Canada is a top destination for aspiring engineers, featuring some of the best engineering universities in the world. With a strong focus on innovation, hands-on learning, and research excellence, it’s no wonder that over 427,000 Indian students chose Canada in 2024.
The best engineering universities in Canada provide students with the tools and opportunities needed to thrive in today’s competitive engineering field. From world-class faculty to cutting-edge facilities, these institutions are shaping the future of engineering for international students.
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This blog covers essential details on the best engineering universities in Canada, including popular courses and approximate fees.
8 Best Engineering Universities in Canada
Canada stands among the top choices for students worldwide, ranking 4th in global education. What sets Canadian universities apart is their holistic approach to admissions. It’s not just about grades—your extracurriculars and experience matter, too, giving you a better chance to secure your spot.
Here is a quick overview of some of the best engineering universities in Canada.
| Top Engineering Colleges in Canada | QS Subject Rankings 2024 | Average Annual Fees |
|---|---|---|
| University of Toronto | 17 | INR 32.2L to INR 35.3L (CAD 53K to CAD 58K) |
| University of British Columbia | 25 | INR 29.2L to INR 36.5L (CAD 48K to CAD 60K) |
| McGill University | 39 | INR 37.7L (CAD 62K) |
| University of Waterloo | 40 | INR 44.4L (CAD 73K) |
| University of Alberta | 100 | INR 19.4L to INR 28.6L (CAD 32K to CAD 47K) |
| University of Montreal | 111 | INR 12.1L to INR 14.6L (CAD 20K to CAD 24K) |
| University of Calgary | 153 | INR 28.4L (CAD 46.7K) |
| Queen’s University at Kingston | 200 | INR 13.8L (CAD 22.7K) |
Now, explore these top universities in detail.
1. University of Toronto
The University of Toronto, founded in 1827, is Canada’s top institution for learning and innovation. Known for its research, the university consistently ranks among the best engineering universities in Canada for International Students.
With over 560,000 graduates, its students and alumni impact is felt globally. Currently, 81,904 students are enrolled, 75% pursuing undergraduate programs and 25% in postgraduate studies.
Top courses
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Mechanical Engineering
- Master of Engineering in Electrical and Computer Engineering
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Civil Engineering
Here are the English proficiency requirements.
| Test | Scores |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.5 |
| TOEFL | 89 |
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2. University of British Columbia
The University of British Columbia (UBC), founded in 1915, is recognised worldwide for its excellence in teaching and research. With over 68,000 students from 140+ countries, UBC’s diverse community drives innovation and global impact.
UBC’s alumni network includes 370,000 graduates, with eight Nobel laureates and 71 Rhodes Scholars. The university also leads in Indigenous rights, being the first in North America to commit to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
Top courses
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Electrical Engineering
- Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Civil Engineering
Here are the English proficiency requirements.
| Test | Scores |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.5 |
| TOEFL | 90 |
3. McGill University
McGill University, founded in 1821 and located in the lively city of Montreal, has been a hub of innovation and learning for over 200 years. With students from over 150 countries making up 30% of its student body, McGill offers a genuinely diverse and enriching environment.
For over 15 years, McGill has been ranked Canada’s top research university. McGill is also known for its competitive tuition and generous scholarships, and all students, including international ones, are eligible for financial aid.
Top courses
- Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering
- Master of Engineering in Electrical Engineering
- Bachelor of Engineering in Civil Engineering
Here are the English proficiency requirements.
| Test | Scores |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.5 |
| TOEFL | 90 |
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4. University of Waterloo
The University of Waterloo, founded in 1957, has held the title of Canada’s most innovative university for 25 years. With over 16,000 undergraduates in the world’s most extensive co-op program, you’ll have the chance to gain real-world experience with top employers like Google, Facebook, and Amazon. Just 110 km from Toronto, Waterloo welcomes 35,000 students from 120 countries.
Currently, 34,556 students are enrolled, with 87% in undergraduate programs and 9,400 international students. The faculty includes 1,930 members, 29% of whom are from outside Canada.
Top courses
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Computer Engineering
- Master of Engineering in Systems Design Engineering
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Chemical Engineering
Here are the English proficiency requirements.
| Test | Scores |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 7 |
| TOEFL | 90 |
5. University of Alberta
The University of Alberta (U of A), founded in 1908, is one of Canada’s top five universities. It is known for its commitment to diversity, inclusion, and Indigenous cultures. It serves more than 31,000 students, with 81% in undergraduate programs and 8,483 international students.
With 17 faculties and over USD 550 million in research funding, the university is home to more than 300,000 alumni worldwide and is supported by 3,281 faculty members, 44% of whom are international.
Top courses
- Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering
- Master of Engineering in Electrical and Computer Engineering
- Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
Here are the English proficiency requirements.
| Test | Scores |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.5 |
| TOEFL | 90 |
6. University of Montreal
The University of Montreal, founded in 1878, is a leading research institution with a strong international focus. Together with its affiliated schools, Polytechnique Montreal and HEC Montreal, it forms one of the best engineering universities in Canada for International Students.
