Canada is an ideal study destination, welcoming around 800,000 international students to pursue higher education. With its open-minded culture, friendliness to foreigners, and high quality of life, Canada attracts students from all over the world.
From arts and science to engineering and research, Canada is a frontrunner in offering the finest educational programs in various fields of study in globally renowned universities. Canadian universities offer a wide range of top-notch engineering degrees, and the skills and knowledge gained here are recognised and valued globally.
This article covers everything you should know about engineering courses and the top educational institutions in Canada for international students.
Want to pursue engineering in Canada? Apply today and begin your study abroad journey!
Table of Contents
Highlights of engineering universities in Canada
| Course-type | Full-time |
| Course duration | Undergraduate degree: 3-4 years Postgraduate degree: 1-2 years |
| Course entry requirement | Undergraduate degree: An international student with a subject background in maths, physics, chemistry, and biology with an overall score above 80%. Postgraduate degree: An international student with an undergraduate degree in the related engineering specialisation with a GPA over 3.0. |
| English proficiency | IELTS: 6.5 TOEFL: 90 PTE: 65 Duolingo: 100 |
| Entrance exam | GRE: 300-320 |
| Best engineering colleges in Canada |
|
| Fees range | CAD $20,000 - $70,000 |
| Visa | Canada Student Visa |
Data updated as of January 2024
Why study engineering in Canada?
- Canada has an excellent reputation for engineering courses, providing quality education and universally recognised programs. The courses are structured to improve student’s knowledge and skills and provide hands-on experience to prepare them for their careers ahead.
- Canada is an industrial hub for companies like Ford, Toyota, Aecon Group, Amazon, Honda, IBM, SmartPixel, and Chevrolet. This offers graduates an opportunity to kickstart their careers in top companies.
- Canada has a high employment rate for international engineering graduates. This means most students secure a high-paying job or pursue higher education after graduation.
Also read: What are the benefits of studying in Canada?
Eligibility for studying engineering in Canada
When applying for a course, Canadian universities require you to satisfy the eligibility criteria before sending your application for admission. While the requirements vary with every specialisation and university, here are the standard eligibility criteria for engineering courses in Canada.
Eligibility criteria to pursue engineering in Canada
| Factor | Eligibility criteria |
|---|---|
| Educational qualifications | Undergraduate degree: An international student with a subject background in maths, physics, chemistry, and biology with an overall score above 80%. Postgraduate degree: An international student with an undergraduate degree in the related engineering specialisation with a GPA over 3.0. |
| English proficiency |
|
| Entrance exam | GRE: 300-320 |
| Visa | Canada Student visa |
Data updated as of January 2024
Note: The eligibility requirement varies with every engineering program and university. Ensure you check the course page for the requirements before submitting the application.
Cost of pursuing engineering in Canada
An engineering program is very affordable in Canada compared to other study destinations for international students. A typical engineering degree costs between CAD $20,000-$70,000.
Also read: How to apply for university in Canada?
10 best engineering colleges in Canada for international students
If you're still on the fence about where to study engineering, we've put together a list of the best universities in Canada for this field.
Best universities for engineering in Canada
| University name | US News Best Global Universities for Engineering in Canada | Canada Engineering University Ranking 2023 |
|---|---|---|
| University of Toronto | 55 | 27 |
| University of British Columbia | 68 | 33 |
| University of Waterloo | 44 | 37 |
| McGill University | 146 | 41 |
| University of Alberta | 85 | 93 |
| Université de Montréal | 230 | 119 |
| University of Calgary | 268 | 147 |
| Queen's University at Kingston | 482 | 169 |
| McMaster University | 317 | 214 |
| University of Ottawa | 371 | 224 |
Data updated as of January 2024
Source: https://www.usnews.com/education/best-global-universities/canada/engineering
Also read: Cost of living in Canada for International Students
University of Toronto
| Acceptance rate | 43% |
| Employability rate | 90% |
| Course fees | CAD $67,370 |
Data updated as of January 2024
University of Toronto’s engineering program is considered the best in Canada, with a community of 48,000 alumni actively supporting the faculty through donations, internships, scholarships, and networking.
