Top Colleges in Calgary 2025: Best Courses, Fees & Admission Guide
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Thinking about studying in Calgary? You’re in for an exciting ride! Known for its mix of vibrant city life, natural beauty, and world-class education, Calgary is home to some of Canada’s top colleges and universities—each with its own vibe and strengths.
Whether you’re into hands-on polytechnic training at SAIT, artistic expression at AUArts, small community learning at St. Mary’s, or major research at the University of Calgary, there’s a perfect fit for every kind of student. This guide breaks down the best colleges in Calgary for 2025—covering programs, tuition fees, campus life, and fun facts to help you decide where to start your next chapter. Let’s explore!
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Top Colleges in Calgary
University of Calgary
The University of Calgary (UCalgary) is one of Canada’s top-ranked institutions and a hub of energy, entrepreneurship, and academic excellence! With over 30,000 students from more than 150 countries, UCalgary is a go-to choice for international and Canadian students alike. In 2025, it’s ranked 182nd globally (QS World University Rankings), and it consistently ranks in the Top 10 research universities in Canada.
Whether you’re into engineering, medicine, business, or environmental science, UCalgary offers over 200 programs to help shape your dream career. The university also boasts a 90% graduate employment rate within 6 months of graduation, and its Schulich School of Engineering alone brings in over $70 million annually in research funding. Below are the key details of University of Calgary (UCalgary):
| Category | Details |
| Location | Calgary, Alberta |
| Founded | 1966 |
| Total Enrollment | Over 30,000 students (undergrad + grad) |
| International Students | Approx. 10% of total enrollment |
| Popular Programs | Engineering, Business, Medicine, Environmental Science |
| Tuition Fees (2025) | CAD 6,800 – 12,000/year (domestic); CAD 22,000 – 29,000/year (international) |
| Global Ranking | Ranked 182nd globally (QS World University Rankings 2025) |
| Research Facilities | Over 50 research centers including the Energy Research Strategy, CFI-funded labs |
| Campus Highlights | Olympic Oval, Taylor Institute for Teaching, Downtown Campus, Libraries |
Bow Valley College
If you’re looking for a college that’s flexible, affordable, and focused on real-world skills, then Bow Valley College (BVC) in Calgary might be your perfect match! Founded in 1965, Bow Valley College has become one of Alberta’s leading public colleges, known for its accessible programs and strong emphasis on career-oriented education. With over 17,500 students enrolled annually, including many international learners, BVC is a welcoming and inclusive space.
Whether you’re aiming for healthcare, business, IT, or early childhood education, BVC’s programs are designed with input from industry leaders. Plus, with multiple learning options (online, part-time, fast-track), you can study in a way that fits your life. Below are the key details of Bow Valley College (BVC):
| Category | Details |
| Location | Calgary, Alberta |
| Founded | 1965 |
| Total Enrollment | Approx. 17,500 students (full-time, part-time, continuing education) |
| International Students | 1,900+ students from 100+ countries |
| Popular Programs | Business Administration, Health Care Aide, IT, Early Childhood Education |
| Tuition Fees (2025) | CAD 5,200 – 8,000/year (varies by program and residency) |
| Industry Links | Program content created with top employers and sector experts |
| Learning Options | Full-time, part-time, online, blended, and fast-track formats |
| Fun Fact | Bow Valley College’s downtown Calgary campus is connected to the +15 Skywalk system—making it super accessible in all weather! |
Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT)
Thinking about a career-focused education that gets you job-ready fast? Then Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT) in Calgary should be high on your list! Founded in 1916, SAIT is one of the oldest and most respected polytechnic institutes in Canada, with a strong track record of turning learners into skilled professionals.
Each year, SAIT welcomes around 15,000 full-time students, including a large number of international learners. With 91% graduate employment within a year and strong ties to over 11,000 industry partners, SAIT isn’t just about textbooks—it’s about launching your career while you study. Following are the key details of Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT):
| Category | Details |
| Location | Calgary, Alberta |
| Founded | 1916 |
| Total Enrollment | ~15,000 full-time students (plus 11,000+ continuing ed. and apprenticeships) |
| International Students | Approx. 1,800+ from over 140 countries |
| Popular Programs | Information Technology, Engineering Technologies, Business Admin, Health Sciences |
| Tuition Fees (2025) | CAD 5,500 – 10,000/year (varies by program; intl. students slightly higher) |
| Campus Facilities | Industry-grade labs, simulation centers, culinary kitchens, aviation hangars |
| Industry Links | 11,000+ employer partnerships, internships, and apprenticeship programs |
| Graduate Employability | 91% job placement rate within one year of graduation |
| Fun Fact | SAIT runs Tastemarket, a student-operated eatery combining food & education! |
Mount Royal University
Mount Royal University (MRU) is all about personalized education, small class sizes, and real-world learning. Located in Calgary, MRU offers a tight-knit academic community where students get hands-on experience and direct support from faculty. Founded in 1910, MRU has grown into a top choice for students who value interactive learning and career preparation. With about 14,000 students, including hundreds of international learners, MRU combines the best of both worlds: the academic rigor of a university and the supportive feel of a college. Following are the key details of Mount Royal University (MRU):
Highlights
| Category | Details |
| Location | Calgary, Alberta |
| Founded | 1910 |
| Total Enrollment | Approx. 14,000 students (full-time + part-time) |
| International Students | Over 1,000 from 60+ countries |
| Popular Programs | Arts, Business, Sciences, Education, Social Work, Health & Wellness |
| Tuition Fees (2025) | CAD 7,500 – 12,000/year (domestic); CAD 19,000 – 24,000/year (international) |
| Campus Facilities | Experiential learning labs, modern classrooms, student rec centers |
| Special Offerings | Diplomas in Aviation and Social Work |
| Fun Fact | MRU was Alberta’s first post-secondary institution to offer degrees in aviation! |
Alberta University of the Arts
If your passion lies in design, creativity, and expression, Alberta University of the Arts (AUArts) is where your artistic journey begins! Formerly known as Alberta College of Art and Design (ACAD), AUArts is one of the few standalone art and design universities in Canada, dedicated entirely to nurturing tomorrow’s creatives.
