Cheap Colleges in Canada for International Students 2026
On a tight budget but still want to earn a Canadian degree? Outlined in this article are some of the best affordable colleges in Canada that international students can apply to. While the primary benefit of these colleges is the accessibility of quality education at an affordable rate, they also offer international students the opportunity to strengthen their academic and professional profile while also instilling a global perspective.
Canada has been one of the top study destinations among international students for decades, with many of its universities being recognised as the top institutions in the world. Applying to colleges in Canada also brings about further opportunities that can connect students with the possibility of transferring or enrolment in universities as well. Such an opportunity positions the students well for their future, both academically and professionally. In addition, Canada currently offers international students the opportunity to apply for the Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP), regardless of the degree type, i.e. Diploma, Certificate, Advanced Certificate, Bachelor’s or Master’s.
Read along to find out the best affordable colleges in Canada and how you can apply and make the most of the opportunities that are available in the country.
Why Study at Affordable Colleges in Canada?
Outlined here are some reasons why you should choose to study at affordable colleges in Canada as an international student:
- Lower Investment, Better ROI: Compared to top-ranking universities in Canada, colleges offer quality education at a lower investment, but lead to similar post-study work opportunities in the country. Where the annual cost of studying at a Canadian university can range between CA $20,000 - $40,000 or higher, the average annual tuition fee at Canadian colleges ranges between CA $10,000 - $30,000 for international students.
- Shorter Course Durations: With the variety of short-term courses and 2-year programmes on offer, colleges in Canada offer a fast-track to the PGWP for international students. In other words, students can begin their journey towards permanent residence quickly, compared to those enrolled in university programmes.
- Qualify for Maximum PGWP: As per federal regulations, international students enrolled in 2-year programmes can qualify for the 3-year PGWP, which is the longest duration of the Permit that international students can qualify for. Colleges in Canada offer a variety of 2-year programmes that students can enrol in and still qualify for the PGWP.
- Easier Admission Process: Compared to popular universities, Canadian colleges have set easier admission requirements and processes. Additionally, colleges see few applications every year, allowing students to have a better chance at enrolment compared to universities.
What Are the Cheapest Colleges in Canada?
Outlined in the table below are some of the most affordable colleges in Canada for international students:
| College Name | Average Annual Tuition Fees (in CAD) |
|---|---|
| Centennial College, Toronto | CA $16,000 - $32,000 |
| Red River College Polytechnic, Manitoba | CA $10,000 - $19,000 |
| Algonquin College, Ottawa | CA $14,000 - $36,000 |
| Lambton College, Sarnia | CA$14,000 - $32,000 |
| Bow Valley College, Calgary | CA $12,000 - $30,000 |
| Camosun College, Victoria | CA $6,000 - $30,000 |
| Northern Lights College, British Columbia | CA $10,000 - $33,000 |
| Selkirk College, British Columbia | CA $12,500 - $21,000 |
| College of North Atlantic, Newfoundland and Labrador | CA $8,500 - $11,000 |
| Fanshawe College, London | CA $16,000 - $25,000 |
Note: The table highlights the average tuition fee range for all degree programmes and certifications like Bachelor’s, Diploma’s and Certificate courses. To learn the exact costs of studying in Canada, connect with AECC Counsellors today and get expert guidance tailored to meet your needs.
Cities with Affordable Costs and Colleges in Canada
Choosing from the affordable colleges in Canada is only one of many steps to ensure you earn the best education at an affordable cost. It is also important to choose a city or province where the cost of living in Canada, for international students, is affordable. Listed here are some of the top cities and provinces with affordable colleges that international students can consider.
| City and Province | Average Annual Cost of Study and Living (CAD) | Affordable Factors |
|---|---|---|
| Newfoundland and Labrador | CA $28,000 - $34,000 | Lowest Cost of Study |
| Saskatchewan | CA $30,000 - $37,000 | Lowest Housing Costs |
| Winnipeg, Manitoba | CA $32,000 - $40,000 | Lowest Housing Costs among Popular Cities |
| Moncton, New Brunswick | CA $28,000 - $35,000 | Low Rents and Housing Costs |
Note: The annual costs highlighted in the table cover the costs of studying at colleges and the costs of living in Canada as an international student.
How to Apply to Affordable Colleges in Canada?
