When looking to study in Canada, international students often seek affordable universities that maintain high educational standards. Fortunately, Canada offers a range of budget-friendly institutions where students can enjoy quality education without the steep costs typically associated with studying abroad. To assist you, we’ve put together a list of the cheapest universities in Canada for 2025. These institutions offer a blend of excellent academic programs and lower tuition fees, making them ideal choices for international students aiming to manage their expenses while pursuing higher education.
Among the cheapest universities in Canada, the University of Guelph stands out with its affordable fees and strong focus on research and teaching. Concordia University, located in Montreal, is known for its budget-friendly options and extensive program choices. Similarly, Canadian Mennonite University and Cape Breton University offer low tuition costs while maintaining a commitment to comprehensive and inclusive education. Other notable mentions include Brandon University, which is renowned for its small class sizes and personalized attention, and the University of Prince Edward Island, known for its emphasis on sustainable development. Each of these universities provides unique opportunities for students to receive a quality education at a fraction of the cost compared to other destinations.
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List of Cheapest Universities in Canada:
1. University of Guelph
Situated in Guelph, Ontario, University of Guelph offers a rich educational experience coupled with affordable tuition fees. It is well-regarded for its focus on research and teaching excellence.
- Fees for Bachelors: CAD 15,000 – CAD 20,000 per semester
- Fees for Masters: CAD 7,735 – CAD 10,623 per semester
2. Concordia University
Concordia University, a public research university in Montreal, Quebec is one of the cheapest universities in Canada. It offers over 300 undergraduate and 100 graduate programs across two campuses. Concordia also provides extensive online and experiential learning opportunities.
- Fees for Bachelors: CAD 30,626 – CAD 38,715 per year
- Fees for Masters: CAD 34,500 per year
3. Canadian Mennonite University
Canadian Mennonite University (CMU), located in Winnipeg, Manitoba, is among the cheapest universities in Canada offering comprehensive programs in various fields with a strong focus on reconciliation and community. CMU provides both undergraduate and graduate degrees, emphasizing diverse and inclusive education.
- Fees for Bachelors: CAD 20,000 per year.
- Fees for Masters: CAD 18,000 per year
4. Cape Breton University
Cape Breton University, located in Nova Scotia, Canada, is a public research university and one of the cheapest universities in Canada for International Students. Comprising three institutes—Xavier Junior College, Nova Scotia Eastern Institute of Technology, and the College of Cape Breton—CBU is known for its strong faculty-student interaction and service learning. The university offers excellent research opportunities for both undergraduate and graduate students, supported by a dedicated center for local, regional, national, and international research.
- Fees for Bachelors: CAD 21,270.20 – CAD 21,933.20 per year
- Fees for Masters: CAD 46,140 per year
5. Dalhousie University
Dalhousie University, a prominent public research university in Nova Scotia, Canada is one of the cheapest universities in Canada. Dalhousie is known for its strong academic program offering over 4,000 courses and around 180-degree programs across 12 disciplines, including popular majors like Biology, Engineering, Business, and Computer Science.
- Fees for Bachelors: CAD 37,100 per year
- Fees for Masters: CAD 10,863 per year
6. Simon Fraser University
Located in Burnaby, British Columbia, Simon Fraser University ranks among Canada’s top institutions. It offers a variety of affordable programs, particularly in science and technology fields.
- Fees for Bachelors: CAD 26,640 per semester
- Fees for Masters: CAD 12,140 per semester.
7. Brandon University
Brandon University, located in Manitoba, is known for its small class sizes and personalized education. It ranks on the top among the Cheapest Universities in Canada for International Students. It offers a range of affordable programs that are attractive to international students.
- Fees for Bachelors: CAD 8,000 to 9,933 per semester.
- Fees for Masters: CAD 5,000 – CAD 7,000 per semester.
8. University of Prince Edward Island
The University of Prince Edward Island is one of the cheapest universities in Canada offering a broad spectrum of programs with a focus on sustainable development and healthcare. It is known for its affordability and quality education.
