Top universities in Canada for international students: Your ultimate guide

Canada is home to many of the world’s top universities, including some that feature in the top 100 universities in the world.

Whether you are looking for a research-focused university, one with a strong focus on technology, or just a great school with a diverse student body, Canada has a variety of options to offer.

This guide will look at the top universities, their rankings, tuition fees, admission requirements and more.

Best universities in Canada for international students

• University of Toronto
• University of British Columbia
• McGill University
• McMaster University
• University of Alberta
• University of Montreal
• University of Waterloo
• University of Ottawa
• University of Calgary
• Simon Fraser University

Top 10 universities in Canada

Canada is an increasingly attractive destination for students all over the world looking for a quality education.

Boasting the top universities in the world, according to the Times Higher Education Rankings 2024, it's no surprise that many international students are choosing to pursue their studies in this safe and vibrant country. Here are the top 10 universities in Canada.

Also read: 10 reasons to study a bachelors degree in Canada

1. University of Toronto

Location: Toronto, Ontario

THE Rankings 2024: 21

Acceptance rate: 43%

The University of Toronto is one of the best universities in Canada for international students. It is a public research university located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It is ranked #1 in Canada and #21 worldwide according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024.

Admission requirements for international students at the University of Toronto vary depending on the program and the student's educational background. Generally, applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent, submit English language proficiency scores, and provide evidence of their financial resources.

The tuition fees for international students at the University of Toronto vary depending on the program and level of study. The tuition fees for undergraduate programs range from CAD 46,000 to CAD 70,000 per year, while for graduate programs, the cost would be over CAD 11,000 to CAD 50,000 per year.

In addition to tuition fees, international students are also required to pay other fees, including a registration fee, incidental fees, and health insurance.

Also read: Study in Canada after 12th: A complete guide

2. University of British Columbia

Location: Vancouver, British Columbia

THE Rankings 2024: 41

Acceptance rate: Over 50%

The University of British Columbia is consistently ranked among the top 50 universities in the world, according to the Times Higher Education Rankings 2024. It is also ranked as the second-best university in Canada, following the University of Toronto.

The average annual tuition fee for undergraduate international students is around CAD 40,000, while the estimated annual tuition fee for international graduate students is around CAD 8,500.

In addition to tuition fees, international students must also pay student fees, which include a range of services such as student health and dental plans, library access, and transit passes.

Admission requirements for international students include a valid passport, proof of English proficiency, and references. Applicants must also submit a copy of their high school and undergraduate (if applicable) transcripts, statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.

Also read: 5 best universities to study law (LLB) in Canada

3. McGill University

Location: Montreal, Quebec

THE Rankings 2024: 49

Acceptance rate: 46%

McGill University is a public research university located in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. It is ranked #49 in the world according to the Times Higher Education Rankings 2024, making it one of the top universities in Canada.

McGill University is internationally renowned for its research, teaching excellence, and diverse student population.

The tuition fees for international students at McGill University vary significantly depending on the program of study. For undergraduate programs, the tuition fees for international students are approximately CAD 27,000 - CAD 45,000 per year, while graduate programs cost approximately CAD 16,000 - CAD 34,000 per year.

The admission requirements for international students are highly competitive. In addition to a strong academic record, applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency and proficiency in French, if applicable. Applicants should also submit their SOP, resume, and LORs.

Also read: The best post-graduation courses in Canada for career advancement

4. McMaster University

Location: Hamilton, Ontario

THE Rankings 2024: 103

Acceptance rate: 59%

Leading the higher education charts as one of the finest institutions in Ontario, McMaster University ranks #103 in the Times Higher Education Rankings 2024. Founded in 1887, it is also one of the oldest and most well-established universities across the globe.

With an acceptance rate of 59%, McMaster University follows standard criteria for admission. The requirements for international students include a valid passport, proof of English proficiency, academic transcripts, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation.

From health sciences to engineering, McMaster University has numerous course programs that would suit every student’s needs. The tuition fees for undergraduate courses start from CAD 22,500, and postgraduate program costs start from CAD 17,300.

Also read: What’s student life like in Canada?

5. University of Alberta

Location: Edmonton, Alberta

THE Rankings 2024: 109

Acceptance rate: 58%

The University of Alberta is a public research university located in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. It is ranked #109 in the world according to the Times Higher Education Rankings 2024. In addition, it is a member of the prestigious Group of Thirteen, a group of leading research-intensive Canadian universities.

Tuition fees at the University of Alberta for international students vary from program to program but are generally lower than other universities in Canada. The tuition fees for international students are approximately CAD 20,000 - CAD 35,000 per year, while graduate programs cost approximately CAD 10,000 - CAD 30,000 per year.

The University of Alberta has specific admission requirements for international students. All applicants must meet the academic requirements for the program they are applying for.

In addition, applicants must provide language test scores such as TOEFL, IELTS, or PTE and submit a statement of purpose (SOP). They also need to submit their transcripts, a resume, two letters of recommendation (LORs), and an application fee.

Also read: Universities in Canada with High Acceptance Rate

6. University of Montreal

Location: Montreal, Quebec

THE Rankings 2024: 111

Acceptance rate: 57%

The University of Montreal (Université de Montréal) is a French-language public research university in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Founded in 1878, the university is the largest in Quebec, the second-largest in Canada, and one of the two leading francophone universities in the world.

It is ranked #111 globally in the Times Higher Education Rankings 2024, boasting its quality of education and educational resources. Being a research-intensive university, its faculty members are involved in various research projects, ranging from biotechnology to nanotechnology.

