List of Colleges in Canada For International Students
Canada stands tall as a leading educational and industrial powerhouse, not only within North America but on the global stage as well. Spanning across vast territories, it boasts state-of-the-art educational infrastructure, vibrant institutions, and cutting-edge research centers. The country’s dedication to excellence in education makes it a prime choice for students worldwide seeking to pursue their academic dreams overseas. In this blog, we have assembled a comprehensive list of the colleges in Canada for international students, highlighting their exceptional features.
Studying in Canada offers students three primary entry points or intakes for admissions: Fall, Winter, and Summer. Among these, the fall intake enjoys the highest popularity among students, followed by the winter intake, while the summer intake remains the least popular option.
| Intakes | Applications Begin | Starting Month |
| Fall | June | September |
| Winter | November | January |
| Summer | February | April- May |
Why Choose Colleges in Canada?
Choosing colleges in Canada for higher education offers a plethora of compelling reasons that have contributed to its growing popularity among international students. Let’s explore some of these reasons in detail:
World-Class Education: Canadian colleges are renowned for their high-quality education and academic excellence. They offer a diverse range of programs and courses, taught by experienced faculty members who are experts in their respective fields. The emphasis on research and practical learning enhances students’ skills and knowledge, preparing them for a successful future.
Globally Recognized Credentials: Degrees earned from Canadian colleges hold global recognition and are highly valued in the job market worldwide. Graduating from a Canadian institution opens up numerous career opportunities and increases your employability potential.
Bilingual Environment: Canada’s bilingual status (English and French) provides a unique advantage for international students. Immersing oneself in a bilingual environment fosters language learning, which can be a valuable asset in the global job market and enriches cross-cultural communication skills.
Post-Graduation Work Opportunities: Canada offers attractive post-graduation work permit options that allow international graduates to gain practical work experience in their field of study. This invaluable work experience can contribute to future career prospects and may also lead to permanent residency opportunities.
Thriving Industries: Canada boasts thriving industries like Video Games, Aeronautical Engineering, Digital Media, and Telecommunications. Being a part of these well-established industries provides students with access to cutting-edge technology, research opportunities, and networking prospects.
Safe and Welcoming Environment: Canada is known for its friendly and inclusive atmosphere, making it a welcoming destination for international students. The country’s reputation for safety and stability adds to the appeal of studying and living in Canada.
Cultural Diversity: Canada is a melting pot of cultures, providing a rich and diverse experience for students. Interacting with peers from different backgrounds fosters global citizenship, cultural understanding, and lifelong friendships.
Natural Beauty: The stunning landscapes and abundant natural beauty of Canada are unparalleled. From majestic mountains to pristine lakes and lush forests, Canada’s scenic beauty offers a serene and breathtaking environment for students to enjoy and explore.
Supportive Student Services: Canadian colleges prioritize the welfare of their international students, offering dedicated support services such as orientation programs, counseling, academic assistance, and accommodation support.
Global Exposure: Studying in Canada offers students a chance to engage with a global community. Colleges often host international events, cultural exchanges, and networking opportunities, providing students with a global perspective and invaluable international exposure.
Popular Universities in Canada
Let’s start by quickly glancing at the list of popular universities in Canada before we delve deep into the salient features of the best colleges for international students.
| University | QS Global Rankings 2023 |
| University of Toronto | 34 |
| McGill University | 31 |
| University of British Columbia | 47 |
| University of Montreal | 118 |
| University of Alberta | 110 |
| McMaster University | 152 |
| University of Waterloo | 154 |
| Western University | 32 |
| University of Calgary | 242 |
| Dalhousie University | 308 |
List of Best Colleges in Canada for International Students
Now that you are familiar with the universities, let us take a quick glance at some of the best colleges in Canada for International students.
- Humber College
- Douglas College
- Centennial College
- Sheridan College
- Algonquin College
- Mohawk College
- St. Lawrence College
- George Brown College
- Red Deer College
- Fanshawe College
- Camosun College
- Vanier College
Comprehensive Overview
Revering their top-notch faculty, modernly equipped infrastructure, and comprehensive industrial training programs, let’s explore the key highlights of some major universities and best colleges in Canada for international students.
