Top 6 Affordable Canadian Colleges with High Acceptance Rates in 2025
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Dreaming of studying in Canada but worried about high tuition fees and strict admissions? You’re not alone. And the good news is, you don’t need Ivy League-level grades or a millionaire’s budget to make it happen. Canada has some amazing colleges that are both affordable and welcoming to Indian and international students.
These universities offer top-quality education, practical programs, and strong career support. In this guide, we’ll walk you through six student-friendly Canadian universities. They tick all the right boxes: budget-friendly, high acceptance rates, great courses, and supportive environments. Let’s take a look at where you can study smart without going broke.
Top Canadian Colleges with High Acceptance Rate
University of Northern British Columbia
If you’re looking for a cozy place to study in Canada that won’t drain your wallet, the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) is the one. It’s located in Prince George, a peaceful city surrounded by nature. Plus, it’s way more affordable than big cities like Toronto or Vancouver. UNBC is known for its small class sizes, which means you won’t get lost in a crowd.
The university has a great reputation for environmental research and is super focused on sustainability. You will find strong programs in Environmental Science, Business, Health Sciences, and Indigenous Studies. The best part? Getting in is fairly achievable, and they really support international students through the whole journey. Following are the key details of University of Northern British Columbia:
| Category | Details |
| Where is it? | Prince George, British Columbia, Canada |
| Chance of Getting In? | Pretty high – around 75% to 83% for international students |
| Courses People Love | Business, Environmental Science, Social Work, Biomedical Studies |
| Fees for International Students | Between CAD 27,500 and CAD 44,500 per year |
| Living Costs (Per Year) | Roughly CAD 12,000 to CAD 15,000 (cheaper than most major cities) |
| How Many Students? | Around 3,650 total, with over 500 international students |
| Classroom Size | Small – usually 20 to 25 students per class |
| Jobs After Graduation | Over 90% of grads get a job within 3 months |
| What’s Cool on Campus? | Eco-friendly buildings, student clubs, Wood Innovation Centre |
| What’s Nearby? | Ancient Forest Trail, Nechako River, Northern Lights Estate Winery |
University of Saskatchewan
The University of Saskatchewan (U of S) is located in Saskatoon. It is a safe, student-friendly city with tons of green spaces and lower cost of living. It has got a strong research vibe, but it doesn’t come with high tuition fees. Popular courses here are Agriculture, Business, Medicine, Engineering, and even Veterinary Science.
With an acceptance rate sitting comfortably around 75–80%, international students have a pretty solid shot at getting in. And here’s the good news this uni also offers plenty of scholarships that help bring down the cost even more. Plus, Saskatoon gives you a peaceful, affordable lifestyle with enough things to explore on weekends. Following are the key details of University of Saskatchewan:
| Category | Details |
| Where is it? | Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada |
| Acceptance Rate | Around 75% to 80% for international applicants |
| Popular Courses | Agriculture, Business, Engineering, Computer Science, Medicine |
| International Tuition | Typically CAD 20,000 – CAD 30,000 per year depending on the program |
| Living Costs Per Year | Roughly CAD 11,000 to CAD 14,000 (Saskatoon is much more affordable than Toronto) |
| Total Student Population | Around 25,000 students, with 3,300+ international students from 130+ countries |
| Class Sizes | Small to medium – usually 30–40 students per class |
| Graduate Employability | Over 93% of grads find work or go for further studies within 6 months |
| Campus Highlights | Historic architecture, on-campus farm, Huskie sports teams, student union hub |
| Nearby Attractions | Meewasin Valley trails, Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park, local farmers’ markets |
Memorial University of Newfoundland
Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN) is located in St. John’s. This college is known across the country for offering top-quality education at some of the lowest tuition rates for international students. But cheap doesn’t mean basic. MUN has solid programs in Engineering, Computer Science, Business, Marine Studies, and Social Sciences.
