Cheap universities in Canada for Indian students

• Beautiful
• Diverse
• Welcoming

These are among the first few things that come to mind when one talks about Canada. The biggest country in North America and the second largest by land area in the world, Canada has long been renowned for its breath taking landscapes, a high standard of living, high levels of tolerance and diversity and a relaxed and laidback lifestyle.

It is also slowly but surely being recognised for the high-quality education it offers, with relative ease of access and significantly greater affordability when compared with the established players, such as the UK, the USA and Australia.

In this article, we will examine some of the cheapest universities in Canada – the colleges and universities that are affordable and offers low-cost programmes for international students in 2023-2024.

List of cheap/low-cost universities in Canada

1. The University of Northern British Columbia
2. University of Prince Edward Island
3. The University of Regina
4. The University of Saskatchewan
5. The University of Alberta
6. The University of Manitoba
7. The University of Winnipeg
8. McGill University
9. Memorial University of Newfoundland
10. The University of Calgary
11. Vancouver Island University
12. Thompson Rivers University
13. University of New Brunswick
14. Dalhousie University
15. Capilano University

Read further for details about the universities, the top courses chosen by Indian students and the approximate tuition fee for undergraduate and postgraduate courses.

University of Northern British Columbia

Widely recognised as one of Canada’s best small universities, the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) is located amidst stunning locales in the province of British Columbia. UNBC’s programs span a wide spectrum, including the sciences, environment, health, economy and culture. With a lower tuition fee than many other universities in Canada and financial awards worth $3,500,000 up for access by the students annually, UNBC is a sound choice for international students.

Which are the courses that Indian students choose at UNBC?

Here are the popular courses picked by Indian students applying to the University of Northern British Columbia:

1. Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
2. Bachelor of Commerce in Finance
3. Bachelor of Commerce in International Business
4. Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting
5. Master of Science in Mathematical, Computer, Physical and Molecular Sciences
6. Bachelor of Commerce in Genera Business
7. Bachelor of Health Sciences (Honours)
8. Bachelor of Health Science in Biomedical Studies

Tuition fee at UNBC

• Undergraduate courses: CAD 25812.42 (15.8 lakhs) per year
• Postgraduate courses: CAD 10993.48 (6.7 lakhs) per year

The University of Prince Edward Island

The University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) is Prince Edward Island’s only university and a public institution of higher education. Over 1500 students from nearly 100 countries arrive at UPEI every year to benefit from its safe yet buzzing location, its research excellence, international exchange opportunities and generous scholarships. Check out our page dedicated to details about UPEI.

Which are the courses that Indian students choose at UPEI?

1. Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
2. MBA in Global Leadership
3. Bachelor of Science in Psychology
4. Bachelor of Arts in Applied Communication, Leadership and Culture
5. Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
6. Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
7. BBA – Accounting
8. BBA – International Business

Tuition fee at the University of Prince Edward Island

• Undergraduate programmes: CAD 14838 per year
• Postgraduate programmes: 25240 per 2-year programme

The University of Regina

International students make up about 18 per cent of the University of Regina’s student population, thriving in its inclusive, diverse environment and savouring its hands-on learning opportunities. Numerous scholarships and awards aside, the University of Regina also has the Really BIG Deal – a housing and tuition savings offer for international students which could see them save upwards of $20,000 over the duration of a four-year course.

Which are the courses that Indian students choose at the University of Regina?

1. Diploma in Computer Science
2. Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
3. Master of Science in Computer Science
4. Master of Science in Computer Science (Data Science)
5. Bachelor of Science in Biology
6. Diploma of Business Administration
7. Master of Engineering in Software Systems Engineering (co-op)
8. Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (Honours)

Tuition fee at the University of Regina

• Undergraduate: CAD 22300 (INR 13.7 lakhs) per year
• Postgraduate: CAD 25660 (INR 15.7 lakhs) per year

The University of Saskatchewan

The University of Saskatchewan (USask) is home to more than 3,000 international students representing 130 nationalities. It is a world leader in food security, vaccine development and related fields and a member of the U15 Group of Canadian research-intensive universities. USask offers a host of scholarships like the International Excellence Awards, the IB Excellence Awards and the Bridging Scholarship Awards, ranging in value from as little as $1,500 to as much as $20,000.

