Hi there! Are you an international student looking for affordable universities in Canada to study or you are on a budget and can't afford enormous tuition fees? The cheap universities in Canada 2024 we have mentioned in this article, will act as a guide to some of the cheapest colleges in Canada, their tuition fees, how to apply to each of them, and also has links you can use to explore the websites further.

This article will provide insights into all of the above questions because we have quite a number of cheap universities in Canada for international students that offer quality and affordable courses listed out just for you.

1. 10 Reasons why you Should Study in Canada.

2. Table Showing the 20 cheapest universities in Canada and their tuition fees.

3. 20 Cheapest Universities in Canada for International Students.

• Brandon University - $3,655 - $3,735 (CAD)
• Memorial University of Newfoundland - $6,260 - $11,460 (CAD)
• Université de Saint-Boniface- $6,792 (CAD)
• University of Guelph - $6,837 (CAD)
• University of Prince Edward Island - $7,548 (CAD)
• University of Calgary - $13,330.68 (CAD)
• University of Winnipeg - $13,695 (CAD)
• Canada Mennonite University - $17000 (CAD)
• University of Manitoba - $18,100 (CAD)
• University of Northern British Columbia - $18,612 (CAD)
• Dalhousie University - $20,300 (CAD)
• University of Alberta -$21,668 (CAD)
• University of Regina - $22,207 (CAD)
• University of Saskatchewan - $23,000 (CAD)
• McGill University - 23,988.67 (CAD)
• McMaster University - $25,000 (CAD)
• Simon Fraser University - $31,460 (CAD)
• Carleton University $42,873 (CAD)
• University of British Columbia - $52,872.36 (CAD)
• University of Toronto - $58,160 (CAD)

4. Conclusion

  

10 Reasons Why You Should Study in Canada

Canada is one of the world's most popular study destinations, and every year thousands of international students like you, flock to the websites of prominent Canadian universities hoping to gain admission to study in this country.

Since this is something everyone else is doing, why then should you study in Canada as an international student?

Besides  quality education, wide-open spaces, abundant wildlife, cultural diversity, clean environment, amazing quality of life, and the warm and welcoming community each Canadian campus provides, below are 10 reasons why you should study in Canada.

 

1. Affordable cost of studying and living

Among all the other English-speaking countries students go to for studies, Canada is said to have the lowest university tuition.

It has a wide range of study options that can fit into whichever budget you have.

 

2. Canada has a multicultural society

Most of the major ethnic groups in the world are duly represented in Canadian society. The country and it's universities allow for the representation of its indigenous people through food, culture, ethnic clubs, and associations.

 

3. The degrees issued in Canada are internationally recognised

When you have studied in Canada, you can use the degree or diploma you have obtained, to get yourself a technical or professional career in any other country in the world.

 

4. International students can get jobs in Canada when they graduate

As an international student who's just graduated from a university or college in Canada, you can stay in the country and work for one year after you have received your degree.

On the other hand, during your studies you could also work on campus without a work permit.

5. Canadian communities are safe and healthy

As an international student studying in Canada, you don't have to worry about being harassed or deprived of any basic necessities. You will enjoy the same freedom native Canadians enjoy, as the society respects your human rights, believes in equality, and is peaceful.

 

6. Easy Immigration

International students who have Canadian credentials and work experience, can immigrate to Canada by applying for a permanent residency after they graduate, without ever having to leave the country.

 

7. International experience and a knowledge of multi-languages

Canada has a bilingual culture, and a mixed society that majorly speaks French and English. These languages are also used in the country's educational system, and if you show interest, you can learn how to speak either of them.

 

8. Canadian universities have a variety of programs

Canadian universities are just brimming with thousands of study programs you can choose from, taught by a faculty with years of practical experience in whichever field they've found themselves.

If you are confused as to which program to study, a visit to the websites of some Canadian universities will give you options in no time.

 

9. Good international students support

As an international student, you will be sure to find a good support system for other students who, like you, have also left their home countries to come and study in Canada. This stable support system is what will help you with enquiries about school application, visa procedure, accomodation, cost of living, etc.

Additionally, each university in Canada has an admission support team that solely caters to the needs of international students who want to study in their school.

 

10. In Canada, you study in an interactive educational system

The educational system in Canada is highly interactive and practical enough to get you the experience you need to easily apply the knowledge from school you have acquired in the real world.

