cost 15.92 lakhs INR, while graduate programs average 6.78 lakhs INR. UNBC offers 500-6000 USD scholarships to help needy students cover the costs.

5. Mount Allison University

Founded: 1839
Tuition fee: The full-time tuition for New Brunswick residents is $8,380, while for non-residents it is $8,770.

Mount Allison University is a small undergraduate liberal arts and science institution in Sackville, New Brunswick, Canada.

It offers an enriching, diverse, and challenging educational experience. MTA is ranked #1 in scholarships and bursaries and is among the top-rated universities for undergraduate programs.

The university offers a range of programs, including 50+ certifications, undergraduate and PG programs, and 6+ degree programs.

6. University of Saskatchewan

Founded: 1907
Tuition fee: For domestic students, tuition is assessed at a rate of $688.50 to $1340.10 per 3 credit unit.

The University of Saskatchewan is a member of the U15 Group of Canadian research-intensive universities, and it’s known for its interdisciplinary approach to global challenges such as vaccine development, infectious diseases, water and food security, and energy sustainability.

USask offers over $28.5 million in student scholarships and awards annually.

The university has expanded its research programs to include medicine, arts and sciences, law, engineering, and theology.

7. University of Toronto

Founded: 15 Mar 1827
Tuition fee: $6,780 per year for domestic students and $54,840 per year for international students.

The University of Toronto is a renowned public research university in Canada.

It is one of the cheapest universities in Canada for international students and offers the highest number of programs.

The university’s highly competitive admission policy ensures international students have a fair chance to stand in the competition.

Canada’s financial hub offers students the opportunity to study by offering scholarships to both domestic and international students. The university ranks #16 in the Best Global University Ranking.

8. Simon Fraser University

Founded: 1965
Tuition fee: The tuition fee for a domestic undergraduate student is $2,881 per term while international students are charged $14,124 per term.

Simon Fraser University is Canada’s most community-engaged research university with three urban campuses. It has consistently ranked as the top comprehensive university in Canada for twelve years out of the last thirteen years.

SFU holds the top 200 research ranks globally, #51-100 in Anthropology, #298 in the QS Global World University Rankings, and #301-500 in the Graduate Employability Ranking.

SFU offers a vast array of programs across eight faculties, which include:

Applied Sciences
Arts and Social Sciences
Business
Communication, Art, and Technology
Education
Environment
Health Sciences
Science

9. College of the North Atlantic

Founded: 1997
Tuition fee: the tuition fee for an academic year ranges from $825.00 to $3,795.00 per semester.

The College of the North Atlantic is a large post-secondary educational and skills training center in Atlantic Canada. It offers programs in accounting, environmental design, chemistry, software development, and project management.

The College is established in 1963, and it ranks 7th among national universities and #369 in North American continental universities by Webometrics University Ranking and Unirank University Ranking. The college’s education is industry-trend-based and offers transferability opportunities.

10. University of Waterloo

Founded: 1957
Tuition fee: The average yearly tuition fee for undergraduate programs is around CAD 45,975, and for postgraduate programs is around CAD 10,881.

The University of Waterloo, which was established in 1957, is a renowned public research university in Canada.

International students can choose from over 100 undergraduate courses and nearly 200 graduate programs at the University of Waterloo.

The university ranks #1 in Computer Science, Engineering, and Mathematics, and #2nd in Social and Economic Impact based on the United Nations’ SDGs.

11. Algonquin College

Founded: 1967
Tuition fee: $9,827.30 for Academic Session

Algonquin College is the largest polytechnic institute in Eastern Ontario. It offers programs in over 357 areas and various graduation degrees.

Algonquin College is one of Canada’s most affordable colleges, that attracts international students due to its quality education and low tuition fees which is about $4,527 per semester and $9,054 per year, making it an attractive option for international students seeking affordable education in Canada.

12. Bow Valley College

Founded: 1965
Tuition fee: Around $5000-$10000 CAD

Bow Valley College, which was established in 1965, is a top 50 research college in Canada, and it offers certificate, diploma, post-diploma, and post-baccalaureate degrees in five main study areas.

The college has an affordable tuition fee ranging from 5,000 to 13,000 CAD (3 to 7.82 lakhs INR).

The college provides easy access to books, the internet, and other facilities, and is recognized as a reliable university with a dedicated support system. International students pay between $6,000 and $11,234 in tuition fees, including materials and textbooks.