Which are the courses that Indian students choose at the University of Saskatchewan?

1. Master of Public Health
2. Master of Engineering in Chemical Engineering
3. Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
4. Postgraduate Diploma in Food and Bioproduct Sciences
5. Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering
6. Master of Public Administration
7. Master of Science in Food Science
8. Bachelor of Science (International)

Tuition fee at the University of Saskatchewan

• Undergraduate: CAD 32530 (INR 19.9 lakhs) per year
• Postgraduate: CAD 9720 (INR 5.9 lakhs) per year

The University of Alberta

One of Canada’s top teaching and research universities, the University of Alberta’s 40,000-odd international students from over 150 countries are spread over its renowned programs in engineering, creative arts, humanities, business and health sciences. The university has an International Supplementary Bursary program for international students, which can be availed on demonstration of financial need. UAlberta also has an agreement, signed in 2016, with the Indian Science and Engineering and Research Board (SERB) for visiting students from India to conduct research at the university on a scholarship, which would cover an allowance of around $2,000 USD per month.

Which are the courses that Indian students choose at the University of Alberta?

1. Master of Engineering in Electrical and Computer Engineering
2. Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering
3. Master of Engineering in Engineering Management
4. Master of Science in Internetworking
5. Master of Engineering in Civil and Environmental Engineering
6. Master of Public Health in General Public Health
7. Bachelor of Science in Computer Sciences (Honours)
8. Bachelor of Science in Computer Sciences (General)

Tuition fee at the University of Alberta

• Undergraduate: CAD 31180 (INR 19 lakhs) per year
• Postgraduate: CAD 10920 (INR 6.7 lakhs) per year

University of Manitoba

Established close to 150 years ago, the University of Manitoba is a part of the U15, Canada's group of 15 research-intensive universities. It is also western Canada’s first university and Manitoba's only research university. The International Centre works with students to assist them through challenges with respect to their academics, personal matters, academics, university policies and general life in Winnipeg. The university also issues upwards of $30 million to students every year as part of scholarships and bursaries. 

Which are the top courses that Indian students choose at the University of Manitoba?

1. Master of Science in Pharmacology and Therapeutics
2. Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
3. MBA
4. Certificate in Applied Business Management
5. Certificate in Applied Human Resource Management
6. Master of Interior Design (First-Professional)
7. Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
8. Master of Engineering in Biosystems Engineering

Tuition fee at the University of Manitoba

• Undergraduate: CAD 19420 (INR 11.9 lakhs) per year
• Postgraduate: CAD 11040 (INR 6.8 lakhs) per year

University of Winnipeg

The University of Winnipeg (UWinnipeg) is known for its campus diversity, small class sizes and affordable tuition. Apart from offering a full complement of programs, UWinnipeg is a great destination for sports fans, music lovers and those yearning for a balance between work and life. UWinnipeg’s India Centre is a partnership between the university and the India Association of Manitoba (IAM, intended to foster collaboration with the Indo-Canadian community in the province of Manitoba.

Which are the courses that Indian students choose at the University of Winnipeg?

1. BBA
2. BSc Applied Computer Science
3. BSc Biology
4. MSc Applied Computer Science and Society
5. Post-Degree Diploma in Human Resource Management
6. Diploma in Network Security
7. Diploma in Web Development
8. Diploma in Artificial Intelligence

Tuition fee at the University of Winnipeg

• Undergraduate: CAD 16520 (INR 10.1 lakhs) per year
• Postgraduate: CAD 17110 (INR 10.5 lakhs) per year

McGill University

 

Established in 1821, McGill University is among Canada's premier universities, and home to international students from over 150 countries. World-renowned for its teaching and research excellence, the university’s a pioneer in more ways than one – it’s reckoned to be the birthplace of hockey and basketball, it’s where the world’s first internet search engine was created and where the country’s first female professor taught. The university also offers a range of scholarships and student aid options to ease the financial load on students.

