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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Why choose Canada for your studies?

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 Fees in Canada for International Students (2024-2025)

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.

Top Universities in Canada

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:

University of Toronto

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

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

University of British Columbia

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

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Graduate Degree Tuition: CAD 9,500

McGill University

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

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

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McMaster University

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

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

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University of Montreal

Bachelor's Degree Tuition: CAD 27,102

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

Affordable Bachelor's Degrees in Canada

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

1.University of the People

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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2.Brandon University

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.

3. Université de Saint-Boniface

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.

4.Canadian Mennonite University

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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.

5.Memorial University of Newfoundland

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Location: St. Johns, Newfoundland

Tuition: CAD 20,000

Location: St. Johns, Newfoundland

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