Are you searching for cheap universities in Canada that offer quality education without breaking the bank? There are others facing these problems, too. Because tuition is getting higher around the world, many international and Canadian students are looking for low-cost universities in Canada. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the best cheap universities in Canada for master’s, undergraduate, and postgraduate studies. We’ll cover tuition, scholarships, student housing and much more, so you can choose the best option for your finances.
Why Study at Cheap Universities in Canada?
Cheap universities in Canada offer a unique blend of quality education, multicultural experiences, and globally recognised degrees—all at a fraction of the cost compared to many other countries. Many people regard Canadian institutions for their strong academic requirements and helpful learning environment. About 800,000 students picked Canada in 2024 because of its lower costs and the chance to work after studying12. As a result, Canada is widely chosen by students seeking cheap universities and still wanting a top education.
Many students from around the world prefer Canada for its affordable schools, high standard of living and friendly procedures for immigration. — Canadian Bureau of International Education
Top Cheap Universities in Canada: Quick Comparison Table in 2025
Listed below are some of the most affordable Canadian universities for both your bachelor’s and master’s programs:
| University Name | Province | QS World Rank 2025 | Undergrad Tuition (CAD/year) | Master’s Tuition (CAD/year) | % International Students |
| Memorial University of Newfoundland | Newfoundland | 661-670 | $20,790 | $6,000 – $12,000 | 20% |
| University of Prince Edward Island | Prince Edward Island | 1479 | $8,410 | $8,000 – $12,000 | 18% |
| Brandon University | Manitoba | Not Ranked | $10,304 | $13,000 – $15,000 | 15% |
| University of Calgary | Alberta | 198 | $6,867 | $14,450 – $42,600 | 27% |
| University of Saskatchewan | Saskatchewan | 340 | $30,482 | $11,000 – $50,000 | 24% |
| Concordia University | Quebec | 415 | $19,581 | $34,000 – $53,000 | 24% |
| University of Guelph | Ontario | 456 | $14,829 | $7,000 – $14,000 | 17% |
| Université de Saint-Boniface | Manitoba | Not Ranked | $7,500 | $12,000 – $14,000 | 10% |
These tuition fees are not exact and may depend on your program and the date you begin.
Cheap Universities in Canada for a Master’s in 2025
If you’re searching for cheap universities in Canada for master’s, you’re in luck. Many institutions in Canada offer master’s courses at a low price and with a respected educational background.
| University | Popular Master’s Programs | Tuition (CAD/year) |
| Brandon University | Education, Music, Science, Rural Dev. | $13,000 – $15,000 |
| Memorial University of Newfoundland | Business, Engineering, Arts, Science | $6,000 – $12,000 |
| University of Prince Edward Island | Nursing, Veterinary Medicine, Engineering | $8,000 – $12,000 |
| Université de Saint-Boniface | Education, Social Work, Health Sciences | $12,000 – $14,000 |
| University of Winnipeg | Management, Science, Arts | $10,000 – $15,000 |
| University of Saskatchewan | Public Health, Finance, Education | $11,000 – $50,000 |
For example, international students can earn a Master’s in Computer Science at Memorial University for as little as $6,000 per year512.
Cheap Universities in Canada: Undergraduate & Postgraduate Fees in 2025
Undergraduate university fees in Canada
Cheap tuition universities in Canada make undergraduate studies more accessible. Let’s compare the tuition for undergraduate courses at top budget-friendly institutions here:
| University | Tuition (CAD/year) | Popular Undergraduate Programs |
| University of Calgary | $6,867 | Computer Science, Engineering, Arts |
| University of Prince Edward Island | $8,410 | Biology, Business, Computer Science |
| Brandon University | $10,304 | Music, Psychology, Environmental Science. |
| Memorial University of Newfoundland | $20,790 | Business, Engineering, Arts |
| University of Guelph | $14,829 | Agriculture, Science, Business |
How Much is Postgraduate Tuition in Canada?
Most postgraduate courses in Canada are more expensive, however, many institutions offer reasonable prices.
| University | Tuition (CAD/year) | Notable Postgraduate Programs |
| University of Winnipeg | $10,000 – $15,000 | Management, Science, Arts |
| Mount Allison University | $3,000 | Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry |
| Royal Roads University | $1,000 – $10,000 | Environmental Practice, Management |
| Laurentian University | $2,000 – $7,000/module | Geology, MBA, Social Work |
Some low-cost Canadian universities allow students to study online or on campus to save money and plan their education schedule.