Undergraduate programs for international students range from CAD 17,000 to CAD 27,000, while graduate programs cost between CAD 9,000 and CAD 20,000 per year. The admission requirements for international students at the University of Montreal vary depending on the program.

Generally, applicants must have a valid passport, have a good academic record, have a certain level of language proficiency (usually French and English), and pass a visa interview. In addition, many programs require applicants to submit letters of recommendation, personal statements, and official transcripts.

7. University of Waterloo

Location: Waterloo, Ontario

THE Rankings 2024: 158

Acceptance rate: 53%

The University of Waterloo is a highly prestigious Canadian institution dedicated to providing a remarkable educational experience for students. Ranked among the top 200 universities in the THE Rankings 2024, the public research university boasts remarkable courses in psychology, engineering, and science.

The University of Waterloo has an acceptance rate of 53%, allowing numerous international students to get the chance to pursue their desired courses. The admission requirements differ with every program, but the common requirements include your academic transcripts, English exam scores, SOP, LORs, and other documents.

The university’s undergraduate course fees range from CAD 45,000, while postgraduate program fees start from CAD 22,900 per year.

8. University of Ottawa

Location: Ottawa, Ontario

THE Rankings 2024: 177

Acceptance rate: 78%

Located in the capital of Canada with plenty of vital attractions and places nearby, the University of Ottawa is among the top 10 research institutions in the country. The university boasts fantastic course programs, cutting-edge facilities and laboratories, and remarkable career opportunities for graduates.

The University of Ottawa has a high acceptance rate, making the institution a great choice for higher education for international students. Ensure you get your academic transcripts, English proficiency proof, SOP, and other documents for admission. You can choose your desired course from over 111 UG and 161 PG programs.

The tuition fees for courses at the University of Ottawa range from CAD 17,500. Computer science, business administration, psychology, engineering, economics, and business studies are some common and famous courses students pursue here.

9. University of Calgary

Location: Calgary, Alberta

THE Rankings 2024: 201-250

Acceptance rate: 10-20%

Ranked as one of the finest and youngest institutions in the province, the University of Calgary offers everything an international student requires. The public research university is known for offering impactful, engaging programs, state-of-the-art facilities, research opportunities, and career options.

Praised for its experiential learning, some of the top courses in the university include medicine, engineering, humanities, economics, business studies, and ecology. In addition to the academics, Calgary’s faculty ensures students enhance their skillset for a scopeful career.

The university’s undergraduate course costs range from CAD 27,000, while its postgraduate program fee starts from CAD 24,000. With its low acceptance rate, it is quite challenging for international students to get admission into the University of Calgary.

10. Simon Fraser University

Location: Burnaby, British Columbia

THE Rankings 2024: 251-300

Acceptance rate: 59%

Simon Fraser is one of the largest universities in Canada, offering a wide range of programs and opportunities for international students. Ranked as one of the top institutions in British Columbia and the entire higher education sector, studying here comes with various perks.

In addition to the scopeful course programs, Simon Fraser University is also praised for offering students the opportunity to explore, skill-up, and boost their profile during their study period. The university’s admission process often varies with different courses, but ensure you have the necessary documents and fulfil the eligibility criteria to secure admission at the university.

Simon Fraser University is also praised for its affordable tuition fees for international students. The UG fees start from CAD 12,200, and the PG program costs range from CAD 12,000.

The universities mentioned above are the best in Canada for international students and provide a range of academic and cultural experiences, allowing international students to learn in a safe and welcoming environment. From their world-class faculty and research facilities to their vibrant student life, these universities are sure to provide an educational experience that is second to none.

Also read: Cheap Universities in Canada

Frequently asked questions

What are the best universities in Canada for international students?

The best universities in Canada for international students are the University of Toronto, McGill University, the University of British Columbia, the University of Montreal, and the University of Alberta.

What is the number 1 university in Canada?

The University of Toronto is ranked the #1 university in Canada and #25 in the world according to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024.

What is the tuition fee for international students at the University of Montreal?

For undergraduate programs, the tuition fees for international students range from CAD 17,000 to CAD 27,000 per year, while for graduate programs, the tuition fees range from CAD 9,000 to CAD 20,000 per year.

What are the Big 4 universities in Canada?

The Big 4 universities in Canada are the University of Toronto, McGill University, the University of British Columbia, and the University of Alberta.

Which university in Canada has the most international students?

Here are the top Canadian universities with the most international students.

• University of British Columbia
• University of Ottawa
• University of Alberta
• Dalhousie University
• York University

What is the cheapest university in Canada?

Some of the most affordable universities in Canada include.

• Simon Fraser University
• University of Guelph
• Concordia University
• University of Calgary
• University of Alberta
• University of Winnipeg
• University of Ottawa
• Brandon University
• University of Saskatchewan
• University of Northern British Columbia

What is the best university for an MBA in Canada?

The best Canadian universities for an MBA include.

• University of Toronto (Rotman School of Management)
• Queen’s Smith School of Business
• Western University (Ivey Business School)
• McGill University (Desautels Faculty of Management)
• York University (Schulich School of Business)

What is the hardest university to get into in Canada?

York University is considered the hardest to get in for higher education. The institution has an acceptance rate of 27%.

Which university in Canada has the most Indian students?

McGill University, the University of Toronto, and the University of British Columbia are considered the top universities in Canada that have the highest number of Indian students.

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