Choosing a cheap university in Canada can be a smart decision for students who are on a tight budget. These universities offer quality education and are a great way for international students to obtain a degree from a prestigious university in Canada.
In brief, these universities offer affordable and quality education. The best part is that these universities offer various courses and programs catering to different interests and career aspirations.
Excel in IELTS with India’s Top Online Coaching
Leap has helped more than 1 Lakh students achieve 7+ IELTS band.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs, Canada has emerged as the 2nd most preferred destination for Indian students after the USA for higher education. In recent years, over 1.5 lakh Indian students have chosen to study in Canada due to the country’s welcoming environment, affordable education, and globally recognised universities.
This trend is likely to continue as more and more Indian students explore Canada as a study-abroad destination.
In 2024, Canada plans to issue a total of 3,60,000 study permits to students from around the world. This shows that Canada is committed to providing a world-class education to international students at an affordable cost.
In this article, we’ll discuss the cheapest universities in Canada for international students. Keep reading to find out more!
Get a quick overview of the blog’s key highlights and unlock valuable information about the cheap universities in Canada for International students.
Key Highlights:
| Total Universities | -Over 220 public and private universities -Over 200 public colleges and institutes |
| Cheapest Universities | –Simon Fraser University –Brandon University –Dalhousie University –Cape Breton University |
| Top Cheapest Cities in Canada | -Montreal -Quebec |
| Top Courses | –MBA –Civil Engineering –Pharmacy –MA in Teaching –BA LLB –BCA |
| Avg UG Tuition Fee | INR 1L (CAD 1,648) – INR 45.7L (CAD 74,804) |
| Avg PG Tuition Fee | INR 1.5L (CAD 2,548) – INR 28.2L (CAD 46,140) |
| Scholarships | –Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) –Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship |
| Cost Of Living | INR 88,000 (CAD 1,448) |
Why Study in Canada?
Cheap universities in Canada for higher education can be highly beneficial for Indian students compared to other countries. Canada provides a safe and welcoming environment for international students.
It offers affordable tuition fees and a lower cost of living than other popular study destinations like the US, UK, and Australia. Additionally, Canada’s universities are globally recognised and offer high-quality education.
Some unique features of studying in Canada include:
- A highly regarded education system that ranks among the best in the world.
- Access to world-class research opportunities and facilities.
- Many Cheap Universities in Canada offer 3 Intakes (Fall, Spring and Winter) through which students can choose when they want to start their higher studies in Canada.
- The opportunity to obtain a work permit and gain valuable work experience while studying.
- A friendly and welcoming culture that embraces diversity and multiculturalism.
- A high standard of living with affordable healthcare and social services.
- Spectacular natural landscapes and outdoor activities, including skiing, hiking, and ice skating.
- Access to dynamic and multicultural cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.
- Various Scholarships are available for Indian students, such as the Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS), Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship and Other scholarships offered by universities and institutions.
- Diploma and certificate courses at a reasonable cost which can be a cost-effective option to save time and money.
- Canada offers cheap bachelor’s degrees to international students as compared to other countries like the USA, UK, and Australia.
Overall, choosing a cheap university in Canada can be an excellent option for Indian students seeking quality education and a unique study abroad experience.
Top 10 Cheap Universities in Canada
Canada has a wide range of affordable universities that offer quality education to international students. These universities provide various programs and courses that cater to the students’ different educational interests and future goals.
Here is a list of the top 10 Cheapest Universities in Canada for International Students:
- Simon Fraser University
- Brandon University
- Dalhousie University
- Cape Breton University
- Canadian Mennonite University
- University of Guelph
- Concordia University
- University of Prince Edward Island
- University of Winnipeg
- University of Northern British Columbia
Excel in IELTS with India’s Top Online Coaching
Leap has helped more than 1 Lakh students achieve 7+ IELTS band.
Top Courses for Indian students to pursue In Canada
Canada offers various courses and programs for international students at its affordable universities. In fact, over 15,000 undergraduate and graduate programs are offered in various fields of study.
