Canada, with its stunning landscapes and multicultural cities, is a dream destination for many international students. But those dreams can sometimes get squeezed by hefty tuition fees. Fear not, budget-minded scholars! Here’s a look at 3 of Canada’s most affordable universities that offer excellent education without breaking the bank:
Memorial University of Newfoundland
Founded in 1925 as a tribute to World War I sacrifices, Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN) is a distinguished Canadian institution in St. John’s, with campuses in Corner Brook and Harlow (UK). Offering diverse undergraduate and graduate programs in arts, science, business, engineering, education and health sciences, MUN is renowned for its Marine Institute’s global contributions to marine studies and ocean technology.
Why Memorial University of Newfoundland?
Recognized for its exceptional support to international graduate students, Memorial University of Newfoundland holds the top spot in Canada. Moreover, with the lowest tuition fees for graduate programs in the country, it ensures accessibility to higher education.
Spanning four campuses and accommodating around 18,500 students, it cultivates a vibrant learning atmosphere. Additionally, boasting a favourable student-to-professor ratio of 16:1, it prioritises individualised attention and academic support, making it a premier destination for aspiring scholars.
Student life at MUN
At Memorial University of Newfoundland, student life thrives with abundant opportunities and support. With over 30 research facilities securing substantial funding, students are immersed in a rich academic environment.
Notably, Newfoundland and Labrador lead Canada in hosting the highest percentage of full-time international graduate students, highlighting the university’s global appeal. MUN Alumni offers on-campus housing equipped with modern amenities, ensuring a comfortable and convenient living experience for both undergraduates and graduate students.
From fully furnished rooms to high-speed internet and 24/7 security, students find a welcoming home base conducive to academic success and personal growth.
Tuition fees
- MBA (2 Years): CAD 3222
- Engineering (2-5 Years): CAD 3222 – CAD 11460.
- Science (2 Years): CAD 3222.
- Arts (2-4 Years): CAD 3222 – CAD 8800.
- Information Technology (2 Years): CAD 3222.
- Management (1-4 Years): CAD 6654 – CAD 11460.
Top courses
- Bachelor of Science (B.S), Psychology.
- Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com).
- Master of Science (M.S), Computer Science.
- Master of Science (M.S), Medicine.
- Master of Engineering (M.Engg), Mechanical Engineering.
- Master of Engineering (M.Engg), Ocean and Naval Architectural Engineering.
- MAster of Business Administration (M.B.A).
Requirements for undergraduate (UG) admission
- Application Fee: CAD 120.
- Academic Requirements: SSC & HSC/O & A Levels Certificates.
- English Proficiency Requirements: IELTS-6.5/TOEFL iBT- 79/Duolingo: 115.
- Additional Requirements: Letter of Reference, Bank Statements, Affidavit of Financial Support, Interview.
Requirements for postgraduate (PG) admission
- Application Fee: CAD 120.
- Degree/Certificate: Undergraduate Degree.
- GPA or Aggregate: 80% Grade.
- English Proficiency Requirements: IELTS-6.5/TOEFL iBT-80/Duolingo-115.
- Standardised Test Score: GRE(302-310)/GMAT(550-600).
- SOP/LOR: Statement of Purpose, 2 Letter of Reference.
- Additional Requirements: Resume/CV, Writing Sample, Interview.
University of Guelph
Specialising in agriculture, veterinary medicine, and environmental sciences, University of Guelph is known for its picturesque campus.
Established in 1964 in Guelph, Ontario, Canada, the university is a distinguished public research institution resulting from the merger of various colleges, including the Ontario Agricultural College and the Ontario Veterinary College.
Why University of Guelph?
Ranked 14th among the top 50 Canadian research universities, The University of Guelph embodies a commitment to groundbreaking research and scholarly endeavours. Particularly notable is its standing in the Social Sciences and Humanities, where it ranks fifth nationwide according to the Higher Education Strategy Associates.
Additionally, recognized as Canada’s fourth-best comprehensive university by Maclean’s magazine, it excels in providing a well-rounded educational experience that prepares students for success in their chosen fields.
University of Guelph Student Life
At the University of Guelph, student life flourishes with a diverse array of opportunities and amenities. With over 200 clubs catering to various interests, students can engage in vibrant extracurricular activities.
