Top 10 Colleges in Calgary: A Comprehensive Guide to Courses, Fees, and Requirements for International Students
Best Universities in Calgary: Calgary stands out as an excellent choice for international students, offering a perfect blend of top-tier education, cultural diversity, safety, promising career opportunities, and a high standard of living. This article serves as your comprehensive guide to the top 10 colleges in Calgary, shedding light on their premier courses, fees, admission prerequisites, and more.
As you navigate the educational journey in Calgary, you’ll discover not only academic excellence but also a multicultural experience and a vibrant community. Join us in this exploration of Calgary’s educational institutions, providing essential insights that will shape your academic journey.
Why Choose the Best Universities in Calgary for Your Education?
Studying in Canada, particularly at the premier universities in Calgary, offers numerous advantages for international students. Here are compelling reasons why pursuing education at these institutions can be highly beneficial:
- Quality Academics: Calgary’s top universities are renowned for delivering outstanding academic programs across a multitude of subjects. Boasting well-established faculties, these institutions provide a diverse range of courses, ensuring a robust educational experience.
- Research Opportunities: The universities in Calgary are distinguished for their robust research programs. Students have the chance to collaborate with eminent scholars, contributing to cutting-edge research in their chosen fields and fostering an environment of innovation.
- Global Recognition: Many of Calgary’s universities consistently rank high in international university rankings, garnering global recognition. This acclaim enhances the value of your degree and expands career opportunities, both within Canada and internationally.
- Networking: Calgary’s vibrant corporate community and diverse job sectors provide an excellent backdrop for networking. Universities in the city offer opportunities to connect with professionals across various industries, paving the way for internships and future employment prospects.
- Career Support: Calgary’s educational institutions go the extra mile to support students in their transition from the classroom to the workplace. Extensive career assistance services, including resume building, networking events, and career counseling, ensure students are well-prepared for their professional journey. Graduates can also explore post-study work permit options in Canada, opening avenues for permanent residency.
- Multicultural Society: Enrolling in one of Calgary’s top institutions exposes you to a rich and diverse learning environment. Interacting with students from various cultural backgrounds enhances your perspectives, contributing to a more enriching educational experience.
Top 10 Colleges in Calgary for International Students: A Quick Overview
1) University of Calgary
Overview:
- QS World University Ranking (2024): 182nd position.
- Location: Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
- Campus: Sprawling campus with state-of-the-art facilities.
| Head |
Details |
|---|---|
| University Name |
University of Calgary |
| University of Calgary Courses |
University of Calgary courses include more than 250 undergraduate programmes and more than 170 degrees across 65 graduate programmes. Top Courses include:
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| University of Calgary Admissions |
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| Other Details |
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2) Mount Royal University
Overview:
- Established: Chartered as a university in 1910.
- Type: Public institution.
- Location: Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
| Head |
Details |
|---|---|
| University Name |
University of Calgary |
| University of Calgary Courses |
University of Calgary courses include more than 250 undergraduate programmes and more than 170 degrees across 65 graduate programmes. Top Courses include:
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| University of Calgary Admissions |
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| Other Details |
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3) St. Mary’s University
Overview:
- Founded: 1802.
- Ranking: Consistently placed in the top 5 positions in Canada on the 2023 Maclean’s University Rankings.
- Type: Private institution.
- Location: Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
| Head |
Details |
|---|---|
| University Name |
St. Mary’s University |
| St. Mary’s University Courses |
The University offers programmes in:
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| St. Mary’s University Admissions |
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4) Alberta University of the Arts
Overview:
- Established: 1926 (as part of the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology) | Separated from SAIT in 1985.
- Type: Public art institution.
- Location: Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
| Head |
Details |
|---|---|
| University Name |
Alberta University of the Arts |
| Alberta University of the Arts Courses |
Top academic fields:
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| Alberta University of the Arts Admissions |
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5) Ambrose University
Overview:
- Type: Private Christian liberal arts university.
- Location: Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
| Head |
Details |
|---|---|
| University Name |
Ambrose University |
| Ambrose University Courses |
Top Courses include:
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| Ambrose University Admissions |
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6) Southern Alberta Institute of Technology
Overview:
- Established: 1916.
- Enrollment: Home to more than 11,000 students.
- Type: Polytechnic institution.
| Head |
Details |
|---|---|
| University Name |
Southern Alberta Institute of Technology |
| Southern Alberta Institute of Technology Courses |
Top Courses include:
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| Southern Alberta Institute of Technology Admissions |
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7) Bow Valley College
Overview:
- Established: 1965.
- Type: Comprehensive community college.
- Location: Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
| Head |
Details |
|---|---|
| University Name |
Bow Valley College |
| Bow Valley College Courses |
Top Courses include:
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| Bow Valley College Admissions |
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8) Rocky Mountain College
Overview:
- Student Impact: Serving more than 4,000 students.
- Graduate Employment Rate: Recorded a 100% graduate employment rate in 2019 and 2020.
- Type: Private institution.
- Location: Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
| Head |
Details |
|---|---|
| University Name |
Rocky Mountain College |
| Rocky Mountain College Courses |
The College provides Christian learning programmes |
9) Columbia College
Overview:
- Established: 1986.