Latest Scholarships and Financial Aid for Joining Cheap Universities in Canada 2025
Many cheap international universities in Canada offer scholarships, bursaries, and grants to help reduce costs for international students. Let’s look at the different types of financial aid in a nutshell:
| University | Scholarship Types | Amount (CAD) | Eligibility |
| University of Saskatchewan | Entrance, Merit, Need-Based | $1,000 – $20,000 | Academic, Financial Need |
| Memorial University of Newfoundland | International Entrance, Dean’s List | $2,000 – $10,000 | Academic Excellence |
| Brandon University | Merit, Athletic, Leadership | $1,000 – $5,000 | Academic, Extracurricular |
| University of Calgary | International Entrance, Prestige | $5,000 – $25,000 | Academic, Leadership |
| Concordia University | International, Program-Specific | $2,000 – $10,000 | Academic, Program-Based |
Around 60% of international students in Canada get some type of financial aid or scholarship12.
Latest Student Housing, Costs, and Campus Life in Canada Explained
What you pay for living in Canada depends on the city and province you choose. In general, student housing is cheaper in Canada’s smaller cities and provinces.
| City/Province | Average Rent (CAD/month) | Meal Plan (CAD/month) | Transit (CAD/month) | Misc. Expenses (CAD/month) |
| St. John’s, NL | $700 – $1,000 | $250 – $400 | $80 | $200 |
| Charlottetown, PEI | $600 – $900 | $200 – $350 | $70 | $180 |
| Winnipeg, MB | $750 – $1,100 | $220 – $400 | $90 | $210 |
| Calgary, AB | $900 – $1,500 | $300 – $500 | $100 | $250 |
| Saskatoon, SK | $800 – $1,200 | $250 – $400 | $90 | $200 |
Because of its small-town setting, banking at Brandon University is much easier for students trying to save money.
How to Get Admitted and Apply for Your Visa as an International Student in 2025?
Applying to cheap universities in Canada is straightforward, but it’s essential to prepare all required documents:
Latest Admission Requirements for Canadian Universities in 2025:
- Academic transcripts
- Receive a result on an approved language test that shows how well you know English or French (IELTS/TOEFL/TEF).
- Explanation of the reasons for the study
- Reference letters
- Your resume/CV should be included if you are applying for a postgraduate program.
- The cost of the application varies from university to university.
How Students Apply for a Canadian Visa in 2025?
- Receive confirmation that you are accepted to study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
- Collect your acceptance letter, proof of funds, your passport and photographs.
- Go to the Government of Canada’s website to submit your online study permit application.
- Take part in a visa interview if you need to (when requested).
- Wait until you get approval and begin to plan your trip.
There were 60% student visa approvals for international students in Canada in 2024, and this was done in about 6–8 weeks. — Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
How International Students Can Save Money?
- You can pay less in tuition and rent if you study at a university in a smaller city or province.
- Most scholarships require you to apply early, so check for ones that are right for your program.
- Earning supplemental money can be done by taking on-campus positions or joining a co-op program.
- You can lower the cost of housing by renting with other students.
- Use buses or trains when you can and show your student ID for discounts.
Conclusion
Cheap universities in Canada provide an outstanding opportunity for international and domestic students to access world-class education without incurring massive debt. Selecting inexpensive universities in Canada gives you access to lower tuition, plenty of scholarship programs and active campus activities. Whether you’re searching for cheap tuition universities in Canada for undergraduate or cheap universities in Canada for master’s, there are plenty of options that offer great value. Both your study permit and your application for a place in a program should be done in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
Q1: Are cheap universities in Canada recognised internationally?
Ans. Affordable Canadian universities are all accredited and accepted worldwide.Is it possible for me to take a job while enrolling at a cheap university in Canada?Students from other countries are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week in the semester and up to 40 hours each week during vacations, if they possess a valid study permit.
Q2: What are the least expensive provinces where international students go for education?
Ans. Generally, Newfoundland, Manitoba, New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island have the least expensive tuition and living fees.
Q3. Which institution can international students attend in Canada at the lowest price in 2025?
Each year, Brandon University and Memorial University of Newfoundland are recognized as being among the cheapest Canadian universities for international students, costing CAD 10,700–13,000 annually.
Q4. How good is the quality at cheap Canadian universities?
Many Canadian universities are both affordable and offer a high level of education as well as opportunities for research, teaching and work. Both affordability and educational quality are respected at the University of Calgary and Memorial University of Newfoundland.
Q5. Which courses are offered by cheap universities in Canada?
Many people take courses in Business Administration, Computer Science, Engineering, Arts, Science and Health Sciences. Many universities have special programs in things such as Agriculture, Environmental Science and Music