Located in Calgary’s vibrant downtown arts district, AUArts offers a specialized education in fine arts, media arts, and design. With over 1,200 students and small class sizes, you’ll work closely with accomplished artists, designers, and faculty mentors in a supportive and inspiring environment. Following are the key details of Alberta University of the Arts:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Calgary, Alberta |
| Founded | 1926 (renamed AUArts in 2019) |
| Total Enrollment | Approx. 1,200 students |
| International Students | Welcomes students from 25+ countries |
| Popular Programs | Visual Communication Design, Photography, Painting, Media Arts, Ceramics |
| Tuition Fees (2025) | CAD 9,000 – 14,000/year (domestic); CAD 19,000 – 22,000/year (international) |
| Campus Facilities | Dedicated studios, digital labs, 3D workshops, exhibition spaces |
| Notable Alumni | Winners of Governor General’s Awards, Emmy recipients, major brand designers |
| Fun Fact | AUArts is the only dedicated art and design university in Alberta! |
St. Mary’s University
Looking for a smaller university with a strong sense of community and values-based education? St. Mary’s University in Calgary might be your perfect academic home! Founded in 1986, St. Mary’s is a Catholic liberal arts and sciences university that welcomes students of all backgrounds. With an enrollment of around 1,000 students, it offers a personalized, inclusive, and supportive atmosphere where students thrive academically and spiritually.
St. Mary’s focuses on programs in the humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, and education, with a commitment to ethics, service, and leadership. If you’re looking for academic excellence with heart, this university truly stands out. Following are the key details of St. Mary’s University:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Calgary, Alberta |
| Founded | 1986 |
| Total Enrollment | Approx. 1,000 students |
| International Students | Small but growing community from 10+ countries |
| Popular Programs | Biology, Psychology, Liberal Arts, Education, English, Philosophy |
| Tuition Fees (2025) | CAD 6,000 – 9,500/year (domestic); CAD 12,000 – 16,000/year (international) |
| Campus Environment | Small class sizes, nature-rich campus, inclusive spiritual community |
| Unique Offering | Bachelor of Education after-degree program in just two years! |
| Fun Fact | Located on a former Catholic convent site, St. Mary’s campus is surrounded by nature trails! |
Conclusion
From tech labs to art studios, and lecture halls to nature-filled campuses—Calgary truly has it all when it comes to higher education. Whether you’re chasing a creative dream, diving into engineering, or starting your journey in healthcare or education, these colleges offer affordable, accessible, and quality programs for students from all walks of life.
Now that you’ve got the inside scoop on Calgary’s top colleges, it’s time to pick your path and start planning your future. Good luck—and don’t forget to bookmark this guide for easy reference during your admissions journey!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top colleges in Calgary for international students?
Calgary is home to several esteemed institutions that attract international students. Below are the top colleges in Calgary:
- University of Calgary (UCalgary): A leading research university offering over 200 programs across various disciplines.
- Southern Alberta Institute of Technology (SAIT): Known for its hands-on, industry-focused education in fields like Information Technology and Engineering Technologies.
- Bow Valley College: Offers flexible learning options with career-oriented programs in Business Administration, Health Care, and Information Technology.
- Mount Royal University (MRU): Provides a personalized learning experience with small class sizes and programs in Arts, Business, and Health.
- Alberta University of the Arts (AUArts): Specializes in fine arts and design programs, fostering creativity and innovation.
- St. Mary’s University: A liberal arts institution emphasizing humanities, sciences, and education within a supportive community.
What programs are popular among Calgary colleges?
Popular programs in top universities in Calgary vary by institution:
- UCalgary: Engineering, Business, Medicine, Environmental Science.
- SAIT: Information Technology, Engineering Technologies, Business Administration, Health Sciences.
- Bow Valley College: Business Administration, Health Care Aide, Early Childhood Education, Information Technology.
- MRU: Arts, Business, Sciences, Education, Social Work, Health & Wellness.
- AUArts: Visual Communication Design, Photography, Painting, Media Arts, Ceramics.
- St. Mary’s University: Biology, Psychology, Liberal Arts, Education, English, Philosophy.
How much are tuition fees for international students in Calgary?
Tuition fees for international students in Calgary vary by institution and program. Approximate annual tuition ranges are:
- UCalgary: CAD 22,000 – 29,000.
- SAIT: CAD 5,500 – 10,000.
- Bow Valley College: CAD 5,200 – 8,000.
- MRU: CAD 19,000 – 24,000.
- AUArts: CAD 19,000 – 22,000.
- St. Mary’s University: CAD 12,000 – 16,000.
What are the admission requirements for top Calgary colleges?
Admission requirements at top colleges in Calgary typically include:
- Academic Transcripts: High school diploma or equivalent; for graduate programs, a relevant bachelor's degree.
- English Language Proficiency: For non-native speakers, tests like IELTS or TOEFL are required. Minimum scores vary by institution.
- Additional Requirements: Some programs may require portfolios, interviews, or standardized test scores (e.g., GMAT for business programs).
Can international students work while studying in Calgary?
International students enrolled full-time in designated learning institutions in Calgary are typically allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks, provided they have a valid study permit.
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