Cheapest Colleges In Toronto Canada for International Students

Last Updated on August 12, 2023 by Oluwajuwon Alvina

Looking for cheap universities in Toronto, Canada? Here are some of the cheapest universities in Toronto, Canada.

Many international students want to study abroad in Toronto, a world-class city. The city houses some of the finest universities in Canada and the world. These include Humber University, York University, the University of Toronto, and Ryerson University.

Toronto has dynamically transformed into an acclaimed objective that attracts worldwide understudies, especially in the latest years. Having prestigious schools, clear understudy urban zones and proficient lifestyle, thereafter changing into a city with levels of fame and a high reputation. This city has a standout amongst the most surprising desires for regular solaces on the planet.

If you need help discovering some of the cheapest universities in Toronto for international students, the universities listed here are considered the cheapest universities in Toronto, Canada for international students. Students seeking to study abroad in Canada can apply to any of these cheap universities in Canada.

The university tuition fees listed here are for international students only.

International students willing to study in Canada can apply to some of the best as well as the cheapest universities in the country. These universities offer the cheapest courses in Canada, both at undergraduate and graduate levels. Some of the most affordable universities in Canada for international students are listed below:

cheapest university in canada for international students 2022

In this part of the article, you will find all the lists of the cheapest universities in Canada for international students in 2022.

By the way, you will find the following list of the 20 cheapest universities and colleges in Canada for international students :

1. Memorial University of Newfoundland
2. The College of the North Atlantic
3. The University of Northern British Columbia
4. Simon Fraser University
5. The University of Waterloo
6. St. Thomas More College
7. The University of Saskatchewan
8. Mount Allison University,
9. 9. University of Guelph
10. 10. University of Moncton
11. 11. Brandon University
12. McMaster University
13. University of St. Michael’s College
14. The University of Toronto
15. Dalhousie University (ex: Nova Scotia Agricultural College)
16. University of Victoria
17. Emily Carr University of Art and Design
18. The University of Calgary
19. Ambrose University
20. University of Saint-Boniface

cheap diploma courses in Canada for international students

A diploma is a short-term course, usually 2 years, offered by an educational institution such as a college or university, which mainly focuses on training students in a particular field.

Check out the Best PG Diploma Colleges in Canada.

A List of the 10 Cheapest Diploma Courses in Canada for International Students:

1. Interior Decorating Diploma

Institution: Bow Valley College.

Duration: 2 years (4 terms).

Study Method: Physical classes (face-to-face format).

Tuition: about 27,000 CAD (total tuition cost for the two-year programme).

Programme Details:

The programme teaches practical skills and techniques to successfully manage interior decorating projects and work effectively in a business environment in a variety of roles related to interior decorating.

Also, the programme is recognized by the Decorators and Designers Association of Canada (DDA).

Admission Requirements:

At least a credit in English and mathematics, and English proficiency for applicants who are non-native English speakers.

Career Opportunities:

Graduates of the interior decorating diploma can work as interior draught people, lighting consultants, furniture stagers, and more.

Also, graduates of the programme can work in the kitchen and bath industry.

2. Fashion Management

Institution: George Brown College.

Duration: 2 years (4 semesters).

Study method: both physical and online classes.

Tuition: about 15,190 CAD (for 2 semesters).

Programme Details:

The fashion management programme prepares you with essential knowledge and skills required to meet the Canadian fashion industry’s core business needs.

Furthermore, you will gain a deep understanding of textiles, manufacturing inputs and processes, and movement in the supply chain, as well as management of the value, cost, and quality of apparel.

Besides, the fashion management programme is the only academic programme curriculum in Canada identified by the Academic Apparel and Footwear Association (AAFA) as an affiliate school.

Admission Requirements:

Applicants (18 years of age or older at the time of registration) must have completed secondary school.

As well as having a Grade 12 English, Grade 11 or Grade 12 Math, proof of English proficiency (applies to non-native English speakers only).

Career Opportunities:

Graduates are employed in positions leading to careers such as: product developer/coordinator, quality control manager, fabric sourcing manager, production manager, and many more.

3. Business—Management and Entrepreneurship

Institution: Algonquin College.

Duration: 2 years.

Study method: Physical classes (face-to-face).

Tuition: Algonquin College diploma programmes cost an average of 15,800 CAD per year.

Programme Details:

The programme provides you with the knowledge and skills for a successful career in management or ownership of a small or medium-sized enterprise.

Also, this programme has a strong focus on business trends, developing an entrepreneurial mindset, and innovation in a digital economy.

Moreover, students have access to the Discovery, Applied Research, and Entrepreneurship (DARE) District, Algonquin College’s Entrepreneurship and Innovation Centre, and several other business support services.

Admission Requirements:

High school diploma; proof of English proficiency (non-native English speakers).

