Top Universities in Canada for International Students

Once you decide to study in Canada, the world’s second-largest country, you’ll find it’s a great investment in your career. Surrounded by stunning scenery, Canada offers a healthy outdoor lifestyle with its forests, lakes, and mountains. The diverse student body also enhances the experience, making it a welcoming and dynamic environment for foreign students in every field of study.

The reason why Canadian education is better than in other developed countries is due to certain advantages that studying in Canada can bring, such as affordable tuition fees and a variety of courses available across major universities.

One advantage is that the cost of living in Canada, especially in the capital city and other popular study destinations, and tuition costs are generally lower than in other developed countries without compromising on education quality. Additionally, Canada’s easy visa policy compared to other developed countries like the USA makes it an attractive option for international students. The Canadian government also encourages students to stay in the country, providing plenty of career opportunities after graduation.

It is also possible to work while studying in Canada, providing prospective job options and helping to offset the affordable cost of living. Students who study there receive a top-quality and internationally respected education, preparing them for professional pursuits in Canada or abroad. With high student satisfaction rates and support for international undergraduate studies, including comprehensive services at universities, a friendly, inclusive student community, and a list of scholarships such as overseas and International Scholarships, Canada remains a popular choice.

Get more details about the education system, life, and requirements to study in Canada, including language proficiency and English proficiency needed for college programs.

However, the first step is to find a Canadian university approved by the Ministry of Higher Education that aligns with your academic goals and ambitions. Once you decide, you can then fill out a free consultation form at the end to learn more about obtaining a study permit, education programs, scholarship availability, and eligibility criteria for Canada.

If you already have a university in mind, you can directly fill out the form below to discuss with us.

List of some of the best accredited public universities for studying in Canada:

Ontario, British Columbia, and Quebec are the most popular Canadian provinces for international students, as they are home to many of the country’s top universities. Whatever program you choose to apply to, undergraduate studies in Canada can take either three or four years to complete, depending on the university. Graduate degrees typically take between one and three years to complete, depending on the program of study.

Let’s get started in the order with the top university.

University of Waterloo

The University of Waterloo is one of Canada’s top universities, located in the heart of Waterloo Region, Ontario, a hub for Canada’s technology sector. The University of Waterloo attracts many of the world’s top researchers, students, and faculty, with its excellence reflected in hundreds of awards and honors each year. The university specializes in advanced research and teaching across more than 100 undergraduate and graduate programs. Popular programs include Electrical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mathematics, and Computer Science. Students at the University of Waterloo gain valuable experience through internships with leading employers like Google, Facebook, and Amazon.

University of Guelph

The University of Guelph is located in Guelph, one of Ontario’s fastest-growing cities, and is ranked as the best university in the province for its learning and living environment, and support for international students. There are more than hundreds of opportunities to learn, put your skills to practice in the field, and meet the right people. The University offers bachelor’s and master’s degree programs through 7 colleges including the College of Arts, College of Biological Science, College of Business and Economics, College of Social and Applied Human Sciences, College of Engineering and Physical Sciences, Ontario Agricultural College, and the Ontario Veterinary College. Within the College of Biological Science, the Department of Human Health & Nutritional Sciences houses the medical school. There are more than 100 programs to choose from.

 University of Windsor

The University of Windsor is a student-centered educational institution located on North America’s international border crossing and facing one of Canada’s most beautiful waterfronts on the Detroit River. The university operates a large campus along the Detroit River and also has access to the sights and sounds of the Canadian city of Windsor and the American city of Detroit. The university offers 261 undergraduate and graduate academic programs including main professional fields such as Law, Business, Engineering, Medicine, etc that promise high-quality education that will benefit you over the long term and open doors for your future.

University of Regina

The University of Regina has campuses located in Regina and Saskatoon in Saskatchewan, Canada has an attractive study environment for international students that encourages creativity, innovation, and new experiences. The University offers more than 190 undergraduate courses and 80 postgraduate courses in a wide range of faculties including fields such as Arts, Business Administration, Education, Media, Nursing, and Science.

