Why Affordability Matters
Studying in Canada is a dream for many international students. The country is known for its high-quality education, cultural diversity, and post-graduation opportunities. However, the cost of tuition and living can be a concern—especially for those without access to major scholarships or financial support.
Fortunately, there are several Canadian universities that offer excellent education at affordable prices. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 10 most affordable universities in Canada for international students in 2025. Whether you’re pursuing a bachelor’s or a master’s degree, this list can help you find a quality program within your budget.
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Criteria for Selecting Affordable Universities
To compile this list, we considered the following factors:
- Low tuition fees for international students
- Reasonable cost of living in the city or province
- Reputation and academic ranking of the university
- Availability of scholarships or financial aid for international students
- Programs that lead to post-graduate work permits and PR (Permanent Residency) opportunities
Top 10 Affordable Universities in Canada for International Students (2025)
- Memorial University of Newfoundland
Location: St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
Average Tuition: CAD 11,460/year
Why Choose Memorial:
Memorial is one of the most budget-friendly universities in Canada. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs with low tuition fees, especially for international students. St. John’s is also known for its relatively low cost of living.
- University of Manitoba
Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba
Average Tuition: CAD 16,000/year
Why Choose Manitoba:
This research-intensive university offers strong programs in science, engineering, and agriculture. Winnipeg is also among the most affordable major cities in Canada.
- University of Saskatchewan
Location: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
Average Tuition: CAD 18,000/year
Why Choose USask:
Known for its research output, the University of Saskatchewan is ideal for students in health sciences, agriculture, and business. Saskatoon’s cost of living is lower compared to larger cities like Toronto or Vancouver.
- University of Regina
Location: Regina, Saskatchewan
Average Tuition: CAD 15,500/year
Why Choose Regina:
Offering practical programs and co-op placements, the University of Regina is popular among international students seeking hands-on experience. The province also offers immigration pathways through the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP).
- University of New Brunswick
Location: Fredericton and Saint John, New Brunswick
Average Tuition: CAD 17,000/year
Why Choose UNB:
As one of Canada’s oldest English-language universities, UNB combines tradition with innovation. Tuition is affordable, and the province is known for its welcoming attitude toward newcomers.
- University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI)
Location: Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Average Tuition: CAD 14,000/year
Why Choose UPEI:
UPEI offers a peaceful campus, small class sizes, and a supportive community. It’s a great choice for students who want a quiet and focused study environment.
- Lakehead University
Location: Thunder Bay and Orillia, Ontario
Average Tuition: CAD 18,000/year
Why Choose Lakehead:
Lakehead’s smaller campuses and strong support services for international students make it attractive. It is especially known for its environmental science and engineering programs.
- Thompson Rivers University
Location: Kamloops, British Columbia
Average Tuition: CAD 17,500/year
Why Choose TRU:
With a commitment to accessible education, TRU offers flexible programs, affordable tuition, and one of the most diverse student bodies in Canada.
- University of Winnipeg
Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba
Average Tuition: CAD 15,800/year
Why Choose UW:
The University of Winnipeg is ideal for students in liberal arts, sciences, and business. The city’s low living expenses make it one of the best-value destinations in Canada.
- Brandon University
Location: Brandon, Manitoba
Average Tuition: CAD 14,000/year
Why Choose Brandon:
Brandon University offers intimate class sizes, affordable tuition, and a friendly atmosphere. It is particularly strong in music, education, and nursing.
Why Choose Canada as Your Study Destination?
Besides affordability, here’s why Canada remains a top choice for international students:
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP):Up to 3 years after graduation
- Pathways to Permanent Residency (PR)
- Safe and multicultural society
- Globally recognized degrees
- English and French language options
How Studyizy Helps You Study in Canada
At Studyizy, we simplify your journey to studying abroad. Here’s how we help:
✅ Free profile evaluation and eligibility check
✅ Help choosing affordable programs that match your goals
✅ Application and document submission support
✅ Visa and financial planning assistance
✅ Guidance on work permits and PR after graduation
💬 Ready to find your affordable path to Canada? Contact Studyizy and let’s get started!
Final Tips for Budget-Conscious Students
- Choose cities with lower living costs (like Winnipeg, Regina, or St. John’s)
- Consider shared housing or campus residences
- Apply early for scholarships and bursaries
- Use public transport to save on commuting costs
- Plan part-time work to support your expenses