Indian students can choose from many courses in fields such as
- Business
- Engineering
- Information Technology
- Healthcare
- Education
- Arts & Humanities
- Science & Technology
Here’s a table with some of the top courses for Indian students to pursue in Canada:
| Field | Courses |
| Business | –BBA –MBA –MS In Finance –MS in Business Analytics |
| Engineering | –Civil Engineering –Mechanical Engineering –MS in Computer Science –MS in Electrical Engineering –MS in Mechanical Engineering |
| Healthcare | –Pharmacy –Medical Science –MS in Public Health –MS in Nursing –MS in Healthcare Administration |
| Education | –BEd Special Education -BA (Hons) Childhood –MS in Education –MA in Teaching -PhD in Education |
| Arts and Humanities | –BA LLB –BAJMC –MA in English –MA in History |
| Science and Technology | –BCA –MS in Data Science –MS in Biotechnology –MS in Environmental Science |
Cheap Universities in Canada for UG
Canada has emerged as a preferred destination for Indian students who are looking for affordable education abroad, particularly for undergraduate studies.
In recent years, there have been more than 3L Indian students in Canada, out of which 2,09,930 are enrolled in colleges for undergraduate degrees.
This showcases the growing popularity of Canadian universities and colleges among Indian students due to their high-quality education and affordable tuition fees.
Here are the top cheapest universities in Canada for undergraduate studies:
| Cheap Universities in Canada | Avg tuition fees for UG |
| Brandon University | INR 1L (CAD 1,648) – INR INR 3.3L (CAD 5451) |
| University of Montreal | INR 8L (CAD 13,550) |
| University of Prince Edward Island | INR 5L (CAD 8,010) – INR 45.7L (CAD 74,804) |
| Canadian Mennonite University | INR 11.6L (19,000) |
| University of Winnipeg | INR 10L (CAD 16,245) – INR 12.6L (CAD 20,599) |
Explore all countries
Cheap Universities in Canada for PG
In recent years, Canada has become a popular destination for international students who wish to pursue postgraduate programs. According to recent unofficial statistics, over 80,270 students were pursuing graduate degrees in Canadian universities.
Here’s a list of some of the cheapest universities in Canada for postgraduate studies:
| Cheap Universities in Canada | Avg tuition fees for PG |
| University of Northern British Columbia | INR 1.5L (CAD 2,548) – INR 5.3L (CAD 8,659) |
| Simon Fraser University | INR 6.6L (CAD 10,786) |
| McMaster University | INR 11.3L (CAD 18,500) – INR 15.3L (CAD 25,046) |
| Nipissing University | INR 14L (CAD 23,000) |
| Cape Breton University | INR 28.2L (CAD 46,140) |
Also Read: Cheapest Universities in the USA
Cheap Universities in Canada for MBA
When it comes to pursuing an MBA degree, the top destination for every Indian student is Canada. Canada provides great opportunities, multicultural exposure and a hassle-free admission process.
Canadian colleges are highly ranked in the global MBA ranking list, which makes them an attractive and best choice for Indian students. The cost of studying in Canada is lower than in the USA and the UK, which can be a great reason for Indian students to study in Canada.
To help you make an informed decision, below is the table of the top cheapest MBA colleges in Canada:
| Cheap MBA Universities in Canada | Avg Tuition Fees |
| Memorial University of Newfoundland | INR 7.3L (CAD 12,000) |
| University of Guelph | INR 6.4L (CAD 10,500) |
| University of Sherbrooke | INR 9L (CAD 14,600) |
| University of Calgary | INR 9.2L (CAD 15,084) |
| Dalhousie University | INR 17.5L |
Cost Of Living In Canada
For Indian students, the cost of living in Canada is an essential factor to consider when planning to study abroad.
The average monthly cost of living for an international student in Canada is INR 88,000 (CAD 1,448). This includes expenses such as food, transportation, and other miscellaneous costs.
