15 Cheapest Universities in Ontario for International Students

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In Ontario, there are a lot of affordable universities that you can find. Enrolling in these schools will help you fulfill your dream of studying in Canada without paying a lot. These institutions also provide well-rounded academic programs and curriculums, allowing students to earn a degree with less burden on their pockets.

Now, if you’re planning to study in Ontario, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 44 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Ontario, make sure to read more!

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Cheap Bachelor's Colleges and Universities in Ontario for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Ontario ordered by their tuition fee for international bachelor's students.

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Canadore College 13,200 CAD - 15,700 CAD 47%
Cambrian College 14,100 CAD - 16,400 CAD 44%
Mohawk College 14,100 CAD - 18,900 CAD 43%
Loyalist College 14,400 CAD 42%
Tyndale University 15,200 CAD 39%
Conestoga College 15,500 CAD 38%
Fanshawe College 16,000 CAD - 16,900 CAD 36%
Fleming College 16,100 CAD - 18,100 CAD 35%
Algonquin College 16,200 CAD - 22,000 CAD 35%
Niagara College 16,400 CAD - 32,000 CAD 34%
Redeemer University 17,700 CAD 29%
Durham College 17,900 CAD - 18,200 CAD 28%
George Brown College 18,200 CAD 27%
Centennial College 18,600 CAD - 28,400 CAD 25%
Nipissing University 19,400 CAD - 23,200 CAD 22%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 24,700 CAD for universities in Ontario.

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1. Canadore College

Canadore College, also known as Canadore College of Applied Arts and Technology, is a post-secondary institution in Ontario, Canada. Canadore College’s mission is to provide outstanding education and training, as well as applied research and service innovation, to individuals for social, economic, and cultural development. Moreover, Canadore College aims to be a leader in applied education and training, recognized for excellence in program delivery, industry partnerships, and student success.

2. Cambrian College

Established in 1967, Cambrian College has a long history of delivering quality education and training. Cambrian College is committed to providing students with hands-on, experiential learning opportunities. It boasts modern facilities, state-of-the-art equipment, and specialized labs that simulate real-world work environments. The college takes pride in its strong partnerships with industry and community organizations. These partnerships help shape the curriculum, ensuring that programs are aligned with industry needs and current trends.

3. Mohawk College

Mohawk College, established in 1966, is a post-secondary institution in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. It offers various programs and courses to equip students with the skills and knowledge required for successful careers. By establishing strong partnerships with industry and employers, Mohawk College ensures its programs align with current industry needs. Collaborating closely with businesses and community organizations, the college incorporates work-integrated learning, cooperative education, internships, and industry placements into many programs.

4. Loyalist College

Loyalist College, established in 1967, is a post-secondary institution in Belleville, Ontario, Canada. Loyalist College operates a picturesque campus situated on 200 acres of land. The campus features modern facilities, specialized labs, industry-standard equipment, and resources that support immersive learning experiences and applied research projects. The college also offers state-of-the-art simulation labs, where students can gain practical skills and experience in realistic environments. Moreover, Loyalist College values diversity and inclusivity, creating an inclusive and welcoming environment for students from various backgrounds.

5. Tyndale University

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.

6. Conestoga College

Conestoga College is a public polytechnic with headquarters in Kitchener, Ontario. The college is committed to delivering practical-based education to its students through its numerous campuses and learning centres in Ontario. It is the only polytechnic institution in Ontario and plays a vital role in the development of the region by training professionals and experts who contribute tremendously to the province’s economy.

7. Fanshawe College

Fanshawe College is a well-established public college located in Ontario, Canada. Founded in 1967, it has become one of Ontario’s largest colleges, offering a wide range of programs and courses across various fields of study. The college campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, libraries, and specialized training centers. These resources provide students with hands-on learning experiences and support their academic and practical training needs. Moreover, Fanshawe College offers various support services and resources to assist students throughout their academic journey.

8. Fleming College

Fleming College is a post-secondary institution located in Ontario, Canada. It was established in 1967 and is named after Sir Sandford Fleming, a renowned Canadian engineer and inventor. The college offers many programs and courses to help students develop the skills and knowledge necessary for successful careers. Many programs include work-integrated learning opportunities, cooperative education, internships, and field placements, allowing students to gain practical experience and develop professional networks.

9. Algonquin College

Algonquin College is an applied arts and technology college offering numerous degree, diploma and certificate courses in diverse disciplines. The college places great emphasis on research and collaborates with various sponsors on numerous applied research topics. It has three campuses: a main campus in Ottawa and two branch campuses in Perth and Pembroke.

10. Niagara College

Niagara College, established in 1967, is a post-secondary institution in the Niagara Region of Ontario, Canada. It offers various programs and courses to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for successful careers. The college collaborates closely with businesses, organizations, and community stakeholders to develop programs that align with industry needs and trends. Moreover, Niagara College is committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility, integrating sustainable practices into its operations, curriculum, and campus facilities.

