Higher education in Canada for international students
This content was developed and approved with active participation of Juliet Thondhlana.
In the process of preparing the material, we referenced the following sources:
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_universities_in_Canada
- https://www.educanada.ca/why-canada-pourquoi/reasons-raisons.aspx?lang=eng.
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21st globally and third among North American public universitiesCanadaToronto, OntarioCurrently watching: 8from 22407.00 $CAD / year
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from 7181.00 $ / year
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#34 in QS Global World University Rankings 2021CanadaVancouver, British ColumbiaCurrently watching: 8from 21693.00 $ / year
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ranked 168 in Canada for the year 2022CanadaVancouver, British ColumbiaCurrently watching: 6from 10000.00 $CAD / semester
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Ranked 2nd Overall by Edurank in the Global – Business Schools Category for 2021CanadaToronto, OntarioCurrently watching: 6from 14850.00 $CAD / 55 weeks
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#1 on ACR's prestigious Canadian and International listsCanadaVancouver, British ColumbiaCurrently watching: 4from 10750.00 $CAD / 16 weeks
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from 9643.00 $ / year
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from 22620.00 $CAD / year
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from 8050.00 $CAD / semester
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from 9156.00 $ / year
Canada is a very-well developed, progressive, modern country with a strong industry and beautiful nature, as well as high-quality educational system and comfortable living conditions. Canadian schools and colleges provide quality, practical-oriented education, appreciate personal and professional growth, are interested in valuable specialists.
The foundation is the British educational system. Life in Canada is quiet and safe, living standards are very high - while the cost of education remains fairly affordable. Of the obvious advantages, one can also mention bilingual programs (English and French are recognized on the territory of the country), the highest quality education, internationally-listed diplomas, and the opportunity to work during studying. Moreover, after graduation, the student can earn the opportunity to stay in Canada and work on a permanent basis in the chosen field.
The authorities invest a huge amount of money in the educational system. It is one of the priority areas of national development. And this is very noticeable - first of all, in terms of the level of equipment of universities: practically everyone has modern, innovative, technically advanced equipment for research, laboratory and design work.
Foreign students often choose following areas to study in Canadian schools, colleges and universities:
- Information Technology
- Microelectronics
- Engineering
- Natural Sciences
- Business
The best universities, occupying leading positions in rankings, include the institutions of Ontario and British Columbia. Under the statistics of the independent rating of the World University Rankings (2014-2015), among TOP-400 world universities there are 8 Canadian universities, 4 of them in the first 100:
- University of Toronto = 20th place
- University of British Columbia = 32nd place
- McGill University = 39th place
- McMaster University = 94th place.
Alternative destinations
Higher Education in Canada
Canada is proud of an impressive higher education system with a majority of its institutions being state-owned. These universities and colleges are under the supervision of local authorities, ensuring consistent quality control over teaching standards, faculty qualifications, and curriculum content.

What firstly should be considered when choosing a university?
It depends on the student - everyone determines the most important criteria for himself. I would advise you to take several rankings and compare them with each other, plus take into account the cost of the course, the location of the university and its scale, the percentage of graduates' employment. See where graduates continue their studies or where they go to work.
Canadian Higher Education: Colleges vs. Universities
Obtaining higher education is possible if entering Canadian colleges and universities.
Colleges: Colleges primarily offer Bachelor's and Master's degrees, making an emphasis on practical skills and internships. According to statistics, college graduates often find a job within 6-7 months after graduation.
Universities: Universities offer Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD programs, which stipulate a combination of theoretical and practical aspects. Graduates become academic professionals who will not face problems with employment. If you're interested in research, teaching, or consultancy, then you should enter universities.
Pursuing Top-tier Education in Canada
Most prestigious schools, colleges, and universities in Canada offer top-tier education. If you are interested in obtaining a prestigious education, Canada offers various options to consider, guaranteeing a comprehensive academic preparation at an affordable price.
How long does it take to get a bachelor's degree in Canada?
Typically, a bachelor's degree in Canada takes 3-4 years to complete. However, the length of the program may vary depending on the major and university.
What are the requirements for university admission in Canada?
Each university is distinguished by its own admission requirements. Also chosen educational program may influence the admission requirements towards foreign applicants. They usually include a grade point average in subjects, passing exams in English or French (like IELTS or TOEFL) and submitting a motivational essay.
What are the costs and funding opportunities for higher education in Canada?
The cost of studying ranges significantly, which is stipulated by the ranking of the institution and the program chosen. On average, studying in an undergraduate program will fluctuate from $15,000 to $30,000 per year. Canadian universities offer scholarships and other types of financial aid for foreign students.