However, the cost of living can vary depending on various factors such as location, lifestyle choices, and personal preferences.
To help you get a better idea of what factors influence the cost of living in Canada, we have created a table below:
| Parameters | Costs per month |
| Avg Transportation Cost (Monthly Pass) | INR 6,300 (CAD 104) |
| Avg Utilities Cost | INR 13,000 (CAD 215) |
| Avg Groceries Cost | INR 21,000 (CAD 343) |
| Avg Rent In Canada In City Centre | INR 1L (1895) |
Note: The costs mentioned in the table are approximate. They may vary by location, personal experience and currency exchange rates.
The average cost of living in Canada can also vary greatly depending on the city you choose to live in. For example, the average cost of rent in Toronto is much higher than in cities like Halifax or Winnipeg.
Similarly, the cost of groceries and transportation can also be higher in major cities compared to smaller ones.
Here is a table highlighting the average monthly expenses for a student in some major cities:
| City | Avg monthly Rent In City (1) Bedroom | Cost of Living (Monthly) |
| Quebec | INR 74,500 | INR 89,000 (CAD 1,462) |
| Montreal | INR 1L | INR 83,000 (CAD 13,262) |
| Calgary | INR 1L | INR 96,000 (CAD 1,570) |
| Mississauga | INR 1.6L | INR 88,700 (CAD 1,452) |
| Toronto | INR 1.6L | INR 93.5L (CAD 1529) |
Scholarships for Indian Students in Canada
Many Canadian universities offer scholarships to international students, including Indian students. These scholarships can help alleviate some of the financial burden of studying abroad.
Students can apply for scholarships based on academic merit, financial need, or other criteria. Some scholarships are awarded automatically, while others require an application.
Here are some of the top scholarships available for Indian students in Canada:
| Scholarships | Benefits |
| Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) | -CAD 10,000 (INR 6L) for 2 consecutive study terms -CAD 15,000 (INR 9L) for 3 consecutive study terms |
| Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship | Covers tuition, books, incidental fees, and full residence support for 4 years. |
| President’s International Scholarship of Excellence | Awards up to CAD 45,000 (INR 27.5L) |
| Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship | Awards CAD 50,000 (INR 30.5L) |
Many other scholarships and financial aid options are available for international students in the Netherlands. It is essential to note that this is not an exhaustive list.
Tips To Save Money In Canada
Studying abroad can be an exciting and valuable experience, but it can also be quite costly. Many Indian students opt to study in Canada, with approximately more than 1L students making this choice each year.
However, the rising cost of living in Canada can be a major worry for these students.
Here are some tips to help you save money and live comfortably while studying at cheap universities in Canada.
Accommodation:
- Consider shared accommodation or homestays to split rent costs.
- Explore off-campus housing options, which may be more affordable than on-campus residences.
Cooking at Home:
- Cook meals at home instead of dining out regularly.
- Plan and prepare meals in batches to save time and money.
Transportation:
- Use public transportation options like buses and trains to cut commuting costs.
- Consider walking or cycling for short distances to save on transportation expenses.
Budgeting:
- Create a monthly budget to track expenses and identify areas to cut costs.
- Prioritise essential expenses and allocate funds accordingly.
Health Insurance:
- Compare and choose a cost-effective health insurance plan that meets your needs.
- Understand the coverage details to avoid unnecessary expenses.
Networking for Shared Expenses:
- Connect with fellow students for shared groceries, transportation, and group activities expenses.
- Collaborate on purchasing items in bulk to save collectively.
By following these tips, you can save more money while studying at one of the cheap universities in Canada.
To Sum UP
Studying at a cheap university in Canada can be a smart decision for international students who want to obtain a world-class education without breaking the bank. Canada offers affordable tuition fees, a welcoming environment, and globally recognized universities, making it an ideal study-abroad destination for Indian students.
Additionally, the opportunity to gain valuable work experience while studying and access to various scholarships further adds to the benefits of studying in Canada.
