Canada is a fairly good choice for international students longing for quality education and university degree. However, for many of them, the dream of studying in this great country, are beaten by the lack of money since they cannot find cheap colleges in Canada. Actually, beyond the expensive hubs of Toronto and Vancouver, there are many institutions offering world-class education at a fraction of the price. This article will guide you to learn about the cheapest colleges in Canada, helping you secure a prestigious degree without the burden of overwhelming debt.
Why Study in Canada?
Studying abroad offers students new experience of both acquiring knowledge and daily lives, but it also means a significant financial commitment. For many students, finding cheap colleges in Canada is the first step toward a successful global career without the burden of overwhelming debt.
World-Class Education at Lower Fees
Many people believe that low tuition is equivalent to low quality. Actually, even the cheapest university in Canada for international students offers globally recognized degrees. Since the Canadian higher education system is public and strictly regulated, a degree from an affordable university holds the same academic recognition as one from a top-tier institution. The lower price tag simply reflects the lower cost of living and operations in smaller cities, not a compromise on teaching standards.
Post-Graduation Work Permit Opportunities
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) enables you to live and work in Canada for up to three years after graduation. This means you will have a great opportunity to earn back your investment in education. Furthermore, the Canadian work experience is often a critical step toward securing Permanent Residence (PR). By combining affordable tuition with the earnings, you can maximize your return on the investment in education.
Cheap Universities in Canada with Tuition for Undergraduates
| University | Province | Tuition Range (30 Credits) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) | PEI | $16,670 – $17,500 | Arts, Science, Education |
| Brandon University | Manitoba | $16,855 – $18,600 | Music, Arts, Science |
| University of Winnipeg | Manitoba | $17,860 – $22,650 | Arts, Kinesiology, Theology |
| Cape Breton University (CBU) | Nova Scotia | $18,270 – $19,500 | BBA, Hospitality, Public Health |
| University of Manitoba | Manitoba | $19,145 – $26,000 | Arts, Science |
| University of Saskatchewan | Saskatchewan | $21,200 – $29,500 | Arts & Science |
| University of Regina | Saskatchewan | $22,500 – $26,500 | Arts, Social Work, Media |
| Memorial Univ. of Newfoundland (MUN) | Newfoundland | ~$22,500 (Flat Fee) | Marine Institute, Engineering |
| Concordia Univ. of Edmonton | Alberta | $24,000 – $28,000 | Management, Science |
| UNBC (Univ. of Northern BC) | British Columbia | $24,500 – $27,000 | Environmental Studies, Arts |
10 Cheapest Colleges in Canada for International Students
In Canada, there are many affordable universities and colleges offering high-quality undergraduate and graduate education. These schools are also globally renowned for their academic excellence. If you are looking for cost-effective choices, do not overlook them.
Below is the updated list of the cheapest universities in Canada for international students and other top contenders for the 2025/2026 academic year.
University of Prince Edward Island (PEI)
Undergraduate Tuition: $16,670 – $17,500 CAD/year
Location: Charlottetown, PEI
Why it’s a Top Pick: UPEI is one of the chepest universities in Canada and the undisputed “Value King.” It houses the Atlantic Veterinary College, one of North America’s top vet schools, which proves its immense research capability despite the low price tag.
Academics: Beyond Science, its Education and Business programs are highly practical. With a 16:1 student-to-faculty ratio, you get direct mentorship from professors—something impossible at big universities like UofT.
Scholarships: The “Guaranteed Entrance Scholarships” are a game changer. If your admission average is 85% or higher, you are automatically awarded money (typically $1,000–$3,000) without a separate application.
Accommodation: Rent here is a fraction of what you’d pay in Toronto or Vancouver. Since on-campus residences fill up fast, most international students book student housing in Charlottetown through platforms like uhomes.com, where you can find private rooms starting around $550–$700/month.
Best for: Veterinary Medicine (highly competitive), Arts, and Science.
Brandon University (Manitoba)
Undergraduate Tuition: $16,855 – $18,600 CAD/year
Location: Brandon, Manitoba.
Why it’s a Top Pick: As a cheap university in Canada, it offers an elite “private college” experience at a public price. The student-to-faculty ratio is an incredible 11:1, meaning you get direct mentorship and research opportunities that are impossible to find in crowded lecture halls at bigger universities.
