Universities and Colleges in Canada - Ranking, Courses & Cost
Top Universities and Colleges in Canada - Courses, Fees, Scholarships, Admission Requirements & Grades
Home to around 600,000 Indian students, Canada is one of the hottest study abroad destination for international students, housing some of the best universities in the world, with the likes of University of Toronto, University of British Columbia & McGill University all ranking among the top 50 universities in the world. Canada is known for offering a high standard of living, a diverse and inclusive environment, affordable education & a higher ROI, thus, it comes as no surprise why most Indian students are usually so eager to pack their bags.
Here’s all you need to know about Studying in Canada
Latest Update:
May 21, 2025: The Canadian Government, as part of its stricter immigration policy, has imposed a significant cut to study permits being issued to international students, with the number of visas issued to Indian students reducing to almost a third in the first quarter
Home to around 600,000 Indian students, Canada is one of the hottest study abroad destination for international students, housing some of the best universities in the world, with the likes of University of Toronto, University of British Columbia & McGill University all ranking among the top 50 universities in the world. Canada is known for offering a high standard of living, a diverse and inclusive environment, affordable education & a higher ROI, thus, it comes as no surprise why most Indian students are usually so eager to pack their bags.
Here’s all you need to know about Studying in Canada
Latest Update:
May 21, 2025: The Canadian Government, as part of its stricter immigration policy, has imposed a significant cut to study permits being issued to international students, with the number of visas issued to Indian students reducing to almost a third in the first quarter of 2025, than how it was last year. As per the latest data made available by the Immigration, Refugees & Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the total permits issued to Indian students between January-March 2025 has come down to 30,640 as compared to the 44,295 permits that were issued during this period, last year, leading to a significant dip of 31%.
This is not the first time Canada has made an attempt at reducing the number of international student admissions, as it announced an 35% cut for the same last year in January as a response to the surge in Housing Crisis problems, it encountered back then.
Check the detailed information on Canada's Housing Crisis
Moving to Canada for studies? Know what is Culture Shock and tips to reduce homesickness
- Universities in Canada: Highlights
- Why Study in Canada?
- 2.1 Student Visa Fee in Canada
- 2.2 Important Update on Canada Student Visa
- Top Universities in Canada
- Best Engineering Universities in Canada
- Best Universities in Canada for Business & Management
- Top Cities to Study in Universities in Canada
- Top Courses to Study in Canada
- Admissions Requirements for International Students in Canada
- 8.1 Entrance Exams Accepted by Universities in Canada
- 8.2 English Language Requirements by Universities in Canada
- Cost of Studying in Canada
- 9.1 Tuition Fees in Canadian Universities
- 9.2 Cost of Living in Canada
- Scholarships in Canada
- 10.1 Work Permit After Graduation
- 10.2 Part-time Work Options in Canada
- Average Salary in Canada
Universities in Canada: Highlights
Canada is known for offering high-quality education and research opportunities. It offers around 175 universities and colleges for international students to choose from. Given below is a brief highlight about universities in Canada.
Parameter |
Statistics |
---|---|
No. of universities in Canada |
175 |
Tuition fees of universities in Canada |
INR 10 L - INR 40 L+ |
Top streams in Canada |
Business, IT & Computer Science, Media, Engineering and Health & Medicine. |
English language exams required |
|
Entrance exams required |
|
Top Uni in Canada |
University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, McGill University, University of Alberta |
Why Study in Canada?
Each year thousands of international students from all over the world come to study at various Canadian universities. Canada offers various scholarships and work opportunities to help you with your education. Top universities in Canada are known globally for their high-quality education and research. A few of the reasons to study in Canada include the presence of world-class universities, cultural diversity, affordable education, vibrant campus life, etc. As per the QS World University Rankings 2025, the three best universities in Canada are in the top 50 universities in the world.
Student Visa Fee in Canada
Student visa Canada is a document issued by Canadian immigration authorities that serves as permission for foreign students to study in Canada. International students cannot study in Canada without getting a valid study permit. Canada student visa fees are CAD 150 (INR 9,295). Canadian Visa Applications are available both online and offline.
Important Update on Canada Student Visa
The Canadian Government announced the ending of Student Direct Stream (SDS program). This announcement of policy change is took effect immediately. SDS Canada is a fast-track student visa program introduced in 2018 to make the Canada Student Visa process quick and smooth. This announcement will affect students who are planning to study in Canada in future. For more details check Canada Ends Fast-Track Study Visa Program
Check the detailed information on Canada's Housing Crisis here
Top Universities in Canada
Canada is home to some of the most highly-ranked and top-rated universities of the world. Here we have given a list of top universities in Canada.
