5 Universities in Canada with Low Tuition Fees

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Studying in Canada does not have to be expensive if international students make informed choices about universities, locations, and program structures. This article offers information on low-tuition-fee universities in Canada that maintain strong academic standards, many of which are located in smaller provinces outside major cities such as Toronto and Vancouver.

It is important to note that tuition fees do not represent the total cost of studying in Canada. Living expenses, part-time work opportunities, co-op programs, and post-study work options play a significant role in determining overall affordability. In 2026, rising tuition fees, inflation, and increased international student demand make cost planning more critical than ever.

The Canadian universities with low tuition fees listed here offer affordability along with scholarships, work options, and post-graduation pathways that help international students manage expenses and make practical study decisions.

Best Low-Tuition Universities in Canada: Overview

Although some top universities are quite expensive for international students looking for higher education in Canada, there are some universities that offer undergraduate and postgraduate courses for international students at lower tuition fees without any compromise on the education quality. We have mentioned some of the best universities for UG and PG courses with low tuition fees in 2026 in this table:

Canadian University Average UG Tuition 2026Average PG Tuition 2026
Memorial University of NewfoundlandCAD 9,000 to 20,000CAD 10,000
Brandon UniversityCAD 7,000 to 18,000CAD 10,000
University of Prince Edward IslandCAD 18,000CAD 12,000 to 16,000
University of ManitobaCAD 10,000 to 14,000CAD 12,000 to 18,000
University of SaskatchewanCAD 14,500 to 17,000CAD 12,000 to 18,000
University of ReginaCAD 20,000 to 24,000CAD 20,000 to 24,000
University of Northern British ColumbiaCAD 13,000 to 16,000CAD 10,000 to 12,000
St BonifaceCAD 10,500 to 12,500CAD 15,000
Mount Saint Vincent UniversityCAD 13,000 to 15,000CAD 10,000 to 12,000

Note: Students need to note that the exact tuition fees vary depending on the chosen course of study. Also, some courses at these universities are more expensive than others because of advanced specialisation or research-led courses. The tuition above is an average. So, it is highly advised for Indian students to check with their chosen university for the exact tuition fees.

Also Read: Cheapest Engineering Universities in Canada for International Students

Top 5 Universities in Canada with Low Tuition Fees in 2026

In this section, we will be discussing some of the top low-tuition universities in Canada for Indian students in 2026. You need to understand that these institutions do offer top-notch education. You can check these universities, top courses, and some other details through the headings below.

Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN)

Check the table below to know more information about this low-tuition-fee university in Canada for international students.

Particulars Details
Established1925
TypePublic Research University
LocationNewfoundland and Labrador, Canada
Known ForOne of Canada’s most affordable universities
Key StrengthsMarine Science, Petroleum and Ocean Engineering, Geology
Flagship AssetMarine Institute (Canada’s top ocean technology facility)
Average UG TuitionCAD 9,000 to 20,000
Average PG TuitionCAD 10,000 per year for research-led programs

Brandon University (Manitoba)

Here is the table for you to know more information about this university in Canada that offers low tuition for international students.  

Particulars Details 
Established1899
TypePublic University
LocationManitoba, Canada
Best Known ForSmall class sizes and personalised learning
Key StrengthsMusic, Education, Nursing, Humanities
Learning EnvironmentClose faculty interaction, community-focused
UG TuitionCAD 18,000 per year
PG TuitionCAD 10,000 per year

University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI)

In this table, we have mentioned important details such as establishment, average tuition fee, key strengths, and more about this low-fee university in Canada in 2026 for international students offering world-class education with affordability. 

Particulars Details
Established1969
TypePublic University
LocationPrince Edward Island, Canada
Best Known ForSmall class sizes and close-knit academic community
Key StrengthsBiological Sciences, Sustainable Business, Veterinary Medicine
Unique AdvantageOne of the few veterinary medicine faculties in Canada
UG TuitionCAD 18,000 per year
PG TuitionCAD 12,000–16,000/year

University of Regina (Saskatchewan)

Check the table below, as it contains more information about the University of Regina. This low-tuition-fee university in Canada is known for providing quality education at lower costs of studying. 

Particulars Details
Established1974
TypePublic University
LocationRegina, Saskatchewan, Canada
Best Known ForPractical, career-oriented programs
Key StrengthsBusiness, Media, Petroleum Systems Engineering
Industry ExposureStrong Co-op and internship-integrated curriculum
UG TuitionCAD 21,000 to 24,000 per year
PG TuitionCAD 14,000 to  19,000 per year

University of Manitoba

The University of Manitoba is among the cheapest universities in Canada in 2026 for international students. The university offers top-class undergraduate and postgraduate courses at an affordable rate of tuition compared to other universities. Here is the table that includes more information about it. 

Particulars Details
Established1877
TypePublic Research University
LocationManitoba, Canada
Best Known ForThe most comprehensive university in the province
Key StrengthsBusiness, Engineering, Agriculture, Computer Science
Career AdvantageStrong paid Co-op programs across major disciplines
UG TuitionCAD 20,000 to 24,000 per year
PG TuitionCAD 15,000 to 20,000 per year

Also Read: Cheapest MBA in UK

How to Reduce the Cost of Studying in Canada?

One of the most beneficial decisions to reduce the overall cost of studying is to take admission into one of the cheapest universities in Canada. Without compromising on the quality, these low tuition fee universities in Canada offer international students a top education system, global exposure, better career prospects, and a surreal experience. A few of the things to consider that can reduce the overall studying costs in Canada include the following:

  • Study in smaller provinces in Canada, such as Montreal, Halifax, Winnipeg or Regina. Here, the cost of living is much cheaper than in big cities such as Toronto, Vancouver, etc.
  • You can apply for scholarships and also sign up for paid co-op work programs in Canada.
  • Choose one of the high ROI programs to pursue in Canada. This helps you to accelerate the return on your investment more quickly.
  • Additionally, international students are allowed to work part-time for up to 20–24 hours per week, which provides steady financial support.
  • Choosing on-campus housing can reduce commuting and utility expenses, while off-campus accommodation may offer flexibility and lower rent depending on the city.

FAQs

Which university in Canada has the lowest tuition fee?

Compared to other institutions in Canada, Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN) has the lowest tuition rates, especially for postgrad and research-based courses, which might not even reach CAD 10,000 per year.

Which province in Canada is the cheapest to study in for international students?

The most affordable provinces for pursuing study abroad in Canada include Newfoundland, Labrador, and Manitoba. This is because of the low tuition fees associated with universities such as MUN and Brandon University in Manitoba and the University of Manitoba.

Which is the cheapest place to study in Canada?

Newfoundland (St John’s) is considered the cheapest place to study among Canadian cities, as the place offers affordable universities and a low cost of living for international students.

Are low-tuition universities in Canada good for PR?

Permanent residency in Canada depends more on where you study, your work experience, your course, and your job after graduation. It does not depend on how much tuition you paid to universities. Many low-tuition universities in Canada are in PR-friendly provinces and offer PGWP-eligible programs, co-op jobs, and provincial nomination pathways.

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This blog covered everything you need to know about low tuition fee universities in Canada in 2026. Stay tuned to Leverage Edu for more such content on affordable study abroad. Thank you for reading!

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