Here is a list of affordable colleges in Canada for both residents and international students;
Table of Contents
12 Affordable Colleges in Canada
1. Aurora College
This institution has 3 campuses in Inuvik, Fort Smith and Yellowknife, Canada. No application fees are required, and its annual tuition ranges from $4,000 to $7,000. Founded with a commitment to accessible education, the college offers a diverse range of courses.
From programs in natural resources and environmental technology to business administration and health sciences, Aurora College caters to a broad spectrum of disciplines.
2. Holland College
Holland College, situated on Prince Edward Island, has a rich history dating back to its establishment. The college emphasizes professional development and facilitates language proficiency assessments.
The Early Learning Center, a family-friendly facility with observation spaces, enhances the student and family experience. Experience excellence in education at Holland College, deeply rooted in its historical legacy. This learning institution boasts 2,600 full-time students and about 500 international students, all enrolled in one of the 60 programs the school offers.
3. College Of North Atlantic
Located in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, the College of the North Atlantic (CNA) is a public college. It has 17 campuses throughout the province, making it one of the largest post-secondary educational and skill training centers in Atlantic Canada. CNA offers a diverse range of programs, including full-time and part-time courses.
Tuition fees vary depending on the program and length of study. For example, regular term tuition cost about $3,985.00, while part-time course tuition cost about $996.00 per course.
4. Selkirk College
Located in British Columbia, this college has a reasonable application fee of $100 and tuition fees ranging from $5,000 to $13,000 per year, Selkirk College prioritizes accessibility. Spanning eight campus locations across six West Kootenay and Boundary communities, Selkirk College ensures in-demand employment outcomes, facilitates credit transfers to various universities for degree completion, and provides enhanced training for career advancement.
Currently accommodating 1,239 students in diverse locations, Selkirk College offers a plethora of academic, career, vocational, and technical programs such as the Arts, Academic Upgrading & Development, Business, Environment & Geomatics, Health & Human Services, Hospitality & Tourism, etc.
5. Bow Valley College
Founded in 1965 as the Alberta Vocational Centre, Bow Valley College has evolved into a comprehensive community institution, offering a diverse range of programs tailored to the needs of the region.
With tuition fees ranging from $5,000 to $17,000 per year, Bow Valley College remains an attractive option for students seeking quality education without breaking the bank.
The college’s academic offerings are organized into nine schools and program areas;
- Chiu School of Business
- Extended Education: Provides flexible learning options for personal and professional development.
- Regional Campuses: Extends Bow Valley College’s reach beyond Calgary, offering programs in communities throughout southern Alberta.
- School of Community Studies: Prepares students for careers in social work, early childhood education, and community development.
- School of Foundational Learning: Offers essential academic upgrading and literacy programs to support students in their pursuit of further education.
- School of Global Access: Facilitates the integration of newcomers into Canadian society through language training and settlement services.
- School of Health and Wellness.
- School of Technology
6. Canada College Montreal
With a focus in healthcare, education, business, IT, and digital marketing, the college caters to a wide variety of interests. Their open-arm approach has attracted 2,500 students from over 150 nationalities to this learning institution.
Tuition fees ranging from $8,000 to $10,000 per year ensure affordability, while modern facilities, comprehensive student support services, and career guidance enhance the overall learning experience. Canada College invites international students to embark on a rewarding educational journey, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to excel in their chosen fields and areas of interest.
7. Maritime College of Forest Technology
The Maritime College of Forest Technology (MCFT) is a public post-secondary college located in Fredericton, New Brunswick, Canada. It was founded in 1946 as a joint venture between the provincial governments of New Brunswick and Nova Scotia and the wood-using industries of the two provinces.
This particular college is specialized and its tuition fees are approximately $5,000 per year. And like many other colleges on this list, the application fee is just $100. The college offers a two-year Forest Technology Diploma program as well as an Advanced Diploma Program in Forest Technology and Fish and Wildlife Technology. MCFT has graduated over 3,300 students since its inception.
8. New Brunswick College of Crafts and Design
In the historic city of Fredericton, New Brunswick, you will find the College of Craft and Design (NBCCD). With tuition fees starting at just $3,449.64 per year for Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and Maine residents, NBCCD empowers aspiring artists and designers to pursue their passions without financial constraints. International students can also benefit from the college’s competitive tuition rates, with fees starting at $9,641.04 per year.
9. New Brunswick Community College
New Brunswick Community College (NBCC) is a self-governing Crown Corporation that has been providing quality education since its establishment in 1974. With as many as 90 regular programs across 18 sectors, NBCC offers full-time, part-time, and online learning opportunities for students of all backgrounds and interests.
Tuition fees are affordable, with fall and winter terms costing $1,710.00 each for Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and others. International students pay $3,420.00 per term, bringing the total tuition per year for international students to $9,575.00.
10. Nova Scotia Community College
NSCC in Canada, renowned for its affordability, charges a reasonable application fee of $75, making education accessible. With tuition fees ranging from $12,000 to $14,000 per year, NSCC maintains a commitment to affordability. Established with a focus on practical, industry-relevant education, the college offers diverse courses. From business administration to health sciences, NSCC’s curriculum aligns with the needs of the job market.
11. Mohawk College
This college’s application fee is as low as $100. As for tuition fees, expect to pay between $10,000 and $17,000 per year. An interesting fact about Mohawk College, Ontario, is that it offers free English classes for eligible newcomers.
To be eligible;
- You must be a permanent resident of Canada, a protected person (with Notice of Decision), or a Ukrainian temporary resident or their dependents
- Must be over 18 years of age
- Must reside in Ontario
- Have valid proof of your Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) assessment at the required level of the class of your interest.
12. Northern College
Located in Northern Ontario, the Northern College of Applied Arts and Technology offers an affordable, quality education. With an application fee of $100 and annual tuition fees ranging from $7,000 to $16,000, this college offers a diverse array of programs for all students. Whether you want to pursue a career in trades, technology, healthcare, or business, Northern College provides a flexible and impactful learning experience through on-site, distance, and hybrid education options.
Now that you’ve learnt about affordable colleges in Canada, here are 9 easy steps to follow to secure Canada study permit
