What Are the Cheapest Colleges in Canada?
Here are 10 affordable colleges in Canada known for low tuition fees and international student support
| College Name |
Avg. Annual Tuition (CAD) |
Location |
| Selkirk College |
$7,900–$9,500 |
British Columbia |
| Niagara College |
$9,000–$11,500 |
Ontario |
| Bow Valley College |
$7,000–$10,000 |
Alberta |
| Lambton College |
$10,000–$12,000 |
Ontario |
| Northern Lights College |
$8,000–$9,500 |
British Columbia |
| Saskatchewan Polytechnic |
$10,000–$13,000 |
Saskatchewan |
| Georgian College |
$10,500–$13,000 |
Ontario |
| Humber College |
$12,000–$15,000 |
Toronto, Ontario |
| Conestoga College |
$9,000–$11,500 |
Ontario |
| Centennial College |
$11,000–$13,000 |
Toronto, Ontario |
These colleges are ideal for students from Nepal seeking quality education at manageable costs.
How Affordable Are These Colleges?
Canadian colleges typically charge international students between CAD $7,000 to $15,000 per year, depending on:
- Course type (diploma vs. degree)
- Province
- Program duration
Compared to universities, these colleges offer:
- Lower tuition fees
- Shorter programs
- Practical, job-ready diplomas
Who Should Choose an Affordable College?
Affordable colleges in Canada are ideal for:
- Students on a tight budget
- Those looking for diplomas, certificates, or 1–2-year programs
- Students aiming for PR pathways through Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP) eligibility
Need help picking the right college + program for PR eligibility? AECC Nepal can guide you step-by-step.
How to Apply from Nepal
Follow these steps to apply to low-cost Canadian colleges:
- Shortlist colleges based on budget, course, and location
- Prepare academic records + Transcript of Records
- Take an English test — IELTS, TOEFL, or PTE
- Submit applications (start 6–8 months before intake)
- Apply for Canada student visa via SDS (Student Direct Stream)
For January 2026 intake, apply by July–September 2025 for most colleges.
Tips to Reduce Costs Further
Choose colleges in smaller cities or provinces (like British Columbia, Saskatchewan)Opt for shared housing or on-campus dormsWork part-time (20 hrs/week) to cover living costsApply for entry-level bursaries or grants
Conclusion
Canada has plenty of budget-friendly colleges that offer high-quality, career-focused education. Whether you're aiming for a fast-track diploma, PR eligibility, or just want to study affordably, these options are perfect for international students from Nepal.
AECC Nepal helps students like you find the right affordable college, apply on time, and secure a visa successfully.
Talk to us today — and start your journey to Canada the smart way.
What is the cheapest college in Canada for international students?
Selkirk College, Bow Valley College, and Northern Lights College have some of the lowest fees (starting from CAD $7,000 per year).
Can I get a work visa after graduating from a college?
Yes. Most public colleges offer PGWP-eligible programs.
Are colleges cheaper than universities in Canada?
Yes. Colleges focus on diplomas and applied learning, making them more affordable.
Which is better: a cheap college or a popular university?
Depends on your goals. Colleges are ideal for job-ready skills and PR pathways. Universities suit academic research or 4-year degrees.
Can I study in Canada with low IELTS scores?
Some colleges accept PTE or offer IELTS waivers for foundation programs.