University of Saskatchewan

The University of Saskatchewan (USask) is one of the top research universities in Canada and, well known for its beauty, is located in the heart of Saskatoon. Saskatchewan is home to a wide variety of programs. It is an innovative, accessible, and welcoming place for students, with a wide variety of degree programs in areas such as Business, Law, Arts, Life Sciences, Engineering, and Health.

University of New Brunswick

The University of New Brunswick has two campuses located in Saint John and Fredericton, in New Brunswick. is a comprehensive higher education institution from Fredericton, New Brunswick in Canada that offers a variety of bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. This is Canada’s oldest English university – founded in 1785.

Lakehead University

Lakehead University offers you two beautiful campus locations to choose from: Thunder Bay in Northwestern Ontario and Orillia in Central Ontario.

Students gain valuable experience through fieldwork and hands-on learning, which are integral to many popular courses, including science, engineering, medicine, health science, social sciences, and humanities. They take advantage of the vibrant, natural laboratories right in the university’s backyard. The northern landscape also presents ample opportunities for world-class outdoor sports and activities. Students can easily maintain an ideal work-play balance, opting for a ski break or hiking trip between study sessions.

University of Ontario Institute of Technology

The University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT) is in Oshawa, Ontario, Canada. The university combines hands-on learning with innovative and relevant research in a technology-enriched learning environment. 

UOIT’s innovative and unique undergraduate and graduate programs are designed to meet your interests and career aspirations, along with the market-driven requirements of employers. When you graduate, you will have the critical thinking, innovative research, and technological skills demanded by the world’s leading employers.

Other Universities

So, this was the list of popular and accredited Universities with more than 100 different programs to offer. Before starting to apply to one of the universities above, you will need to submit your English language test score. If you have completed your 4 most recent years of full-time education in an English-language school system then register for IELTS, TOEFL, or SAT. Studygram can get you to register for the test.

If you are not ready to take the test, then check out how to prepare for the IELTS test or to get an idea of how much preparation is required you can Pre-check your IELTS level.

Application Process For Foreign Students

• Research universities and programs that align with your academic interests and career goals.
• Prepare required documents
• Complete and submit the online application form on the university’s official website.
• Pay the required application fee.
• Monitor the status of your application through the university’s application portal.
• Respond promptly to any requests for additional information.
• If accepted, receive and confirm your acceptance by the deadline provided.

To apply to a Canadian Institution, you will need several documents:

• Valid passport for identification and visa purposes
• Letters of recommendation from teachers, professors, or employers attesting to your academic abilities and character
• Official letter of acceptance from the university (required after admission for visa and immigration purposes)
• Official transcripts and certificates from previous educational institutions (translated into English if necessary)
• Statement of purpose outlining your academic background, career goals, and reasons for choosing the specific program and university

Each university charges an application fee that ranges from CAD 50 to CAD 200, depending on the institution, program, and level of study. This fee is usually non-refundable. Pay close attention to the application deadlines, which vary by university and degree courses. Deadlines are typically several months before the start of the academic term. Applying early can improve your chances of admission and allow more time for visa processing. Check the specific dates on the university’s official website, as universities often have different deadlines for international students.

Living in Canada For International Students

Living in Canada as an international student involves various monthly expenses such as rent, utilities, groceries, and personal costs. Rent, an essential expense, can range from CAD 1,500 to CAD 2,500 in major cities like Toronto and Vancouver, and CAD 800 to CAD 1,200 in smaller towns. The average cost of rent significantly impacts the overall budget. On average, students should budget CAD 2,000 to CAD 3,400 per month for living expenses.

Canada’s public transportation system is well-developed, with reliable and affordable options like buses, subways, and streetcars. Monthly transit passes in cities like Toronto and Vancouver cost around CAD 100 to CAD 130, contributing to manageable transportation expenses. Universities often offer discounted or free passes and provide numerous opportunities for social engagement and support through student associations, clubs, and events.

