Dr Mohammad Shafiq
Updated on: 01-Dec-2025
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The cheapest universities in Canada for international students in 2026 combine low tuition, affordable cities, and strong job prospects after graduation. This guide compares budget-friendly Canadian universities, realistic yearly costs, scholarships, and PGWP pathways so you can plan an affordable study-abroad journey without sacrificing education quality or career options.
Canada is tightening its study permit rules, but it remains one of the best destinations for affordable, high-quality education. With many 2025 intakes closing, most international students are now targeting 2026 admissions and hunting for low-cost Canadian universities that still offer recognised degrees, safe cities, and clear post-study work options.
This article focuses on the 10 cheapest universities in Canada for international students in 2026. You’ll see how “cheap” really works when you factor in tuition, living expenses, scholarships, and immigration rules, plus how to build a realistic budget and avoid common mistakes that make studying in Canada more expensive than it needs to be.
Even with stricter rules, choosing an affordable university in Canada can still be a smart move if you plan ahead. For 2026, three things matter most:
When you target low-tuition universities in Canada for international students, you stretch your budget further and reduce the pressure to overwork while studying, which helps you maintain the grades you need for scholarships and co-op placements. If you’re still at the early research stage, our detailed guide to studying in Canada as an international student walks you through intakes, requirements, and visa basics.
The cheapest universities in Canada aren’t just the ones with the lowest tuition numbers on their homepage. For 2026 applicants, we consider:
If you compare total study costs across countries, many of these low-cost Canadian universities end up cheaper than similar options in the UK, US, or Australia, especially when you factor in the ability to work and stay after graduation.
Below is a simple snapshot to help you shortlist affordable universities in Canada for international students in 2026. These are approximate ranges for typical international undergraduate programs and basic living costs for 12 months. Always check the latest data on official university and government pages before applying.
|
# |
University |
Location |
Approx. undergrad tuition (2025–26) |
Est. living costs / year |
Best for |
|
1 |
Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN) |
St. John’s, NL |
CAD $22,500 |
CAD $12,000–14,000 |
Marine fields, engineering, budget-minded students |
|
2 |
Brandon University (BU) |
Brandon, MB |
CAD $7,000–8,500 |
CAD $11,000–13,000 |
Extreme low tuition, small classes |
|
3 |
University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) |
Charlottetown, PE |
CAD $13,000–14,000 |
CAD $12,000–14,000 |
Veterinary, nursing, island lifestyle |
|
4 |
University of Saskatchewan (USask) |
Saskatoon, SK |
CAD $15,000–20,000 |
CAD $14,000–16,000 |
Agriculture, engineering, research focus |
|
5 |
University of Manitoba (UManitoba) |
Winnipeg, MB |
CAD $18,000–19,000 |
CAD $13,000–15,000 |
Engineering, health, big-city value |
|
6 |
University of Winnipeg (UWinnipeg) |
Winnipeg, MB |
CAD $16,000–21,000 |
CAD $13,000–15,000 |
Humanities, sciences, downtown campus |
|
7 |
University of Regina (URegina) |
Regina, SK |
CAD $9,500–10,000 |
CAD $13,000–14,500 |
Co-op focus, applied degrees |
|
8 |
University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) |
Prince George, BC |
CAD $24,000–25,000 |
CAD $12,000–14,000 |
Environmental and health programs |
|
9 |
Concordia University |
Montreal, QC |
CAD $19,500–28,000 |
CAD $14,000–16,000 |
Engineering, arts, big-city life |
|
10 |
University of Alberta (UAlberta) |
Edmonton, AB |
CAD $31,000–32,000 |
CAD $14,000–16,000 |
Top-100 global research university |
Use this table as a starting point to narrow down your own list of cheap colleges in Canada for international students that match your budget and your academic goals. You can also cross-check your shortlist with our overview of public universities in Canada to focus on institutions that are more likely to offer PGWP-eligible, government-regulated degree programs.