- Fees for Bachelors: CAD 8,010 – CAD 74,804 per year.
- Fees for Masters: CAD 13,250 per year
9. University of Winnipeg
The University of Winnipeg is well-regarded for its strong commitment to social justice and environmental sustainability. It provides various affordable programs in management and other fields.
- Fees for Bachelors: CAD 16,245 – CAD 20,599 per year.
- Fees for Masters: CAD 18,000 per year
10. University of Northern British Columbia
Known for its focus on environmental sustainability and rural studies, the University of Northern British Columbia is one of the cheapest universities in Canada offering affordable education with a strong emphasis on community engagement.
- Fees for Bachelors: CAD 13,380 per semester
- Fees for Masters: CAD 2,548 – CAD 8,659 per semester
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11. University of Montreal
The University of Montreal, a French-language public research university in Quebec, offers 600 programs across 13 faculties, including Law, Medicine, and Engineering, with campuses specializing in diverse fields like business, public health, and optometry. Established in 1878, it is known for its extensive educational offerings and research excellence.
- Fees for Bachelors: CAD 14,992 per semester.
- Fees for Masters: CAD 11,527 per semester.
12. McMaster University
McMaster University, located in Hamilton, Ontario, is a research-focused institution established in 1887, offering over 3,000 undergraduate and 150 graduate programs across six faculties. The university’s main campus spans 300 acres, with additional campuses in Burlington, Niagara, Downtown Hamilton, and Kitchener-Waterloo.
- Fees for Bachelors: CAD 20,000 – 30,000 per semester
- Fees for Masters: CAD 18,500 – CAD 25,046 per semester
Choosing one of these Cheapest Universities in Canada will allow you to obtain a high-quality education without the heavy financial burden often associated with studying abroad. Each university offers a unique environment, ensuring that every student can find a program that aligns with their academic and professional aspirations.
Don’t forget to explore scholarships and financial aid options in Canada to make your education even more affordable.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Which is the cheapest university in Canada for international students?
Brandon University is one of the most affordable universities in Canada for international students, with tuition fees ranging from CAD 8,000 to CAD 9,933 per semester for bachelor’s programs.
Q2: Can I get scholarships at the cheapest universities in Canada?
Yes, many of the universities listed, such as the University of Guelph, Concordia University, and Dalhousie University, offer scholarships and financial aid options for international students.
Q3: Is the quality of education at cheaper universities in Canada compromised?
No, the quality of education at these affordable universities is not compromised. Canada is known for its high academic standards, and these universities offer world-class education and research opportunities.
Q4: Which universities in Canada offer affordable programs in Engineering?
Universities like McMaster University, Simon Fraser University, and Polytechnique Montréal (part of the University of Montreal) offer affordable engineering programs.
Q5: What are the living costs for international students in Canada?
Living costs vary depending on the city and lifestyle. On average, students can expect to spend between CAD 10,000 to CAD 15,000 per year on living expenses, including accommodation, food, and transportation.
Q6: Are the cheap universities in Canada located in student-friendly cities?
Yes, many of these universities, such as the University of Winnipeg and the University of Prince Edward Island, are located in student-friendly cities with a lower cost of living, making them ideal for international students.
Q7: Do I need to be fluent in French to study at the University of Montreal?
Since the University of Montreal is a French-language institution, proficiency in French is generally required for most programs. However, some courses and programs may be available in English.
Q8: What are the popular programs available at the affordable universities in Canada?
Popular programs include Business Administration, Engineering, Computer Science, Environmental Studies, and Public Health, available at universities like Concordia University, Dalhousie University, and the University of Northern British Columbia.
Q9: How do I apply to affordable universities in Canada?
Applications can be submitted directly through the university’s official website. Be sure to check specific entry requirements, deadlines, and any application fees.
Q10: Can I work while studying at the universities in Canada?
Yes, international students in Canada can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during breaks, as long as they hold a valid study permit.