Annually attracting over USD 680 million in research funding, it ranks as Canada’s fourth-largest research university. With 67,000 students and 2,300 professors, the University of Montreal is situated near Mount Royal and reflects the multicultural city it calls home.
Top courses
- Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Engineering
- Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering
- Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering
Here are the English proficiency requirements.
| Test | Scores |
|---|---|
| TFI | 785 |
7. University of Calgary
The University of Calgary, founded in 1966, is one of Canada’s top research universities. Located in the dynamic city of Calgary, it ranks among the top ten research institutions in the country. It has 73 Canada Research Chairs and over 80 research centres tackling critical societal challenges.
Currently, the University of Calgary has 34,826 students, 79% in undergraduate programs, and 8,984 international students. The faculty includes 2,795 members.
Top courses
- Bachelor of Science in Software Engineering
- Master of Engineering in Chemical and Petroleum Engineering
- Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering
Here are the English proficiency requirements.
Test | Scores |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.5 |
| TOEFL | 86 |
8. Queen’s University at Kingston
Queen’s University, founded in 1841, is one of Canada’s oldest institutions. Located in Kingston, Queen’s is a leader in research and education. It is known for advancements in fields like particle astrophysics, cancer research, and clean energy technology.
With 26,631 students, including 4,135 international students, Queen’s offers an energetic and diverse community. Through its global partnerships, Queen’s provides rich opportunities for international learning and research collaboration.
Top courses
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Mining Engineering
- Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering
- Bachelor of Applied Science in Civil Engineering
Here are the English proficiency requirements.
| Test | Scores |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.5 |
| TOEFL | 88 |
Application Process at the Best Engineering Universities in Canada
Canada is known for its welcoming environment, with a student visa acceptance rate of 50%, making it easier for you to kickstart your engineering education.
The best engineering universities in Canada are ready to welcome students like you to grow, learn, and experience everything the country offers.
First things first—let’s get your paperwork in order. Here’s what you’ll need to start your application.
Documents Required
Before you dream of enjoying Canadian life, ensure you have all your paperwork in order! Below is a list of documents you’ll need.
- Academic transcripts for Class 10 & 12
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Academic Resume/CV
- Two Letters of Recommendation (LORs) (for candidates with work experience)
- Certificates for any State or National-level achievements (if applicable)
- Financial statements and proof of education loan (if applicable)
- Income Tax Return (ITR) papers
- Passport-size photographs
- A scanned copy of your passport
- Health insurance
- IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE scores, as required by the university
Application Steps
Applying to universities in Canada with high acceptance rates is easier. Here are the steps mentioned below.
- Shortlist the course and university that align with your career goals.
- Visit the university websites for detailed admission requirements.
- Prepare for and take English proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
- Submit your SOP and LORs to highlight your strengths.
- Apply through the university’s portal or a centralized system like OUAC.
- Prepare for any video interviews if shortlisted.
- Once accepted, apply for your Canadian Study Visa, which costs around INR 6.8K (CAD 113)
Scholarships for Studying at the Best Engineering Universities in Canada
Many of the best engineering universities in Canada offer a range of scholarships to help make education more affordable for international students.
Here’s a quick overview.
| Scholarship Name | Average Amount (Per Year) |
|---|---|
| Trudeau Scholarships and Fellowships | CAD 20K (INR 12.1L) |
| Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships | CAD 50K (INR 30L) |
| Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships | CAD 70K (INR 42.6L) |
| Ontario Trillium Scholarship | CAD 40K (INR 24.2L) |
| Quebec Provincial Government Scholarship | CAD 25K to CAD 35K (INR 15.2L to INR 21L) |
Cost of Living in Canada
The cost of living in Canada, including housing, is 4.7% lower than in the USA. When studying at the best engineering universities in Canada, you must budget for daily expenses like rent, groceries, and transportation to manage your finances effectively.
Here is the monthly cost of living in Canada.
| Expenses | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | INR 97K to INR 1.1L (CAD 1.6K to CAD 1.8K) |
| Food | INR 18K to INR 24K (CAD 300 to CAD 400) |
| Travel | INR 4.8K to INR 6.7K (CAD 80 to CAD 110) |
| Entertainment | INR 9.1K (CAD 150) |
| Other Utilities | INR 10K (CAD 165) |
| Internet | INR 4.8K (CAD 79) |
| Health Insurance (BC MSP Program) | INR 4.5K (CAD 74) |
Job Opportunities After Studying at the Best Engineering Universities in Canada
Graduating from the best engineering universities in Canada puts you in a great position to enter a booming job market.
With Canada’s employment rate at 60.70%, engineering graduates are in high demand across industries like software, civil, and mechanical engineering.