11. Redeemer University

Redeemer University is a Christian higher educational institute founded by the late Rev. Dr. Henry De Bolster. Established with a mission to provide an education in liberal arts and sciences with a reformed Christian perspective and a Christ-centered core curriculum, students can choose to study any major they choose. Offering undergraduate programs across multiple disciplines, Redeemer University prepares future Christian leaders and encourages its students to see faith interspersed with all aspects of life.

12. Durham College

Since its establishment in 1967, Durham College (DC) has committed itself to ensuring the success of its students by providing high-quality programs. With its motto of ‘success matters’, the college has shaped its courses to emphasize training skills relevant to real-world situations instead of teaching from a purely academic standpoint. The college regularly collaborates with industry experts to ensure its programs are impactful and applicable in the contemporary workplace.

13. George Brown College

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.

14. Centennial College

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.

15. Nipissing University

Nipissing University was initially established as an affiliate of Laurentian University and finally became an independent university in 1992. Founded to address the particular needs of Northern Ontario, Nipissing University is committed to playing an important role in the lives of the people and the local community, contributing to their educational, socio-cultural, and economic growth.

Cheap Master's Colleges and Universities in Ontario for International Students

Here is the list of affordable institutions in Ontario ordered by their tuition fee for international master's students.

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Tyndale University 11,500 CAD - 16,500 CAD 49%
Western University – Canada 12,700 CAD - 36,800 CAD 44%
York University 14,400 CAD - 55,200 CAD 36%
Laurentian University 14,500 CAD - 46,000 CAD 36%
Royal Military College of Canada 14,900 CAD - 15,400 CAD 34%
Queen’s University 15,000 CAD 34%
University of Guelph 15,700 CAD - 30,100 CAD 30%
Fleming College 16,900 CAD - 33,600 CAD 25%
Carleton University 17,900 CAD - 34,400 CAD 21%
Niagara College 17,900 CAD - 18,600 CAD 20%
Nipissing University 18,400 CAD 18%
Wilfrid Laurier University 19,500 CAD - 83,200 CAD 14%
Brescia University College 21,500 CAD - 39,900 CAD 4%
Ontario Tech University 21,700 CAD - 30,100 CAD 4%
Trent University 22,800 CAD - 23,100 CAD -1%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 22,400 CAD for universities in Ontario.

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1. Tyndale University

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.

If you're looking to save the most on your graduate studies abroad, Tyndale University should be at the top of your list. International students here pay only 11,448 CAD to 16,443 CAD annually for their master's degree.

2. Western University – Canada

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is Western University – Canada. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at Western University – Canada is 12,656 CAD to 36,766 CAD.

Western University is a leading university located in London, Ontario. It is one of the founding members of the U15, a group of Canada’s best research universities. The university has one of Canada’s most beautiful campuses, combining historic Gothic structures with modern buildings. It seeks to build a secure and inclusive community with major initiatives to strengthen accessibility, diversity, sustainability, safety, and mental well-being. Western University aims to provide a university experience that leads to holistic development and prepares its graduates to become future leaders. The university has a vast network of alumni who are recognized for their intellect and contribution, including several recipients of the prestigious Rhodes Scholarship.

3. York University

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.

The tuition fee at York University for incoming international master’s students is 14,394 CAD to 55,126 CAD. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. Laurentian University

Another affordable university to consider in Ontario is Laurentian University.

Laurentian University is one of Canada’s leading bilingual universities, offering programs in English and French. It is also the country’s only university with a tricultural mandate, encouraging emphasis on anglophone, francophone, and indigenous cultures. The university aims to train the leaders of tomorrow who can address local and global challenges with innovative solutions.

The tuition fee in Laurentian University for master’s program for foreign students starts from 14,440 CAD.

5. Royal Military College of Canada

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, Royal Military College of Canada has some of the lowest tuition fee prices for foreign students who are planning to take a master's degree here. International master's students only pay as low as 14,820 CAD yearly.

The Royal Military College of Canada (RMC) is a military institution. They provide different programs in the Arts, Sciences, and Engineering for students in the Canadian Armed Forces. RMC also boasts of different recreational and wellness programs to help support its students.

6. Queen’s University

Established in a charter issued by Queen Victoria, Queen’s University had humble beginnings, opening with just two professors and 13 students in a small house on the outskirts of town. Initially supported by the Presbyterian Church, the institute later separated from the church and embraced secularism. Over the years, it faced many adversities — it went through periods with meager financial support, witnessed stagnation during the economic depression, and survived two world wars. The end of the second war finally ushered in an age of uninterrupted growth in the university’s history. It opened more departments and undertook renovations and new building constructions. Today, it is a member of the U15 group of research-intensive Canadian universities and has more than 31,000 full and part-time students studying at its campus in Kingston. It has many renowned research and creative centers, including the Agnes Etherington Art Centre and the Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts.