Academics: It is a powerhouse for specialized careers. The School of Music (housed in the Queen Elizabeth II Building) is one of Western Canada’s finest, and its Psychiatric Nursing program is a national leader with high employability.
Scholarships: BU is very generous to international talent. For instance, IB diploma graduates automatically qualify for up to $2,800 in scholarships plus transfer credits, with no separate application required.
Accommodation: Brandon is one of the most affordable university towns in Canada. Rent costs are approx. 40% lower than in Winnipeg. You can easily find comfortable student apartments in Brandon on uhomes.com for as little as $450–$600/month, allowing you to live comfortably without a roommate if you choose.
Best for: Students looking for cheap schools in Canada with a strong focus on Music, Education, and Arts.
University of Winnipeg (Manitoba)
Undergraduate Tuition: $17,860 – $22,650 CAD/year
Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba
Why it’s a Top Pick: As a cheap college in Canada, it offers a rare “big city experience” at a budget price. Unlike isolated suburban campuses, the University of Winnipeg immerses you in a dynamic city life without the high cost.
Academics: It punches above its weight in Science (home to the Richardson College for the Environment) and Theatre. Plus, its tuition for Arts programs is among the most transparent and stable in Canada.
Scholarships: The “Special Entrance Scholarships” are automatically assessed for international students. If you enter with an 85%+ average, you can receive up to $3,000, significantly reducing your first-year costs.
Accommodation: Living costs here are a steal—roughly 60% lower than in Toronto. Most students live in the Downtown or West End areas. You can easily find furnished student apartments in Winnipeg on uhomes.com, making it incredibly easy to secure a budget-friendly home before you arrive.
Best for: Students who want an urban experience while attending one of the affordable universities in Canada.
Cape Breton University (Nova Scotia)
Undergraduate Tuition: $18,270 – $19,500 CAD/year
Location: Sydney, Nova Scotia
Why it’s a Top Pick: CBU is a fairly affordable university in Canada. It has aggressively tailored its programs to be efficient and job-focused. The goal isn’t to keep you in school forever; it’s to get you trained and into the Canadian workforce as quickly as possible.
Academics: It is famous for its Post-Baccalaureate Diplomas in high-demand fields like Supply Chain Management and Business Analytics. These 2-year programs are specifically designed for international students who already hold a degree but need Canadian credentials and practical skills to launch a career.
Scholarships: CBU offers over $2.5 million in scholarships annually. High-achieving international students are automatically considered for entrance awards ranging from $500 to $5,000 based on their academic grades.
Accommodation: As Sydney grows, finding a place to stay is a top priority. Rent here is still far cheaper than Halifax, with options near campus or downtown starting around $550–$750/month.
Best for: Hospitality, Supply Chain Management, and Business Analytics.
University of Manitoba (Manitoba)
Undergraduate Tuition: $18,000 – $22,000 CAD/year
Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba
Why it’s a Top Pick: It is one of the cheapest colleges in Canada because it offers “Ivy League” prestige at a community college price. As a member of the U15 Group (Canada’s top research universities), a degree here carries the same weight as one from UBC or McGill, but tuition is roughly 50% less. It is the smartest way to put a prestigious name on your resume on a budget.
Academics: This is the best choice for competitive fields. The Asper School of Business is world-renowned, and its Engineering programs are top-tier (though tuition is higher). Crucially, the University of Manitoba offers extensive Co-op programs, allowing you to earn a Canadian salary ($15–$25/hr) while you study to offset costs.
Scholarships: High achievers are rewarded instantly. The “International Undergraduate Student Entrance Scholarships” automatically award roughly $1,000 to $3,000 to students with high school averages of 85% or above.
Accommodation: Since the campus is about 30 minutes from downtown, most students prefer living in the surrounding Fort Garry neighborhoods to save commute time. You can find convenient apartments near University of Manitoba on uhomes.com, with many options just a short bus ride or walk from campus, typically ranging from $550 to $800/month.
Best for: Engineering, Science, and Business students seeking high-ranking degrees on a budget.
University of Saskatchewan (Saskatchewan)
Undergraduate Tuition: $21,200 – $29,500 CAD/year
Location: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Why it’s a Top Pick: It is arguably the most affordable choice in the long run due to the Graduate Retention Program. If you stay and work in Saskatchewan after graduation, the province offers up to $20,000 in tax rebates. Effectively, the government pays you back a huge chunk of your tuition, making your net degree cost significantly lower than anywhere else in Canada.