13. University College of the North

Founded: 2004
Tuition fee: CA$13,023 per year

University College of the North (UCN) is a Manitoba-based institution that operates under a tri-cameral governance system, it has over 40 programs and degrees, diplomas, and certificates.

UCN partners with other institutions, such as the Joint Baccalaureate Nursing program, and offers educational opportunities through its regional center network.

UCN is known for its innovative teaching, student success, and distance learning opportunities.

14. St. Clair College

Founded: 1966
Tuition fee: 14,498 to 33,494 CAD

St. Clair College of Applied Arts and Technology is a public research college in Canada that offers over 120 programs for international students.

The college has a 44% acceptance rate. St. Clair College is one of Canada’s cheapest universities with a well-established academic curriculum.

University College of the North offers various programs in health, technology, business, education, and more, with graduates earning certificates, diplomas, or degrees.

15. North Island College

Founded: 1975
Tuition fee: $25,900 for the academic session

North Island College, which was founded in 1975, is a community college with four campuses. With a population of 157,000, it has a large campus in Comox Valley and three other campuses in Campbell River, Port Alberni, and Port Hardy.

St. Clair College has received positive reviews and was ranked one of the best colleges in Ontario in 2014. Students can choose from various fields and receive certificates, diplomas, or degrees.

16. New Brunswick Community College

Founded: 1974
Tuition fee: The total tuition cost for an academic year is $9,468 CAD

New Brunswick Community College, which was established in 1974, is a public institution in Canada that enrolls about 12,460 students in an academic year.

It has six campuses in Moncton, Miramichi, Fredericton, Saint John, Saint Andrews, and Woodstock, students can choose from over 90 programs.

The college offers various study options, and apprenticeships, and is involved in international research initiatives. Graduates can obtain certificates or diplomas.

17. Confederation College

Founded: 1967
Tuition fee: The estimated tuition fee is CAD 13,302

Confederation College is one of the cheapest colleges in Canada that offers 104 full-time, 28 part-time, and 31 online courses across 11 fields.

The college follows a semester-based academic calendar and has an estimated cost of living of USD 15,406 (~9.02 lakhs), including tuition fees.

The college records an 88% graduate employment rate. International students can receive scholarship programs, bursaries, awards, and grants ranging from 1,000 CAD to 5,000 CAD annually.

Confederation College offers diplomas, certificates, and apprenticeships for students to gain hands-on experience before starting their careers.

18. George Brown College

Founded: 1967
Tuition fee: About $14,931 to $31,515 (for two semesters)

George Brown College is a college located in Toronto, Canada, and it’s a highly affordable institution for international students seeking high-quality education.

The college specializes in art and technology, business, marketing, and administration.

George Brown College has about 26,944 full-time and 3,106 part-time students, including 32% international students.

19. Assiniboine Community College

Founded: 1861
Tuition fee: $25,900 for Academic Session

Assiniboine Community College in Manitoba, Canada, has been providing high-quality education for 55 years. The accredited college has over 2,800 full-time students and over 50 programs, and it offers diverse disciplines and distance learning.

Assiniboine Community College has over 50 diplomas, advanced diplomas, certificates, and apprenticeship programs, that students can choose from. Assiniboine Community College graduates receive either a diploma or certificate.

20. Niagara College

Founded: 1967
Tuition fee: $18,910.00 for Academic Sessions.

Niagara College Canada, which was established in 1967, is a public institute in Canada with over 10,500 students, including 3,600 international students.

Niagara College offers high-quality education at low tuition fees, catering to both domestic and foreign students.

Students pay by the hour, with exceptional students receiving prizes and scholarships. International students pay $420 for each credit hour.

21. Lethbridge College

Founded: 1957
Tuition fee: Around $12,150 CAD

Lethbridge College, which was established in 1957, is a publicly funded community college in Alberta, Canada. The college has over 4,000 dedicated students, and it offers over 50 career-training programs.

The college focuses on applied research, innovation, and learning from experience.

Lethbridge is an ideal destination for international students, offering academic satisfaction and security. International tuition fees range from $6,000 to $22,000, depending on the chosen program.

22. Loyalist College

Founded: 1967
Tuition fee: Average tuition fee for international students is approximately CAD 16,500

Loyalist College is a college in Canada that offers admissions for over 3,600 students from 27 countries. The college also offers 10 postgraduate certificate programs and various double diploma programs, as well as part-time learning, distance, and continuing education programs.

To apply, international students must also have an IELTS score of 6.5 or equivalent as proof of English proficiency.