Career Opportunities:

Graduates can find a career in; marketing, customer service and management, e-Commerce, and professional sales.

4. Computer Information Technology.

Institution: Lethbridge College.

Duration: 2 years.

Study Method: Face-to-face format.

Tuition: from $12,700 to $15,150 (per year).

Programme Details:

Through a mix of classroom theory, hands-on projects, and workplace experiences, students will receive a comprehensive introduction to the information technology industry.

Also, the programme is accredited by the Canadian Information Processing Society, Canada’s association of IT professionals.

Career Opportunities:

Business and System Analyst, Computer Service Technician, Database Designer, Developer, IT Support Specialist, Mobile App Developer, Web Developer, Administration, Software Developer, etc.

5. Massage Therapy.

Institution: Lethbridge College.

Duration: 2 years.

Study method: Face-to-face format.

Tuition: from $14,859 to $16,124 (per year)

Programme Details:

The programme will immerse you in the field, focusing on the knowledge, skills, and attributes necessary for success as a registered massage therapist.

Also, the programme is accredited by the Canadian Massage Therapy Council for accreditation.

Admission Requirements:

Grade 12 English or equivalent, Grade 12 Biology or equivalent, English language proficiency for non-native English speakers.

Likewise, it is recommended that students have working knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet, and database software.

Career Opportunities:

Graduates will be prepared to work as message therapists in the following fields: message clinics and spas, private health care providers, sports medicine clinics, chiropractic clinics, and long-term care facilities.

6. Civil Engineering Technician.

Institution: Confederation College.

Duration: 2 years.

Study method: Face-to-face format.

Tuition: about $15,000 per year (including bus pass, healthcare fee, college service fee, and resource development fee).

Programme Details:

In this programme, students will gain knowledge in the design, construction, and operation of water, soil, roads, railways, bridges, and buildings.

Career Opportunities:

Graduates find employment in project planning and design, construction inspection and supervision, contract administration, management, and infrastructure maintenance, restoration, and repair.

Admission Requirements:

A high school or senior secondary school diploma with a Grade 12 Math credit, and English proficiency.

7. Accounting.

Seneca College.

Duration: 2 years (4 semesters).

Study method: physical classes (face-to-face format).

Tuition is approximately $15,100 per year.

Programme Details:

This programme will introduce you to the accounting practices, business fundamentals, and soft skills needed to find employment.

Furthermore, you will learn how to use computer applications like Microsoft Excel spreadsheets, and Access relational database management software.

Also, the programme is accredited by ACBSP.

Admission Requirements:

Grade 12 English or equivalent, Secondary School Diploma, Grade 12 or Grade 11 Math or equivalent, and proof of English proficiency.

8. Computer Programming

Institution: Georgian College.

Duration: 2 years.

Study method: physical classes (both full-time and part-time).

Tuition: about $8,000 per semester (including compulsory ancillary fees).


This programme focuses on computer programming, web development, and designing data-driven systems.

Also, the programme teaches how to write code in a variety of programming languages, such as Arduino, ASP.NET, C#, Java, JavaScript, HTML/CSS, PHP, and Swift.

Admission Requirements:

Applicants must have secondary or high school transcripts, math and English credits required at the grade 12 level, and an English proficiency test.

Also, students are required to own a personal notebook computer, either a PC or a Mac.

9. Culinary Management

Institution: Loyalist College.

Duration: 2 years.

study method: in-person (face-to-face format).

Tuition ranges from $15,920 to $16,470 per year (including ancillary fees).

Programme Details:

In this programme, you will gain first-hand experience in all aspects of culinary management, from hosting and science, food preparation, pricing, and menu design, to developing marketing strategies.

Also, students work in the kitchen and dining room of Resto 213, Loyalist’s on-campus student-run gourmet restaurant.

After the completion of the programme, graduates are qualified to write the exam for the Interprovincial Red Seal Certificate, an internationally recognized standard of quality.

Admission Requirements:

Applicants must have a secondary school diploma with English and math at grade 12 level and proof of English proficiency.

Career Opportunities:

Graduates can work as chefs or culinary managers at restaurants, bakeries, hotels, resorts, hospitals, industry kitchens, and catering companies.

10. Fitness and Health Promotion

Institution: Loyalist College.

Duration: 2 years.

Tuition: from $15,900 to $16,470 per year (including ancillary fees and health insurance fees).

Study Method: Face-to-face format.

Programme Details:

In this programme, students learn to accurately assess health and fitness levels, evaluate progress, and develop exercise prescriptions tailored to meet the interests and lifestyle goals of every client.

Also, students have access to train in Loyalist’s newly renovated on-campus fitness centre and program-dedicated fitness lab.

Furthermore, students gain knowledge of anatomy and physiology, kinesiology, nutrition, chronic disease prevention, and entrepreneurship.

