Universities and Colleges in Canada – Courses, Fees, Scholarships, Eligibility Criteria & Exams
Canada is a preferred country for higher education, with its universities consistently ranking among the best in the world. Renowned for their commitment to academic excellence, Canadian universities provide students with an unparalleled learning experience characterized by rigorous coursework, innovative research initiatives, and access to state-of-the-art facilities.
Beyond academics, the lively campus environments foster a vibrant and inclusive community, allowing students to engage in extracurricular activities, join clubs and organizations, and make lifelong connections with fellow students from diverse backgrounds.
Here, we offer international students valuable insights into the top universities in Canada, providing details about their distinctive features and rankings. By delving into the profiles of these best universities in Canada, students can equip themselves with the necessary information to make well-informed decisions regarding their academic pursuits in this country.
Canada stands as a preferred study destination owing to the presence of top universities offering world-class education and learning facilities. Here are some reasons why you should consider studying at a Canadian university.
Several recognized Canadian universities offer top-notch education with affordable tuition fees as compared to equivalent universities in the US and the UK. Furthermore, these universities are equipped with modern learning and research facilities, elevating students’ experience manifolds.
Most Canadian universities are known for their safe and vibrant on-campus ambiance. Furthermore, Canada has people from varied nationalities and diverse cultures, making the culture, in general, more welcoming and inclusive.
The universities in Canada offer more than 10,000 courses options in diverse fields. So, despite your unique academic background and career interests, you can find the best-fit course and university according to your unique requirements.
International students benefit from a post-graduate work permit, allowing up to 3 years of work after course completion. Canadian universities, thus, present their students with valuable opportunities to earn well, gain work experience, elevate lifestyles, and try for permanent residency.
Here’s a list of universities in Canada based on QS World University Rankings 2024, featuring 1500 educational institutions across 104 locations globally. These Canadian universities are recognized around the world for their excellent quality of education, learning facilities, and vibrant student culture.
University | Location | QS World University Rankings 2024 |
University of Toronto | Toronto | 21 |
McGill University | Montreal | 30 |
University of British Columbia | Vancouver | 34 |
University of Alberta | Edmonton | 111 |
University of Waterloo | Waterloo | 112 |
Western University | London | 114 |
Université de Montréal | Montréal | 141 |
University of Calgary | Calgary | 182 |
McMaster University | Hamilton | 189 |
University of Ottawa | Ottawa | 203 |
In this section, we will learn about the top universities in the different areas of Canada and their global rankings as well. This section is to help you explore the top universities in Canada for international students at different locations and apply to the relevant ones.
Ontario, Canada is known for its diverse cultural environment and immense economic opportunities. Furthermore, the area is home to several renowned universities which are listed below.
University | QS World University Rankings 2024 |
University of Toronto | 21 |
University of Waterloo | 112 |
York University | 353 |
McMaster University | 189 |
University of Ottawa | 203 |
University of Guelph | 486 |
Western University | 114 |
Queen’s University | 209 |
Ryerson University | – |
Carleton University | 671-680 |
Also, if you are looking for universities in Toronto, Canada, in particular, here are the top universities:
Vancouver is a beautiful city in Canada known for its natural scenic beauty and vibrant, inclusive culture. Here are listed some popular educational institutions that attract students from across the globe.
University | QS World University Rankings 2024 |
University of British Columbia | 34 |
British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) | – |
Simon Fraser University | 318 |
University Canada West | – |
Capilano University | – |
Columbia College | – |
Vancouver Island University | 1001-1200 |
Emily Carr University of Arts & Design | – |
Kwantlen Polytechnic University | – |
Langara College | – |
Edmonton, the capital of Alberta in Canada offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication. The place is home to several reputed universities attracting students worldwide looking for a well-rounded and intellectually stimulating educational environment.
University | QS World University Rankings 2024 |
University of Alberta | 111 |
MacEwan University | – |
Northern Alberta Institute of Technology | – |
Concordia University of Edmonton | 387 |
The King’s University College | – |
Surrey is a vibrant city in Canada with a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and academic excellence. If these offerings excite you, check out these top universities in Surrey, Canada.