23. Seneca College

Founded: 1967
Tuition fee: $3000 for domestic students and $8000 for international students (per year)

Seneca College, which was founded in 1967, has graduated thousands of students since its inception. The institution offers partnerships with industry leaders, hands-on computer technology, and various class sizes.

It offers low tuition fees and a platform for working students to attend post-work lectures.
Seneca College is an ideal institution for international students, offering full-time and part-time programs with affordable tuition.

However, international students must pay an application fee of CAD 65, with tuition at $13,000 and a cost of living of around $1,000.

24. Selkirk College

Founded: 1966
Tuition fee: $ 25,900 for Academic Session.

Selkirk College, which was founded in 1966, is a leading regional community college in Kootenays, British Columbia, Canada. It offers Post-Secondary Certificates, Diplomas, and Associate degrees for both residential and international students.

The college also has a School of University Arts and Sciences that offers over 100 courses for bachelor’s degrees.

The college offers over $400,000 in scholarships annually, international students pay a tuition fee of $4,900 per semester for undergraduate programs and $5,260 for postgraduate programs.

25. Camosun College

Founded: 1971
Tuition fee: about CAD 7,595 (based on 5 courses)

Camosun College, which was established in 1971 in Victoria, British Columbia, is the largest public college in the province. It has nearly 20,000 students, including over 2,100 international students from over 80 countries.

Camosun College focuses on developing innovative skills for business and management. The college offers graduate and postgraduate programs, as well as training courses for companies, industries, and students.

26. Georgia College

Founded: 1889
Tuition fee: $4,913 for state residents and $16,279 for out-of-state.

Georgian College is a College of Applied Arts and Technology in Ontario, Canada that offers an award-winning GC Journeys program that allows students to gain authentic experiences, solve problems, become leaders, participate in real-world settings, and put ideas into action.

The school admits students from English-speaking countries without language proficiency requirements. Tuition fees range from $13,845 to $32,431, but the quality of education is more than worth it.

27. Lambton College

Founded: 1969
Tuition fee: 10,500 to 13,100 USD

Lambton College is a publicly funded institution with campuses in Sarnia, Mississauga, and Toronto. Lambton College offers 71 full-time courses, including 113 degree, diploma, certificate, and apprenticeship programs.

The school has about 3,500 international students from 26 countries, and it provides quality education for both local and international students.

Lambton College offers programs in information technology, health, and business, and students can expect to be in front of their peers after graduation.

28. Northern Lights College

Founded: 1975
Tuition fee: $17,000

Northern Lights College is a public post-secondary institution with three Centers of Excellence in oil and gas, clean energy training, and aerospace.

It is a member of British Columbia Colleges and serves as British Columbia’s Energy College.

Lambton College has been offering quality education to both local and international students for over 47 years. The college provides a financial aid program, Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP) that can make it easier for students to fund their college dreams.

29. Humber College

Founded: 1967
Tuition fee: CAD 12,000 to CAD 21,000 per year

Humber College, which is also known as the Humber College Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning, is a public Applied Arts and Technology College in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

The institution offers bachelor’s degree, certificate, and diploma courses, with postgraduate diploma and certificate courses in high demand among Indian students.

As one of the oldest cheap colleges in Canada for international students, Humber College offers affordable tuition fees ranging from $7,000 to $23,000 for international students, depending on the program.

30. St. Lawrence College

Founded: 1967
Tuition fee: $6,593 to $10,988 CAD

St Lawrence College is a world-class college known for its excellence and community-focused approach. The college offers 89 academic programs and employs 829 employees.

International students can expect tuition rates ranging from $15,300 to $15,700 for certificates and diploma courses, and $15,700 for graduates.

The college offers merit and/or need-based financial aid to international students, which is usually competitive.

FAQs on Cheapest Universities in Canada You Will Love

Why is affordability important when choosing a university?

Affordability is crucial because it allows students to pursue education without the weight of the excessive financial burden.

Can affordable universities offer quality education?

Yes, many affordable universities in Canada prioritize maintaining high academic standards.

Are international students eligible for scholarships at these universities?

Yes, many universities offer scholarships specifically designed for international students.

Can I work part-time while studying at these universities?

Yes, Canada offers opportunities for international students to work part-time while they are pursuing their studies.

Conclusion

The top 30 cheapest universities prioritize quality and accessibility, fostering an environment where financial worries don’t overshadow knowledge pursuits. We come to the end of this article, if you find it helpful please let us know in the comment section below.

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List of the Cheapest Universities in Canada You Will Love