Graduates can work as fitness and sports instructors, fitness programmers, fitness consultants, and personal fitness trainers.

universities in Ontario, Canada for international students

With so many universities and colleges to pick from, you can start your search at these top five universities, which you may consider joining upon graduation from private school in Toronto.

1. University of Toronto

Established in 1827, the University of Toronto is the largest university in Canada. It offers great diversity and more programmes and facilities than any other university in Canada. It is popular among international students because of its reputation for academics and sports. It currently caters to over 15,000 foreign students drawn from over 150 countries. Undergraduate tuition fees range from $27,240 to $35,280, while graduate tuition fees range from $19,550 – $28,260. Residential housing ranges from $12,258–$15, 467.

2.York University

York University is the second-largest university in Ontario and the third-largest in Canada. It has the most competitive fees for a university because of its facilities and exciting programmes. Founded in 1959, it is home to over 11,000 international students drawn from 178 countries. It is the only university in Canada with space engineering and undergraduate global health programmes in the country. It is also renowned for its Osgoode Hall Law School. The undergraduate tuition fees range from $12,780–$13,571 and the graduate tuition fees are from $7,516–$13,178. York University housing would cost $5,356–$7,958.

3.Carleton University

Carleton University is located in Ontario’s capital, Ottawa. It has become popular with international students in the past decade which has seen a rise in their number at the university by over 40%. For those graduating from a private high school Toronto but still dreading the winters, it offers relief with a network of 5 kilometers underground tunnels linking the university buildings. Undergraduate tuition fees go from $20,012 – $22,976. Graduate tuition fees are from $13,060 – $14,042 and the residential housing which includes meals goes from $10, 544 – $12,869.

4.University of Waterloo

The University of Waterloo was ranked first as the most innovative university in Canada. It has a glowing reputation in advanced research and its science and engineering programs. It hosts about 5,000 international students annually drawn from over 120 countries. Its undergraduate tuition fees are $20,860 – $22,156. Graduate tuition fees are $12,392 – $12, 516. The costs for residential housing is $2,214 – $3,701.

5.University of Windsor

The University of Windsor is popular with international students who form 175 of its students’ body. Its recently completed Center for Engineering Renovation has earned it a strong reputation with the kind of research that is supported by the ultra-modern facilities. Undergraduate tuition fees are 17,700 – $19,000. Graduate tuition fees are $19,650- $19,695. The residential fees ranges from $5,788 – $7,500.

Cheapest Universities in Toronto for International Students.

1. Ontario College of Art & Design

• $15,700/year

The cheapest university on our list is an art school – The Ontario College of Art and Design. This public higher education provider is located in Toronto’s luxurious Grange Park neighborhood, which greatly contributes to students’ inspiration.

Established in 1876, this is probably the oldest school of Art & Design in Canada. Its rich traditions attract hundreds of young people from all over the world, who come here to share their love for art and build some fresh creative experience. International students comprise nine percent of all undergraduate enrollments and over twenty percent of the graduate ones.

The academic focus is on critical thinking and the undergraduate courses are designed “to ignite the students’ imagination”.

This university charges international undergraduate students a flat fee of $15,700. It includes health insurance for the academic year but does not include on-campus accommodation and meals.

2. Centennial College

• $16,000/year

Centennial College of Applied Arts and Technology is the most culturally diverse school in Ontario – its international students represent almost one hundred different cultural and ethnic groups and speak over 80 different languages. However, you should not worry about getting along with them – speaking English and some French is more than enough! So, you should definitely consider applying to this cheap university in Toronto.

In general, the cost of post-secondary education programmes for international full-time students is about $16,000 a year. The Honorary Degree programmes are a bit more expensive – about 20,000 dollars a year. As is the case with most of the schools reviewed in this article, the fees do not include on-campus accommodation and meals.

3. George Brown College

• $20,000/year (*without accommodation and meal plan)

George Brown College of Applied Arts and Technology attracts thousands of young people from around the world, who come here every year to convert their creative efforts and raw talent into genuine art. In the process, they also earn an internationally recognized Bachelor’s Degree in the fields of applied arts and technology.

It is also worth mentioning that this school was named after George Brown, one of Canada’s Founding Fathers, and its history goes more than a century back.

International students pay about 20,000 dollars a year for an undergraduate program at George Brown College. The sum includes base tuition fee, application fee, incidental fees, mandatory health insurance, and annual public transport pass, but does not include room and board. These are to be paid separately.

4. Seneca College

• $25,000/year

Seneca College, just like George Brown, is a school of applied arts and technology. But while the school discussed above is located in the very heart of Toronto, this one is in the Greater Toronto Area.

I was surprised to find out that this school offers baccalaureate programs to international applicants, along with graduate and certificate programs, and honorary degrees. This school’s academic history is just over half a century-long, but it has already made itself famous as one of the cheapest places in Toronto to earn a degree in the field of arts & technologies.