Students can choose from a variety of pathways, including chemical, civil, electrical and computer, industrial, material, mechanical, and mineral engineering.
With 90 student clubs and teams, there's a vibrant student life. The program's groundbreaking research has an international reputation, leading to over 105 startup companies since 1970.
Plus, the faculty offers a professional experience year, a 12 or 16-month co-op term, allowing students to get a taste of the industry before graduation.
University of British Columbia
| Acceptance rate | 70% |
| Employability rate | 81.2% |
| Course fees | CAD $50,000 |
Data updated as of January 2024
UBC's engineering program consistently ranks in the top 30 engineering courses worldwide. It's known for its hands-on, project-based approach.
The first year serves as a foundational year, equipping all students with a solid knowledge base. After that, students can apply to one of the 15 specialised engineering programs.
Waterloo University
| Acceptance rate | 53% |
| Employability rate | 94.8% |
| Course fees | CAD $71,000 |
Data updated as of January 2024
Just an hour and a half from Toronto, Waterloo University is a top choice for engineering in Canada. With 15 undergraduate programs, including 14 professional engineering degrees and a world-renowned architecture degree, it's no wonder they have one of the largest alum networks in the country.
McGill University
| Acceptance rate | 39% |
| Employability rate | 98% |
| Course fees | CAD $59,000 |
Data updated as of January 2024
Located in Quebec, McGill is one of the best-known Canadian universities worldwide. It's a hub for international students, attracting scholars from over 150 countries. This creates a highly diverse student body, enriching the learning experience.
McGill's engineering faculty is widely respected both on and off campus. Whether chemical engineering or applied mechanics, students are at the forefront of tackling complex problems.
The university is also working on sustainability, health, productivity, design, and social justice issues through collaborative research.
University of Alberta
| Acceptance rate | 58% |
| Employability rate | 92% |
| Course fees | CAD $39,500 |
Data updated as of January 2024
Located in Edmonton, the University of Alberta's faculty of engineering is one of Canada's largest and most respected. Its chemical engineering program ranks as the top program in Canada and the top 5% in North America.
The faculty of engineering offers nine fully accredited undergraduate degrees and a wide range of graduate degrees in two types of degree programs - traditional program (eight academic terms) and cooperative education program.
The hands-on undergraduate program, based on a 4-5-year plan, includes cutting-edge research facilities like the nanoFAB and the National Institute for Nanotechnology (NINT).
With state-of-the-art facilities and a history dating back to 1908, the University of Alberta continues to be an attractive choice for aspiring engineers from around the world.
Université de Montréal
| Acceptance rate | 57% |
| Employability rate | 88.8% |
| Course fees | CAD $27,000 |
Data updated as of January 2024
Situated in the vibrant city of Montreal, Quebec, Université de Montréal's faculty of engineering offers an enriching experience for international students.
The faculty prioritises research in fields like aerospace technology, telecommunications, sustainable engineering, and advanced materials, providing students with ample opportunities for hands-on learning and innovative discoveries.
International students at Université de Montréal can immerse themselves in multicultural and dynamic campus life, participating in various clubs and associations, including engineering-focused organisations like Poly-Jeunesse and the Association des étudiants en génie de Polytechnique (AEGP).
University of Calgary
| Acceptance rate | 89% |
| Employability rate | 94.1% |
| Course fees | CAD $3,618 per 3-unit course |
Data updated as of January 2024
The University of Calgary's Schulich School of Engineering, located in Calgary, Alberta, offers a welcoming environment for international students pursuing engineering studies.
Known for its emphasis on experiential learning, the Schulich School provides students with numerous co-op and internship opportunities to gain real-world experience.
The engineering school has seven engineering departments and three research centres.