 

Table Showing the 20 cheapest universities in Canada and their tuition fees

S/N	School	Tuition Fee
1	Brandon University	$3,735 (CAD)
2	Memorial University of Newfoundland	$11,460 (CAD)
3	Université de Saint-Boniface	$6,792 (CAD)
4	University of Guelph	$6,837 (CAD)
5	University of Prince Edward Island	$7,548 (CAD)
6	University of Calgary	$13,330.68 (CAD)
7	University of Winnipeg	$13,695 (CAD)
8	Canada Mennonite University	$17000 (CAD)
9	University of Manitoba	$18,100 (CAD)
10	University of Northern British Columbia	$18,612 (CAD)
11	Dalhousie University	$20,300 (CAD)
12	University of Alberta	$21,668 (CAD)
13	University of Regina	$22,207 (CAD)
14	University of Saskatchewan	$23,000 (CAD)
15	McGill University	23,988.67 (CAD)
16	McMaster University	$25,000 (CAD)
17	Simon Fraser University	$31,460 (CAD)
18	Carleton University	$42,873 (CAD)
19	University of British Columbia	$52,872.36 (CAD)
20	University of Toronto	$58,160 (CAD)

 

The above table indicates a summary of the 20 cheapest universities for international students and estimates of what you are expected to pay per annum.

 

20 Cheapest Universities in Canada for International Students

The 20 cheap universities in Canada for international students we have mentioned in this section, have fees and prices that are designed to reinforce your ambitions to study in this country, and they offer quality and affordable courses at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

 

1. Brandon University

Located in the city of Brandon, Manitoba, Canada, Brandon University is one of the cheapest colleges in Canada for international students, and enrolls about 3375 full-time and part-time undergraduate and graduate students. This institution is one of several predominantly undergraduate liberal arts and science institutions in Canada.

Average Tuition Fee: $3,735 (CAD)

Brandon University Website Link.

How to apply for admission to Brandon University

• Complete and submit the online application form.
• Pay the application fee of $140.00 CAD for international applicants.
• Send all international required documents to the Admissions Office by the application deadline. Once your application has been received, you will get an email for document request. Note, the application and document submission deadline are different, try to meet both deadlines.
• After your documents and application fee is received, the school will evaluate your file and make a decision on your admission.
• You will receive an admission decision via email and get an offer of admission.

Brandon University Application Link.

 

2. Memorial University of Newfoundland

Memorial University of Newfoundland was established as a memorial to Newfoundlanders who sacrificed their lives during the First World War and other conflicts.

This university is one of the largest universities in Atlantic Canada, and also one of the cheapest schools in Canada offering more than 300 program options to a population of almost 19,000 students from more than 115 countries and every province in Canada.

Average Tuition Fee: $6,260 - $11,460 (CAD)

Memorial University of Newfoundland Website Link.

How to apply to admission for the Memorial University of Newfoundland

• Choose a program and a campus.
• Review application deadlines.
• Check the admission requirements for both the university and program of choice.
• Meet the country-specific English language requirement.
• Start your application.
• Submit and pay the international application fee of $120 CAD.

Memorial University of Newfoundland Application Link.

 

3. Université de Saint-Boniface

Université de Saint-Boniface is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the city of Winnipeg, Manitoba. This institution offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor (certificates, diplomas), bachelor degrees, and master degrees in several areas of study. Apart from offering some of the cheapest diploma courses in Canada, their admission rate range is 60-70% as well, making this school a selective institution for consideration.

Average Tuition Fee: $6,791 (CAD)

Université de Saint-Boniface Website Link.

How to apply for admission to Université de Saint-Boniface

• International students who wish to study at the Université de Saint-Boniface must meet the English language proficiency requirement.
• Students applying for graduate programs should have an international bachelor’s degree from an accredited university.
• After submitting your application, send the required documents and (non-refundable) admission fees to the Registrar’s Office at the address below:

• Registrar’s Office
• Université de Saint-Boniface
• 200 De la Cathédrale Avenue
• Winnipeg, Manitoba, CANADA  R2H 0H7

• The deadlines for applying and submitting documents vary depending on the program.

 

4. University of Guelph 

The University of Guelph is a research-intensive and learn-centered university that has several campuses spanning across urban hubs and rural communities. This university is known for its excellence in arts and sciences, and its commitment to training exceptional thinkers and engaged citizens, and is one of the cheap universities in Canada for masters in computer science. International students looking for cheap MBA in Canada should consider this institution a great choice.

Average Tuition Fee - $6837.54 (CAD)

University of Guelph Website Link.

How to apply for admission to University of Guelph

• Select available program options
• Review program-specific admission requirements
• Prepare your documents - minimum of two (2) academic references or 3 as demanded by your choice program, upload transcripts, statement of research, CV/resume after receiving your WebAdvisor login credentials typically sent within 5 business days after submission and payment of the OUAC application.
• Apply online.
• Upload documents

University of Guelph Application Link.