University | QS World University Rankings 2024 |
Simon Fraser University | 318 |
Kwantlen Polytechnic University | – |
Trinity Western University | – |
Douglas College | – |
CDI College Surrey | – |
British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) | – |
Royal Roads University | – |
Nova Scotia has beautiful coastal landscapes and a historic charm. The province’s rich history, friendly environment, and top-notch universities make it an inviting study destination. Here are some well-known universities in the province.
University | QS World University Rankings 2024 |
Dalhousie University | 298 |
Cape Breton University | – |
Acadia University | – |
St. Francis Xavier University | Â |
Saint Mary’s University | – |
Mount Saint Vincent University | – |
Canadian universities offer a diverse range of courses across a multitude of disciplines to cater to the varied interests of international students. Completing a comprehensive course from a recognized Canadian university helps students avail lucrative job opportunities.
Read the following sections to learn more about the top courses offered and the best universities in Canada offering these courses.
Pursuing an MBA ( Master of Business Administration) from a top university in Canada can help you gain comprehensive knowledge, develop the requisite skills to deal with real-world challenges, and open the doorway to a world of opportunities. A Canadian business degree is recognized worldwide and can help you elevate your career to the next level.
Here are the top business universities in Canada offering diverse specializations.
Institution name | QS World University MBA Ranking 2024Â | Average annual tuition fees in CAD | Minimum eligibility criteria |
Rotman School of Management (University of Toronto) | 48 | CAD 131,120 approx. | A minimum GPA of 3.0  A good GMAT/ GRE score  A good IELTS/ TOEFL score  2 years of work experience, etc. |
Schulich School of Business (York University) | 67 | CAD 106,900 approx. | An undergraduate degree from a recognized university  A valid GMAT score  A good IELTS/ TOEFL score  2 years of relevant work experience, etc. |
Sauder School of Business (University of British Columbia) | 80 | CAD 90,060 approx. | An undergraduate degree from a recognized university  A good GMAT/ GRE score  A good IELTS/ TOEFL score  3-5 years of relevant work experience, etc. |
Smith School of Business (Queen’s University) | 72 | CAD 102,100 approx. | An undergraduate degree from a recognized university  A good GMAT/ GRE score  A good IELTS/ TOEFL score, etc. |
Desautels McGill University | 77 | CAD 32,000 | An undergraduate degree from a recognized university  A valid GMAT score  A good IELTS/ TOEFL score  2 years of relevant work experience, etc. |
Please note: The tuition fees listed here are subject to change and are at the discretion of respective universities. For the latest updates, check the official website of the desired university.
Canada is home to several world-class universities offering comprehensive and advanced MS courses across various disciplines. Here are listed a few top Canadian universities offering popular master’s courses.
University | QS World University Ranking 2024Â | Popular courses | Average annual tuition fees in CAD |
University of Toronto | 21 | Master of Engineering Masters in Accounting and Finance Masters in Applied Science Master of Architecture, etc. | CAD 30,000 – CAD 60,000Â |
McGill University | 30 | Masters of Business Administration Masters in Agriculture and Environmental Sciences Masters of Medical and Health Sciences Masters of Education, etc. | CAD 25,000+Â |
University of British Columbia | 34 | Master of Business Analytics Master of Computer Science Master of Management Masters of Sustainable Management, etc. | CAD 30,000+ |
University of Alberta | 111 | Masters of Business Administration Masters in Political Science Masters in Sociology Masters in Public Health, etc. | CAD 13,000 +Â |
University of Montreal | 141 | Masters in Political Science Masters in Actuarial Studies Masters in International Law, etc. | CAD 30,000 +Â |
Please note: The tuition fees listed here are subject to change and are at the discretion of respective universities. For the latest updates, check the official website of the desired university.
Several well-recognized universities in Canada offer computer science courses with advanced syllabi to help students become competent professionals. Here are the details of the top Canadian universities offering comprehensive and unique courses in computer science.
University | QS World University Ranking 2024Â | Popular courses | Average annual tuition fees in CAD |
University of Toronto | 21 | MSc in Computer Science MEng in Electrical and Computer Engineering | CAD 30,000 – CAD 40,000 approx. |
McGill University | 30 | MSc in Computer Science | CAD 30,000Â |
University of British Columbia | 34 | MSc in Computer Science MEng in Electrical and Computer Engineering | CAD 9,000+Â |
University of Waterloo | 112 | M.Math in Computer Science | CAD 9,000Â |
University of Alberta | 111 | MSc in Computing Science | CAD 9,000Â |
Please note: The tuition fees listed here are subject to change and are at the discretion of respective universities. For the latest updates, check the official website of the desired university.