- Centre for Environmental Engineering Research & Education
- Centre for Project Management Excellence
- Pipeline Engineering Centre
Queen's University at Kingston
| Acceptance rate | 89% |
| Employability rate | 90% |
| Course fees | CAD $29,700 |
Data updated as of January 2024
Queen's University, located in Kingston, Ontario, is another exceptional choice for international students pursuing engineering education in Canada. It is home to around 5,000 undergraduate and graduate students from around the world.
Queen's University comprises five departments.
- Civil Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Mechanical & Materials Engineering
- Electrical & Computer Engineering
- Robert M. Buchan Department of Mining
It is the only Canadian engineering faculty to offer undergraduate students a guaranteed choice of program after completing their first year.
McMaster University
| Acceptance rate | 59% |
| Employability rate | 90% |
| Course fees | CAD $51,000 |
Data updated as of January 2024
McMaster University is renowned for its academic excellence, research opportunities, and diverse campus life, therefore, attracting students from all around the world seeking to pursue engineering degrees.
McMaster University's faculty of engineering is home to some important research centres, including.
- McMaster Manufacturing Research Institute (MMRI)
- Institute for Automotive Research and Technology (MacAUTO)
- McMaster Centre for Software Certification (McSCert)
University of Ottawa
| Acceptance rate | 42% |
| Employability rate | 97% |
| Course fees | CAD $31,600 |
Data updated as of January 2024
Situated in Ottawa, the capital city of Canada, the University of Ottawa is an attractive choice for international students seeking top-notch engineering education. Ottawa's bilingual and cosmopolitan atmosphere offers a unique cultural experience.
The Faculty of Engineering boasts 7,000+ students in 85+ programs and options, a 97% employment rate two years after graduation, plus 96% of their co-op students find internships.
Also Read: Cheap Universities in Canada
Top engineering specialisations in Canada
Canada offer a diverse range of engineering specialisations, each catering to different industries and technological advancements. Some of the top engineering specialisations in Canada are:
- Software Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Biomedical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
Also read: Student accommodation in Canada
Top universities for undergraduate engineering programs in Canada
Canada is home to several reputable engineering colleges that offer undergraduate programs in various engineering disciplines. These institutions provide high-quality education, hands-on learning experiences, and opportunities for research and collaboration with industry partners.
Here are some of the top engineering colleges in Canada for undergraduate programs:
- Georgian College of Applied Arts and Technology
- St. Clair College of Applied Arts & Technology
- Niagara College
- University of Victoria
- Saskatchewan Polytechnic
- St Lawrence College
Canadian universities for aerospace engineering
Canada is home to several esteemed universities that offer excellent aerospace engineering programs. These universities have garnered reputations for their high-quality education, cutting-edge research facilities, and strong ties to the aerospace industry.
Here are some of the best aerospace engineering universities in Canada.
- Conestoga College
- University of Toronto
- McGill University
- University of Waterloo
- University of British Columbia
- Université de Montréal
- McMaster University
- University of Alberta
- University of Calgary
Engineering colleges in Canada: Admission requirements
Admission requirements for engineering colleges in Canada for international students can vary depending on the university, the specific engineering program, and whether you are applying as a domestic or international student. The typical admission requirements for engineering colleges in Canada are.
Undergraduate programs
- High school diploma or equivalent with a strong background in maths and science subjects (physics and chemistry).
- English language proficiency test (IELTS or TOEFL).
- Some programs may require standardised test scores (SAT or ACT) for undergraduate admissions.
- Completion of specific prerequisite courses, depending on the engineering discipline and university.
- Visa
- Passport
- Admissions test results
- Letter of Recommendation (LOR)
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Proof of financial support
Graduate programs (Master's or PhD)
- Bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field.
- English language proficiency test (IELTS or TOEFL).
- Statement of purpose or personal statement detailing academic and career goals, research interests, and reasons for pursuing engineering at the specific university.
- Letters of recommendation from professors, employers, or other individuals who can attest to the applicant's academic abilities and potential.