 

5. University of Prince Edward Island

The University of Prince Edward Island, is a public liberal arts and science university that is committed to motivating and cultivating critical, creative, and independent thinking and research. Established in 1969, UPEI is located in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, Canada and is the only university in that province, and still one of the most affordable colleges in Canada.

Average Tuition Fee- $7,548 (CAD)

University of Prince Edward Island Website Link.

How to apply for admission to University of Prince Edward Island

• Create a UPEI account, so that you can apply to programs and check your application status.
• Complete your online application to UPEI.
• Submit your application fee and completed application form. You will receive a confirmation email after you have done this.
• Submit your transcripts and other supporting documents. Transcripts can be submitted to any of the contacts info below:
• email: [email protected]
• fax: 902-566-0795
• mail: UPEI Registrar's Office, 550 University Avenue, Charlottetown, PE, C1A 4P3.
• Note, transcripts sent directly from your school, college, or university are considered “official”. All other transcripts are considered “unofficial”.
• Some programs require supplemental documents. Check your UPEI account for details.

University of Prince Edward Island Application Link.

 

6. University of Calgary

Established in 1944, the University of Calgary is a public research university located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, and was founded as an extended Calgary branch of the University of Alberta.

In addition to being one of the most affordable colleges in Canada to study in as an international student, University of Calgary provides diverse educational and research experiences for its students, in undergraduate and graduate programs in various disciplines.

Average Tuition Fee - $13, 330.68 (CAD)

University of Calgary Website Link.

How to apply for admission to University of Calgary

• To start your application to the University of Calgary, you first need to explore which study programs interest you, and then visit the school's admission requirements page, and select which requirements are for you, based on your appropriate category.

University of Calgary Application Link.

7. University of Winnipeg

The University of Winnipeg is a public research university, established in the year 1967. This institution offers some of the cheapest courses in Canada with more than 400 courses in over 40 fields of study. It is a home for international students, currently housing over 700 international students from over 68 countries. It centers on undergraduate courses and has gained good rankings in different areas of its studies based on the quality education they offer both domestic and international students.

Average Tuition Fee: $13,695 (CAD)

University of Winnipeg Website Link.

How to apply for admission to University of Winnipeg

International students who wish to study at the University of Winnipeg should meet the required English language proficiency.

Check your country’s page on the university’s website to find out admission requirements by country.

Official transcripts issued by the high school, university or college you attended, should be emailed directly from your institution to the university’s Admissions Office from an official institution email (due to school closures related to COVID-19):  [email protected].

If your school can’t email your transcript, send it via mail to:

ADMISSIONS OFFICE location/addresses:

Drop-off location (for all applicants) –

Currently closed due to COVID-19

Mailing address (for all applicants) -

The University of Winnipeg

515 Portage Avenue

Winnipeg, MB, Canada R3B 2E9

Attention:  Admissions Office

Email (please use the appropriate address) –

Domestic Admissions (Canadian, Permanent Resident & Refugee) [email protected]

International Admissions [email protected]

Fax (for all applicants):  204.779.3443

• Scanned copies of you secondary school transcripts only if it can be verified online, upload them to the Application Portal, direct any inquiries to [email protected]

For high school students, your interim grades can be emailed directly from your high school to [email protected]

Name change documents, scans of passports and study permits, etc. can be uploaded to the Application Portal

If you have been out of school for more than 6 months, a complete Educational History/Gap will be required:  Educational History/Gap form.

University of Winnipeg Application Link.

 

8. Canadian Mennonite University

CMU is a university that offers a comprehensive university education that is blended with a dynamic and diverse Christian community. The school supports an exemplary academic study across disciplines like arts and science, which are distinguished by interdisciplinary interactions, experiential learning, and building mentorship relationship between students and professors.

 Average Tuition Fee - $17,000 (CAD)

Canadian Mennonite University Application Link.

How to apply for admission to Canada Mennonite University

• Take note of admission deadlines
• Complete the application form
• Submit supporting documents - digital transcript online and a hardcopy of your official transcripts sent directly to the school, and English language proficiency result.

 Canada Mennonite University Application Link.

9. University of Manitoba

Established in 1877, the University of Manitoba is western Canada’s first university, and Manitoba's only research-intensive university.

Prided as one of Canada's most renowned research institutions, UM has over 29,000 undergraduate and graduate students, and over 145,000 alumni living in 140 countries, and is regarded as part of the top cheap universities in Canada.

