Your Guide to the Best Canadian Universities
Discover the leading universities in Canada that offer globally recognized degrees and strong industry connections for Indian students.
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Canada has multiple universities which provide the best educational programs and internationally approved degrees. The country now hosts 100 educational institutions that include public and private universities which rank high in the QS World University Rankings 2024. The top-tier universities such as the University of Toronto, McGill University, and the University of British Columbia remain in continuous top position rankings. Canada welcomes more than 800,000 foreign student enrollments during 2023. Students studying at the undergraduate level must prepare to pay between CAD 20,000 and CAD 50,000 for their annual program costs. The Canadian education system grants its students both post-graduation work opportunities and routes to PR.
Why choose the Best Universities in Canada?
Below are some reasons to study at colleges in Canada for international students:
- World-Class Education: The educational institutions in Canada maintain top positions at the international level.
- Affordable Tuition Fees: Compared to other top study destinations, Canada offers quality education at a lower cost.
- Post-Graduation Work Opportunities: The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows students to work in Canada for 3 years after completing their studies.
- Pathway to Permanent Residency: Canada’s immigration policies allow graduates to apply for PR through programs like Express Entry.
- Diverse and Inclusive Environment: Over 800,000 international students study in Canada, making it a multicultural hub.
- Scholarships and Financial Aid: Universities offer several scholarships for international students.
- Strong Industry Connections: Canadian institutions have strong ties with industries. They offer internships and co-op programs.
- Safe and High Quality of Life: Canada ranks among the safest countries. They have a high standard of living and healthcare.
Top Universities in Canada for International Students
There are several good universities in Canada. Listed below are the top ones:
| University/College | QS World University Rankings 2025 |
|---|---|
| University of Toronto | 25 |
| McGill University | 29 |
| University of British Columbia | 38 |
| University of Alberta | 96 |
| University of Waterloo | 115 |
| Western University | 120 |
| Université de Montréal | 159 |
| McMaster University | 176 |
| University of Ottawa | 189 |
| Queen’s University at Kingston | 193 |
University of Toronto
RMIT University is a public research university located in Melbourne, Australia. It is known for its focus on technology, design, and enterprise.
| Official Site | University of Toronto (utoronto.ca) |
|---|---|
| Melbourne | 27 King’s College, Toronto, Canada |
| Phone No. | +1 416-978-2011 |
| Exams required | TOEFL, PTE, IELTS, GMAT, GRE |
| International Students | 23,000+ |
| Accommodation Expenses | CAD 6,000 and CAD 12,000 per year on-campus CAD 700 to CAD 2,000 per month off-campus |
| Course Duration | 12 months or 1 year |
| Course Fee | 35,000 to 40,000 CAD |
McGill University
McGill University is a world-class public research university situated in the vibrant city of Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Renowned for its academics, diverse student body, and stunning campus, McGill is ranked among the top universities.
| Official Site | https://www.mcgill.ca/ |
|---|---|
| Address | 845 Sherbrooke St W, Montreal, Canada |
| Phone No. | +1 514-398-7878 |
| Exams required | TOEFL, PTE, IELTS, GMAT, GRE |
| International Students | 12,000+ |
| Accommodation Expenses Per Week | CAD 6,000 and CAD 12,000 per year on-campus CAD 700 to CAD 2,000 per month off-campus |
| Course Duration | 1 to 3 years |
| Course Fee | 20,000 to 36,100 CAD |
University of British Columbia
The University of British Columbia (UBC) is a world-renowned public research university with campuses in Vancouver and Okanagan, British Columbia, Canada. Renowned for its stunning campus, academic excellence, and strong emphasis on research, UBC consistently ranks among the top universities globally.
| Official Site | https://www.ubc.ca/ |
|---|---|
| Address | University of British Columbia, 2329 West Mall, Vancouver, Canada |
| Phone No. | +1 604 822 2211 |
| Exams required | TOEFL, PTE, IELTS, GMAT, GRE |
| International Students | 20,000+ |
| Accommodation Expenses Per Week | CAD 6,000 and CAD 12,000 per year on-campus CAD 700 to CAD 2,000 per month off-campus |
| Course Duration | 1 to 3 years |
| Course Fee | 20,000 to 60,000 CAD |
University of Alberta
The University of Alberta is a leading Canadian research university situated in Edmonton, Alberta. Known for its strong academic programs extensive research facilities and vibrant campus life. The University of Alberta has earned a reputation for excellence both nationally and internationally.