Applying to these affordable colleges in Canada is one of the simplest yet crucial steps that international students should carefully complete. Depending on the college and the degree/certificate programme you choose, the admission requirements and processes will vary. Outlined below are the general admissions guidelines to study at the best affordable colleges in Canada.
Admission Requirements for International Students
- Academic Transcripts: Academic documents certifying that the applicant has achieved the minimum academic scores and achievements to qualify for enrolment at a particular institution or college.
- Minimum Grades: Each Canadian college will determine the minimum scores that applicants must have achieved. In general, applicants are expected to have achieved a minimum of 60% to 65% in their previous academic level.
- Language Proficiency: With English and French as their major languages of communication, international students must provide proof of sufficient proficiency to communicate and understand concepts in these languages. English is commonly accepted across Canada, and tests like IELTS Academic, Cambridge English, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic and Duolingo are acceptable in Canadian colleges.
- Additional Requirements: Students may be asked to provide additional documentation or proof of eligibility; however, these will vary depending on the type of programme and college they are applying to.
Application Process to Study at Affordable Colleges in Canada
As an international student, completing the following steps will help you secure a seat at one of the best affordable colleges in Canada this year.
- Align your Goals with Course Options: Define your academic and professional goals and objectives before selecting a programme to study in Canada.
- Shortlist the Best Colleges: Based on your requirements and course selection, you must select and shortlist a few colleges that offer the programme that you wish to enrol in.
- Thoroughly read the Eligibility Criteria: The admission requirements for each programme at each college will have unique requirements. Therefore, thoroughly read through the eligibility criteria before sending your application form.
- Attempt the Language Tests: As international students, you will be required to provide proof of English language proficiency through recognised and valid scores achieved in IELTS, TOEFL or other recognised tests.
- Compile the Necessary Documents: The academic transcripts certifying that you cleared the previous academic level with sufficient achievements, language proficiency scores, sufficient funds to cover the costs of studying in Canada, and any other documentation as required by the College you wish to apply to, must be compiled and organised before starting the application process.
- Complete and Submit the Application Form: Visit the official website of the College where you wish to enrol and submit the application form by paying the application fee, after ensuring that you have entered the correct and complete information as requested by the institution.
- Wait for Response: The college will evaluate the candidate’s application and assess their academic performance before announcing their response via the contact details provided in the application form.
- Confirm the Offer Letter: Once selected by the college, the prospective students will receive an offer letter stipulating a deadline by which they must submit their confirmation of the offer by submitting a non-refundable confirmation fee.
- Acquire the PAL/TAL: Upon receiving the confirmation fee, the respective Canadian college will send a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) or a Territorial Attestation Letter (TAL), which is required to receive the appropriate Student Permit to study in Canada.
- Apply for the Study Permit: Once the PAL/TAL has been received, international students must begin their application process for the Student Permit in Canada.
Tips to Save More Money in Canada
As highlighted above, choosing an affordable college in Canada is step one of the process to save as much money as you can and gain valuable academic experience and a pathway to the post-graduate work permit in the country. However, there are a few more steps that students can take to ensure they do not burn a hole in their pocket while gaining an international degree.
- Choosing Affordable Housing: In Canada, students can choose from a range of housing options, including shared apartments and shared on-campus housing, which can significantly reduce the cost of living in Canada.
- Choosing Affordable Cities to Live in: While there may not be a lot of leeway in choosing the city or town you will be living in as you complete your studies, taking into consideration the city you will be living in at the time of choosing the college, can also help manage your finances.
- Cook at Home: Learn to cook your favourite meals or easy-to-cook meals, as these can significantly cut down the overall monthly costs of living, compared to eating out or ordering in.
- Use Student Discounts and Passes: Stores and public transportation across Canada offer student discounts, which are also a great way to cut down on the monthly costs.
- Do not skip out on Health Insurance: A good health insurance will help cover those unprecedented costs that strain your finances. Therefore, keep a lookout for free provincial health coverage or the mandatory school plans that you can apply to as well.
If you are planning to earn an international degree and also gain valuable work experience that can boost your career prospects, but are on a tight budget, then choosing any one of the affordable colleges in Canada, as mentioned here, can be the option for you. Moreover, the PGWP pathways defined by the Canadian government can also qualify you for permanent residency. To learn more about studying in Canada, connect with expert AECC Counsellors today and get tailored guidance as per your needs and objectives.