Cheapest Universities in Canada for International Students. The good news? You don’t need a fortune to study in Canada. While some universities charge international students upwards of CAD $35,000 per year, there are excellent institutions where you can get a quality education for significantly less. Some universities charge as low as CAD $8,000 to $15,000 annually for international students, making a Canadian degree surprisingly affordable.
Read on, we’ll walk you through the cheapest universities in Canada for international students, break down the true cost of studying there (including living expenses), and share practical tips on how to make your Canadian education even more affordable.
Why Study in Canada?
Let’s quickly address why Canada is worth considering in the first place:
- Quality education: Canadian universities consistently rank among the world’s best, with institutions like the University of Toronto, McGill, and UBC competing globally.
- Post-study work permit: International students can work in Canada for up to three years after graduation without needing employer sponsorship.
- Pathway to permanent residency: Canada actively welcomes international students as potential permanent residents through various immigration programs.
- Safe and welcoming: Canada is known for its safety, diversity, and welcoming attitude toward international students.
- Work while studying: International students can work up to 20 hours per week during school terms and full-time during breaks.
Now, let’s explore which universities offer these benefits at the most affordable prices.
The Cheapest Universities in Canada for International Students
Note: Tuition fees vary by program. The figures below represent approximate annual tuition for undergraduate programs. Graduate programs, professional degrees (like MBA or Medicine), and some specialized programs may cost more. Always check the specific program on the university’s official website for current fees.
1. Memorial University of Newfoundland
Location: St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
Annual Tuition (International): CAD $11,460 – $20,000
Why it’s affordable: Memorial University is consistently the most affordable university in Canada for international students. The provincial government subsidizes education, keeping costs low for international students as well.
Highlights:
- Strong programs in engineering, business, and marine studies
- Relatively low cost of living compared to major Canadian cities
- Beautiful coastal location with a friendly community
- Easier to find part-time work due to a smaller international student population
Considerations: Newfoundland has long, cold winters and is more isolated than the rest of mainland Canada. The job market after graduation is smaller than in Toronto or Vancouver, though post-graduation work permits are valid across Canada.
2. University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI)
Location: Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Annual Tuition (International): CAD $13,500 – $16,000
Why it’s affordable: UPEI offers competitive tuition rates, and the province has one of Canada’s lowest costs of living. Housing is significantly cheaper than in major cities.
Highlights:
- Excellent veterinary medicine and nursing programs
- Small class sizes with personalized attention
- Safe, clean, and beautiful island setting
- Lower competition for on-campus jobs and co-op placements
Considerations: PEI is Canada’s smallest province with limited public transportation. A car can be helpful, but it isn’t essential if you live near campus.
3. University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC)
Location: Prince George, British Columbia
Annual Tuition (International): CAD $17,500 – $21,000
Why it’s affordable: While BC is generally expensive, UNBC in Prince George offers lower tuition than universities in Vancouver or Victoria, and the cost of living is much lower.
Highlights:
- Strong research focus, especially in environmental and northern studies
- Located in BC, which has one of Canada’s best post-graduation immigration pathways
- Smaller campus means better professor-student relationships
- Beautiful natural surroundings with outdoor recreation opportunities
Considerations: Prince George is a smaller city. While this means lower costs and a close-knit community, it has fewer big-city amenities than Vancouver or Toronto.
4. Brandon University
Location: Brandon, Manitoba
Annual Tuition (International): CAD $14,500 – $17,500
Why it’s affordable: Brandon University offers some of the lowest tuition rates in Western Canada, and Manitoba’s living costs are reasonable compared to those in other major provinces.
Highlights:
- Renowned music and education programs
- Small class sizes (average 60 students per class)
- Strong sense of community on campus
- Manitoba has a Provincial Nominee Program that favors international graduates
Considerations: Brandon is a small city, and Manitoba winters are extremely cold. However, the lower cost of living and smaller international student population can mean better job and housing opportunities.
5. University of Saskatchewan
Location: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Annual Tuition (International): CAD $18,000 – $24,000
Why it’s affordable: While not the absolute cheapest, USask offers excellent value, particularly for science and engineering programs at tuition rates 30-40% lower than comparable universities in Ontario or BC.
Highlights:
- Highly ranked programs in agriculture, engineering, and health sciences
- Saskatchewan has excellent immigration programs for international graduates
- Strong co-op and internship opportunities
- Growing job market in tech, mining, and agriculture sectors
Considerations: Saskatchewan has harsh winters, but Saskatoon is a vibrant city with a growing economy and affordable housing.
6. University of Manitoba
Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba
Annual Tuition (International): CAD $16,000 – $21,000
Why it’s affordable: As a major research university, the U of M offers relatively low tuition for the quality and reputation of its programs. It’s one of the most affordable universities in a major Canadian city.
Highlights:
- Strong engineering, business, and health sciences programs
- Located in Winnipeg, a multicultural city with lower living costs than Toronto or Vancouver
- Excellent scholarship opportunities for international students
- Manitoba’s immigration programs actively recruit international graduates
Considerations: Winnipeg’s winters are famously cold, but the city has a thriving cultural scene, diverse population, and affordable housing.
