18 Best Canadian Universities For International Students

On Aug 21, 2024

Canadian universities have ranked higher among international academies and institutions globally while attracting students toward their reputed degree programs.

With their world-class faculty and exceptional research, they have continually earned a wide reputation and ranked top among international students. If you are pursuing a Bachelor's, Master's, or Ph.D. degree in Canada, we have got you covered with the 18 best Canadian universities to look out for.

1. University of Toronto

International student ratio: 96.4%
Acceptance rate: 43%
Location: Toronto, Ontario
#21 in World University Ranking 2024
#1 in Best Universities in Canada

Top-ranked public research academy worldwide, the University of Toronto provides over 200 graduate and 700 undergraduate programs across its three campuses. It gained the most scientific research funding and endowment annually of any Canadian institution.

For international and incoming domestic students, this academy awards 4,000 admission scholarships. Also, seeking a degree here costs more than 25,000 CAD, i.e., $18434.38.

2. University of British Columbia

International student ratio: 74.1%
Acceptance rate: 52.4%
Location: Kelowna
#34 in QS World University Ranking 2024
#2 in Best Universities in Canada

The oldest university in British Columbia, the University of British Columbia (UBC) appreciates diversity, encourages devoted international students, and offers over 256 undergraduate and 253 postgraduate programs.

Being a research powerhouse, UBC supports laboriously in luring the most promising young students by providing high-quality education at a particularly funded low tuition cost, compared to similar reputed institutions.

3. McGill University

International student ratio: 93.3%
Acceptance rate: 46%
Location: Montreal, Quebec
#30 in QS World University Ranking 2024
#3 in Best Universities in Canada

English-language public research institute, McGill University, is one of the widespread schools of higher learning in Canada, acknowledged for teaching and excellent research programs around the world.

Over 150 nations' students make up about 30% of its student body, the highest global student ratio compared to any other Canadian research academy.

4. McMaster University

International student ratio: 59.3%
Acceptance rate: 58.7%
Location: Hamilton, Ontario
#189 in QS World University Ranking 2024
#4 in Best Universities in Canada

A public research university, McMaster University, is located in an affordable city in Canada. International students' tuition fees are the lowest, CAD 43,000 on average, among the top-rated academies in Toronto, even 20 to 30% lower than US universities.

They are dedicated to creativity, innovation, and superiority in education. Even global students have access to over $2 million in scholarships, honors, and bursaries.

5. University of Alberta

International student ratio: 97.9%
Acceptance rate: 58%
Location: Edmonton, Alberta
#111 in QS World University Ranking 2024
#5 in Best Universities in Canada

A top 5 Canadian University, the University of Alberta supports the development of a vibrant research and learning atmosphere worldwide while providing a wide variety of programs with over 200 undergraduate programs.

Among 40,000 students, this academy has over 7,000 international students from more than 150 nations. Ranked 7th globally, this academy is dedicated to delivering all students the globalized learning benefits that will allow them to discover their career aspirations.

6. University of Montreal

International student ratio: 52.2%
Acceptance rate: 40-50%
Location: Montreal, Quebec
#141 in QS World University Ranking 2024
#6 in Best Universities in Canada

The foremost hub of higher schooling in Quebec, the University of Montreal (UdeM), is a world-class French-speaking academy that seeks to offer the best and most brilliant students.

For international students, its tuition fees are among the lowest in North America. Even the exemption scholarship is specially prepared for global pupils to assist in lowering their tuition fees.

7. University of Calgary

International student ratio: 62%
Acceptance rate: 63%
Location: Calgary, Alberta
#182 in QS World University Ranking 2024
#7 in Best Universities in Canada

One of Canada's top research academies, the University of Calgary, has a rich global society devoted to developing a fair, diverse, and comprehensive surrounding.

This Canada's entrepreneurial university provides its international students with high-quality programs and superior paid work experiences via co-op and internship programs. Besides this, it offers multiple opportunities to make a contrast and contribute to a range of research goals.

8. University of Waterloo

International student ratio: 77.9%
Acceptance rate: 53%
Location: Waterloo, Ontario
#112 in QS World University Ranking 2024
#8 in Best Universities in Canada

Canada's top university for experiential education and employer-student relations, the University of Waterloo, is a reputed academy that can open doors for student careers and education.

For Canadian and international students, it has opened enormous paid internship programs in North America. It also ranked number one in Canada for graduate employment rate in Qs Graduate Employability Rankings 2022.