University of Toronto
The University of Toronto, ranked 29th in the QS global ranking list, stands as one of Canada’s leading academic institutes for international students. It has earned a prestigious reputation and solidified its position among the best academic institutions in the country. The university also offers accelerators and incubator centers, providing students with opportunities to pursue research-based startups and accelerate their business ideas.
At the University of Toronto, students can choose from a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate courses, spanning various fields such as Architecture, Biological Sciences, Business & Management Studies, Chemistry, Computer Science and Information Systems, Economics, and Econometrics, among others.
As a major university and one of the best colleges in Canada for international students, the University of Toronto boasts a very high acceptance rate, welcoming students from around the world to embark on their academic journey in a dynamic and inclusive environment.
Humber College
Humber College, renowned for its certificate and diploma courses, proudly stands among the best colleges in Canada for international students. With a strong commitment to career-focused learning, the college offers a diverse array of programs in fields such as Acting, Business, Engineering, and Culinary Science, among others. The programs are offered through various intakes, providing flexibility for students to choose their preferred study period.
Here are some of the popular programs at Humber College that international students can consider:
- Diploma in Early Childhood Education
- Advanced Diploma in 3D Animation
- Advanced Diploma in Electronics Engineering Technology
- Ontario Graduate Certificate – Business Insight and Analytics
- Ontario Graduate Certificate – Content Strategy
- Bachelor of Design (Hons)
By offering these comprehensive programs, Humber College provides students with ample opportunities to pursue their academic and career aspirations, ensuring they receive a top-quality education and practical training for success in their chosen fields.
University of British Columbia
The University of British Columbia (UBC) stands out as one of the most sought-after universities globally, thanks to its robust campus, vibrant research facilities, and a wide array of multidisciplinary courses. It has garnered a reputation as an institution of academic excellence and innovation.
UBC offers a diverse range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in popular fields such as Business and Economics, Earth Sciences, Environment, and Sustainability, Education, Engineering and Technology, Health and Life Sciences, among others. This extensive offering caters to the diverse interests and career aspirations of students, providing them with ample opportunities to explore and excel in their chosen areas of study.
The university actively promotes and endorses those who think boldly, harbor curiosity for knowledge, and are driven to initiate positive change for educational prosperity. With a focus on fostering a spirit of innovation and critical thinking, UBC nurtures students to become future leaders and contributors to society.
Centennial College
Centennial College emerges as an excellent choice for those aspiring to pursue diploma and degree courses in Canada. Renowned as one of the best colleges in Canada for international students, Centennial College offers a wide range of educational options, including full-time, part-time, online, and Apprenticeship courses.
Students at Centennial College can explore various fields, including Business and Hospitality Management, Health and Wellness, Media and Writing, Community and Child Services, among others. This diverse array of programs caters to different interests and career paths, ensuring that students have the flexibility to choose courses aligned with their passions and goals.
Moreover, Centennial College provides joint programs like BSc Nursing in collaboration with other esteemed universities, creating enhanced career prospects for students. This collaborative approach allows students to benefit from a broader scope of learning and opens doors to various professional opportunities in the healthcare industry.
McGill University
Established in 1821 by a Royal Charter, McGill University holds a distinguished status as one of the most sought-after institutes, renowned for its educational vibrancy, multidisciplinary courses, and robust state-of-the-art infrastructure. The university takes pride in its impressive track record, having produced 12 Nobel Prize winners across various fields, further solidifying its reputation for academic excellence.
With a diverse and inclusive environment, McGill University welcomes students from over 150 countries, creating a rich cultural tapestry and fostering a global community of learners.
The university offers an array of popular courses, including BA English Literature, MArch, Graduate Certificate in Aviation Leadership, MA Economics, MBA, and more. Additionally, its programs in Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, Arts, Dentistry, Education, Engineering, Law, Management, and Medicine Science attract students from various academic backgrounds.
Sheridan College
Sheridan College, based in Oakville, is renowned for its commitment to educational excellence, forward-thinking culture, and robust academic programs. Since its establishment in 1967, the college has been offering a diverse array of degree, diploma, and certificate courses across various disciplines, earning a well-deserved place among the best colleges in Canada for international students.