Here are some of the highest-paying jobs.
| Job Role | Average Annual Salary |
|---|---|
| Production Manager | INR 49.7L (CAD 81.7K) |
| Service Engineer | INR 62.1L (CAD 102K) |
| Engineering Specialist | INR 37.6L(CAD 61.8K) |
| Operations Manager | INR 49.7L (CAD 81.7K) |
| Field Technician | INR 52.3L (CAD 86K) |
| Civil Engineer | INR 54.7L (CAD 90K) |
| Project Engineer | INR 55.9L (CAD 91.9K) |
| Cloud Engineer | INR 60.7L (CAD 99.7K) |
Top Recruiters of Engineering Graduates in Canada
Engineering graduates from the best engineering universities in Canada are highly sought after by top employers across industries.
Significant companies regularly recruit talented graduates and offer excellent career opportunities in software, civil, and mechanical engineering fields.
Here is a list of some of the top companies.
- IBM
- RBC (Royal Bank of Canada)
- Amazon
- TD (Toronto-Dominion Bank)
- Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)
Canada’s top engineering universities, like the University of Toronto and McGill, provide world-class education. Ready to pursue your engineering degree at one of the best engineering universities in Canada? Let Leap Scholar help you every step of the way—from choosing the right school to visa assistance and perfecting your SOP. Start your journey today!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Q. What are the best engineering universities in Canada?
A. The best engineering universities in Canada include the University of Toronto, the University of British Columbia, McGill University, the University of Waterloo, and the University of Alberta. These universities are known for their world-class faculty, cutting-edge research, and strong industry ties, making them ideal choices for aspiring engineers.
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Q. What is the average tuition fee for engineering programs in Canada?
A. Tuition fees for engineering programs in Canada vary depending on the university and the specific program. On average, fees range from INR 12.1L to INR 44.4L per year (CAD 20K to CAD 73K). For instance, the University of Toronto’s engineering programs cost between INR 32.2L and INR 35.3L (CAD 53K to CAD 58K), while McGill University’s programs are around INR 37.7L (CAD 62K).
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Q. Can international students apply for scholarships at Canadian universities?
A. Yes, many of the best engineering universities in Canada offer scholarships for international students to help make education more affordable. These scholarships can be based on academic merit, financial need, or extracurricular achievements. The Trudeau Scholarships, Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships, and Ontario Trillium Scholarship are available at top universities.
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Q. What are the top scholarships available for international engineering students?
A. Some top scholarships available for international students studying at Canadian universities include the following.
Trudeau Scholarships and Fellowships: Offers CAD 20K (INR 12.1L) per year.
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships: Provides CAD 50K (INR 30L) annually.
Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships: Offers CAD 70K (INR 42.6L) per year.
Ontario Trillium Scholarship: Grants CAD 40K (INR 24.2L) annually. -
Q. What is the IELTS score required to study engineering in Canada?
A. Most universities in Canada require international students to demonstrate English proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL. The typical IELTS score required for engineering programs ranges between 6 and 7, depending on the university. For example, the University of Toronto requires an IELTS score of 6, while the University of Waterloo requires a 7.
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Q. How many intakes are there for engineering programs in Canada?
A. As mentioned below, there are three main intakes for engineering programs at the best engineering universities in Canada.
Fall Intake: The most popular, starting in September, with the broadest range of programs.
Winter Intake: Starts in January, offering flexible options for students.
Summer Intake: This begins in May and is less common but is still available for specific programs. -
Q. What is the cost of living for students in Canada?
A. The cost of living in Canada varies depending on the city and your lifestyle. On average, monthly expenses range between INR 97K to INR 1.1L (CAD 1.6K to CAD 1.8K) for accommodation, food, transportation, and other utilities. Here’s a breakdown of common expenses.
1. Accommodation: INR 97K to INR 1.1L per month.
2. Food: INR 18K to INR 24K per month.
3. Transportation: INR 4.8K to INR 6.7K per month. -
Q. How long does it take to get a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after studying in Canada?
A. You can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) within 180 days of receiving your final results. The PGWP allows you to work in Canada for up to three years, depending on the length of your study program. This permit allows you to gain valuable work experience in Canada after completing your degree.
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Q. What is the employment rate in Canada for engineering graduates?
A. Canada’s employment rate is 60.70%, and engineering graduates are in high demand across industries like software, civil, mechanical, and cloud engineering. Graduates from the best engineering universities in Canada are well-positioned to take advantage of this thriving job market, thanks to their education and hands-on experience.
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Q. Which companies hire engineering graduates in Canada?
A. Many top companies actively recruit engineering graduates from Canadian universities. Some of the leading employers include the following.
1. IBM
2. Amazon
3. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)
4. Royal Bank of Canada (RBC)
5. TD Bank -
Q. What are the top specializations in engineering offered in Canada?
A. Canada offers a wide range of engineering specializations. The most popular fields include the following:
1. Mechanical Engineering
2. Civil Engineering
3. Electrical Engineering
4. Software Engineering
5. Chemical Engineering.
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