7. University of Guelph

The University of Guelph was established by merging three colleges with their own rich histories: Ontario Veterinary College, Ontario Agricultural College, and Macdonald Institute. Since then, the university has expanded to add more departments and programs across different fields. The University of Guelph now has three campuses. Its main campus in Guelph is a collaboration with the Humber College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning in Toronto, while its third campus in Ridgetown is known for its agriculture, veterinary, and environmental science programs.

8. Fleming College

Fleming College is a post-secondary institution located in Ontario, Canada. It was established in 1967 and is named after Sir Sandford Fleming, a renowned Canadian engineer and inventor. The college offers many programs and courses to help students develop the skills and knowledge necessary for successful careers. Many programs include work-integrated learning opportunities, cooperative education, internships, and field placements, allowing students to gain practical experience and develop professional networks.

9. Carleton University

Carleton University was established by the community in Ottawa to meet the needs of veterans coming back from World War II and to provide the opportunity to pursue higher education for those forced to join the workforce to deal with the economic depression. The university’s strengths are its programs in journalism, technology, architecture, and international and public affairs. More than 24,000 full-time students study at its sprawling 100-acre campus located next to the historic Rideau Canal.

10. Niagara College

Niagara College, established in 1967, is a post-secondary institution in the Niagara Region of Ontario, Canada. It offers various programs and courses to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary for successful careers. The college collaborates closely with businesses, organizations, and community stakeholders to develop programs that align with industry needs and trends. Moreover, Niagara College is committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility, integrating sustainable practices into its operations, curriculum, and campus facilities.

11. Nipissing University

Nipissing University was initially established as an affiliate of Laurentian University and finally became an independent university in 1992. Founded to address the particular needs of Northern Ontario, Nipissing University is committed to playing an important role in the lives of the people and the local community, contributing to their educational, socio-cultural, and economic growth.

12. Wilfrid Laurier University

Wilfrid Laurier University is a public university with three campuses in southwestern Ontario, Canada, offering over 100 bachelor’s programs and over 35 master’s programs. Laurier is committed to academic excellence and ensuring all students have a rewarding and impactful university education.

Ranked among the top 25% of Study Abroad Aide’s Best Value University Rankings for International Students, Laurier has vibrant campus communities in Brantford, Milton, and Waterloo.  On all campuses, Laurier students will learn from award-winning professors who are experts in their field and combine classroom learning with real-world experiences and opportunities. When Laurier students graduate, they will have the knowledge, skills, and experiences they need to achieve their career goals.

13. Brescia University College

Established by the Ursuline Sisters, Brescia University College is a Catholic institution of higher learning committed to providing impactful education to women from all faiths and backgrounds. It is a women’s only university. Brescia believes women’s universities are still important in today’s contemporary society as they provide safe learning spaces for women. The university actively cultivates a supportive learning environment to ensure every woman reaches their maximum potential and graduates to become leaders and significant contributors to society.

14. Ontario Tech University

Ontario Tech University is a leading public university in Ontario with high-tech campuses in north and downtown Oshawa. Its programs are carefully designed by experts to train students in the latest industry-standard technology and to provide them with valuable practical experience. The university aims to produce graduates who can contribute to development and innovation, bringing positive changes to the world. Ontario Tech differentiates itself from other providers of tech education in its belief that it is important not only to achieve technological breakthroughs but also to consider the ethical consequences of technology.

15. Trent University

Trent University is a leading Canadian university, consistently ranked among the best in the country for undergraduate education. Students at Trent benefit from a flexible learning system where they can customize their programs to pursue their interests and fulfill their individual goals. Faculty and alumni of the university are well-regarded in the international community and include two Nobel Prize winners. More than 12,500 students study at Trent’s two campuses in Peterborough and Durham Greater Toronto Area.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I get admission to affordable universities in Ontario?

Applying to cheap universities in Ontario requires you to complete different requirements depending on your degree and chosen university. These usually include admission forms, language proficiency scores, and a visa. Check out our full guide to studying in Canada for a more comprehensive guide!

2. What can I study at Best affordable universities in Ontario?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Ontario. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Ontario is the Algonquin College, which offers Event, Sport and Entertainment Management, Building Conservation, and Marketing to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the Brescia University College offers Foods and Nutrition, and Food Processing.

It's important to take a look at all your options when selecting where to attend post-secondary school. With so many different types of schools, degrees, and universities in Ontario, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

So, make sure to explore the best public universities in Ontario as well if you're looking for affordable education!

We hope that this article on affordable institutions in Ontario for international students was helpful!