Headline tuition can be misleading. Some universities advertise low tuition but add high mandatory fees for health insurance, student services, recreation, or lab access. Before you call any university “cheap,” calculate:
Only then will you know whether it truly fits your 2026 budget.
Two universities may have similar tuition but very different living costs. For example, cheaper universities in smaller cities like Brandon, Regina, or St. John’s often beat higher-ranked schools in Toronto or Vancouver once you factor in rent.
Look at:
Low-tuition universities in Canada for international students are often located in mid-sized cities where your monthly expenses stay under control.
A low price doesn’t help if your program is weak or unknown in your field. Check:
For 2026, prioritise universities that are both affordable and recognised in your discipline, especially for fields like engineering, computing, nursing, business, agriculture, and environmental science.
Scholarships can turn a mid-priced school into one of the cheapest options overall. For each university, look for:
Many cheap universities in Canada for international students will still reward strong academics with substantial entrance awards, especially if you apply early. For example, our breakdown of scholarship options for Indian students in Canada shows how entrance awards, government schemes, and external funding can work together to lower your net costs.
Most English-medium universities look for IELTS 6.5–7.0, TOEFL iBT 80–100, or Duolingo 110–120. Some offer English pathway programs if you’re slightly below the requirements. French-medium or bilingual institutions may also require French proficiency. If test scores are a concern, explore Canadian universities that accept students without IELTS so you can target options that match your current English level.
Confirm:
To stay and work in Canada after graduating, you’ll usually need:
Always check the latest IRCC DLI list and PGWP rules before paying any tuition deposit. For 2026, choosing the wrong campus or program can seriously limit your post-study options, even at a cheap Canadian university. Once you start planning beyond graduation, our step-by-step guide to getting PR in Canada after your studies explains how your choice of province, program, and work experience impacts your long-term immigration route.
Finally, ask yourself where you can actually enjoy living. Cheap tuition won’t help if you’re miserable or isolated. Consider:
Pick a place where you can see yourself thriving for two to four years, not just surviving.
MUN in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, is a top choice for affordable study in Canada thanks to relatively low tuition and a strong reputation in marine, engineering, business, and health-related fields. It’s one of the best options if you want a research university that’s still budget-friendly.
International undergraduates can often study for around CAD $22,500 per year, depending on program and course load. Graduate tuition is usually lower on an annual basis, especially in research-heavy master’s programs.
St. John’s is more affordable than major Canadian metros. Many international students share apartments and manage with an annual living budget around CAD $12,000–14,000, including rent, food, local transit, and basic winter gear.
International Entrance Scholarships and other merit-based awards can add roughly CAD $3,000–4,000 in support. Graduate research or teaching assistantships dramatically reduce effective tuition for strong candidates.
Students seeking one of the cheapest universities in Canada for international students that still offers serious research and PGWP-relevant programs, especially in marine, ocean, and engineering-related fields.
Brandon University in Manitoba is often highlighted as one of the lowest-tuition universities in Canada, making it a standout for students who need to keep costs under very tight control.
International undergraduate tuition starts around CAD $7,000–8,500 per year, putting BU among the absolute cheapest options nationwide for degree-level study.
Brandon is a small, quiet city where shared housing can sometimes be found in the CAD $800–1,000 per month range. Many students build annual living budgets of about CAD $11,000–13,000 if they manage money carefully.
International Student Bursaries and entrance awards, usually in the CAD $1,000–2,000 range, can further reduce net costs. The small campus and low student faculty ratio mean more personalised support and easier access to professors.
Students who want an ultra-low-cost university in Canada, prefer smaller classes, and are interested in programs such as education, arts, music, and health studies.
UPEI is a compact, friendly institution in Charlottetown and a great option if you want an affordable university in a safe, slower-paced environment.
Most international undergraduate programs sit around CAD $13,000–14,000 per year. Specialised degrees like veterinary medicine are higher but still competitive versus similar programs elsewhere.