Average Tuition Fee - $18,100 CAD

University of Manitoba Website Link.

How to apply for admission to University of Manitoba

• You must show good English language proficiency with proof.
• Meet the general admission requirement based on your country of study or the general admission requirement of your curriculum of study (International Baccalaureate (IB) or British patterned Education (GCE))
• Must meet program-specific requirements based on program(s) of choice. Check your country on the university website for program specific equivalencies, or contact the University admissions office at [email protected] for details.

University of Manitoba Application Link.

 

10. University of Northern British Columbia

University of Northern British Columbia is an open research institution that is associated with the Association of Commonwealth Universities, the Universities Canada, U Sports, the International Association of Universities, and the University of the Arctic. This institution mainly focuses on research studies, cultural studies, economical studies, environmental studies, and science. They also happen to be one of the most affordable schools for international undergraduate and postgraduate students.

Average Tuition Fee: $18,612 (CAD)

University of Northern British Columbia Website Link.

How to apply for admission to University of Northern British Columbia

•  Explore programs you wish to study.
• Meet the country-specific English language proficiency requirement.
• Send your official degree or secondary school transcripts and other documents (depending on whether you are graduate or undergraduate) to the school.
• Documents not submitted in English should be sent with a notarised translation.
• Check your country page on the University’s website to find out the requirements expected from you.

University of Northern British Columbia Application Link.

 

11. Dalhousie University

As one of the cheap universities in Canada, Dalhousie University is proudly located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, which is ranked one of the friendliest cities in the world, and is also one of the cheapest colleges in Nova Scotia for international students. Being one of the oldest universities in Canada, this institution attracts a high percentage (23%) of international students around the world and the courses they offer run from undergraduate to doctorate degree level.

Average Tuition Fee: $20,300 (CAD)

Dalhousie University Website Link.

How to apply for admission to Dalhousie University

Select your program of study.

Check out general admission and program-specific requirements.

Check the English language requirement.

Complete the application.

Pay application fee.

Submit official transcripts and additional documents requested by your program of study.

Dalhousie University Application Link.

 

12. University of Alberta

University of Alberta is a public research university that is located in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. Being considered as one of the cheapest universities in Alberta, this school offer various undergraduate and postgraduate courses, credential and exchange programs, as well as a strong focus on research. University of Alberta offer courses that are ranked among the Top 100 Course Rankings in the world, therefore making it a suitable environment for international students.

Average Tuition Fee: $21,668 (CAD)

University of Alberta Website Link.

How to apply for admission to University of Alberta

• Search and choose choice study programs.
• Meet the admission requirements based on category and country.
• Meet the English language requirements.
• Submit official transcripts and other documents.

University of Alberta Application Link.

 

13. University of Regina

This institution offers most of the cheapest diploma courses in Canada. They offer 120 Undergraduate programs and 78 Postgraduate Degrees in over 15 disciplines which includes health, business administration, engineering, social work, media, etc. If you’re an international student looking for a cheap university in Canada, University of Regina is one to look out for.

Average Tuition Fee: $22,207 (CAD)

University of Regina Website Link.

How to apply for admission to University of Regina

• Explore programs you wish to study.
• Check the program-specific requirements you need to meet.
• Submit an online application.
• Pay the application fee.
• Submit required documents - official transcripts, degree certificates, English language proficiency test results.

 University of Regina Application Link.

 

 

14. University of Saskatchewan

University of Saskatchewan is one of the cheapest universities in Canada and has emerged as a well-known research-based university with a high acceptance rate of 70%, and this is beneficial for international students who seek to run a program in Canada.

Average Tuition Fee: $23,000 (CAD)

University of Saskatchewan Website Link.

How to apply for admission to University of Saskatchewan

• Find a program.
• Learn the admission requirements like grade 12 classes, minimum admission averages, and proficiency in English and additional program-specific requirements.
• Complete your online application, and pay the application fee.
• Submit required documents - transcripts, secondary school certificates / high school results, English language proficiency result (if applicable to you).

University of Saskatchewan Application Link.

 

15. McGill University

McGill is a public university, founded in 1821 and is reputed as one of Canada's best-known institutions of higher learning and one of the world's leading universities as well. McGill University has the most internationally diverse study body compared to other Canadian research-intensive universities, tutoring students from over 150 countries. International students seeking to get a cheap masters degree in Canada should consider this institution.

Average Tuition Fee - 23,988.67 (CAD)

McGill University Website Link.