7. Université de Saint-Boniface
Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba
Annual Tuition (International): CAD $10,000 – $14,000
Why it’s affordable: This French-language institution offers some of the lowest tuition in Canada. If you’re fluent in French or willing to learn, it’s an excellent budget option.
Highlights:
- Exceptional value for French-speaking students
- Bilingualism adds significant value to your Canadian resume
- Small class sizes with personalized attention
- Affiliated with the University of Manitoba for certain programs
Considerations: Most programs are taught in French, so you need proficiency in French. However, being bilingual in English and French significantly boosts immigration points.
8. Cape Breton University
Location: Sydney, Nova Scotia
Annual Tuition (International): CAD $16,000 – $18,500
Why it’s affordable: CBU offers competitive tuition rates, and the cost of living in Cape Breton is among the lowest in Atlantic Canada.
Highlights:
- Strong MBA program popular with international students
- Atlantic Immigration Program offers pathways to permanent residence
- Beautiful coastal location with outdoor activities
- Very welcoming community with established international student support
Considerations: Cape Breton is a smaller, rural area. Job opportunities are more limited than in major cities, but the lower cost of living makes up for it.
Beyond Tuition: Understanding the True Cost of Studying in Canada
Tuition is just one part of your budget. Here’s what else you need to consider:
Living Expenses
Housing:
- Major cities (Toronto, Vancouver): CAD $800-$1,500/month
- Mid-sized cities (Winnipeg, Halifax): CAD $500-$900/month
- Smaller cities (St. John’s, Charlottetown): CAD $400-$700/month
Food: CAD $300-$500/month (cooking at home saves significantly)
Transportation: CAD $80-$150/month for public transit (many smaller cities have free or discounted student transit)
Books and supplies: CAD $1,000-$1,500/year
Health insurance: CAD $600-$900/year (mandatory for international students)
Total Annual Budget Estimate
For the cheapest universities in smaller cities:
- Tuition: CAD $11,000-$17,000
- Living expenses: CAD $10,000-$12,000
- Total: CAD $21,000-$29,000/year
Compare this to major cities where total costs can exceed CAD $45,000-$60,000/year, and you’ll see why choosing an affordable university in a smaller city makes financial sense.
How to Make Studying in Canada Even More Affordable
1. Apply for Scholarships
Many Canadian universities offer entrance scholarships for international students based on academic merit. Some automatically consider all applicants, while others require separate applications. Research and apply early.
2. Work Part-Time
International students can work up to 20 hours per week during school terms and full-time during breaks. At minimum wage (approximately CAD $15/hour), you can earn CAD $1,000-$1,200/month part-time, which covers a significant portion of living expenses.
3. Choose Co-op Programs
Co-op programs alternate study terms with paid work terms. You’ll graduate with work experience and earn money (often CAD $15-$25/hour) during work terms.
4. Live with Roommates
Sharing an apartment with 2-3 roommates can cut your housing costs in half. Many universities have housing boards or Facebook groups where students find roommates.
5. Buy Used Textbooks
New textbooks are expensive. Buy used from upper-year students, rent digital copies, or use library reserves when possible. This can save you hundreds of dollars each semester.
6. Cook Your Own Meals
Eating out in Canada is expensive. Students who cook at home typically spend CAD $300-$400/month on groceries, while those who eat out regularly can spend CAD $600-$800/month or more.
7. Take Advantage of Student Discounts
Your student ID gives you discounts on public transportation, entertainment, software, and many retail stores. Always ask if a student discount is available.
Choosing the Right Affordable University for You
The cheapest university isn’t necessarily the best choice for you. Consider these factors:
Program Strength
Make sure the university offers strong programs in your field of interest. A slightly higher tuition at a university with an excellent program in your field may offer better long-term value.
Location and Climate
Can you handle harsh winters? Do you need to be in a major city, or are you comfortable in a smaller community? Your happiness and mental health matter.
Job Opportunities
Consider both part-time work during studies and post-graduation job prospects. Larger cities have more opportunities but also more competition and higher costs.
Immigration Pathways
If you plan to stay in Canada after graduation, research which provinces have the best Provincial Nominee Programs. Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and the Atlantic provinces actively recruit international graduates.
Support Services
Smaller universities often provide more personalized support for international students. This can be invaluable when you’re adjusting to life in a new country.
Your Canadian Education is Within Reach
Studying in Canada doesn’t have to break the bank. By choosing one of these affordable universities, working part-time, applying for scholarships, and managing your living expenses wisely, you can earn a respected Canadian degree without accumulating crushing debt.
Remember, the “cheapest” option isn’t always about the lowest sticker price; it’s about finding the best value for your specific situation. A university in a smaller city with lower tuition and living costs might save you CAD $15,000-$20,000 per year compared to a big-city alternative, even if the tuition is only CAD $3,000-$5,000 less.
The universities we have listed here offer genuine quality education at accessible prices. They welcome international students, provide support services to help you succeed, and can open doors to permanent residency in Canada.
Start researching these universities today. Visit their websites, check program offerings, calculate your total costs, and begin your application. Your Canadian education journey and the opportunities that come with it are closer than you think.
