Cheapest Universities in Canada for Ghanaian Students

Canada is one of the most popular study abroad destinations for international students. Here’s why: 

• Vibrant & Diverse: Canada’s international student population is growing fast. 

• Co-op Education - it’s not all lectures: Canada’s Co-op programs have students learning outside the lecture halls in the real world, full-time, multi-term, and paid placements. 

• Student Entitlements: You can work part-time while you study or opt for a Co-op, and work for up to 3 years after graduation. 

• Top Ranked Universities: Canada has a large number of top ranked universities according to THE World University Rankings 2025. 

• Safety & Support: You’ll have dedicated security, academics, health and social support services. 

 Check out more about living in the top Canadian cities: Ottawa, Montreal, Vancouver and Toronto. 

The table below shows the list of top affordable universities in Canada for international students, according to THE World University Rankings 2025. 

There are several factors that influence how much international students pay for tuition in Canada.
Here’s a quick overview of what are those factors and how they affect international students: 

• Level of Study: Research-based programs are often more affordable. 

• Residency Status: International students pay more than domestic or permanent residents. 

• Type of Institution: Public universities are usually more affordable than private universities. Also, colleges or polytechnics may offer lower tuition than universities. 

• Province or Territory: Tuition is lowest in provinces like Manitoba, Newfoundland, and New Brunswick. 

• Program of Study: Programs like Medicine, Engineering, or Business cost more, while Arts or Social Sciences tend to be more affordable. 

Numerous financial aid and scholarship opportunities are available to international students in Canada. These consist of university-specific scholarships and private scholarships, as well as government-funded programs like the Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships and Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships. Many universities offer scholarships based on academic merit, leadership, and community involvement; some also take financial need into account. 

Applying to affordable universities in Canada requires careful planning and attention to detail. Follow the below steps to increase your chances of admission while keeping costs low:  

• Research affordable institutions by checking official university websites and credible rankings for tuition fees, especially in provinces like Manitoba, Newfoundland, or New Brunswick. 

• Choose a program that aligns with your academic background and career goals, ideally in fields that typically cost less (e.g., arts, humanities, education). 

• Check admission requirements for international students, including GPA, English/French language tests (IELTS), and prerequisite courses. 

• Prepare application documents such as transcripts, a Statement of Purpose, reference letters, and a valid passport. 

• Apply online through the university’s admission portal or provincial application systems (e.g., OUAC for Ontario). 

• Pay the application fee, which usually ranges from 50 – 150 CAD per institution. 

• Track application status and respond to any additional requests (e.g., interviews or document verification). 

• Apply for scholarships or bursaries offered to international students to help reduce costs. 

• Accept your offer of admission, pay the tuition deposit, and begin your study permit application with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). 

International students in Canada have access to a variety of part-time work opportunities that can help support their living expenses and provide valuable work experience. Students with a valid study permit enrolled in a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) are allowed to work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks, such as summer or winter holidays.  

With recent policy updates, Canada has also introduced pilot programs that allow international students to work more than 20 hours per week in certain sectors temporarily. While working part-time, students earn extra income as well as building their professional networks, improving language skills, and gaining experience relevant to future careers or permanent residency applications. 

Your IDP counsellor can help you choose your dream university and program that best matches your career aspirations and apply for it. Interested? Contact us now to kick-start your journey in Canada!  

• Which university has lowest fees in Canada? 

St. Francis Xavier University has the lowest tuition fees.   

• What is the most affordable place to study in Canada? 

Newfoundland and Labrador are one of the most affordable provinces.   

• Which university is best for international students in Canada? 

The University of Toronto, McGill, and the University of British Columbia (UBC) are considered top choices for global students.   

• Do affordable universities in Canada offer quality education? 

Yes, many affordable universities still offer high-quality, accredited programs and this is regulated by the provincial governments to ensure that interantional students are receiving the best possible education while they are on campus.