Which are the courses that Indian students choose at McGill University?

• MSc in Food Science and Agricultural Chemistry (thesis)
• MSc in Experimental Medicine (Thesis)
• Diploma in Human Relationships, Diversity and Sexuality
• MSc in Food Science and Agricultural Chemistry
• Professional Development Certificate in Project Management

Tuition fee at McGill University

• Undergraduate: CAD 41000 – CAD 59000 (25 lakhs) per year
• Postgraduate: CAD 22020 (INR 13.5 lakhs) per year

Do check out the scholarships available at McGill University.

Memorial University of Newfoundland

Memorial University is Newfoundland and Labrador’s only university and was established as a memorial to those from Newfoundland who laid down their lives in active service during the First World War and other, subsequent conflicts. The university offers diploma, certificate, undergraduate, graduate and postgraduate programs that cover everything from advanced technology to the classics. Memorial University is always on the lookout to enhance its connections with universities in India, a country from which an increasing number of students enrol in Memorial every year.

Which are the courses that Indian students choose at Memorial University of Newfoundland?

1. MSc Computer Science
2. Advanced Diploma in Food Safety
3. Master of Applied Science in Computer Engineering
4. Master of Engineering in Oil and Gas Engineering
5. Master of Artificial Intelligence
6. Master of Education (Educational Leadership Studies)
7. Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering
8. Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering

Tuition fee at Memorial University of Newfoundland

• Undergraduate: CAD 20790 (INR 12.7 lakhs) for 2 semesters
• Postgraduate: CAD 6400 – CAD 10000 (INR 3.9 lakhs – 6.1 lakhs) for the full programme

The University of Calgary

Established in 1966, the University of Calgary (UCalgary) is one of Canada’s top research universities and has witnessed spectacular growth over the years, mainly evident in the campus population of over 30,000, which gets more diverse every year. Besides offering students high-quality programs, UCalgary is also a leading start-up incubator among Canadian research institutions. UCalgary has collaborated with over 200 universities and colleges in India and hosts an ever-increasing number of Indian students.

Which are the top courses that Indian students choose at the University of Calgary?

1. Master of Data Science and Analytics
2. Master of Engineering in Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering
3. Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
4. Master of Engineering in Electrical and Computer Engineering
5. Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering
6. Master of Engineering in Chemical and Petroleum Engineering
7. Master of Management
8. Master of Information Security and Privacy

Tuition fee at the University of Calgary?

• Undergraduate: CAD 18340 (INR 11.2 lakhs) per year
• Postgraduate: CAD 16540 (INR 10.1 lakhs) per year

Vancouver Island University

Vancouver Island University (VIU) is a public university located on the west coast of Canada. The university offers international students more than 120 programs, ranging from degrees at the undergraduate and graduate levels to diplomas and certificates. VIU values its connections with Indian educators and students and welcomes students from India to its campuses every year. The university has instituted generous scholarships for Indian students and is always looking to explore and enhance its connection with India.

Which are the top courses that Indian students choose at Vancouver Island University?

1. MBA
2. Graduate Diploma in Project Management
3. Master of Education in Educational Leadership
4. BBA
5. Graduate Certificate in Business
6. Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
7. Master of Community Planning
8. Advanced Diploma in Geographical Information Systems (GIS) Applications

Tuition fee at Vancouver Island University

• Undergraduate: CAD 15240 (INR 9.4 lakhs) per year
• Postgraduate: CAD 17330 (INR 10.7 lakhs) per year

 

 

Thompson Rivers University

For over 50 years, Thompson Rivers University (TRU) has catered to students from a variety of backgrounds. TRU offers more than 140 programs at its Williams Lake and Kamloops campuses, covering the whole academic spectrum. The university has also fostered a thriving, open research culture. TRU offers various kinds of financial assistance in the form of scholarships, bursaries, awards, grants and loans to deserving students to promote academic excellence.