The vibe on campus is warm and welcoming. And the university does a great job supporting international students with everything from orientation to housing help. With an acceptance rate over 65%, MUN is a good fit if you’re looking for a slightly less competitive but high-value university. Following are the key details of Memorial University of Newfoundland:
| Category | Details |
| Where is it? | St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada |
| Acceptance Rate | Around 65% to 70% for international applicants |
| Popular Courses | Engineering, Business, Computer Science, Marine Biology, Arts, and Public Health |
| International Tuition | CAD 11,460 – CAD 20,000 per year (one of the lowest in Canada) |
| Living Costs Per Year | Around CAD 9,000 to CAD 12,000 (Newfoundland is very affordable) |
| Student Population | Over 18,000 students, including 3,400+ international students |
| Average Class Size | Typically 25–35 students, depending on the program |
| Graduate Employability | More than 90% of students find jobs or pursue further studies within 6 months |
| Campus Features | Ocean Science Centre, student union, hiking trails nearby, strong academic support |
| Nearby Attractions | Signal Hill, Cape Spear, The Rooms Museum, Quidi Vidi Village |
Simon Fraser University
Simon Fraser University, or SFU, is one of the coolest places to study in Canada. Especially if you’re someone who wants great studies without giving up on fun and nature. It’s based in British Columbia and has three campuses. The main one is in Burnaby. SFU is a hit with international students because it’s very welcoming and has students from all over the world.
You’ll find strong programs here in Business, Computer Science, Engineering, and Environmental Studies. It’s a little more selective than budget colleges. Tuition isn’t super cheap, but it’s fair for the kind of education and facilities you get. And while Vancouver can be a bit expensive, you can totally manage it with a good budget. Following are the key details of Simon Fraser University:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Burnaby, British Columbia (also in Surrey & Downtown Vancouver) |
| Acceptance Rate | Around 59%–65% for international students |
| Top Courses | Business, Computer Science, Mechatronics, Psychology, Environmental Science |
| Tuition Fees | CAD 31,500 – CAD 41,000 per year (for international students) |
| Living Expenses | CAD 14,000 – CAD 18,000 per year (budget-friendly with planning) |
| Student Count | 35,000+ total (with 9,000+ international students from 130+ countries) |
| Class Size | About 30–40 students per class |
| Job Outcomes | Ranked top 10 in Canada for employable grads |
| Campus Perks | Mountain views, co-op work options, clubs, new labs |
| What’s Nearby? | Vancouver city, Stanley Park, beaches, Whistler Mountains |
University of Alberta
The University of Alberta is more than just a big-name school. It’s a solid choice for international students who want real academic value without burning through their savings. Based in Edmonton, it is one of Canada’s most student-friendly and fast-growing cities. Here’s something a lot of students miss: UAlberta isn’t just about science and tech.
It’s a major hub for energy research, indigenous studies, AI innovation, and climate-focused programs. And speaking of jobs there are many part-time and post-study work options. Especially in engineering, healthcare, and sustainable energy sectors. They also offer entrance awards, automatic scholarships, and even research stipends for undergrads. Followinga are the key details of University of Alberta:
| Category | Details |
| City | Edmonton, Alberta – Canada’s Festival City with a growing tech scene |
| Admission Rate | 76% overall (varies by program) – Indian students have strong entry trends |
| Notable Majors | Artificial Intelligence, Indigenous Studies, Petroleum Engineering, Economics |
| Tuition Fees | CAD 30,000 – CAD 41,500 per year (varies by course) |
| Annual Living Costs | CAD 11,500 – CAD 15,000 (cheaper than Ontario or BC) |
| International Students | 7,200+ from 150+ countries |
| Scholarships Available | Entrance Awards, Gold Standard Scholarship, UAlberta International Country Scholarships |
| Internships & Co-ops | 1,000+ co-op placements across Canada and beyond |
| Graduate Hiring Rate | 91% within 6 months (Engineering and Business see even higher placements) |
| Top Nearby Spots | Ice District, Elk Island National Park, Whyte Avenue (student nightlife) |
Concordia University
If you’re looking for a modern, inclusive, and affordable university in Canada, Concordia University should definitely be on your radar. Located in Montreal, Quebec, it is known for mixing academic quality with creativity, community, and innovation. One thing students love about Concordia is how flexible and future-forward it is. Whether you’re into business, design, film, engineering, or computer science there’s space for you here.