9. University of Ottawa

International student ratio: 75.9%
Acceptance rate: 42%
Location: Ottawa, Ontario
#203 in QS World University Ranking 2024
#9 in Best Universities in Canada

The University of Ottawa, known as uOttawa or U of O, is located in the heart of Canada's capital, and due to its lower tuition, exceptional quality of education attracts students from over 145 countries.

uOttawa offers sponsored student programs, and its degree is acknowledged worldwide, leading graduates to enjoy thriving careers.

10. Western University

International student ratio: 54.6%
Acceptance rate: 58%
Location: London, Ontario
#114 in QS World University Ranking 2024
#10 in Best Universities in Canada

A public research university, Western University, is one of the top research-intensive colleges in Canada while rated third for sustainable development globally.

Joining this institute means being part of a diverse student body containing more than 5,000 global students from 128 nations. They set top goals for international students worldwide with their high-quality education, support funding opportunities, and great location.

11. Dalhousie University

International student ratio: 74.7%
Acceptance rate: 75%
Location: Nova Scotia, Canada
#298 in QS World University Ranking 2024
#11 in Best Universities in Canada

A research-intensive school, Dalhousie University is a place where your ambition meets possibilities. It provides more than 190 degrees in 13 different faculties.

You can access a wide array of chances by joining one of Canada's top universities as a Dalhousie student.

12. Simon Fraser University

International student ratio: 86.3%
Acceptance rate: 59%
Location: British Columbia, Canada
#318 in QS World University Ranking 2024
#12 in Best Universities in Canada

A public research institute, Simon Fraser University (SFU), is a perfect destination for short-term study for graduate and undergraduate students. Its academic programs provide wide selection across various disciplines in 8 faculties.

Canada's engaged university estimated tuition fee is $32,724 for international while total expenses are $47,386 for one academic year.

13. University of Victoria (UVic)

International student ratio: 48.6%
Acceptance rate: 63%
Location: British Columbia, Canada
#322 in QS World University Ranking 2024
#13 in Best Universities in Canada

One of Canada's top research academies, the University of Victoria, is recognized for supervision in research, enlightened education, and society concentration. As a student of UVic, you received a world-class education with little knowledge about Canadian culture.

Many awards, grants, and programs are open for undergraduate degree studies for international students.

14. Concordia University

International student ratio: 89.3%
Acceptance rate: 78%
Location: Montreal, Quebec
#387 in QS World University Ranking 2024
#14 in Best Universities in Canada

Rated 26th among Canada's research universities, Concordia University offers over 100 graduate, 100 undergraduate, and non-credit programs with a vast range of innovative courses that provide a distinctive and rewarding academic experience.

With an affordable education system, students from more than 150 countries enroll in this university. It is located in Montreal, the best city worldwide for students.

15. Laval University

International student ratio: 36.3%
Acceptance rate: 59%
Location: Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
#441 in QS World University Ranking 2024
#15 in Best Universities in Canada

One of the top public institutions in Quebec, Laval University (ULaval) is a major Canadian research academy that offers secure French-speaking surroundings.

It is located in a suitable destination, Quebec, where tuition fees are lower than other Canadian institutes. There is a wide array of financial support options accessible for international students who choose graduate programs.

16. York University

International student ratio: 81.2%
Acceptance rate: 62%
Location: Toronto, Ontario
#353 in QS World University Ranking 2024
#16 in Best Universities in Canada

Canada's third-largest academy, York University, aka YorkU or YU, is a top modern, multi-campus, urban institution with over 10,000 international students.

YorkU offers leading programs, creative course design, and experiential possibilities, which help you prepare for a significant career and long-term victory.

17. Queen's University at Kingston

International student ratio: 30.6%
Acceptance rate: 89%
Location: Kingston, Ontario, Canada
#209 in QS World University Ranking 2024
#17 in Best Universities in Canada

Canadian research-intense institution Queen University provides comprehensive and transformative teaching that will train you to create a global influence.

To aid international students, it offers a range of degree opportunities at the graduate and undergraduate levels. Compared to similar reputed ones, this university offers the lowest tuition fees and living expenses.

18. University of Saskatchewan

International student ratio: 51.8%
Acceptance rate: 70%
Location: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
#345 in QS World University Ranking 2024
#18 in Best Universities in Canada

Canada's leading research university, the University of Saskatchewan (USask), offers a complete scope of programs at the graduate and undergraduate levels. Over 3,000 international students enrolled in USask from 130 countries.

Reviewing the academic achievements, this academy provides scholarships and awards upon admission for international students. While studying and after graduating, you may be qualified to work in Canada.