Academics: As a member of the elite U15 Group, USask is a global powerhouse in Agriculture, Engineering, and Medical Research (home to the VIDO-InterVac vaccine center). You are getting world-class research facilities for a fraction of the price of U of T or UBC.
Scholarships: USask offers “Guaranteed Entrance Scholarships” for international students. You will automatically receive between $1,000 and $3,000 if your admission average is above 85%, with top students eligible for the “Best and Brightest” awards valued at up to $40,000.
Accommodation: Saskatoon offers a high quality of life with low living costs. Rent here is stable and affordable. You can browse student housing in Saskatoon and find options near the university or in the vibrant Nutana neighborhood, typically costing between $500 and $750/month.
Best for: Agriculture, Engineering, and Life Sciences.
University of Regina (Saskatchewan)
Undergraduate Tuition: $22,500 – $26,500 CAD/year
Location: Regina, Saskatchewan
Why it’s a Top Pick: As cheap college in Canada, the sticker price doesn’t tell the whole story; the Co-op Work Program does. University of Regina is the “Earnings Champion.” By alternating study semesters with paid work terms, students typically earn $12,000 – $15,000 CAD per term. This income directly offsets your tuition costs, meaning you are essentially subsidizing your own education while building a Canadian resume.
Academics: It is a pragmatic choice. The university excels in Engineering (especially Petroleum and Software Systems) and Business, heavily integrating Co-op placements to ensure graduates are job-ready.
Scholarships: Beyond Co-op earnings, the “UR Circle of Scholars” recognizes top talent. International students with an admission average of 85%+ are automatically eligible for $3,000, with top awards reaching $20,000 over four years.
Accommodation: Your Co-op salary goes further here because rent is so cheap. You don’t need to squeeze into a tiny room; you can afford space. Check out spacious student apartments in Regina on uhomes.com, where rents typically range from $450 to $700/month, allowing you to save a significant portion of your earnings.
Best for: Students who want paid work experience (Co-op) built into their degree
Memorial University of Newfoundland (Newfoundland & Labrador)
Undergraduate Tuition: Approx. $22,500 CAD/year
Location: St. John’s, Newfoundland
Why it’s a Top Pick: Although tuition was recently adjusted, MUN remains heavily subsidized by the provincial government, keeping it competitive. The real value here is the “Price-to-Quality” ratio. You gain access to specialized labs and equipment—especially in marine and ocean sectors—that would cost double at other institutions.
Academics: It is a global heavyweight in Ocean Sciences, Marine Biology, and Engineering. Its Marine Institute is world-renowned. If you are studying anything related to the ocean or natural resources, there is simply no better place in Canada for this price.
Scholarships: MUN rewards academic excellence. The “International Entrance Scholarships” are valued at $4,400, and are automatically awarded to eligible students with top high school grades.
Accommodation: Living on “The Rock” (local nickname for the island) is surprisingly affordable. Unlike Toronto’s housing crisis, St. John’s offers plenty of space.
Best for: Marine Biology, Ocean Sciences, and Engineering.
Concordia University of Edmonton (Alberta)
Undergraduate Tuition: $24,000 – $28,000 CAD/year
Location: Edmonton, Alberta
Why it’s a Top Pick: As one of the cheapest colleges in Canada, Concordia University of Edmonton offers a “Private School Experience at a Public School Price.” Usually, small class sizes and personalized attention come with a massive premium. Here, you get that boutique educational experience for less than most massive public universities. You are a name, not a number.
Academics: CUE is renowned for its niche, high-quality programs like Information Systems Security and Management. The small campus environment fosters tight-knit networking opportunities, which is invaluable for business and IT students looking for local employment.
Scholarships: CUE makes education accessible. The “Automatic Entrance Scholarships” range from $1,000 to $5,000 based on your high school admission average, and are renewable if you maintain good grades.
Accommodation: Edmonton is one of Canada’s most affordable major cities. Since CUE is located in the historic Highlands neighborhood, rent is very reasonable. You can find safe, comfortable student housing in Edmonton on uhomes.com, with private rooms or shared apartments often ranging from $600 to $850/month.
Best for: Management, IT, and Psychology.