University |
Shiksha Popularity Ranking 2025 |
QS World Ranking 2025 |
---|---|---|
#1 |
#25 |
|
#2 |
#38 |
|
#3 |
#29 |
|
#4 |
#96 |
|
#5 |
#176 |
|
#6 |
#115 |
|
#7 |
#159 |
|
#8 |
#120 |
|
#9 |
#189 |
|
#10 |
#198 |
Here’s a piece of detailed information about Top Universities in Canada
Note: Shiksha Popularity Rankings are subject to change with time.
Best Engineering Universities in Canada
Canada has some of the best universities/colleges in the world for engineering. Here we have listed some of the top colleges in Canada for Engineering based on QS World University Subject Rankings 2025.
University |
QS Engineering & Technology 2025 |
---|---|
University of Toronto |
#17 |
University of British Columbia |
#31 |
McGill University |
#45 |
University of Waterloo |
#47 |
University of Alberta |
#112 |
University of Montreal |
#133 |
University of Calgary |
#192 |
Queen’s University at Kingston |
#207 |
McMaster University |
#227 |
Western University |
#257 |
Best Universities in Canada for Business & Management
Canada is known for its high-quality education and top-graded Business and Management schools. Here we have listed some of the top colleges in Canada for Business and Management based on the QS World University Subject Rankings 2025:
University |
QS Subject Ranking 2025 - Business and Management |
---|---|
University of Toronto |
#33 |
University of British Columbia |
#49 |
McGill University |
#60 |
#86 |
|
University of Montreal |
#108 |
University of Alberta |
#149 |
Queen’s University at Kingston |
#151-200 |
#151-200 |
|
University of Calgary |
#251-300 |
Top Cities to Study in Universities in Canada
Canada has hundreds of universities spread across Canada. British Columbia and Quebec have the largest number of universities. Toronto is home to the 'University of Toronto' the most prestigious and the top universities in Canada. Here we have given the number of universities in each city.
State |
Count of Universities |
---|---|
Ontario |
60 |
British Columbia |
44 |
Alberta |
24 |
Quebec |
13 |
Manitoba |
9 |
Saskatchewan |
8 |
Nova Scotia |
7 |
Top Courses to Study in Canada
The demanding courses to study in Canada are Engineering, Healthcare & Medicine, Business Management, Law, HR Management, Architecture, etc. Below is a list of the top colleges in Canada offering various courses.
Top Courses |
Count of Universities |
---|---|
98 |
|
BBA |
94 |
BSc |
84 |
BA |
83 |
BTech |
82 |
UG Certificate | 71 |
MS | 61 |
PG Ceriticate | 58 |
MBA/PGDM | 56 |
Admissions Requirements for International Students in Canada
International students applying for Canadian universities need to meet both the course-specific and general admission requirements. The admission requirements will vary from university to university. Here we have given the general admission requirements for international students applying for Canadian universities.
- Completed application form
- Academic transcripts of class 12
- Bachelor’s degree (for master courses)
- GRE/GMAT
- English Language proficiency
- Resume
- Work Experience
- Must be enrolled at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- Must provide proof of financial ability to pay your tuition fees, living expenses & that of any other visiting family member
- Obey the law, & have no past criminal record
- Must be in good health & clear a medical exam (if asked)
- Prove to relevant authorities that you will leave the country, post the expiry of your student visa
Entrance Exams Accepted by Universities in Canada
International students must meet the minimum requirements of Canada universities in globally accepted entrance exams. Top Universities in Canada may ask to submit scores of GRE and GMAT including English language proficiency for their postgraduate courses.
Entrance Exam |
Count of Universities |
---|---|
33 |
|
34 |
English Language Requirements by Universities in Canada
Canada is an English-speaking country, and universities in Canada require international students to prove their proficiency in the English language. Here we have given some English language exams accepted by Canadian universities.
English Language Exams |
Count of Universities |
---|---|
175 |
|
170 |
|
143 |
|
123 |
Cost of Studying in Canada
The cost of studying in Canada will include the tuition fees and accommodation costs. On average, students need INR 30 Lakh - INR 40 Lakh to study in Canada. However, the starting tuition fee can be below around INR 10 lakh. The cost of living and tuition fee will depend on various factors such as program and location accommodation.
