Planning to pursue your Master’s or Bachelor’s in Canada? While the Canadian higher education scene is dominated by public institutions, private universities in Canada are increasingly viable options. Numerous provincial authorities have granted these institutions the power to confer academic degrees.
For Indian students, the primary concern is usually the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility. This guide cuts through the confusion, focusing exclusively on accredited, degree-granting private Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) that offer PGWP-eligible programs.
Let’s cut through the confusion and focus exclusively on accredited, degree-granting private Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) that offer PGWP-eligible programs. We will help you navigate your options among the top private universities in Canada, ensuring your investment aligns with your long-term immigration goals for the 2026 intake.
Why Choose Private Universities in Canada Over Public Institutions?
It’s natural to compare private and public universities. While the academic quality is often comparable, the crucial difference lies in speed, specialization, and student experience. Understanding this comparison is key when selecting among the best private universities to study in Canada, especially if your priority is a focused, hands-on education and a quicker application cycle.
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Public vs. Private: A Strategic Comparison for Indian Students
| Feature | Strategic Advantage of Private Universities in Canada | Core Feature of Public Universities in Canada |
| Admissions/Flexibility | Faster Application Turnaround & Flexible Intake: Smaller application pools often mean quicker decisions and more specialized intake dates. | Slower Admissions: Highly standardized, competitive, and slower process due to massive application volumes. |
| Student Experience | Focused Attention & Smaller Class Sizes: Small cohort sizes lead to more individualized mentorship, faster access to professors, and dedicated learning environments. | Extensive Scope: Typically offer a much wider range of programs and comprehensive research opportunities. |
| Program Type | Niche/Specialized Degrees: Often focus on high-demand, vocational areas (like tech, business, or design) with curricula updated quickly to meet industry needs. | Broad Academic Offerings: Deeply rooted in foundational research and traditional academic disciplines. |
| Financial Aid | Targeted Scholarships: Often have specific scholarships or grants designed to attract top international talent, sometimes offering a better aid package than highly competitive publics. | Low Base Cost (Overall): May be less expensive overall due to significant government subsidies, but high international tuition is still steep. |
Comprehensive List of Top Private Universities in Canada (2026)
This list includes accredited, degree-granting private institutions across Canada. However, note that PGWP eligibility is highly inconsistent in the private sector; always verify your specific program's status before applying.
1. University Canada West (UCW)
- Location: British Columbia
- Strategic Note: Excellent choice for MBA/BBA in a prime downtown location. Ranked first among private institutions for Scopus-indexed research in 2024.
- PGWP Status: PGWP-Eligible for its degree programs (Master’s and Bachelor’s).
- Average Tuition Fee: CAD 27,500 (₹17.43 Lakh)
2. Yorkville University
- Location: New Brunswick, British Columbia, Ontario (Toronto/Vancouver/Fredericton)
- Strategic Note: Highly flexible scheduling and practitioner-oriented degrees. Strong appeal for students seeking accelerated or flexible learning.
- PGWP Status: PGWP-Eligible for its degree programs in specific provinces like New Brunswick and BC. Varies by program in Ontario.
- Average Tuition Fee: CAD 22,000 (₹13.94 Lakh)
3. Trinity Western University (TWU)
- Location: Langley, British Columbia
- Strategic Note: Low student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1, offering high individualized attention. Recognized for its strong liberal arts and sciences focus.
- PGWP Status: PGWP-Eligible for its degree programs.
- Average Tuition Fee: CAD 21,500 (₹13.63 Lakh)
4. Fairleigh Dickinson University (Canada)
- Location: Vancouver, British Columbia
- Strategic Note: Part of a global not-for-profit network. Programs focus on international business and administration, suitable for students seeking a global career perspective.
- PGWP Status: PGWP-Eligible for its degree programs.
- Average Tuition Fee: CAD 29,000 (₹18.38 Lakh)
5. Quest University Canada
- Location: Squamish, British Columbia
- Strategic Note: Offers a unique "block plan" model (studying one course intensely for three weeks). Appeals to students looking for a non-traditional, focused academic experience.
- PGWP Status: PGWP-Eligible for its Bachelor of Arts & Science degree.
- Average Tuition Fee: CAD 34,000 (₹21.54 Lakh)
6. NSCAD University (Nova Scotia College of Art and Design)
- Location: Halifax, Nova Scotia
- Strategic Note: One of the oldest and most respected independent art and design universities in Canada. Excellent choice for specialized BFA and MFA degrees in a relatively immigration-friendly province.
- PGWP Status: Generally PGWP-Eligible as it is a degree-granting institution recognized by the province.
- Average Tuition Fee: CAD 20,000 (₹12.67 Lakh)
7. Emily Carr University of Art + Design
- Location: Vancouver, British Columbia
- Strategic Note: Highly respected, specialized university focused entirely on visual arts, media arts, and design. Excellent industry reputation in BC.
- PGWP Status: Generally PGWP-Eligible for degree programs.
- Average Tuition Fee: CAD 24,000 (₹15.21 Lakh)
8. Institut Supérieur d'Administration et de Gestion (ISAG)
- Location: Montreal, Quebec
- Strategic Note: Offers specialized programs focused on administration and technology management, often with a French-language component. Quebec has its own unique immigration and DLI rules.
- PGWP Status: Must be verified. PGWP eligibility in Quebec's private sector is extremely strict, often requiring the institution to be publicly funded despite being privately managed.
Critical Warning: PGWP Eligibility is Not Guaranteed
For the Indian student prioritizing the PR pathway, always remember the distinction: public institutions offer a guaranteed PGWP. Private institutions require meticulous research. Do not begin your application until you have confirmed your specific program is on the official IRCC DLI list with PGWP eligibility noted.
