7 Best Universities In Calgary For International Students 2025

Calgary is surely one of the places you should be considering if you’re looking to study in Canada. This location has a lot to offer for international students, including world-class universities and exciting student experiences.

Out of 7 universities in Calgary, University of Calgary and Southern Alberta Institute of Technology are the top-performing schools in Calgary. This list covers both public and private institutions in Calgary.

In this article, we’ve compiled the best universities in Calgary, Alberta. We based our rankings on academic reputations from reputable sources and the number of international students. By doing this, you’ll have an efficient way of comparing your target universities and choose your host university in Calgary, Alberta.

How do I get admission to the best universities in Calgary?

Applying to the universities in Calgary involves submitting requirements and following specific admissions procedures set by your chosen university. The requirements often include a student visa, application packages, and language scores. Check out our guide for international students who want to study in Calgary to learn more about applying for admission in this country’s universities!

How much are the tuition fees at the best universities in Calgary?

Tuition fees at Calgary’s universities can vary depending on which university, degree, and program you will be enrolling in. Generally, tuition fees for the bachelor’s level range from 17,100 CAD to 30,400 CAD , while tuition fees for the master’s level range from 7,320 CAD to 31,300 CAD. If you are interested, check out the affordable universities in Calgary!

As we cover the best universities in Calgary for international students, feel free to check out the university’s information on Admission, Tuition, Courses, and Language Requirements by looking at the individual university pages.

Top Universities in Calgary for International Students

The University of Calgary, colloquially known as UCalgary, prides itself on its research output and contributions to promoting innovation in Canada. It is a member of the U15, an association of the top 15 universities in Canada, and has distinguished itself through innovations in entrepreneurship. Due to its passion for transforming entrepreneurship in the country, the university operates a business incubator close to the primary campus and actively supports entrepreneurs originating from the school. 

 

Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) is a public polytechnic in Calgary offering bachelor’s programs in addition to certificate and diploma programs. It is the second-oldest higher education institution in Calgary, providing post-secondary education since 1916. The polytechnic operates through four campuses in Calgary which are equipped with numerous facilities and attractions like the Tastemarket, which combines eating and learning into a unique experience.

Mount Royal University is a public university in Calgary, Alberta. Opened with less than 200 students at a small campus fondly known as “the barn,” the institute has seen tremendous growth and expansion. Today, nearly 15,000 students pursue undergraduate and diploma programs across many disciplines at its Lincoln Park (main) and Springbank campuses. Located on the hereditary lands of indigenous communities, the university aims to respect and integrate indigenous knowledge and honor indigenous identities. Mount Royal University stays true to its founding purpose of providing learning that is personalized to the needs of its students, leading to their success and satisfaction.

Ambrose University is a Christian educational institute established with the merging of two colleges with a rich history, Alliance University College and Nazarene University College. It is the official post-secondary educational institute of these two denominations: the Christian and Missionary Alliance in Canada and the Church of Nazarene Canada. The education at Ambrose integrates faith and advanced learning — students are encouraged to explore their academic and professional interests while also staying rooted in and exploring their faith. At its campus in southwest Calgary, the university offers undergraduate programs across several disciplines and postgraduate programs through its Seminary.

St. Mary’s University is a Christian educational institute in Alberta. Following the Catholic intellectual tradition, it emphasizes the values of integrity, confidence, and compassion. It aims to be a leader in its field, to welcome students from all backgrounds, and provide education for the holistic development of mind, body, and spirit. The university offers undergraduate degrees in the liberal arts, sciences, and education at its Calgary campus.

Bow Valley College is a higher educational institute in Calgary committed to providing practical education. Its programs are designed to build skills and help students join the workforce. It offers certificate and diploma programs across different disciplines, particularly in the areas of business, entertainment arts, health, and technology. Bow Valley aims to serve the community and make education more accessible through its regional campuses in Airdrie, Banff, Cochrane, and Okotoks.

Alberta University of the Arts (AUArts) is a publicly funded college in the field of art and design. It was initially known as the Alberta College of Art and was a part of the institute now known as the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology. It is one of four Canadian universities specializing in art, craft, and design and has contributed significantly to visual culture in the country and around the world. Intending to transform the world through art and design, the university has produced graduates who have gone on to become creative leaders, artists, and designers with a growing reputation in Canada and outside.