How to apply for admission to McGill University

• Know your application deadlines by marking your calendar with the given important dates.
• Choose what you want to study, by exploring the university's programs.
• Make sure you're eligible for the program you want to study, you may be graded for most programs based on your academic records.
• Apply by submitting your documents.

McGill University Application Link.

 

16. McMaster University

This institution is a research-oriented, medical-doctoral university which initiated the problem-based approach to learning which later became known as “The McMaster Model”.

McMaster University was established in the year 1887 by Senator William McMaster in Toronto. They offer different courses such as nursing, engineering, MBA, humanities and arts, etc. They are also ranked among the top 100 institutions globally, and part of the cheap nursing schools in Canada. This institution is also a home for International students coming from over 120 countries across the world, as they also offer most of the cheapest MBA in Toronto for international students.

Average Tuition Fee: $25,000 (CAD)

McMaster University Website Link.

How to apply for admission to McMaster University

• Research McMaster programs that match your career goals.
• Apply online via the Ontario Universities Application Centre’s (OUAC) website.
• Submit an application based on your applicant type, and program of study you have chosen.
• Check your application status to stay updated.
• Download admission decisions from the university.
• Attend orientation.

McMaster University Application Website Link.

 

17. Simon Fraser University

Simon Fraser University was established on September 9 1965 and is located in Canada's British Columbia west coast.

Regarded as Canada's Engaged University and being among the cheapest colleges in British Columbia for international students, Simon Fraser University was named after an early explorer, and moves beyond tradition and goes to lengths other universities won't, to deliver world-class education to its students.

Average Tuition Fee - $31,460 (CAD)

Simon Fraser University Website Link.

How to apply for admission to Simon Fraser University

• There is no general admission step for applying to Simon Fraser University, as application processes and admission requirements vary by programs.
• To get started with your application to Simon Fraser University, you can start off with the 4-step procedure below:
• Explore graduate programs
• Prepare for application as specified by program
• Review admission requirements
• Apply online

Simon Fraser University Application Link.

 

18. Carleton University

Located in Ottawa, Canada, Carleton University was founded in 1942, and strives for innovation in research, teaching, and learning. This university uses hands-on experience to tutor students and offers exceptional student support.

Carleton University has a community of talented, committed and enthusiastic faculty and staff, who are committed to excellence, and supporting the unique education and research that sets Carleton apart as Canada’s Capital University.

Recommended as a university to be in, Carleton has over 125,000 graduates who have a high success rate, are employable in several careers in a changing job market, entrepreneurial, and driven to bring change to the world.

Average Tuition Fee - $42,873

Carleton University Website Link.

How to apply for admission to Carleton University

• Check application deadlines.
• Apply online through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC).
• Track your application on the student portal—Carleton 360.
• Upload documents or send official documents by mail to the university.
• Receive admission decision.
• Accept admission offer.

Carleton University Application Link.

 

19. University of British Columbia

Established in 1908, the University of British Columbia is a public research university reputed as a global centre of research and teaching, and ranked among the top 20 public universities in the world and top three universities in Canada, and also among the top cheap public universities in Canada.

Average Tuition Fee - $52,872.26

University of British Columbia Website Link.

How to apply for admission to University of British Columbia

• Select a first and second choice of degree.
• Write a personal profile
• Find out admission requirements needed from you, based on your country.
• Complete your application.

University of British Columbia Application Link.

 

20. University of Toronto

The University of Toronto, was founded in 1827 and has rapidly evolved into Canada’s leading institution of learning, discovery and knowledge creation.  Known as one of the world's most reputable research-intensive universities, U of T is driven to invent and innovate, and is also one of the cheapest colleges in Toronto Canada for international students.

Average Tuition Fee - $58,160 (CAD)

University of Toronto Website Link

How to apply for admission to University of Toronto

• Fill out the application form for international students and apply through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC).
• Submit full  transcripts for all secondary and post-secondary studies attempted, submit the online ‘self-reported grades’ form depending on your academic background and program of study chosen, proof of English language proficiency, standardized test results, or other supplemental information. If your documents are issued in French or any other language other than English, submit the notarized translations.

University of Toronto Application Link.

 

Which of these cheap universities in Canada would you study in?

Dear international student, thanks to these 20 cheap universities in Canada 2024 which we have listed in this article, your dreams of studying in Canada will finally become reality as tuition fees will no longer be a major issue.

In addition to being affordable and budget-friendly, these universities also offer other funding options for international students like scholarships and financial aid. And being that they are located in major cities in Canada, you will actually get to enjoy the Canadian experience while still attending school.

Hurry and apply now!

 

 

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