PGWP Eligibility Rules for Private Universities in Canada
The PGWP (Post-Graduation Work Permit) in Canada is the most important piece of information for Indian students, as it allows you to gain valuable Canadian work experience after graduation. The specific DLI status of a private university is crucial for PGWP eligibility.
For any program at the leading private universities in Canada to be PGWP-eligible, you must meet strict criteria from the IRCC.
PGWP Requirements for Private DLIs in Canada
| PGWP Requirement | Status/Metric | Policy Detail |
| Delivery Mode | Must be ≥ 50% In-Class | Effective September 1, 2024, you must complete at least 50% of your entire program in class inside Canada. Programs with over 50% online delivery are explicitly ineligible. |
| Student Status | Full-Time | You must maintain full-time student status throughout your program, except for scheduled breaks and the final term. Part-time study during a mandatory academic term leads to immediate ineligibility. |
| Program Duration | ≥ 8 months | The program must be a degree, diploma, or certificate lasting at least eight months. |
| Application Deadline | 180 days | You must apply within 180 days of receiving official confirmation of program completion. |
PGWP Eligibility Checks for Top Private Universities in Canada
It is vital to confirm that your specific program at one of the private universities in Canada is listed as PGWP-eligible.
- University Canada West (UCW): Eligible degrees include the Master of Business Administration (MBA), Bachelor of Commerce, Bachelor of Arts in Business Communication, and the Associate of Arts.
- Yorkville University: Specific eligible degrees include the Master of Business Administration Program, Bachelor of Interior Design, and various Bachelor of Business Administration specialisations.
Note: The PGWP is a one-time opportunity. Always check the DLI list on the official Canadian government website before applying to ensure your chosen private university in Canada and program qualify.
Cost of Studying at Private Universities in Canada for Indian Students
For Indian students, the total estimated investment for your education in Canada, including tuition and living expenses, is between CAD 60,000 to CAD 126,000 (approximately ₹38.03 Lakhs to ₹79.86 Lakhs).
GIC and Living Costs for Private University Students in Canada
For the SDS visa pathway, the GIC is a non-negotiable proof of funds.
| Type of Expense | Estimated Cost (CAD) | Calculated Cost (INR) | Significance |
| Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) | CAD 20,635 | ₹13,07,190 | Mandatory proof of funds for the SDS visa pathway. |
| Annual Living Expenses | CAD 20,000 | ₹12,67,600 | Increased requirement due to rising cost of living. |
| Student Visa Application Fee | CAD 150 | ₹9,507 | Required for application. |
Annual Tuition Fees at Private Universities in Canada
Tuition varies widely, but here are the official average ranges for programs at private universities in Canada.
| Degree Level | Average Tuition Fee (CAD/Year) | Calculated Cost (INR/Year) |
| Undergraduate | CAD 22,000 | ₹13,94,360 |
| Postgraduate | CAD 17,000 | ₹10,77,460 |
| Executive MBA | CAD 42,000 | ₹26,62,000 |
Note on Conversions: All INR figures are calculated using the required rate of 1 CAD = 63.38 INR (as of November 2025) and are approximate.
Admission Requirements for Private Universities in Canada
To apply to private universities in Canada, you will generally need to submit the following documents:
- Academic Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions, plus the certificate of secondary school/12th grade equivalent.
- Degree Requirement: A Bachelor’s degree is required for any Master's or postgraduate program.
- Proof of English Proficiency: Scores from tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
- Personal Statements: A clear Statement of Purpose (SOP) or Letter of Intent.
- Recommendation: Letter of Recommendation (LOR).
- Financial Proof: Evidence of financial support, including the GIC for the SDS pathway.
While the focus is on private universities in Canada, it also helps to explore scholarships in Canada for Indian students, as these can greatly reduce your study costs. Many private institutions offer useful grants that lower tuition.
For a detailed breakdown of government, provincial, and university-funded options available to you, check out our in-depth blog: Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada for Indian Students
Conclusion
Choosing a private DLI in Canada is a strategic, high-value decision, especially if you are focused on PGWP eligibility and targeted career outcomes. These institutions offer smaller classes, personalised attention, and many provide diverse, specialised courses. By understanding the accurate costs (in CAD and INR) and following the latest PGWP compliance rules, you are well-positioned for a successful study journey at one of the recognised private universities in Canada.
Ready to secure your admission? We have a team of study abroad experts to make your application and admission process easier. Book your free counselling session with LeapScholar today.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Is a private university degree valid in Canada?
Yes, generally speaking, degrees from private universities in Canada hold the same validity as those from public universities. This is because private institutions must meet specific quality standards and accreditation set by the province to operate and award degrees.
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Are there any private universities in the province of Alberta, Canada?
Yes, there are private universities in Canada located in Alberta. Examples include The King's University and Ambrose University, which offer undergraduate and graduate programs alongside publicly funded institutions.
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Can I get a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after studying at a private college?
Yes, you can apply for a PGWP after studying at a private college. However, the institution must be a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), and your program must meet the eligibility criteria, including being a degree-level program and having at least 50% of the instruction completed in-person in Canada.
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How much does it cost to go to a private university in Canada?
The cost of studying at private universities in Canada usually falls between CAD 17,000 and CAD 30,000 per year. Fees can be higher for MBA or specialised programs, especially at private colleges in Toronto, where living expenses are also higher.
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Which is better, a public or private university in Canada?
Both public and private universities in Canada offer high academic standards. Public institutions provide more research opportunities, while private universities and private colleges in Canada Toronto offer smaller class sizes and more personalised academic support. The better option depends on your program needs and budget.
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Is a private university degree valid in Canada?
Yes. Degrees from recognised private universities in Canada are valid as long as the institution is authorised by the provincial government to grant degrees. Many private colleges in Toronto and other provinces follow strict quality and accreditation requirements.
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