- Visa
- Passport
- Proof of related work experience
- Admissions test results
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Proof of financial support
Each university has its own requirements, but generally, you'll need a solid maths and science background, a good grasp of English, and standardised test scores.
Also read: 6 Entrance exams to study abroad for Indian students 2024
Career opportunities for engineering in Canada
Engineering graduates are offered various high-paying opportunities in Canada. An engineer earns an average of CAD $93,634 per year. Fresh graduates earn around CAD $69,886, while experienced engineers earn about CAD $147,769 per year.
Here are the top career options for engineering graduates in Canada.
- Software Engineer
- Electrical Engineer
- Mechanical Engineer
- Chemical Engineer
- Aerospace Engineer
- Industrial Engineer
- Civil Engineer
- Biomedical Engineer
- Environmental Engineer
- Marine Engineer
Also read: How to work in Canada after graduation?
Engineering universities in Canada: Top recruiters
The best universities for engineering in Canada have strong relationships with top recruiters in various industries. These companies are known for seeking engineering talent from various disciplines and often recruit from universities that excel in relevant fields of study.
Top recruiters for engineering graduates in Canada
| Microsoft | |
| Amazon | Tesla |
| IBM | SNC-Lavalin |
| Cisco Systems | Intel |
| Apple | Accenture |
| Bombardier | Lockheed Martin |
| NVIDIA | Siemens |
| General Motors (GM) | Deloitte |
| Hatch | AECOM |
| PwC (PricewaterhouseCoopers) | WSP Global |
Data updated as of January 2024
Edvoy offers plenty of opportunities for international students aiming to pursue higher education in countries like Canada, the UK, the US, Australia, New Zealand, and Ireland. We help and guide you in researching and discovering the university and course that suit your interest and pave the way for a seamless academic experience.
Frequently asked questions
Which is the best college in Canada for engineering?
The best universities for engineering in Canada are.
- University of Toronto
- University of British Columbia
- University of Waterloo
- McGill University
- University of Alberta
What are the best aerospace engineering universities in Canada?
Some of the best aerospace engineering universities in Canada are the University of Toronto, McGill University, University of Waterloo, University of British Columbia, and Université de Montréal.
Which engineering is most demanded in Canada?
The most in-demand engineering fields in Canada are software engineering, aerospace engineering, civil engineering, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering.
What are the language requirements for engineering in Canada?
Here are the language requirements for international students pursuing engineering in Canada. It is important to remember that the requirements differ with every university; ensure to check the specific course requirements before applying.
- IELTS: 6.5
- TOEFL: 90
- PTE: 65
- Duolingo: 100
Is engineering costly in Canada?
Generally, engineering is relatively expensive in Canada, particularly for international students. The cost of engineering programs in Canada can vary depending on factors like the university, level of degree (undergraduate or graduate), etc.
Is Canada good for engineering?
Yes, Canada is an excellent destination for engineering studies as it offers high-quality education, world-renowned universities, strong research opportunities, and a welcoming environment for international students. Additionally, Canada's thriving engineering industries provide numerous job prospects for engineering graduates.
Is B.Tech good in Canada?
Yes, pursuing a BTech degree in Canada can be an excellent choice. Canadian universities offer comprehensive BTech programs in various engineering disciplines, providing students with a strong foundation in practical skills and theoretical knowledge.
What are the top civil engineering universities in Canada?
- University of British Columbia
- University of Waterloo
- University of Toronto
- McGill University
- Concordia University
Which are the best engineering colleges in Toronto?
University of Toronto - Ranked as one of the best universities in Canada for engineering science. It is Canada's oldest and largest engineering college.
How much does it cost to study master of engineering courses in Canada?
The master's of engineering in Canada is a considerable investment in your education, considering the programme can cost anywhere from CAD $20,000-$70,000 a year.
Which is the best university for postgraduate engineering programs?
Here are the top Canadian institutions for international students to study for their master’s in engineering.
- University of Toronto
- University of Alberta
- University of Waterloo
- University of British Columbia
- Conestoga College
- University of Regina
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