| Official Site | https://www.ualberta.ca/en/index.html/ |
|---|---|
| Address | 116 St 85 Ave, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada |
| Phone No. | +1 780-492-3111 |
| Exams required | TOEFL, PTE, IELTS, GMAT, GRE, French and Spoken proficiency |
| International Students | 8,000+ |
| Accommodation Expenses Per Week | CAD 6,000 and CAD 12,000 per year on-campus CAD 700 to CAD 2,000 per month off-campus |
| Course Duration | 1 to 2 years |
| Annual Course Fee | 20,000 to 25,000 CAD |
University of Waterloo
The University of Waterloo is a renowned public research university located in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada. It’s particularly celebrated for its world-class programs in engineering, computer science, and mathematics.
| Official Site | https://uwaterloo.ca/ |
|---|---|
| Address | 200 University Avenue West, Waterloo, ON, Canada |
| Phone No. | +1 780-492-3111 |
| Exams required | TOEFL, PTE, IELTS, GMAT, GRE |
| International Students | 25,000 |
| Accommodation Expenses Per Week | CAD 6,000 and CAD 12,000 per year on-campus CAD 700 to CAD 2,000 per month off-campus |
| Course Duration | 1 to 2 years |
| Annual Course Fee | Upto 70,000 CAD |
Western University
Western University is a public research university located in London, Ontario, Canada. Often referred to as “Western,” it’s renowned for its strong academic programs, vibrant campus life, and commitment to research.
| Official Site | https://www.uwo.ca/ |
|---|---|
| Address | Western University, 1151 Richmond Street, London, Canada |
| Phone No. | +1 519-661-2111 |
| Exams required | TOEFL, PTE, IELTS, GMAT, GRE |
| International Students | 5,000+ |
| Accommodation Expenses Per Week | CAD 6,000 and CAD 12,000 per year on-campus CAD 700 to CAD 2,000 per month off-campus |
| Course Duration | 1 to 2 years |
| Course Fee | 47,500 to 63,400 CAD |
University de Montréal
Université de Montréal is a leading public research university in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. Renowned for its strong emphasis on French language and culture, it’s one of the largest universities in Canada and a top-tier institution globally
| Official Site | https://www.umontreal.ca/en/ |
|---|---|
| Address | 2900 Edouard-Montpetit Boul, Montreal, Canada |
| Phone No. | +1 514 343-6111 |
| Exams required | TOEFL, PTE, IELTS, GMAT, GRE, French Admission Test |
| International Students | 10,000 |
| Accommodation Expenses Per Week | CAD 6,000 and CAD 12,000 per year on-campus CAD 700 to CAD 2,000 per month off-campus |
| Course Duration | 1 to 4 years |
| Course Fee | 14,500 to 23,000 CAD |
McMaster University
McMaster University is a leading Canadian public research university located in Hamilton, Ontario. Renowned for its innovative problem-based learning approach, McMaster is committed to producing graduates who are equipped to tackle complex challenges.
| Official Site | https://www.mcmaster.ca/ |
|---|---|
| Address | 1200 Main St W, Hamilton ON, Canada |
| Phone No. | +1 905-524-3465 |
| Exams required | TOEFL, PTE, IELTS, GMAT, GRE |
| International Students | 17% of total students |
| Accommodation Expenses Per Week | CAD 6,000 and CAD 12,000 per year on-campus CAD 700 to CAD 2,000 per month off-campus |
| Course Duration | 1 to 4 years |
| Total Course Fee per semester | 43,000 CAD |
Queen's University at Kingston
Queen’s University is a renowned public research university located in Kingston, Ontario, Canada. Known for its academic excellence, beautiful campus, and strong alumni network, Queen’s consistently ranks among Canada’s top universities.