With a comprehensive range of programs, Sheridan College caters to the academic aspirations of students from diverse backgrounds. Currently, the college accommodates 24,500 full-time students and 18,500 continuing and part-time students, creating a vibrant and inclusive learning community.
Among its popular courses, Sheridan College offers the Bachelor of Business Administration, Diploma in Advertising and Marketing Communications, Diploma in Computer Programming, Tool and Die Making Apprenticeship, PDIGP in Digital Product Design, and more. These programs reflect the college’s commitment to providing relevant and career-oriented education, equipping students with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in their chosen fields.
Affordable Universities in Canada
Canada is known for offering a range of affordable universities that provide quality education to international students. While tuition fees can vary between institutions and programs, here are some top universities in Canada that have relatively lower tuition fees compared to others:
- Brandon University
- University of Guelph
- Memorial University of Newfoundland
- Canadian Mennonite University
- University of St. Boniface
- McGill University
- Humber College
- University of Calgary
- University of Northern British Columbia
- Centennial College
Download your International Student checklist
Top Universities to Study in Canada Without IELTS
Canadian universities offer alternatives to the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) for international students who wish to study in Canada. Students can provide other English language proficiency test scores like TOEFL, Duolingo English Test, or PTE (Pearson Test of English) instead of IELTS. Additionally, some universities may accept English certificates from school or offer English language courses to prove language proficiency.
It’s important to note that policies regarding language proficiency requirements may change over time, so it’s essential for students to check the most recent information on the official websites of these universities. Here is a list of popular Canadian universities that may offer alternatives to IELTS for international students:
- University of Winnipeg
- Brock University
- University of Saskatchewan
- Memorial University of Newfoundland and Labrador
- Cambrian University
- Okanagan College
- Concordia University
- Seneca College
- Carleton University
Best Colleges in Canada for MBA
- Rotman School of Management
- McGill University
- Ivey Business School
- Schulich School of Business
- Sauder School of Business
- HEC Montreal
- Queen’s School of Business
- Alberta School of Business
- Beedie School of Business
- Edwards School of Business
Top 10 Colleges in Canada for Computer Science
- University of Toronto
- University of Waterloo
- University of British Columbia
- University of Montreal
- University of Alberta
- McGill University
- Simon Fraser University
- McMaster University
- Concordia University
- University of Ottawa
Best Colleges in Canada for Engineering
- University of Toronto
- University of Waterloo
- University of British Columbia
- University of Alberta
- McGill University
- University of Montreal
- Concordia University
- University of Calgary
- The University of Ontario Institute Technology
- University of Ottawa
- McMaster University
Best Colleges in Canada for MBA
- Schulich School of Business, Toronto
- Ivey Business School, London, Canada
- Smith School of Business
- HEC Montreal
- UBC Sauder School of Business
- Alberta School of Business, Edmonton
- Rotman School of Management, Toronto
Best Colleges in Canada for Computer Science
- University of Toronto
- University of Waterloo
- University of Ottawa
- University of Montreal
- McGill University
- University of Alberta
- Simon Fraser University
- McMaster University
- University of British Columbia
Best Colleges in Canada for Psychology
- University of Toronto
- University of Alberta
- Western University
- McMaster University
- York University
- Queen’s University
- Dalhousie University
- McMaster University
- University of Waterloo
Best Colleges in Ontario
- Algonquin college
- Cambrian College
- Conestoga College
- Humber College
- Mohawk College
- St. Lawrence College
- St. Clair College of Applied Arts & Technology
- Canadore College
- Seneca College
- Fanshawe College
Best Colleges in Toronto
- George Brown College.
- Seneca College.
- Humber College.