Can I work while studying in Canada?
Yes, international students in Canada have the right to work while studying. They can usually work full-time during vacations and part-time (usually 20 hours per week) during their studies.
What languages are used in studies in Canada?
In Canada, educational institutions provide instruction in both English and French, depending on the province and institution. For example, the province of Quebec, where universities such as McGill University and Université de Montréal are located, uses French as the language of instruction, while most other provinces use English.
What is the Canadian Certificate of Education and how is it recognized by the international community?
Canadian educational certificates are recognized around the world due to the high quality of education in the country. Canada is known for its outstanding education system, and Canadian diplomas and certificates are often respected in the international education and workplace community.
What cultural adjustment awaits international students in Canada?
Cultural adjustment can be different for each student, but Canada is a multicultural society and many international students find a supportive and friendly environment here. It is important to be open to new cultural experiences, learn the language and get involved in campus activities to speed up the adjustment process.
What are the employment prospects for international students after graduation?
Upon graduation, alumni are provided with excellent opportunities for employment in Canada. Many graduates successfully find a job in Canada and then apply for immigration through various programs such as Express Entry or the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
What is a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and how do I get one?
PGWP is a work permit, allowing you to get a job after graduation. It can be obtained after completing a studying program lasting more than 8 months. The PGWP provides graduates with the opportunity to work in Canada in the open labor market and gain first work experience.
Top 35 best universities and colleges in Canada 2025
1 | University of Toronto |
2 | McGill University |
3 | University of British Columbia |
4 | University of Alberta |
5 | Simon Fraser University |
6 | Montreal University |
7 | University of Windsor |
8 | York University |
9 | University of Guelph |
10 | McMaster University |
11 | University of Manitoba |
12 | University of Waterloo |
13 | Royal Roads University |
14 | Vancouver Film School |
15 | Kwantlen Polytechnic University |
16 | University of Calgary |
17 | Dalhousie University |
18 | Fanshawe College |
19 | University of Ottawa |
20 | Laval University |
21 | Sheridan College |
22 | University of Regina |
23 | Brock University |
24 | Thompson Rivers University |
25 | Humber College |
26 | Vancouver Island University |
27 | Mohawk College |
28 | Centennial College Toronto |
29 | Niagara College |
30 | Capilano University |
31 | Seneca College |
32 | Algoma University |
33 | Saint Clair College |
34 | Douglas College |
35 | LaSalle College |
Learning programs-summary information
Name | Meaning | Equivalent | Min. age | Duration, years |
Next stage | Cost |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
GCSE | General certificate of secondary education | secondary education (non-accomplished) | 14 | 1–2 | A-Levels | 15,000 USD+ |
A-Levels | Advanced level | secondary education (accomplished) | 16 | 2 | University | 15,000 USD+ |
BTEC | Business and Technology Education Board | secondary special education | 14 | 2–3 | University/ work | 15,000 USD+ |
Oxbridge Preparation | Preparing for Oxford and Cambridge | secondary education (accomplished) | 17 | 1 | University | 15,000 USD+ |
International Baccalaureate | International baccalaureate | secondary education (accomplished) | 16 | 2 | University | 18,000 USD+ |
Foundation/ Pathway Year | Preparatory year | admission to the 1st year of university | 17 | 1 | University | 14,000 USD+ |
NCUK | The Northern consortium | 2 year university | 17,5 | 1 | 2 year University of NCUK | 13,000 USD+ |
Special Preparation (Medics/Math/Business) | Specialized training | - | 14 | optional | optional | 4,000 USD+ |
Academic English | Academic English | Language school | 8 + | 6–12 months | School or University | 8,000 USD+ |
Canada higher education -statistics
Name | Bachelor Degree |
---|---|
Deadline | January-February-May |
Duration | 3-4 years |
Expulsion statistics | 26% |
Language of tuition | English, French |
French proficiency | DALF C1, TEF B2 |
English proficiency | IELTS 6.5, TOEFL ibt 82 |
Job opportunity | 80% |
Percentage of students enrolled in the master's program | 57% |
Cost of living in Canada
Expenses - USD/Month. | Min. | Med. |
---|---|---|
Accommodation | 294 | 376 |
Food | 239 | 416 |
Transportation | 54 | 144 |
Communications and utilities | 81 | 89 |
Clothing | 19 | 71 |
Sports and leisure | 23 | 84 |
Total | 711 | 1,179 |
Accommodation in Canada | USD/Month. | |
Shared room outside of centre | 297 | |
Shared room in city centre | 380 | |
1 bedroom apartment outside of centre | 539 | |
1 bedroom apartment in city centre | 690 |