Check out this page dedicated to information about Thompson Rivers University.

Which are the top courses that Indian students choose at Thompson Rivers University?

1. MBA
2. MSc Data Science
3. Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Supply Chain Management
4. Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Finance
5. Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in International Business
6. Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Human Resource Management
7. Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Marketing
8. Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Business Administration

Tuition fee at Thompson Rivers University

• Undergraduate: CAD 16880 (INR 10.4 lakhs) per year
• Postgraduate: CAD 19560 (INR 12 lakhs) per year

University of New Brunswick

Founded in 1785, the University of New Brunswick has, over a distinguished 240-year-old history, come to be acknowledged as one of Canada’s leading research universities. UNB is known for its cutting-edge innovation and research, experiential learning and for offering an unparalleled learning experience, with among the best student-to-faculty ratios in any leading Canadian university. UNB awards plenty of scholarships amounting to millions of dollars each year. Its employment offices also assist students in securing part-time employment.

Want more details about the university? Check out our page dedicated to the University of New Brunswick.

Which are the top courses that Indian students choose at the University of New Brunswick?

1. Master of Computer Science (co-op)
2. Bachelor of Computer Science
3. Master of Applied Cybersecurity
4. MBA
5. BSc Computer Science
6. MSc Computer Science
7. MBA – Management Analytics
8. BSc Software Engineering

Tuition fee at the University of New Brunswick

• Undergraduate: CAD 18870 (INR 11.6 lakhs) per year
• Postgraduate: CAD 10870 (INR 6.7 lakhs) per year

Dalhousie University

 

Dalhousie University, Atlantic Canada's premier research-intensive university located in Nova Scotia, combines innovative teaching, meaningful research and a sense of social responsibility. The college is home to a diverse mix of students, researchers and staff who work cohesively with an interdisciplinary perspective and a drive for discovery that sees over $190 million in research funding being received each year. The university is a member of the U15 group of Canadian research-intensive universities. Dalhousie University offers a host of entrance and in-program scholarships to its international students.

Which are the top courses that Indian students choose at Dalhousie University?

1. Master of Applied Computer Science
2. Master of Applied Computer Science (Internship)
3. Master of Engineering in Internetworking
4. Master of Engineering in Industrial Engineering
5. Bachelor of Computer Science
6. Master of Computer Science
7. Master of Engineering in Electrical and Computer Engineering
8. Master of Engineering in Chemical Engineering

Tuition fee at Dalhousie University

• Undergraduate: CAD 27110 (INR 16.6 lakhs) per year
• Postgraduate: CAD 13280 (8.2 lakhs) per year

Capilano University

Founded in 1968, Capilano University (CapU) enrols nearly 13,000 students, of which around 2,500 are overseas students. The university’s main campus is located in North Vancouver. CapU offers students a hands-on educational learning environment and its public degree programs feature smaller class sizes compared to the big public universities. CapU’s nearly 100 programs cover topics in film, design, interdisciplinary studies, business administration, early childhood education and more. CapU offers a number of bursaries and awards for international students.

Want more information about the university? Check out our page dedicated to Capilano University.

Which are the top courses that Indian students choose at Capilano University?

1. Master of Applied Computer Science
2. Bachelor of Computer Science
3. Master of Engineering in Internetworking
4. Master of Applied Computer Science (Internship)
5. Master of Computer Science
6. Master of Engineering in Industrial Engineering
7. Master of Engineering in Electrical and Computer Engineering
8. Master of Engineering in Chemical Engineering

Tuition fee at Capilano University

• Undergraduate: CAD 21230 (INR 13 lakhs) per year
• Postgraduate: CAD 20710 (INR 12.7 lakhs) per year

While the search for the cheapest university in Canada may throw up different results every year, it is a recognised fact that Canada offers high-quality education at affordable rates, while providing a diverse, yet inclusive and safe study experience to international students. All the more reason that you should make haste and check out colleges and universities in Canada to apply to!