Charlottetown combines moderate rent with a relaxed lifestyle. International students often budget CAD $900–1,100 per month for housing and around CAD $12,000–14,000 annually for living costs.
UPEI’s international entrance awards (approx. CAD $1,000–3,000) reward good grades, and there are additional bursaries and assistantships for graduate students. The university is well-known for veterinary medicine, nursing, and environmental-related programs.
Students seeking cheap universities in Canada for international students who still want strong support services and a close-knit campus community.
USask in Saskatoon is a research-intensive university that blends solid rankings with relatively moderate tuition, especially compared with major urban centres.
International undergraduate tuition generally falls in the CAD $15,000–20,000 range. Professional degrees like medicine or law cost more. Funded graduate programs can be much cheaper overall once scholarships and assistantships are included.
Saskatoon offers a good balance between city amenities and affordability. Many students share housing and manage annual expenses in the CAD $14,000–16,000 range.
International Excellence Awards and faculty-level scholarships can provide around CAD $10,000 or more in support. Strong agriculture, engineering, and environmental programs also mean good co-op and research opportunities.
Students who want a recognised Canadian research university that’s still relatively affordable, especially in STEM, agriculture, and environment-focused programs
UManitoba in Winnipeg offers a classic big-university experience with relatively low international fees compared to many large schools in Ontario or British Columbia.
International undergraduate tuition sits around CAD $18,000–19,000 per year for many programs, which is reasonable for a large research institution.
Winnipeg is a cost-effective city with typical shared rent around CAD $950–1,100 per month. Many students plan for CAD $13,000–15,000 in yearly living costs if they budget carefully.
International Undergraduate Entrance Scholarships in the CAD $2,000–5,000 range reward strong GPAs. Research assistantships and faculty awards can further lower costs at the graduate level.
Students who want an affordable major university with strong engineering, agriculture, and health-related programs and a large, diverse international community.
UWinnipeg, also in Manitoba’s capital, is popular with international students who want a smaller, urban campus with access to downtown opportunities.
International undergraduate tuition generally ranges from CAD $16,000 to $21,000 per year, depending on the faculty. Many arts and science programs sit closer to the lower end.
Living costs are similar to those at UManitoba. Students who share accommodation and cook at home often keep annual expenses between CAD $13,000 and $15,000.
The President’s Scholarship for World Leaders offers significant support to strong international applicants, and there are additional awards for continuing students.
Students who want an affordable university in the heart of a city, with small classes, a diverse student body, and good access to part-time work and community organisations.
URegina in Saskatchewan’s capital city stands out as one of the lowest-tuition universities in Canada for both undergraduate and many graduate programs.
International undergraduate tuition is often around CAD $9,500–10,000 per year, which is extremely competitive nationally. Many graduate programs average around CAD $10,000 per year.
Regina’s living costs are manageable, with shared rent commonly in the CAD $950–1,050 per month range and annual budgets around CAD $13,000–14,500.
UR International Entrance Scholarships (about CAD $3,000) help reduce first-year costs, and co-op placements give you paid Canadian experience in areas such as business, engineering, and public administration.
Students prioritise low tuition and strong co-op options in a mid-sized city where it’s easier to build networks and find part-time work.
UNBC in Prince George is ideal for students who want British Columbia’s natural environment without Vancouver’s high prices.
International undergraduate tuition usually sits around CAD $24,000–25,000 per year. Graduate tuition is often around CAD $7,600–8,000, making UNBC especially attractive for master’s students.
Prince George is much more affordable than BC’s coastal cities. Many students share housing and manage with annual living costs in the CAD $12,000–14,000 range.
UNBC emphasises environmental studies, health sciences, and Indigenous partnerships. Entrance scholarships, bursaries, and research funding are available, especially at the graduate level.
Students looking for a small, community-focused research university in BC, especially for environmental, health, and sustainability-related programs at a lower overall cost.
Concordia in Montreal is a popular choice for international students who want a big-city experience in a relatively affordable, bilingual environment.