| Official Site | https://www.uottawa.ca/en |
|---|---|
| Address | 99 University Ave, Kingston ON, Canada |
| Phone No. | +1 613 533 2000 |
| Exams required | TOEFL, PTE, IELTS, GMAT, GRE |
| International Students | 4,000+ |
| Accommodation Expenses Per Week | CAD 6,000 and CAD 12,000 per year on-campus CAD 700 to CAD 2,000 per month off-campus |
| Course Duration | 11 months to 2 years |
| Total Course Fee per semester | 13,000 to 28,000 CAD |
University of Ottawa
The University of Ottawa is a leading public research university in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Renowned for its bilingualism, offering programs in both English and French, it’s a unique institution attracting students from across Canada and around the world.
| Official Site | https://www.uottawa.ca/en |
|---|---|
| Address | 75 Laurier Ave. East, Ottawa, ON, Canada |
| Phone No. | +1 613-562-5700 |
| Exams required | TOEFL, PTE, IELTS, GMAT, GRE |
| International Students | 10,000+ |
| Accommodation Expenses Per Week | CAD 6,000 and CAD 12,000 per year on-campus CAD 700 to CAD 2,000 per month off-campus |
| Course Duration | 10 months to 4 years |
| Total Course Fee per semester | 14,500 to 26,500 CAD |
Factors to Consider When Top Canada Universities
Choosing among the best universities in Canada for international students is a crucial decision that impacts your academic and professional future. Here are key factors to consider:
- Academic Programs: Ensure the university offers programs that align with your career goals. Canada has over 10,000 undergraduate and postgraduate programs.
- Location & Lifestyle: Consider the city’s cost of living, climate, and job market. Cities like Toronto and Vancouver have higher living costs, while smaller cities offer affordability.
- Cost & Financial Aid: Tuition fees range from CAD 20,000 to CAD 50,000 per year.
- University Reputation: Check the university rankings. Canadian universities consistently rank among the top 200 globally.
- Faculty & Research Opportunities: Look into faculty expertise and research programs. Canada invests over CAD 14 billion annually in research.
- Support for International Students: Look for support services. Universities offer student support services, including housing, mental health programs, and career guidance.
- Graduate Employment Rates: Choose a university with strong career prospects. Over 90% of Canadian graduates find employment within six months of graduation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should Indian students choose Canada for higher education?
Indian students choose Canada for higher education because it offers a high-quality, globally recognized education system with renowned universities, affordable tuition fees, and excellent post-study work visas.
Can Indian students study in Canada without IELTS?
Yes, Indian students can study in Canada without taking the IELTS exam. Many Canadian universities accept alternative English language proficiency tests like TOEFL, PTE, or the Duolingo English Test. You can also get direct admission through MOI.
What are the eligibility criteria for a study visa in Canada for Indian students?
You must meet this criteria for a study visa in Canada:
- Provide proof of English or French language proficiency through IELTS, TOEFL
- Have a valid Indian passport
- Show proof of funds
- Acceptance letter from a Designated
- Learning Institution (DLI)
- Passport-sized photographs
- A statement of purpose
- A credit card to pay the application fee online
- A valid Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC)
- A payment receipt for tuition fees
What is the average tuition fee for Indian students in Canada?
The average tuition fee for Indian students in Canada is around CAD 36,100 per year for undergraduate programs.
Are there any scholarships available for Indian students in Canada?
Yes, there are several scholarship opportunities available for Indian students looking to study in Canada. Some examples are Canada Graduate Scholarships, Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship, Ontario Graduate Scholarship, and university-specific scholarships.
Can Indian students work while studying in Canada to cover expenses?
Yes, Indian students can work while studying in Canada to help cover their expenses. Students with a work permit can work up to 20 hours per week during academic time and full-time during scheduled breaks.
Can Indian students get a post-study work permit in Canada?
Yes, Indian students can apply for a post-study work permit (PGWP) in Canada if they graduate from a designated learning institution (DLI). You have 180 days from the date of graduation to apply for a PGWP.
What is the PR (Permanent Residency) pathway for Indian students in Canada?
For Indian students in Canada, the most common pathway to Permanent Residency (PR) is through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). You can apply for PR after gaining at least one year of full-time skilled work experience in Canada after your studies.
