If you’ve been searching for the cheapest universities in Canada that offer scholarships to international students, this post has got you covered, we’ve carefully gathered a list of schools that combine affordability with real scholarship opportunities.
Studying abroad can be expensive, but Canada stands out as a top destination offering affordable education combined with generous scholarships for international students. With rising tuition fees in the US and UK, Canada offers a refreshing balance of quality education, reasonable costs, and student-friendly immigration policies.
This guide highlights 10 budget-friendly Canadian universities where you can pursue a quality education without breaking the bank—and still receive the financial support you need.
Why Study in Canada?
Canada continues to rank among the world’s best study destinations. Apart from being home to some of the safest and most welcoming cities in the world, Canada’s universities are known for their academic excellence, modern facilities, and research opportunities.
But what makes Canada stand out even more is the opportunity to access scholarships—even if you don’t have perfect grades.
Whether you have a second class lower GPA, or you’re seeking schools with easy application processes, or you’re just looking for low tuition fees, there’s something here for you.
10 Cheapest Universities in Canada That Offer Scholarships to International Students
1. Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN)
📍 St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador
💵 Average Tuition: CAD $3,200 – $11,460 per year
📅 Application Window: Opens in October, deadlines vary (Feb–July depending on program)
🔗 How to Apply:
Create an account on MUN’s admissions portal.
Submit your academic transcripts, English language test scores, and passport.
Apply early to be considered for entrance scholarships.
💡 Scholarship Tip: MUN automatically considers eligible international students for entrance scholarships based on academic performance.
2. Brandon University
📍 Brandon, Manitoba
💵 Average Tuition: CAD $7,200 – $8,600 per year
📅 Application Period: January and May intake deadlines are October and February
🔗 How to Apply:
Visit BrandonU.ca and choose your program.
Upload transcripts and proof of English proficiency.
Apply for scholarships via their online portal or after gaining admission.
💡 Extra Tip: Manitoba’s low cost of living makes this an even more affordable study destination.
3. University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI)
📍 Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
💵 Average Tuition: CAD $6,270 – $7,700 per year
📅 Application Dates: Open all year for most programs
🔗 How to Apply:
Apply through upei.ca.
Submit documents and pay a $50 application fee.
Some scholarships require essays or references.
💡 Scholarship Alert: Offers international entrance awards up to CAD $3,000.
4. University of Saskatchewan
📍 Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
💵 Average Tuition: CAD $6,500 – $9,000 per year
📅 Applications: Open in September for January and May intakes
🔗 Application Process:
Apply on the university portal.
Upload required docs: transcripts, ID, language results.
Apply early for automatic scholarship consideration.
💡 Did You Know? Entrance scholarships here range from CAD $500 to $3,000.
5. University of Manitoba
📍 Winnipeg, Manitoba
💵 Tuition: CAD $7,000 – $9,000
📅 Application Deadline: March 1st (Fall intake)
🔗 How to Apply:
Start at umanitoba.ca.
Submit your transcripts and documents.
Scholarships available for both merit and financial need.
💡 Tip: Students with average grades can apply—some scholarships are based on personal achievements or community service.
READ ALSO: 7 Common Mistakes Applicants Make When Applying for Scholarships and How to Avoid Them
6. Athabasca University
📍 Athabasca, Alberta (Fully Online)
💵 Tuition: CAD $1,500 – $9,000 (program-dependent)
📅 Application: Rolling admission—apply anytime
🔗 Steps to Apply:
Visit athabascau.ca.
Choose your course and apply.
Upload required documents and pay fees.
💡 Why Choose This? Great for working students or those needing flexible online study with occasional scholarships.
7. University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC)
📍 Prince George, British Columbia
💵 Tuition: CAD $7,500 – $8,000
📅 Deadline: March 1 (Fall intake)
🔗 Application:
Head to unbc.ca.
Submit high school or university transcripts.
Scholarships available for international students, especially research programs.
8. Université de Saint-Boniface (USB)
📍 Winnipeg, Manitoba (French-speaking university)
💵 Tuition: CAD $6,000 – $7,000
📅 Application: Opens in December
🔗 How to Apply:
Visit ustboniface.ca.
Must have basic French proficiency.
Upload transcripts and apply for entrance scholarships.
💡 Note: If you speak French, this is a great option with low fees and cultural experience.
9. Cape Breton University (CBU)
📍 Sydney, Nova Scotia
💵 Tuition: CAD $7,400 – $8,800
📅 Deadline: May 1 (Fall intake)
🔗 How to Apply:
Apply at cbu.ca.
Provide international transcripts, language test scores, and passport.
Entrance scholarships require a minimum GPA and language score.
10. Algoma University
📍 Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario
💵 Tuition: CAD $7,000 – $9,000
📅 Deadline: Varies by program (Fall deadline in May)
🔗 How to Apply:
Visit algomau.ca.
Apply with academic documents, language test, and resume if required.
Scholarship form available post-admission.
Bonus Tips for Securing Admission and Scholarships
- Apply early. Some scholarships run out fast.
- Don’t ignore small awards. $1,000–$2,000 scholarships add up!
- Write a strong personal statement. Show your passion, career goals, and financial need.
- Check each school’s dedicated scholarships page.
- Be honest about your GPA. Many schools offer help even if your grades aren’t perfect.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I study in Canada with a second class lower degree?
Yes! Many Canadian universities accept students with 2:2 GPAs, especially for diploma and undergraduate programs. You may need to explain your academic history in a personal statement.
2. Do I need IELTS for admission and scholarships?
Most schools require proof of English proficiency like IELTS or TOEFL, but some accept alternatives like Duolingo or a letter from your previous school confirming English instruction.
3. What are the cheapest universities in Canada for international students?
Memorial University, Brandon University, and University of Prince Edward Island are among the most affordable options that also offer scholarships.
4. Can I get a scholarship in Canada without applying separately?
Yes. Some entrance scholarships are automatic, but others require a separate application with an essay or recommendation letters.
5. Can I work while studying at these cheap universities?
Yes. International students can work part-time (20 hours/week) during studies and full-time during breaks if your study permit allows it.
Finding quality education abroad doesn’t have to cost a fortune. As we’ve explored, the cheapest universities in Canada that offer scholarships are opening doors for international students who are determined to study without being buried in student debt.
These schools don’t just offer affordable tuition—they also provide financial support through scholarships, making your dream of studying in Canada more accessible, even if you have a second class lower or a tight budget.
If you’re serious about studying in Canada, take your time to research each university, prepare your documents, and apply early. The opportunities are real—and with the right approach, your study journey in Canada could be more affordable than you ever imagined.
Start shortlisting the schools that match your goals, bookmark this page, and take that first bold step toward your future today!