Tuition Fees in Canadian Universities
The tuition fees for international students at public universities in Canada may vary from domestic students. Also, the tuition fees for international students will depend on the type of course and level of study.
First-Year Tuition Fee Range |
Count of Universities |
---|---|
Max INR 10 L |
122 |
Max INR 20 L |
169 |
Max INR 30 L |
175 |
Max INR 40 L |
175 |
INR 40 L+ |
13 |
Did you know? Studies in Canada just became more affordable than ever before.
Check out the video below to know more:
Cost of Living in Canada
The cost of living in Canada will depend on the type of accommodation and location of your accommodation. Here is a requirement for a minimum bank balance for a Canada student visa. As per Numbeo, an Indian student requires around INR 88,000 to INR 1.71 L per month for living expenses.
Scholarships in Canada
Top universities in Canada offer several scholarships to international students. Some scholarships are given by the university itself, meanwhile, some are given by external funding agencies. Here we have given some of the most popular scholarships given by top universities in Canada.
University Name |
Name of Scholarship |
---|---|
Work Permit After Graduation
Post Graduate Work Permit in Canada or PGWP Canada or Post-CanadianGraduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP) allows international students, who graduated from designated learning institutions (DLIs) in Canada, to get a valid open work permit and gain work experience in Canada.
Part-time Work Options in Canada
As per the rules of IRCC, international students can work up to 24 hours a week on the Canadian student visa. They can work an unlimited number of hours if they are on a break scheduled by your DLI, such as winter and summer holidays, or a reading week. The typical part-time jobs in Canada include; Customer service, Cook, Clerk, Teacher, Web Designer, Dog walker, etc.
Average Salary in Canada
As per Statistics Canada reports, the weekly salary in Canada is CAD 1,290 (Around INR 80 K). As per Glassdoor.com, the average salary in Canada ranges average salary in Canada is CAD 40 K - CAD 73K (INR 24,54,000 to INR 44,78,550) per year. The fast-growing industries in Canada are Technology, Agriculture, Healthcare, and Real Estate.
High-Paying Jobs in Canada |
Average Annual Salary in CAD |
Average Annual Salary in INR |
---|---|---|
Physician |
CAD 202,689 |
INR 1.5 Cr |
Anesthesiologist |
CAD 212,643 |
INR 1.3 Cr |
Surgeon |
CAD 240,877 |
INR 1.25 Cr |
Psychiatrist |
CAD 155,337 |
INR 96 L |
Software engineering manager |
CAD 144,258 |
INR 89.4 L |
Chief marketing officer |
CAD 141,496 |
INR 87.7 L |
Cardiologist |
CAD 102,545 |
INR 63.5 L |
Orthodontist |
CAD 73,409 |
INR 45.5 L |
Top Universities and Colleges in Canada - Courses, Fees, Scholarships, Admission Requirements & Grades

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Commonly asked questions On Universities and Colleges in Canada - Ranking, Courses & Cost
A majority of the universities in Canada have a tuition fee between INR 30 Lacs – INR 40 lakh+. However, the starting tuition fee can be below INR 10 lakh. The first-year tuition fees of Top Uni in Canada are given below:
University | First-Year Tuition Fees |
---|---|
University of Toronto | INR 15 L - INR 69 L |
McGill University | INR 7 L - INR 60 L |
UBC | INR 5 L - INR 62 L |
University of Alberta | INR 4 L - INR 62 L |
University of Waterloo | INR 9 L - INR 44 L |
McMaster University | INR 2 L - INR 58 L |
The University of Calgary in Alberta, Memorial University of Newfoundland in St John's & LeSalle College in Montreal are the three most affordable colleges in Canada, as per first-year tuition fees data curated from Shiksha.
Given below is a description of their first-year tuition fees:
University | Fees |
---|---|
Memorial University of Newfoundland | INR 1 L-INR 9 L |
University of Calgary | INR 1 L-INR 10 L |
LeSalle College-Montreal | INR 1 L-INR 10 L |
Obviously, studying in Canada for an international student is a worthwhile experience. Canadian universities are known for their high-quality education and top-rated programs. Studying in Canada opens flood of opportunities for international students and professional growth, as well as exposure to diverse perspectives and cultures. However, international students are advised to check the minimum admission requirements, admission deadlines, tuition fees, and cost of living before applying for any Canadian university.
