9 Best Universities In Toronto For International Students 2025

Toronto 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 9 universities in Toronto, University of Toronto and Toronto Metropolitan University are the top-performing schools in Toronto.

In this article, we’ve compiled the best universities in Toronto, Ontario. 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 Toronto, Ontario.

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

Applying to the universities in Toronto 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 Toronto to learn more about applying for admission in this country’s universities!

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

Tuition fees at Toronto’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 15,200 CAD to 67,200 CAD , while tuition fees for the master’s level range from 11,500 CAD to 73,200 CAD. If you are interested, check out the affordable universities in Toronto!

As we cover the best universities in Toronto 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 Toronto for International Students

The University of Toronto is recognized as Canada’s leading university and is one of the top public universities in the world. More than 97,000 students study at its three campuses across the Greater Toronto Area. The Mississauga, St. George, and Scarborough campuses allow students to engage in immersive and practical learning in one of the world’s most vibrant and diverse urban centers. The university has many notable alumni and faculty, including eight Nobel Prize winners. 

Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University) was established as the Ryerson Institute of Technology to fulfill the need for trained tradespeople and technicians after the Second World War. The institute underwent many expansions and name changes, adding new programs and buildings as it became a full-fledged university. Located in the city of Toronto, the university has struck up many partnerships with businesses and public spaces in the area, leading to developments such as the Mattamy Athletic Centre and the award-winning Student Learning Centre on Yonge Street.

York University is one of the largest public universities in Canada. It has three main campuses (Glendon, Keele, and Markham) in the Greater Toronto Area and satellite locations in different parts of the country and outside. Informed by a strong commitment to the public good, York University’s vision is to provide an excellent research-driven learning environment for a diverse student community.

OCAD University (OCAD U) had a long history of over a century when it was established as the Ontario Society of Artists in Toronto. Beginning with only 14 students, the university has undergone expansions and name changes over the years, including the decision to add the term ‘design’ in its title to reflect the influx of design programs. One of the largest higher educational institutes in the field of art, design, and media in the country, OCAD U calls itself “the University of Imagination.” Technical, studio-based, and aesthetic training is complemented by training in theoretical and critical knowledge. Located in the heart of the bustling capital city of Toronto, the university is also home to an architectural landmark. The Rosalie Sharp Centre for Design, which opened in 2004, is an award-winning building that houses several facilities and the Faculty of Design.

George Brown College is a renowned public college in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Established in 1967, the college is named after George Brown, a significant figure in Canadian history. One of the hallmarks of George Brown College is its strong industry connections. The college maintains close partnerships with local businesses, organizations, and industry professionals, enabling students to benefit from valuable networking opportunities, internships, and co-op placements. These connections facilitate the seamless transition from classroom learning to professional employment.

Humber College is a leading public college in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Established in 1967, it has become one of the country’s largest and most diverse colleges. Humber College is known for its strong commitment to career-focused education and dedication to providing students with practical skills and industry-relevant knowledge. Additionally, Humber College provides a vibrant campus life with various extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations that contribute to students’ holistic development and foster a sense of community.

Centennial College is a leading public college in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Established in 1966, it is one of the oldest and largest colleges in the province, known for its focus on applied learning and career readiness. Centennial College is committed to fostering innovation and applied research. The college actively engages in research projects, partnerships, and collaborations with industry and community organizations. Through these initiatives, Centennial College contributes to advancing knowledge, supports industry innovation, and addresses real-world challenges.

Located in Toronto and established in 2018, the Université de l’Ontario français (UOF) is of great political importance to the province of Ontario. The creation of the university marked a tremendous victory for French-speaking Ontario residents in their bid to establish a French-language university in the region. It is one of the fastest-growing francophone universities in Canada and is expected to develop tremendously as huge sums of money have been set aside by the government of Ontario and Canada to finance the university’s growth for up to eight years.

Tyndale University is a private Christian university in Toronto providing graduate and undergraduate education. It is an interdenominational Christian institution and receives support from the general Christian community in Canada instead of a specific denomination. Unlike most Christian universities in Canada, Tyndale University offers a wide range of programs in addition to its bible and theology programs.