University of Northern British Columbia (British Columbia)
Undergraduate Tuition: $24,500 – $27,000 CAD/year
Location: Prince George, BC
Why it’s a Top Pick: As a cheap university in a province where tuition often exceeds $40,000, UNBC is the outlier. It consistently ranks as Canada’s #1 Small University by Maclean’s magazine. You are getting an elite, award-winning education without the “Vancouver price premium.”
Academics: For Environmental Studies, Forestry, and Nursing, the quality of education per dollar spent is exceptionally high. The campus itself acts as a “living laboratory,” allowing you to conduct fieldwork right outside your classroom door—an experience city universities can’t offer.
Scholarships: UNBC actively recruits top international talent. The “Early Entrance Awards” offer $2,500 to students with an admission average of 80% or higher, with larger Leadership Awards available for those active in their communities.
Accommodation: Living in Prince George costs a fraction of Vancouver. You don’t need to worry about the housing crisis here. You can find affordable student housing in Prince George on uhomes.com, where private rooms and shared suites are readily available for just $550 to $750/month.
Best for: Environmental Studies, Forestry, and Nursing.
What is the Cost of Living in Canada?
The average monthly cost of living in Canada varies according to different cities, lifestyles, and personal habits. For international students, Canada can give you a brilliant cultural and academic experience, but you are required to prepare for the costs associated with studying abroad. The monthly expenses in Canada for students are $2,500 to $3,000 on average, including house rent, food, transportation and other essentials.
Accommodation is invariably the largest expense for most students and newcomers, though rent varies significantly based on the city and housing type. However, living in Canada doesn’t mean you need to pay high rent. If you can make correct decisions in terms of student housing in Canada, you can save a lot. In major hubs like Toronto and Vancouver, renting a private room in a shared apartment typically costs between $1,300 and $1,800 CAD per month. In contrast, affordable cities such as Winnipeg, Halifax, or Prince George offer similar shared housing options for just $500 to $750 CAD. This means choosing a cheaper city can save you nearly $1,000 every single month.
Keep in mind that basic utilities and internet are rarely included in rentals, which adds an extra $75 to $150 to your monthly budget. To keep costs down, many students choose shared apartments or on-campus housing.
| City Category | University City | Avg. Shared Room (CAD/mo) | Avg. Private Studio (CAD/mo) | Difficulty Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High Cost | Toronto, ON | $1,200 – $1,600 | $2,300+ | All Levels (World Class) |
| High Cost | Vancouver, BC | $1,300 – $1,700 | $2,500+ | Intermediate to Expert |
| Moderate | Montreal, QC | $700 – $1,000 | $1,300+ | All Levels |
| Budget Pick | Winnipeg, MB (U of Winnipeg/Manitoba) | $500 – $700 | $950 – $1,200 | Intermediate to Expert |
| Budget Pick | Regina, SK (U of Regina) | $450 – $650 | $850 – $1,100 | Easy to Advanced |
| Budget Pick | Edmonton, AB (Concordia/MacEwan) | $600 – $800 | $1,000 – $1,300 | |
| Budget Pick | St. John’s, NL (Memorial Univ.) | $500 – $650 | $800 – $1,000 | |
| Budget Pick | Halifax, NS (St. Mary’s/Dalhousie) | $700 – $900 | $1,500+ | |
| Budget Pick | Prince George, BC (UNBC) | $550 – $750 | $900 – $1,150 |
How to Apply for a University in Canada
Check Deadlines
Most Canadian institutions have two main periods of intake, fall intake and winter intake. Most program options and scholarship are available in fall intake. Deadlines usually fall between January and April. Winter Intake can be a good option for backup, though fewer programs are available. Deadlines are typically in September of the previous year.
Prepare Essential Documents (Language & Academics)
To prove you are eligible, generally you will need:
- Academic Transcripts: Scanned copies of your high school or university grades.
- Proof of Language Proficiency: Across these ten affordable universities, the standard requirement is an overall IELTS score of 6.5 (minimum 6.0), with the notable exception of Concordia University of Edmonton, which accepts a more accessible score of 6.0. For TOEFL iBT, admission scores generally range from 80 to 90, with schools like UPEI, CBU, and Concordia accepting 80, while UNBC sets the highest bar at 90.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP): A letter explaining why you want to study at this specific school.
Study Permit and Visa
Once you receive your Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), you must apply for a Study Permit immediately. You will need to prove you have enough funds to cover your first year of tuition and living expenses (Cost of Living).
