Studying in Canada is a dream for many international students, but tuition fees can sometimes feel overwhelming. The good news is that Canada offers several Cheapest universities in Canada for International Students that maintain the same high academic standards the country is known for. These institutions provide excellent programs while keeping costs lower than many other study-abroad destinations.
To help you make an informed choice, here’s a detailed look at the cheapest universities in Canada for International students. These schools balance affordability, academic excellence, and student support, making them great options for international students who want a quality education without excessive costs.
Top Affordable Universities in Canada
- University of Guelph (Ontario)
The University of Guelph is recognized for its research excellence and teaching quality, while keeping tuition fees relatively affordable. Students benefit from a welcoming campus and strong academic resources.
- Bachelor’s Fees: CAD 15,000 – CAD 20,000 per semester
- Master’s Fees: CAD 7,735 – CAD 10,623 per semester
- Concordia University (Quebec)
Located in Montreal, Concordia is a public research university offering more than 300 undergraduate and 100 graduate programs. It’s one of the most budget-friendly universities in Quebec and is popular for its online and experiential learning opportunities.
- Bachelor’s Fees: CAD 30,626 – CAD 38,715 per year
- Master’s Fees: CAD 34,500 per year
- Canadian Mennonite University (Manitoba)
Based in Winnipeg, CMU is known for its inclusive learning environment and focus on community and reconciliation. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs across several disciplines at reasonable costs.
- Bachelor’s Fees: CAD 20,000 per year
- Master’s Fees: CAD 18,000 per year
- Cape Breton University (Nova Scotia)
Cape Breton University provides strong faculty-student engagement and unique service-learning opportunities. With a dedicated research center, students gain exposure to local and international projects.
- Bachelor’s Fees: CAD 21,270 – CAD 21,933 per year
- Master’s Fees: CAD 46,140 per year
- Dalhousie University (Nova Scotia)
One of Canada’s oldest universities, Dalhousie is known for its broad academic offerings—over 4,000 courses across 12 faculties. Popular programs include Biology, Engineering, Business, and Computer Science.
- Bachelor’s Fees: CAD 37,100 per year
- Master’s Fees: CAD 10,863 per year
- Simon Fraser University (British Columbia)
SFU is well-regarded for its programs in science, technology, and innovation. Located in Burnaby, it offers a balance of affordability and a strong academic reputation.
- Bachelor’s Fees: CAD 26,640 per semester
- Master’s Fees: CAD 12,140 per semester
- Brandon University (Manitoba)
Brandon University is a top choice for students who value small class sizes and personalized attention. It’s among the most affordable universities in Canada, especially for bachelor’s programs.
- Bachelor’s Fees: CAD 8,000 – CAD 9,933 per semester
- Master’s Fees: CAD 5,000 – CAD 7,000 per semester
- University of Prince Edward Island (Prince Edward Island)
This university is known for its focus on sustainability and healthcare programs. With low tuition fees and a supportive campus community, it attracts students looking for an affordable yet high-quality education.
- Bachelor’s Fees: CAD 8,010 – CAD 74,804 per year (depending on the program)
- Master’s Fees: CAD 13,250 per year
- University of Winnipeg (Manitoba)
Committed to social justice and environmental sustainability, the University of Winnipeg offers accessible programs in management, science, and more.
- Bachelor’s Fees: CAD 16,245 – CAD 20,599 per year
- Master’s Fees: CAD 18,000 per year
- University of Northern British Columbia (British Columbia)
Known for its research in environmental sustainability and rural studies, UNBC combines affordability with a strong emphasis on community engagement.
- Bachelor’s Fees: CAD 13,380 per semester
- Master’s Fees: CAD 2,548 – CAD 8,659 per semester
- University of Montreal (Quebec)
A French-language institution, the University of Montreal offers 600 programs across 13 faculties, including Medicine, Law, and Engineering. While many courses require French, some programs are available in English.
- Bachelor’s Fees: CAD 14,992 per semester
- Master’s Fees: CAD 11,527 per semester
- McMaster University (Ontario)
Founded in 1887, McMaster is one of Canada’s leading research universities, with campuses across Ontario. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs at competitive tuition rates.
- Bachelor’s Fees: CAD 20,000 – CAD 30,000 per semester
- Master’s Fees: CAD 18,500 – CAD 25,046 per semester
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Which is the cheapest university in Canada for international students?
Brandon University is one of the most affordable, with bachelor’s tuition fees between CAD 8,000 and CAD 9,933 per semester.
Q2: Can I get scholarships at these affordable universities?
Yes. Many universities, including Guelph, Concordia, and Dalhousie, offer scholarships and financial aid to help international students.
Q3: Does lower tuition mean lower education quality?
Not at all. Canadian universities—whether affordable or expensive—maintain high academic standards and offer strong research opportunities.
Q4: Which affordable universities in Canada have engineering programs?
McMaster University, Simon Fraser University, and Polytechnique Montréal (affiliated with the University of Montreal) are excellent options.
Q5: What are the living costs for international students in Canada?
On average, students spend CAD 10,000 to CAD 15,000 per year on living expenses (housing, food, transportation, etc.). Costs vary depending on the city.
Q6: Are these universities located in student-friendly cities?
Yes. Places like Winnipeg and Prince Edward Island are known for being welcoming, affordable, and student-friendly compared to larger, more expensive cities like Toronto or Vancouver.
Q7: Do I need to know French to study at the University of Montreal?
Most programs require proficiency in French, but a few programs and courses are available in English.
Q8: What programs are popular at these affordable universities?
Business Administration, Computer Science, Engineering, Environmental Studies, and Public Health are among the top choices.
Q9: How do I apply to these universities?
Applications are made through the universities’ official websites. Be sure to check program-specific requirements, deadlines, and application fees.
Q10: Can international students work while studying in Canada?
Yes. With a valid study permit, international students can work up to 20 hours per week during classes and full-time during breaks.