Health insurance is essential for international students in Canada. Coverage may be provided through university plans or private providers, depending on the province. Provinces like British Columbia and Ontario offer provincial health insurance plans. Universities often have on-campus health clinics, making it important for students to understand their health insurance coverage.

International students in Canada typically have positive experiences, appreciating the friendly and inclusive environment. They report high satisfaction with academic programs, support services, and overall quality of life.

Here is a breakdown of the monthly costs of living in Canada, providing an overview of typical living expenses such as rent, utilities, groceries, and personal costs in both major cities and smaller towns.

Post-Graduation Opportunities

Canada offers excellent post-graduation opportunities, with diverse job prospects in fields such as technology, healthcare, engineering, and business. The country’s strong job market and focus on innovation provide a solid foundation for career development.

The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is a key advantage for international students, allowing them to work in Canada for up to three years after graduating from a designated learning institution. This permit is essential for gaining Valuable Work experience, which not only enhances career prospects but also strengthens applications for permanent residency through programs like the Canadian Experience Class and Provincial Nominee Programs.

By leveraging the PGWP, graduates can build professional networks, adapt to Canadian workplace culture, and improve their chances of securing long-term employment and permanent residency.

Financial Aid and Scholarships 

International students in Canada have access to a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help manage education costs. Universities offer scholarships based on merit, extracurricular activities, and financial need, while government-funded programs like the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships and the Canada-ASEAN SEED, along with support from private organizations, provide additional financial assistance.

Choosing affordable universities is an important strategy for managing costs. Institutions such as Memorial University of Newfoundland, the University of Manitoba, and the University of Saskatchewan offer world-class education at lower tuition rates, with undergraduate fees ranging from CAD 7,000 to CAD 20,000 per year. Graduate program fees at these universities are also budget-friendly.

Effective financial planning is essential and should include budgeting for tuition, living expenses, and other costs like textbooks. Students should explore scholarships and financial aid options, take advantage of university financial counseling services, and consider part-time work opportunities to supplement their income.

Making an Informed Decision

When deciding to study in Canada, consider personal preferences such as climate, city size, cultural offerings, and academic requirements. Research universities’ academic programs, reputations, faculty credentials, and graduate success rates. Evaluate the cost of living, safety, healthcare, and recreational opportunities in various locations. Balance these factors to find a place that offers both quality education and a high standard of living. Gather information, seek advice from students and alumni, and weigh the pros and cons of each option to choose the right university and location, enhancing your academic experience and personal growth.

At Studygram, we can assist you in making these informed decisions. Our expertise and resources will help you find the ideal study destination in Canada, tailored to your preferences and academic needs.

How to apply to a university in Canada with Studygram?

• Contact Studygram and book an appointment
• Visit our office for a Free Counselling session so we can figure out the right fit study program options for you
• Make your documents ready including English test scores (IELTS, TOEFL), and, prepare for the entrance test (if required)
• On behalf of you, Studygram will prepare the application and will apply to universities.
• Receive the university offer
• Studygram will get you to register for Entrance Scholarships, Awards & Bursaries(if eligible)
• Apply for the required Canadian visa for you
• Make travel and accommodation arrangements for you
• Get ready to attend university.

Check out the requirements to study at Canadian University >>

Do you meet academic admission requirements but fall below English language requirements?

For the Students who fall below English language requirements, these universities also offer an intensive full-term English language program, which is designed to help students meet standard English language requirements or prepare for a university where English is the language of instruction. For more details contact us.

Already know what you want to study? Or do you need a hand figuring out the options?

If you have strong scores, good grades, and a desire to study in Canada but need help figuring out your options, Studygram is here to assist. Choosing a budget-friendly university in Canada is a smart decision, offering access to world-class education without overwhelming costs. Canada provides a wide range of programs and diverse cultural experiences, with key highlights including excellent post-graduation opportunities and affordable tuition and living options. We encourage you to explore these opportunities, understand student visa applications, and stay informed about admission deadlines to align your academic and career goals with the right Canadian college.

To find out if you are eligible for a Canadian Study Permit, fill out a free consultation form.