So, if you are an Indian student looking for quality education at an affordable cost, then Canada should be on your list of study-abroad destinations. And, if you need any assistance with your study abroad journey, LeapScholar is here to guide you through the process, from IELTS preparation to helping you choose the best cheap universities in Canada.
And if you’re considering other options like the UK, USA and Australia, we’ve got you covered, too.
Schedule a free consultation with our experts today for personalised guidance and advice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
-
Q. What are the cheap universities in Toronto, Canada?
A. There are several cheap universities in Toronto, making it an affordable study destination for international students. Some of the affordable universities in Toronto include Ryerson University, York University, University of Toronto, and OCAD University. These universities offer quality education at an affordable cost and have a diverse student community.
-
Q. What are the cheap universities in Canada for masters?
A. There are several affordable universities in Canada for master’s degrees. Some of these options include:
-The University of Northern British Columbia
-Simon Fraser University
-McMaster University
-Nipissing University.These universities offer a range of programs at lower tuition rates compared to other universities in Canada.
-
Q. Which Universities offer the cheapest MBA in Canada for international students?
A. The Universities that offer the cheapest MBA in Canada for international students are:
-Memorial University of Newfoundland
-University of Guelph
-University of Sherbrooke -
Q. Which courses are available in the cheap universities in Canada?
A. Cheap universities in Canada offer a wide variety of courses and programs to international students. Some of the popular courses include:
-MBA
-Civil Engineering
-Pharmacy
-MA in Teaching
-BA LLB
-BCA -
Q. Is it affordable for Indian students to study in Canada?
A. Yes, it is affordable for Indian students to study in Canada. Canada offers a quality education at an affordable cost compared to other popular study destinations. Additionally, the cost of living is comparatively lower, and various scholarships and financial aid options are available to international students. This makes Canada a great choice for Indian students seeking a world-class education at a reasonable price.
-
Q. Which is more affordable to study in, the UK or Canada?
A. Both the UK and Canada offer affordable options for international students, but the cost of studying in Canada is generally lower than in the UK. Canada also offers a lower cost of living compared to the UK, making it a more affordable option overall. However, the cost of studying and living expenses may vary depending on the university and city chosen by the student.
-
Q. Is IELTS required for Indian students to study in Canada?
A. Yes, IELTS is generally required for Indian students to study in Canada. It is a language proficiency test that measures the ability to communicate in English. Most universities in Canada require a minimum IELTS score of 6.5 or higher for admission. However, some universities may have different requirements, so it’s always best to check with the specific institution you’re interested in.
-
Q. Which city is cheap for international students in Canada?
A. Several Canadian cities offer affordable living options for international students. Some of the cheapest cities include Winnipeg, Edmonton, and Montreal. These cities offer affordable housing, transportation, and food options. International students can explore these cities and find a cost-effective way to pursue their higher education in Canada.
-
Q. Are there any scholarships available for international students at cheap universities in Canada?
A. Yes, there are scholarships available for international students at cheap universities in Canada. Some of the scholarships available include the Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) and the Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship. These scholarships can help cover a portion of the tuition fees and living expenses for international students.
-
Q. Are degrees from cheap universities in Canada recognised internationally?
A. Yes, degrees from cheap universities in Canada are recognised internationally. Canada has a reputation for providing high-quality education, and its universities are well-respected globally. In fact, many of these universities are ranked among the top universities in the world. Students who obtain a degree from a Canadian university, whether it’s a cheap or expensive one, can expect their degree to be recognised and valued by employers and educational institutions worldwide.
-
Q. Is it difficult to get admission to cheap universities in Canada?
A. Getting admission to cheap universities in Canada is not competitive. As an international student, you need to meet the university’s academic requirements and provide proof of English proficiency. You should apply early and have all the required documents ready to increase your chances of acceptance.
Have Questions? Get Guidance to reach your Dream University
Connect with India's finest counsellors and biggest study abroad community.
Get Guidance