Some of the popular courses to study in Canada are:
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Business
- Health Sciences
- Physiotherapy
- Information Technology
- Animation and Gaming courses in Canada
Though as an international student, taking admission to one of the universities in Canada would require students to submit IELTS or any other equivalent English language proficiency tests. But, there are some Canadian Universities that do not require IELTS. These are given below:
- Brock University
- University of Winnipeg
- University of Regina
- Concordia University
- Seneca College
- Carleton University
- Cambrian College
Also Check: Study in Canada without IELTS

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Commonly asked questions On Universities and Colleges in Canada - Ranking, Courses & Cost
According to Shiksha Popularity Rankings, the University of Toronto ranks at No. 1 in Canada. The actual Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) World University Rankings 2025 is #25. Shiksha Popularity Rankings and World University Rankings 2025 are given as follows:
University | Shiksha Popularity Ranking 2025 | QS World Ranking 2025 |
---|---|---|
#1 | #25 | |
#2 | #38 | |
#3 | #29 | |
#4 | #96 | |
#5 | #176 | |
#6 | #115 | |
#7 | #159 | |
#8 | #120 | |
#9 | #189 | |
#10 | #198 |
Toronto is a popular student destination in Canada as it is home to many popular Canadian Universities. The provinces with the highest international student populations are British Columbia and Ontario. Three Canadian cities are in Top 20 in the QS Best Student Cities 2025 namely Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver. The rankings of these cities are given as follows:
City | QS Best Student Cities 2025 |
---|---|
Montreal | #10 |
Toronto | #11 |
Vancouver | #19 |
Ottawa | #57 |
Quebec | #128 |
The eligibility requirements to study in Canada varies with the university one is applying for. However, listed below are the general requirements which international students must satisfy to secure pursue higher studies from Canada:
- Must provide proof of enrollment at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
- Must posess a valid proof showcasing the ability to pay for the expenses that come with studying & living in Canada for oneself & for the person (s) accompanying (if any)
- Must agree to abide by the laws of the Canadian Government, & have should have no past criminal record
- Must be in a healthy condition & agree to undergo a medical exam (if asked)
- Prove to the introspecting officer the willingness to leave the country, post the expiry of student visa
Source: Canadian Government
Cultural diversity, presence of top universities in Canada, excellent education system, etc., are some of the reasons why international students want to study in Canada. The courses that are high in demand in Canada are related to Science, Law, and Management streams. The top 10 Demanding courses in Canada are:
- Engineering
- Computer Science and IT
- Healthcare & Medicine
- Law
- Business & Management
- Data Science
- Architecture
- HR Management
Yes, Indian students can now pursue their education from an Canadian university from the comforts of their home by enrolling in online courses, offered by some of the best universities in the Canada.
While the number of Canadian institutions offering online studies is small, the quality of education is the best possible it can be in the online format.
Some popular universities offering online courses to students are listed below:
University | Shiksha Popularity Ranking |
---|---|
University of Toronto | #1 |
University of British Columbia | #2 |
University of Alberta | #4 |
Dalhousie University | #12 |
Vancouver is one of the best student cities located in Canada. Some of the universities in Vancouver Canada are:
- Simon Fraser University
- University of British Columbia
- University Canada West
- Vancouver Island University
- Kwantlen Polytechnic University
Also Check: Best Universities in Vancouver

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Commonly asked questions On Universities and Colleges in Canada - Ranking, Courses & Cost
Here are some of the top-ranked universities in Canada as per Shiksha and QS rankings:
University | Shiksha Popularity Ranking 2025 | QS World Ranking 2025 |
---|---|---|
#1 | #25 | |
#2 | #38 | |
#3 | #29 | |
#4 | #96 | |
#5 | #176 |
Canada is home to some of the best engineering and technology colleges. Canada universities are consistently ranked among the top universities in the world for their engineering programs. Below are given top Canada colleges for engineering ranked by the QS 2025.
University | QS Engineering & Technology 2025 |
---|---|
University of Toronto | #17 |
University of British Columbia | #31 |
McGill University | #45 |
University of Waterloo | #47 |
University of Alberta | #112 |
University of Montreal | #133 |
University of Calgary | #192 |
Queen’s University at Kingston | #207 |
McMaster University | #227 |
Western University | #257 |

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