8 Cheapest Universities in Toronto for International Students

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In Toronto, 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 Toronto, you’ll have a lot of school options, as they are home to 9 universities. But if you’re looking for cheap universities in Toronto, make sure to read more!

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

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

University Annual Bachelor’s International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
George Brown College 16,800 CAD - 31,200 CAD 44%
Humber College 17,900 CAD - 23,000 CAD 41%
Tyndale University 20,200 CAD 33%
Centennial College 20,700 CAD - 36,200 CAD 31%
OCAD University 28,900 CAD - 34,600 CAD 4%
York University 33,800 CAD - 38,900 CAD -13%
Toronto Metropolitan University 36,900 CAD - 42,500 CAD -23%
University of Toronto 63,600 CAD - 70,100 CAD -113%

* Average Bachelor’s International Tuition is 29,800 CAD for universities in Toronto.

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1. 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.

2. Humber College

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.

3. 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.

4. 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.

5. OCAD University

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.

6. 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.

7. Toronto Metropolitan University

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.

8. University of Toronto

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. 

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

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

University Annual Master's International Tuition % Cheaper than Average*
Tyndale University 17,000 CAD - 21,100 CAD 41%
York University 18,900 CAD - 84,200 CAD 35%
Toronto Metropolitan University 28,100 CAD - 36,000 CAD 2%
OCAD University 39,100 CAD -36%
University of Toronto 40,000 CAD - 56,400 CAD -39%

* Average Master's International Tuition is 28,600 CAD for universities in Toronto.

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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 16,956 CAD to 21,033 CAD annually for their master's degree.

2. York University

One of the universities you should definitely check out for practical reasons is York University. Here, you can finish your master's degree with minimal stress on your finances. After all, the tuition rate for graduate studies at York University is 18,840 CAD to 84,200 CAD.

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.

3. Toronto Metropolitan University

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.

The tuition fee at Toronto Metropolitan University for incoming international master’s students is 28,044 CAD to 35,994 CAD. With its cheap rates, you can guarantee you’ll get a quality education without breaking the bank!

4. OCAD University

Another affordable university to consider in Toronto is OCAD University.

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.

The tuition fee in OCAD University for master’s program for foreign students starts from 39,072 CAD.

5. University of Toronto

Aside from its outstanding quality of education, University of Toronto 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 39,970 CAD yearly.

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. 

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Applying to cheap universities in Toronto 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 Toronto?

International students can study a variety of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels in Toronto. For example, one of the best affordable schools in Toronto is the Centennial College, which offers Information Technology, Public Relations Management, and Nursing to students seeking a bachelor’s degree. At the master’s level, the OCAD University offers Contemporary Art, Design and New Media Art Histories, Inclusive Design, and Interdisciplinary Master's in Art, Media and Design.

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 Toronto, it can be tough to know where to start looking.

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

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