- Type: Private institution.
- Location: Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
| Head |
Details |
|---|---|
| University Name |
Columbia College |
| Columbia College Courses |
Top Courses include:
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| Columbia College Admissions |
Application Fee: CAD 125 |
10) Cambrooks College
Overview:
- Established: 2011.
- Type: Private institution.
- Location: Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
| Head |
Details |
|---|---|
| University Name |
Cambrooks College |
| Cambrooks College Courses |
Top Courses include:
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| Cambrooks College Admissions |
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Cost of Studying at Colleges in Calgary
1) Tuition Fees:
- Tuition fees vary based on the university and program.
- For international students, tuition is higher than for domestic students.
- Expect a range of CAD 9,500 to CAD 45,000 per annum, depending on the chosen program and institution.
2) Other University Costs:
- Additional costs beyond tuition include health services, student associations, recreational facilities, technology resources, books, and supplies.
- These costs contribute to a comprehensive university experience.
3) Other University Costs:
- Living expenses encompass lodging, food, transit, and personal expenditures.
- Housing options include shared apartments, on-campus housing, and homestays.
- According to Numbeo, the average cost for a single person in Calgary (excluding rent) is CAD 1,539.
- Considering a 1-bedroom apartment in the City Centre adds an average cost of CAD 1,780.70.
Scholarships for Top Universities in Calgary
- University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship
- Amount: Up to CAD 20,000
- Details: Designed for international students entering the University of Calgary, this scholarship provides financial support to ease the burden of tuition costs.
- Seymour Schulich Academic Excellence Entrance Scholarship
- Amount: Up to CAD 26,350
- Details: Recognizing academic excellence, this scholarship at the University of Calgary encourages high-achieving students to pursue their education without the added financial stress.
- Haskayne School of Business Entrance Bursary
- Amount: Up to CAD 2,500
- Details: Exclusive to the Haskayne School of Business, this entrance bursary supports students aspiring to excel in business studies.
- C. Mahindra Scholarships For Post-Graduate Studies Abroad
- Amount: Up to Rs. 8,00,000
- Details: While not specific to Calgary, this scholarship offers financial aid for post-graduate studies abroad, including potential studies at top universities in Calgary.
- Ritchie-Jennings Memorial Scholarship Program
- Amount: Up to USD 10,000
- Details: Geared towards students interested in the field of fraud examination, this scholarship provides financial assistance for studies, fostering expertise in a specialized area.
Admission Requirements for the Best Universities in Calgary
- Academic Qualifications:
- Completion of high school for undergraduate admissions.
- Completion of an undergraduate degree for master’s or PG diploma admissions.
- Completion of a master’s degree for doctoral degree admissions.
- English Language Proficiency:
- International students are required to demonstrate proficiency in English.
- Accepted English language proficiency tests include IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or DET.
- Specific score requirements may vary by program and institution.
- Standardized Tests:
- Depending on the level of study and program, applicants may need to take standardized tests.
- Undergraduate admissions may require SAT or ACT scores.
- Graduate admissions may require GRE or GMAT scores.
- Check with the specific university and program for test requirements.
- Application Documents:
- Applicants are typically required to submit a range of documents along with their application.
- Common documents include a statement of purpose, letters of recommendation (2-3), admission essays, and any other specified materials.
- The content and requirements for these documents may vary by program and institution.
Documents Required for Admission at Top Universities in Calgary
- Formal Schooling:
- Official transcripts from high school with a minimum specified percentage (typically above 70%).
- Bachelor’s Degree:
- Official transcripts from the completed bachelor’s degree.
- Minimum required Cumulative Grade Point Average (CGPA), often set at 3.0 out of 4.0.
- Academic or Professional Experience:
- Relevant experience may be required for certain courses.
- Specific requirements vary based on the program.
- Standardized Test Scores:
- GRE or GMAT scores, depending on the program.
- Requirements vary by university and program.
- English Language Proficiency:
- Scores from recognized English proficiency tests such as IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or DET.
- Minimum scores may vary by program.
- Resume:
- Updated and detailed resume highlighting academic and professional experiences.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP):
- Personal statement outlining academic and career goals, reasons for choosing the program, and how the university aligns with these aspirations.
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs):
- Typically 2-3 letters from academic or professional references.
- Letters should attest to the applicant’s qualifications and suitability for the program.
- Admission Essays:
- Additional essays as specified by the university or program.
- Work Samples + Video Samples:
- Required for creative courses.
- Showcase of previous work or portfolio may be necessary.
Note:
- Document requirements may vary by university, program, and level of study.
- Applicants should check the specific admission guidelines for each university and program.
- Detailed research and adherence to specific requirements are crucial during the application process.
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With features like unlimited Canada-wide calls, unlimited local and international text messaging, caller ID, voicemail, and expansive coverage, CanadianSIM ensures students stay seamlessly connected. The no-contract plans add flexibility, allowing students to manage their mobile services without long-term commitments. Furthermore, the absence of setup fees makes acquiring a Canadian SIM card a hassle-free and economical choice for international students, facilitating a smooth transition to their life in Canada.