Conclusion
Choosing cheap colleges in Canada for international students can be a cost-effective investment. You don’t have to compromise for high quality. By targeting provinces like Manitoba or Saskatchewan, you can have access to world-class education and the valuable PGWP at a lower cost compared to studying in big cities.
However, seats usually get full quickly. The smartest move is to calculate your total budget including both tuition fees and living costs. The you can choose the most suitable college reliable housing service platform, and apply as early as possible.
FAQS
The top 10 cheapest universites in Canada are:
- University of Prince Edward Island
- Brandon University
- University of Winnipeg
- Cape Breton University
- University of Manitoba
- University of Saskatchewan
- University of Regina
- Memorial Univ. of Newfoundland (MUN)
- Concordia Univ. of Edmonton
- UNBC (Univ. of Northern BC)
Yes, you can get scholarships in Canada, but you need to be realistic. Unlike the US, “full-ride” scholarships (covering 100% of costs) are extremely rare in Canada. However, almost all the affordable universities on this list offer Entrance Scholarships.
How it works: These are often automatic. If your high school grades are above a certain average (usually 80% or 85%+), you could automatically receive $1,000 to $5,000 CAD off your first year’s tuition.
Manitoba and Newfoundland and Labrador are considered the cheapest provinces in Canada for international students.
Manitoba: It hosts several of the most affordable institutions, such as Brandon University (~$16,700 CAD) and the University of Winnipeg.
Newfoundland: While tuition at Memorial University has adjusted, the province still offers a significantly lower cost of living compared to the rest of Canada.
Yes, Canada is generally considered affordable, especially when compared to other popular study destinations like the US and the UK.
Lower Tuition: Many Canadian institutions offer high-quality education at lower tuition rates than their international counterparts.
Manageable Living Costs: While rent in major cities is high, choosing affordable cities like Winnipeg or Halifax can reduce shared housing costs to as low as $370 to $590 per month.
Yes, most affordable colleges generally require an overall IELTS score of 6.0 to 6.5 or a TOEFL score of 80 to 90 for admission. To help students save on testing costs, many of these institutions now also accept the Duolingo English Test, which is a cheaper and faster alternative to traditional exams.
Yes! As a full-time student at a DLI (Designated Learning Institution), you are eligible to work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during academic sessions and full-time during breaks. With Canada’s minimum wage averaging around $15/hour, you can earn roughly $1,400+ per month part-time. If you choose an affordable city and book budget-friendly accommodation through uhomes.com, your part-time wages can easily cover your rent and grocery bills, making your study abroad experience financially self-sustainable.
Choosing an affordable university in Canada is about High ROI (Return on Investment), not lowering your standards. Here are the top 3 reasons:
Standardized Quality: Unlike the US where “cheap” often means “low quality,” Canada’s public education system is strictly regulated. A degree from a smaller university holds the same academic recognition as one from a top-tier institution.
Same Immigration Rights: As long as you attend a DLI (Designated Learning Institution), you are fully eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). You get the same 3-year work permit as a U of T graduate, but for half the cost.
Better Lifestyle: Saving $15,000+ per year on tuition gives you financial freedom. You can use that extra budget to live in premium student accommodation, explore Canada during breaks, or graduate with zero debt.
For undergraduates, Brandon University and UPEI are the most affordable, with fees around $16,000–$17,000 CAD/year. For research Master’s, Simon Fraser University (SFU) is the hidden winner, charging international students domestic rates of approx. $6,450 CAD/year.
Canada does not offer completely free college education for most international students. You can effectively lower your costs by choosing provinces like Saskatchewan, which offers up to $20,000 in tax rebates to graduates.
You can also select universities that offer high scholarships. For example, the University of Winnipeg offers the President’s Scholarship for World Leaders, which awards international students between $3,500 and $5,000 based on academic merit. Since the university’s base tuition is already one of the lowest in Canada (approx. $18,000), securing this scholarship can effectively bring your annual cost down to just $13,000.
At affordable schools like Memorial University or Brandon University, a full 4-year degree totals about $60,000 – $70,000 CAD. Top-tier schools can exceed $200,000. Pairing a cheap school with budget housing on uhomes.com is the best way to keep total costs low.
Yes. On average, Canadian tuition is 30% to 40% lower than comparable US universities. Additionally, the exchange rate often favors the US dollar, and finding quality student apartments for under $600 USD/month is much easier in Canada.