The university has a strong focus on experiential learning, which means you’re not just stuck in lectures. You’ll find practical projects and paid internships that give you real-world experience while you study. Following are the key details of Concordia University:
| Category | Details |
| City | Montreal, Quebec – A student city known for culture, affordability, and diversity |
| Acceptance Rate | Around 78–80% – international students are warmly welcomed |
| Top Programs | Computer Science, Design & Computation Arts, Business, Engineering, Film Studies |
| Tuition Fees | CAD 22,000 – CAD 29,000 per year (for most international UG programs) |
| Living Costs | CAD 10,000 – CAD 14,000 annually (Montreal is one of Canada’s cheapest cities) |
| Total Student Body | 50,000+ students (includes 10,000+ international students from 150+ countries) |
| Scholarships Available | Entrance Scholarships, International Tuition Awards, Merit-Based Bursaries |
| Student Life Highlights | 200+ clubs, art galleries, fitness centres, campus radio, co-op programs |
| Nearby Must-Sees | Old Montreal, Mount Royal Park, Jean-Talon Market, Saint Laurent Boulevard |
Conclusion
If you’re planning to study in Canada in 2025, these universities offer a perfect mix of affordability, academic quality, and international support. Each of these universities brings something unique to the table, whether it’s small class sizes, strong co-op programs, or lower living costs.
And here’s the best part: You don’t have to compromise on your dreams. Want to make the process even smoother? Your student housing doesn’t have to be a headache. University Living helps you find safe, verified, fully furnished student accommodations near top Canadian universities. Visit University Living today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most affordable Canadian colleges for Indian students in 2025?
If you’re on a tight budget but still want a solid education, some affordable Canadian colleges for Indian students in 2025 include:
1. Memorial University of Newfoundland – Tuition starts around CAD 11,460/year
2. University of Northern British Columbia – Around CAD 27,500 to CAD 44,500/year
3. University of Saskatchewan – Starts near CAD 20,000/year
4. Concordia University – Between CAD 22,000 and CAD 29,000/year
These colleges offer high-quality programs without draining your savings — especially if you’re coming from India.
Which Canadian colleges have the highest acceptance rates for international students?
You don’t need a perfect GPA to study in Canada. Here are some top colleges with high acceptance rates in Canada:
1. University of Northern British Columbia – 75% to 83%
2. Concordia University – Around 78% to 80%
3. University of Saskatchewan – 75% to 80%
4. University of Alberta – 76% overall
These schools are super welcoming to international students, especially from India and South Asia.
Can I study in Canada with average grades?
Absolutely, you can study in Canada with average grades. Schools like Memorial University, UNBC, and University of Saskatchewan don’t expect high marks. A solid academic record (around 60–70%) and proof of English proficiency (like IELTS 6.0 or higher) is usually enough. And don’t forget, your SOP and recommendations also count!
What are the cheapest cities in Canada for students to live in?
Cities like St. John’s (Newfoundland), Saskatoon, Prince George, and Montreal are much more affordable than Toronto or Vancouver. Rent, food, and transport are all cheaper, making your student life way easier to manage. Living costs can range between CAD 9,000 to CAD 14,000 per year in these areas.
How good are the job prospects after graduating from these colleges?
Surprisingly good. Most of these colleges report 90%+ graduate employability rates. Schools like SFU and UAlberta are especially known for their co-op programs, where you get real job experience before you even finish your degree.