International undergraduate tuition generally ranges from CAD $19,500 to $28,000 per year, depending on the program. Engineering and business may be higher, but still reasonable compared with similar North American universities.
Montreal is usually cheaper than Toronto or Vancouver, and many students budget around CAD $1,100–1,300 per month for rent plus CAD $14,000–16,000 per year in total living costs.
The Concordia International Scholars Program and other merit-based awards can significantly reduce tuition, especially for top students in engineering, computer science, fine arts, and business.
Students who want an affordable university in a vibrant, multicultural city with strong industry connections in tech, creative fields, and finance.
UAlberta in Edmonton is a top-100 global university and one of the best value choices for high-achieving international students who want world-class research at a lower total cost than some overseas alternatives.
International undergraduate tuition is around CAD $31,000–32,000 per year, which is higher than other schools on this list but often cheaper than similarly ranked universities abroad. Graduate tuition typically falls near CAD $12,000–13,000 per year before funding.
Edmonton offers reasonable rent for a large city, with many students budgeting CAD $1,000–1,200 per month for housing and CAD $14,000–16,000 per year for living expenses.
Entrance awards can reach CAD $9,000–$20,000 or more for strong applicants, especially in STEM and business. The university’s reputation and location in a major economic hub help with co-op placements and post-PGWP job prospects.
Students who want a highly ranked research-intensive university and are willing to pay somewhat higher tuition in exchange for strong career and immigration outcomes.
Even at the cheapest universities in Canada for international students, 2026 will be competitive and expensive if you don’t manage your finances carefully. A few smart moves make a big difference.
Your budget should include:
A simple rule for 2026 is to take your annual tuition and add 25–35% for non-tuition expenses, adjusting up or down depending on your destination city and lifestyle.
With Canadian study permit caps and provincial attestation letters now in place, strong applications submitted early are safer. For a September 2026 intake, use December 2025 and early 2026 to:
To keep your effective cost low:
Often, the biggest savings come from city choice, not tuition alone. A slightly higher tuition in a cheap city can cost less overall than a low-tuition college in an extremely expensive area. When you compare the cheapest universities in Canada for international students, always run “total cost” scenarios across at least two or three cities.
For most international students, a cheap university in Canada means annual undergraduate tuition under about CAD $22,000 combined with living costs that keep your total yearly budget around CAD $20,000–$30,000. The exact number depends on your program and city.
No. Many universities increase international tuition each year, sometimes by several per cent. When comparing low-cost universities in Canada for international students, check recent historical increases and budget some room for annual fee changes.
The new caps make early application and complete documentation more important, especially for private or less-established institutions. Selecting a public DLI with strong compliance and transparent fee structures will reduce your risk and support your visa application.
No. In December 2025, the rule allows eligible students to work up to 24 hours per week during academic terms and full-time during breaks. That income can help with living costs, but it normally won’t cover full international tuition. Plan to show proof of funds for at least your first year.
Broadly, cities like Brandon, Winnipeg, Regina, Saskatoon, St. John’s, and Prince George are more budget-friendly than Toronto or Vancouver. When looking for cheap colleges in Canada for international students, start your search in these locations if cost is your top priority.
Start by listing 8–10 low-cost Canadian universities that offer your program. Then filter by DLI/PGWP eligibility, city cost of living, scholarship options, and admission requirements. From there, select three to five realistic “target” universities and submit complete applications as early as possible.
The cheapest universities in Canada for international students in 2026 offer more than a low price tag. The real value comes when you combine manageable tuition, an affordable city, a strong and PGWP-eligible program, and smart use of scholarships, co-ops, and part-time work.
If you shortlist three to five budget-friendly Canadian universities that are strong in your field, confirm their DLI and PGWP status, build a detailed city-by-city budget, and apply early for both admission and funding, you can study in Canada in 2026 without wrecking your finances. With careful planning, a cheap Canadian university becomes a launchpad for a respected degree, Canadian work experience, and long-term career options around the world.
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