The main campus boasts attractions like the Arboretum and Research Park, offering tranquil green spaces for relaxation and exploration. Culinary delights abound, with seven dining halls, thirteen coffee houses, and two bakeries satisfying every craving.
Notably, students have acclaimed UofG for having the best food on any Canadian university campus.
Tuition fees
- Engineering (1-5 Years): CAD 19524 – CAD 29175
- Science (2-4 Years): CAD 18428 – CAD 22090
- Arts (2-4 Years): CAD 19524 – CAD 22090
- Law (4 Years): CAD 22090
- Information Technology (2-4 Years): CAD 19502 – CAD 22090
- Management (1-4 Years): CAD 18429 – CAD 23108
Top courses
- Bachelor of Science (B.S), Biochemistry.
- Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng), Computer Engineering.
- Bachelor of Arts (B.A), Economics.
- Bachelor of Arts (B.A), Psychology..
- Master of Business Administration (M.B.A), Food and Agribusiness Management.
- Master of Engineering (M.Eng), Engineering Systems and Computing.
- Master of Science (M.S), Computer Science.
- Master of Arts (M.A), Applied Social Psychology.
Requirements for undergraduate (UG) admission
- Application Fee: CAD 90.
- Academic Requirements: SSC & HSC/O & A Levels Certificates.
- SOP/Essay: Supplementary Essay.
- English Proficiency Requirements: IELTS-6.5/TOEFL iBT: 89.
Requirements for postgraduate (PG) admission
- Application Fee: CAD 110 (MBA: CAD 150).
- Degree/Certificate: Undergraduate Degree.
- GPA or Aggregate: 3.0-3.9 (85-98%).
- English Proficiency Requirements: IELTS-6.5/TOEFL iBT-89/PTE-60.
- Standardised Test Score: Competitive GRE or GMAT Score.
- SOP/Essay: Essays or SOP/ Two or Three LORs.
- Additional Requirements: Resume/CV, Financial Documents, Fee Waiver (if any).
Brandon University
Nestled in the wheat fields of Manitoba, Brandon University is a champion of affordability with average tuition fees around $19,000 CAD per year. This friendly campus fosters a close-knit community atmosphere, perfect for those who thrive in smaller settings. Brandon University offers a strong foundation in liberal arts and education, with programs also available in science and music.
Why Brandon University?
With small class sizes, students of Brandon University receive individualised attention and support, fostering a conducive environment for academic success. The university’s emphasis on research provides hands-on opportunities for students to contribute to knowledge advancement in various fields.
Offering a diverse range of programs across arts, sciences, education, health studies, and music, Brandon University caters to a broad spectrum of interests and career goals. Moreover, the university is known for its affordability, with numerous scholarships and financial aid options available to students.
A vibrant campus life enriched by cultural events, clubs, and activities further enhances the overall student experience, making Brandon University a top choice for aspiring scholars.
Top programs (Annual tuition fees)
- Bachelor of Science (B.S), Environmental Science: CAD 19063.
- Bachelor of Science (B.S), Computer Science: CAD 19063.
- Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A), Accounting: CAD 19407.
- Bachelor of Business Administration (B.B.A): CAD 19407.
- Bachelor of Science (B.S), Applied Disaster and Emergency Studies: CAD 19063.
- Master of Music (M.Mus), Music Education: CAD 8344.
- Master of Music (M.Mus), Performance and Literature – Conducting: CAD 8344.
- Master of Music (M.Mus), Performance and Literature – Instrumental Programs: CAD 8344.
- Master of Education (M.Ed): CAD 8059.
Requirements for undergraduate (UG) admission
- Application Fee: CAD 140.
- Academic Requirements: SSC & HSC/O & A Levels Certificates.
- Additional Requirement: Academic letter of reference.
- English Proficiency Requirements: IELTS-6.5/TOEFL iBT: 80.
Requirements for postgraduate (PG) admission
- Application Fee: CAD 140.
- Degree/Certificate: Undergraduate Degree.
- GPA or Aggregate: 3.0-3.9 (85-98%).
- English Proficiency Requirements: IELTS-6.5/TOEFL iBT-86/PTE-60.
- Additional Requirements: Resume/CV, Financial Documents, Fee Waiver (if any), Statement of Purpose, Letter of Recommendation.