Top 10 Cheapest Universities in Canada for International Students (2025 Guide)
Canada has become one of the top study destinations for international students—thanks to its high-quality education, work opportunities, and a pathway to permanent residency. But while it’s more affordable than countries like the U.S. or UK, studying in Canada can still be expensive, especially for students from Asia, Africa, and Latin America.
That’s why many students look for low-tuition universities that still offer great academic standards. In this article, we reveal the Top 10 Cheapest Universities in Canada for International Students in 2025, along with estimated costs, programs, and locations.
🎯 Why Choose Affordable Universities in Canada?
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Lower tuition = less debt after graduation
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PGWP eligible: Most low-cost universities still qualify for Post-Graduation Work Permit
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Same diploma value: A public university degree holds weight across Canada
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Good for PR: You still qualify for Canadian permanent residency pathways after studying
💰 What’s Considered “Cheap”?
For international students in Canada:
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Average tuition = CAD $25,000–$40,000/year
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Affordable universities = CAD $7,000–$18,000/year
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Living expenses (in smaller cities) = CAD $800–$1,200/month
Let’s break down the top 10 based on tuition + cost of living + PGWP eligibility.
🏫 Top 10 Cheapest Universities in Canada (2025)
1. Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN)
📍 St. John’s, Newfoundland
💵 Tuition: CAD $11,500–$13,500/year
MUN is widely considered the cheapest university in Canada for international students. It offers high-quality programs in engineering, business, and computer science.
Why choose MUN?
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Low cost of living
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PGWP eligible
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Scholarships for new students
📝 Popular programs: MBA, Marine Biology, Computer Science
2. University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI)
📍 Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
💵 Tuition: CAD $13,000–$15,000/year
UPEI is a small but growing university offering personalized attention and a peaceful study environment. It’s also one of the most immigrant-friendly provinces.
Why choose UPEI?
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Small classes
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Easy PR via Atlantic Immigration Program
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High visa approval rate
📝 Popular programs: Nursing, Business, Environmental Studies
3. Brandon University
📍 Brandon, Manitoba
💵 Tuition: CAD $8,000–$9,000/year
Brandon is one of the most affordable options with tuition under CAD $10,000. Manitoba also offers low cost of living and PR-friendly programs.
Why choose Brandon?
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Small student-teacher ratio
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Part-time job options on campus
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PGWP-eligible and Manitoba PNP support
📝 Popular programs: Psychology, Music, General Science
4. University of Manitoba
📍 Winnipeg, Manitoba
💵 Tuition: CAD $15,000–$17,000/year
A large public university with a good reputation, especially in health sciences and engineering. It's located in one of Canada’s most affordable big cities.
Why choose U of M?
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Strong alumni network
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Co-op and internship programs
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Affordable housing options
📝 Popular programs: Civil Engineering, Medicine, Business Analytics
5. University of Saskatchewan
📍 Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
💵 Tuition: CAD $13,000–$16,000/year
This university is ranked globally and still manages to offer affordable education in areas like agriculture, biology, and business.
Why choose U of S?
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Research-focused institution
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Open work permit options for spouses
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Easy path to Saskatchewan PR
📝 Popular programs: Agriculture, Biotechnology, Pharmacy
6. Athabasca University (Online)
📍 Alberta (Online Campus)
💵 Tuition: CAD $10,000–$13,000/year
Athabasca is Canada’s largest open university. It offers flexible online programs, which means you can study part-time and work more.
Why choose Athabasca?
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Online and hybrid learning
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Great for working students
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Lower living costs since you can study from anywhere in Canada
📝 Popular programs: General Arts, Health Admin, Computer Science
7. Université de Saint-Boniface
📍 Winnipeg, Manitoba
💵 Tuition: CAD $9,000–$10,500/year
A French-language university, ideal for international students from French-speaking countries. It also qualifies for PGWP and provincial PR.
Why choose USB?
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Low tuition and rent
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French + English language exposure
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Strong ties with Manitoba PNP
📝 Popular programs: Nursing, Education, Social Work
8. Cape Breton University (CBU)
📍 Sydney, Nova Scotia
💵 Tuition: CAD $17,000–$18,000/year
Though slightly higher in tuition, CBU has low living costs, flexible entry dates, and is a popular option for Indian students.
Why choose CBU?
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Offers fast-track diplomas
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Campus jobs and employer connections
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Located in a PR-friendly province
📝 Popular programs: Hospitality, Public Health, Supply Chain Management
9. University of the Fraser Valley (UFV)
📍 Abbotsford, British Columbia
💵 Tuition: CAD $16,500–$17,500/year
A great option if you want to study in B.C. without paying Vancouver prices. It’s a career-oriented university with diploma + degree pathways.
Why choose UFV?
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Close to Vancouver job market
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Tech and business-focused courses
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Co-op programs available
📝 Popular programs: IT, Business, Criminology
10. Concordia University of Edmonton
📍 Edmonton, Alberta
💵 Tuition: CAD $14,000–$15,500/year
Small class sizes, high visa success, and a friendly city environment make Concordia a great choice for international students.
Why choose CUE?
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Affordable in-province living
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Good work opportunities
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High student satisfaction
📝 Popular programs: Education, Public Health, Management
🧾 Additional Costs to Consider
Even if tuition is low, remember these typical student costs:
| Expense | Average/Month |
|---|---|
| Rent (shared room) | $400–$800 |
| Food & groceries | $200–$400 |
| Transportation | $80–$120 |
| Books & supplies | $100–$200 |
| Health insurance | $70–$100 |
🧠 Tips to Save Even More
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Apply early for scholarships and bursaries
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Live off-campus or in smaller cities
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Work part-time (up to 20 hours/week)
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Use student discounts on transit, software, and shopping
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Pick co-op programs for paid work experience
🏁 Final Thoughts
Studying in Canada doesn’t have to break the bank. These 10 affordable universities prove that you can get a quality education, work opportunities, and a pathway to PR—all without spending $40,000+ per year.
Whether you prefer the quiet of Prince Edward Island or the opportunity of British Columbia, Canada offers a range of budget-friendly universities that welcome international students with open arms.
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