Engineering professionals have been in demand for a long time, and their requirement in various domains continues to grow. The following table lists the top Canadian universities offering various engineering courses.
University | QS World University Ranking 2024Â | Popular courses | Average annual tuition fees in CAD |
University of Toronto | 21 | Aerospace Science and Engineering Biomedical Engineering Civil Engineering Mechanical Engineering, etc. | CAD 60,000 – CAD 68,000Â |
University of British Columbia | 34 | Electrical Engineering Chemical Engineering Biomedical Engineering Engineering Physics, etc. | CAD 25,000 – CAD 50,000 |
McGill University | 30 | Computer Engineering Electrical Engineering Materials Engineering Mechanical Engineering, etc. | CAD 22,000 – CAD 60,000Â |
University of Waterloo | 112 | Mechatronics Engineering Systems Engineering Nanotechnology Engineering, etc. | CAD 20,000 – CAD 48,000Â |
University of Alberta | 111 | Mechanical Engineering Mining Engineering Chemical Engineering, etc. | CAD 20,000 – CAD 40,000Â |
Please note: The tuition fees listed here are subject to change and are at the discretion of respective universities. For the latest updates, check the official website of the desired university.
The eligibility criteria to study at Canadian universities depend on many factors such as the intake season, the type of degree courses (Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Ph.D.), and the course you are applying to (Engineering, Architecture, Medical Sciences, etc.). However, in this section, we have covered the basic eligibility criteria that hold for most of the Canadian universities.
Please note: The above-mentioned eligibility criteria are for your reference and might vary for different Canadian universities. For the latest information, please visit the university website.
The universities in Canada typically comply with specific academic cycles for admissions, which are known as intakes. In Canada, there are three main intake seasons:
The following table highlights the key attributes of these three intake seasons in Canada.
Intake | Tentative deadline | Courses offered | Key features |
Fall/ September | November- January | Undergraduate and postgraduate courses | – Major intake season – Highly competitive – Numerous courses options |
Winter/ January | September- December | Undergraduate and postgraduate courses | – Secondary intake season – Relatively less competition – Limited availability of courses |
Summer/ Spring/ May | November – February | Usually diploma courses | – least competitive – limited availability of courses |
Please note: The specific intake dates and application periods may vary slightly between different universities and courses in Canada.
The table below lists some leading Canadian universities participating in different intake seasons.
Fall Intake | Winter Intake | Summer/ Spring Intake |
University of Toronto | University of Toronto | University of British Columbia |
McGill University | Queen’s University | University of Waterloo |
Western University | University of Montreal | Lakehead University |
University of Alberta | McGill University | University of Windsor |
University of Waterloo | Concordia University of Edmonton | University of Fraser Valley |
McMaster University | University of Calgary | Seneca College |
University de Montreal | British Columbia Institute of Technology- Burnaby Campus | University of Canada West |
University of Ottawa, etc. | Capilano University, etc. | Ryerson University, etc. |
Canada has been a popular study destination due to its world-class education system and affordable cost of studying as compared to many other countries. Pursuing an undergraduate degree at a Canadian university is likely to cost you around CAD 12,000 – CAD 35,000 per year while pursuing a postgraduate degree will cost you around CAD 9,000 – CAD 70,000 per year. This cost estimation entails just your tuition fees.
While studying at a Canadian university, you will also incur other living costs such as the cost of accommodation, travel, books, supplies, etc. These living expenses will typically depend on the location and your lifestyle habits. However, these expenses are likely to cost somewhere between CAD 11,000 and CAD 15,000 approximately, per year.
Studying at a Canadian university can be a lot cheaper if you avail of a scholarship or a university grant. Here’s a list of some popular scholarship options to bring down your cost of studying at a Canadian university significantly:
Universities and Colleges in Canada - Courses, Fees, Scholarships, Eligibility Criteria & Exams
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FAQs
Most universities in Canada accept online applications, which can be submitted through their websites or a centralized application system such as ApplyAlberta or the Ontario Universities Application Centre (OUAC). Â
Many Canadian universities accept 3-year Bachelor’s degrees, including the University of Toronto, the University of British Columbia, and McGill University. Admission requirements may vary; check specific university guidelines.
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