10 affordable universities in Canada for international students

For international students seeking a high-quality, cost-effective university education, Canada presents an excellent choice. The country boasts competitive tuition fees for both international and domestic students, coupled with a well-regarded education system that rivals those in the UK and USA.

Additionally, Canada offers a predominantly English (or French) speaking environment, making it an accessible and comfortable place to live for students from around the globe.

Many international students are drawn to Canada due to its affordable tuition, ease of living, and the strong reputation of its universities. If you're looking for an economical path to a reputable degree, here's an in-depth look at why Canada is a prime destination, along with a list of affordable universities and even a tuition-free option.

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Affordability: Compared to leading universities in the United States, the United Kingdom, and other English-speaking nations, Canada offers significantly more budget-friendly degree programmes.

Reputation: Canada is globally recognised for one of the best education systems, and its universities consistently uphold this high standard.

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Ease of Living: Undertaking studies in a foreign country can be daunting, but Canada's status as a developed, English-speaking nation simplifies the transition and daily life for international students.

Tuition costs for international students in Canada vary based on the programme type and chosen institution. As of 2024-2025:

Bachelor's degrees typically range from CAD 8,700 to CAD 54,000 per year.

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Master's degrees can cost between CAD 4,000 to CAD 30,000 annually.

While renowned for their quality, even Canada's top universities offer more affordable tuition rates compared to their international counterparts. According to U.S. News, the leading Canadian universities include:

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Bachelor's Degree Tuition: CAD 43,620 - CAD 62,580

Graduate Degree Tuition: CAD 6,210 - CAD 45,310

Bachelor's Degree Tuition: CAD 41,595 - CAD 44,942

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Graduate Degree Tuition: CAD 9,500

Bachelor's Degree Tuition: CAD 20,483 - CAD 41,000

Graduate Degree Tuition: CAD 17,708 - CAD 28,362

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Bachelor's Degree Tuition: CAD 40,318 - CAD 45,703

Graduate Degree Tuition: CAD 6,307 - CAD 17,096

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Bachelor's Degree Tuition: CAD 27,102

Graduate Degree Tuition: CAD 17,708 - CAD 20,553

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For those seeking the most economical options for undergraduate studies, consider these institutions:

Location: Online

Tuition: Tuition-Free

Degree Programmes: Associate, Bachelor, Master (Business Administration, Education, Computer Science, and Health Science)

Note: UoPeople is a US-accredited online university offering flexible, tuition-free study options globally.

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Location: Brandon, Manitoba

Tuition: CAD 7,203

Degree Programmes: BA, BBA, BEd, BFA, BM, BN, BSc

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Highlights: Welcomes international students, offers intimate professor interactions and research opportunities often unavailable at larger institutions.

Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba

Tuition: CAD 10,570 – CAD 16,850

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Degree Programmes: Bachelor’s Degrees in Arts, Social Work, Translation, Science, Nursing, Business, and Education (Master's studies possible at the University of Manitoba).

Note: Requires a certain level of French proficiency, with some programmes also needing English proficiency.

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Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba

Tuition: CAD 10,003

Degree Programmes: Three- and four-year BA, BSc, BBA, and Master’s Programmes

Highlights: Actively encourages international applications, valuing the diverse perspectives international students bring.

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Location: St. Johns, Newfoundland

Tuition: CAD 20,000

Degree Programmes: Over 100 programmes for Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Certificates

Highlights: Offers specialised services for international students, including advising, an internationalisation office, and dedicated student groups.

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For postgraduate studies, several Canadian universities offer competitive tuition fees:

Location: St. Johns, Newfoundland

Tuition: CAD 6,390

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Degree Programmes: Wide variety of Master’s and Doctorate programmes (both in-person and online) in Humanities & Social Sciences, Professional Programmes, Interdisciplinary Programmes, and Sciences.

Location: Prince George, British Columbia

Tuition: CAD 7,494

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Degree Programmes: MBA, MSc, MEd, MEng, MScN, MSW, Graduate Certificates, and Doctorate programmes.

Location: Calgary, Alberta

Tuition: CAD 4,319

Degree Programmes: Offers both course-based and research-based Master’s and Doctorate degrees across various subjects.

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Location: Burnaby, British Columbia

Tuition: CAD 6,075

Degree Programmes: Diverse graduate programmes in Applied Sciences, Arts & Social Sciences, Business, Communication, Art & Technology, Education, Environment, Health Sciences, and Science.

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Location: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Tuition: CAD 3,000 – CAD 5,000

Degree Programmes: Over 80 Master’s and Doctorate degrees, with a specialisation in research and medical fields.

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While most Canadian universities charge tuition, the University of the People stands out as a unique, tuition-free option. Accredited by an American institution, this fully online university welcomes international students, including Canadians. It offers a range of tuition-free Associate, Bachelor’s, and Master’s degrees in Business, Computer Science, Education, and Health Science. The flexibility of an online degree allows students to study anytime, anywhere, offering an unparalleled cost advantage.

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The cost of living in Canada varies significantly across its vast provinces and cities. While major metropolitan areas can be expensive, many regions remain affordable for students. As of 2024-2025, students typically spend between CAD 1,200 and CAD 2,500 per month on living expenses, excluding tuition.

Basic lunch & drink: CAD 23

Monthly rent in a 45 sq m furnished studio: CAD 1,729 (Note: Shared accommodation or living outside city centres can be considerably cheaper, ranging from CAD 400 - CAD 1,500)

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Monthly utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage): CAD 166

Monthly internet: CAD 56

Monthly public transport: CAD 109

Monthly gym membership: CAD 64

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Pair of jeans: CAD 77

Private doctor visit: CAD 115

Toothpaste: CAD 3.47

Cappuccino: CAD 5.13

Note: The Canadian government generally requires applicants for a student visa to demonstrate proof of having CAD 20,635 (excluding Quebec) on top of tuition for living expenses, though individual needs may be higher.

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Even with lower tuition fees, securing additional funding and scholarships can greatly ease the financial burden. Numerous scholarships and grants are available specifically for international students, with some even targeting students from particular countries. Exploring university-specific scholarships and national programmes is highly recommended.

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As an international student, your application will have specific requirements beyond the typical academic history, letters of recommendation, and resume. You may also need to provide:

Proof of financial capacity.

Evidence of English (or French) language proficiency (e.g., IELTS, TOEFL, CAEL scores).

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A completed international application form.

Passport information.

A translated copy of your academic transcripts.

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For studies longer than six months, you will require a student visa. The online application costs approximately CAD 150. You'll need to submit proof of finances, health and well-being, a clean criminal record, and your university acceptance letter. It's advisable to apply for your student visa as soon as you receive your acceptance.