The average tuition fee for undergraduate international students is about $25,000 a year, including textbooks and supplies. For accommodation options on campus and their current cost, please contact the college via the Live Chat – this is the fastest way to get in touch with them.

5. University of Guelph-Humber

• $26,000/year

The University of Guelph-Humber (UofGH) is a relatively young educational establishment – its foundations were laid in 2002. UofGH was the result of the joint effort of the University of Guelph and the Humber College Institute of Technology & Advanced Learning.

At the University of Guelph-Humber, you can earn a university honors degree and a diploma in just four years of full-time study. The university is best known for its programs in Justice Studies, training students to become police officers, investigators, lawyers, etc.

Almost all programs at this cheap university in Toronto available to international students cost just over $24,000 a year. The program in Business Studies is a bit more expensive – about $26,000 a year.

6. Humber College

• Between $8,000 and $28,000 a year

Humber College is one of the best academic hubs in Canada, where international students can pursue a degree in applied sciences. The full name of this institution is Humber College Institute of Technology and Advanced Learning.

There is a total of eight different schools operating under its cap, with that of Applied Technology being the most popular. Each of these schools offers a variety of different undergraduate programs to international students. Therefore, it is rather difficult for me to come up with a rough estimate of the average tuition fee. My research has shown that tuition fees vary widely – between eight and twenty-eight thousand US dollars a year.

7. York University

• $30,000

York University is the third-largest university in Canada. It should not come as a surprise to you that this school, again, is publicly-funded. In general, public universities are much less expensive than private ones.

The university also has one of the largest communities of international students in the Toronto area. Its affordability does not come at the expense of the quality of training that students receive. Just on the contrary – it is the number one Canadian university for science-related programs.

The average tuition fee that international students are required to pay for full-time, non-professional undergraduate programs is about $30,000.  There are many other extra expenses listed on their website. I would just like to mention that residence in a double room on campus costs $5,700 a year.

8. Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College

• $32,000/year

The Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College is a private higher education provider and one of the few private schools on our list. This comes to suggest that even the private higher education in Toronto, Ontario, Canada can be quite affordable.

This school is most famous for its four-year Doctor of Chiropractic Program that trains students to treat spinal and musculoskeletal conditions that often cause debilitating pain and even depression. During the first two years of the program, the students develop essential clinical skills, which they put into practice during their hospital internships in the third and fourth year of the program.

Skilled chiropractors are in high demand all over the world, and it’s worth earning a degree in this field for just $32,000 a year.

9. Toronto Royal Conservatory of Music

• $32,000/year

The next graduate and postgraduate school on our list of cheapest universities in Toronto is the Royal Conservatory of Music – Canada’s most famous music school, which is also a performance venue. The foundations of music education in Toronto were laid in 1886, when Edward Fisher, a Canadian conductor and organist, established The Toronto Conservatory of Music.

Today, the academic focus is on classical music, but undergraduate students can also take up jazz and folklore music courses. The students’ skills are honed to absolute perfection and they also earn a degree in formal music education which opens a myriad of employment opportunities all over the globe.

There are several different schools operating under the conservatory’s cap such as, for instance, the Phil and Eli Taylor Performance Academy for Young Artists and the Glenn Gould school. Their Bachelor of Music Program costs $32,000 a year.

10. Ryerson University

• $36,000/year

Ryerson University is another very affordable university in Toronto, Canada. It offers a wide variety of different graduate and undergraduate programs, but the academic focus is on business and entrepreneurship.

There are different programs available to undergraduate international students at Ryerson University. As a rule, the tuition fee for the first year is slightly higher. On the whole, the fees for international students vary from $27,000 to $36,000 a year. The sum does not include accommodation, meals, and other such costs that students may incur.

11. University of Toronto

• $65,000/year (*total cost of attendance)

The University of Toronto (U of T, or UToronto) is the most popular university in the area and it is also one of the leading academic establishments in the world. It is particularly famous for its groundbreaking research on stem cells and insulin.  International students comprise over 20% of its annual enrollment of freshmen.

Because this is a publicly-funded school, international students are not eligible for any kind of financial aid or scholarship. How much you will pay per year depends on your program and the number of courses you have taken up. There also are incidental and ancillary fees that you have to factor in.

First-year international undergraduate students pay about $50,000 a year on tuition fees, plus $15,000 extra costs for textbooks and study materials.

Conclusion

Above, I have reviewed some of the cheapest higher education establishments in the area of Toronto. All of the quoted tuition fees are in US dollars, and most of them do not include accommodation and board. In general tuition fees in the Greater Toronto Area are very affordable and that explains why many Americans go to study there.

I hope that this article on the cheap universities in Toronto was helpful. If you are interested, visit the