- University of Toronto
- Centennial College
- Seneca College of Applied Science and Technology
- George Brown College
- Algonquin College
- ILAC College
- Toronto School of Management
- Tamwood International College
Top Universities in Canada for UG
| Universities | Student Satisfaction Ranks | Top UG Courses |
| Mount St. Vincent University | 1 | BSc and BA |
| Mount Allison University | 1 | B.Comm, BEd, BSc |
| Bishop’s University | 2 | B.Ed, BA, BBA |
| Acadia University | 4 | Bachelor of CS, BBA, BEd |
| University of Northern British Columbia | 5 | BSc, B.Comm, BSW |
| St. Thomas University | 6 | BEd, BSW, BA |
| St. Francis Xavier University | 7 | B.Ed |
| Trent University | 8 | Bachelor of CS, BEd, BSc |
| Lethbridge University | 10 | B.Ed, BSN, Bachelor of Management |
| St. Mary’s University | 15 | B.Ed, BA |
| Lakehead University | 17 | Bachelor of Com Sc., BSc, BBA |
| Ontario Tech | 14 | BEd, Bachelor of IT |
| University of Prince Edward Island | 12 | B.Ed, BSc, BBA |
| Laurentian University | 19 | BEd, BSW, BBA |
Top Universities in Canada for PG
| University | Popular Masters Program | Fees for Masters Courses (CAD/year) |
| UToronto | Full-time MBA | 55,000 (INR 33 Lakh) |
| UBC | MSc Computer Science | 8,592 (INR 5.2 Lakh) |
| McGill University | M.Management- Analytics | 18,110 (INR 11 Lakh) |
| McMaster University | MSc Computer Science | 17,093 (INR 10 Lakh) |
| University of Montreal | Full-time MBA | 24,558 (INR 14 Lakh) |
| University of Alberta | MBA Finance | 9,456 (INR 5.8 Lakh) |
| University of Ottawa | EMBA | 25,718 (INR 15 Lakh) |
| University of Calgary | MBA | 14,084 (INR 8.8 Lakh) |
| University of Waterloo | MSc Data Science & Artificial Engineering | 117,500 (INR 71 Lakh) |
| Western University | MBA | 14,538 (INR 8.8 Lakh) |
Scholarships to Study in Top Universities in Canada
| Scholarship | Eligibility | Award | Application |
| Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships | Canadian and Foreign citizens | $54,219 per year (taxable) | Registration at Canadian Common CV and ResearchNet Account |
| Queen’s University International Scholarship India | Indian applicants with 80% or more | $15,314 | No application required |
| Canada-CARICOM Leadership Scholarships Program | Students from Caribbean Countries pursuing undergraduate and graduate programs | 4 months: $5,576; 5-6 months: $7,513; 8 months: $11,386 | Canadian institutes register at ‘International Scholarships Canada Application Tool’ for eligible students |
Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED) | Students from ASEAN countries | 5-6 months: $8,675; 8 months: $11,153 | Scholarships Canada Application Tool’ for eligible students |
| UBC International Major Entrance Scholarship | UG applicant for UBC with high academic grades | Variable | No application required |
| Queen’s University International Scholarships | For international students with higher academic grades | $6,969 | No application required |
Cost of Studying in Canada
The total cost of studying in Canada is mainly constituted of different factors such as the chosen course, the city of study, accommodation, etc.
| Study program | Average annual fee (CAD*)(Per Year) | Average annual fee (INR*)(Per Year) |
| Undergraduate Program | 13,000 to 20,000 | INR 7.8 Lakh-INR 12 Lakh |
| Postgraduate master’s degree | 17,000 to 25,000 | INR 10 Lakh-INR 14 Lakh |
| Doctoral Degree | 7,000 to 15,000 | INR 4 Lakh – INR 8.8 Lakh |
| MBA | 30,000 to 40,000 | INR 18 Lakh – INR 24 Lakh |
CanadianSIM - Providing Canada SIM Card for International Students
To address the communication needs of international students, CanadianSIM offers a convenient solution. With affordable pricing plan, international students can enjoy seamless connectivity during their study journey in Canada.
Pricing Plan include:
- $40 = 25 GB Data
- No Contract SIM
- Unlimited Canada Wide Calls
- Unlimited Local & International Text Messaging (SMS)
- No Set-Up Fees
- Caller ID & Voicemail
With CanadianSIM, students can stay connected with their friends and family back home, access important information, and make local and international calls without any hassle. The 25 GB data allowance ensures students can stay connected to the internet for academic research, social media, and more.
Having a reliable and affordable SIM card like CanadianSIM ensures international students can make the most out of their Canadian study experience without worrying about communication barriers.
Remember, when planning for the cost of studying in Canada, it’s crucial to consider all aspects of living and studying, including communication expenses. By choosing CanadianSIM, international students can stay connected throughout their academic journey in Canada without breaking the bank.
