Top Universities in Canada: Fees, Eligibility, & Qs Ranking

One should realize that there is a high need to select the right university in Canada for its good education system. QS world university ranking has always placed Canadian universities on top. A comprehensive guide has been put together to help you manoeuvre through this chance, which highlights prominent universities in Canada, their costs and eligibility criteria as well as their QS rankings.

Top Universities in Canada

Universities	QS World University Ranking 2024	The Ranking 2024
McGill University	30	49
University of Toronto	21	21
University of British Columbia	34	41
University of Alberta	111	=109
University of Montreal	141	=111
McMaster University	189	=103
University of Waterloo	112	=158
Western University	114	201-250
University of Ottawa	203	177
Queen’s University	209	251-300

In Canada, numerous high-quality academic institutions are offering various programs. Here are some examples of renowned ones:

McGill University

McGill University is among the top universities in Canada with a worldwide reputation that has distinguished itself with its high-calibre research and exceptional faculty. This esteemed institution offers facilities at the cutting edge and a tapestry of scholarship across eleven faculties and schools including law, music, and religious studies. This should not undermine other aspects like vibrant community apart from academics that make it offer several services and resources to improve students’ life beyond class for undergraduate foreign students, graduates as well as exchange students. All that can be said about learning at McGill University is that it’s akin to experiencing an awakening or renewal thanks to different encounters one goes through in their life.

These include Master’s degrees, PhDs, MBAs, and Graduate Certificate Programs among others offered by ten faculties present at McGill University.

• Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
• Arts
• Dentistry
• Education
• Engineering
• Law
• Management
• Medicine
• Music
• Science

2. University of Toronto

It was in 1827 that the University of Toronto was founded and ever since it has been a symbol of academic excellence in North America. The school is famous for its excellent teachers and well-equipped research departments thus it’s known for high standards in engineering, medicine as well as law programs that give industry standards regarding various research projects. It is always ranked among the best universities in the world because it has helped to nurture many great minds. This university offers an extensive variety of courses tailored to meet diverse preferences, interests and career ambitions. Owing to its commitment to quality education through innovation, the institution serves as a top priority for students aspiring to achieve first-rate educational services.

UoT has some of the courses with the most enrolments:

• Artificial Intelligence Engineering
• Clinical Medicine
• Oncology
• Arts and Humanities
• Surgery
• Space Science
• Psychiatry and Psychology

3. British Columbia University

The University of British Columbia (UBC) is a top educational institution in Canada known for its modern methods of teaching and well-equipped facilities. UBC has a good student-to-teacher ratio standing at 11:1, ensuring personalized attention is given to students and the right environment for studying. It is an international university as it has students from over 162 countries creating a multicultural campus that enhances the quality of education. The school provides a wide range of popular courses, thus meeting various academic interests and career goals. Because of this commitment to quality education, as well as a worldwide perspective on life and a strong community, UBC confirms itself among the leading higher learning institutions in Canada.

The following are some favorite subjects offered by the University of British Columbia:

• Agriculture and Veterinary Medicine
• Applied and Pure Sciences
• Architecture and Construction
• Business and Management
• Computer Science and IT
• Creative Arts and Design
• Education and Training
• Engineering
• Health and Medicine

4. University of Alberta

The University of Alberta has become a prestigious institution of higher learning with more than 200 programs for undergraduates in its 18 faculties. The school is internationally oriented and home to over 400 research labs, providing an environment for innovation. It has thirteen dormitories within the campus which create a conducive environment for learning among students. Apart from classwork, the university provides a variety of co-curricular activities such as clubs where students can participate through its over 450 student associations and groups. This fact is also supported by more than $28 million (CAD) allocated to scholarships, grants, and other financial support by the university every year. Finally, internship or paid co-op placements also enable students to get practical experience while still studying at home or abroad thus adding value to their academic journey. 

The following are some popular  subjects offered by the University of Alberta:

•  Arts
•  Engineering
• Pharma and Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Law
• Business
• Sports and Education

5. University of Montreal

The University of Montreal was founded in 1878 and has remained a reference point for quality education delivery with its excellent academic programs. It is one of the leading higher education institutions in Quebec, along with HEC Montreal and Polytechnique Montreal. The institution always manages to rank highly, attracting an average number of 69,000 students consisting of 10,000 international students. The university comprises 13 faculties offering over 600 programs that range from undergraduate to postgraduate levels Providing numerous educational opportunities across all fields, it has nearly six hundred programs in at least thirteen schools. In particular, this institution has achieved brilliance not simply as a place of study but also through research and sports; hence it is regarded as being a versatile dynamo within the school milieu.  

The following are some favourite subjects offered by the University of Montreal:

• Faculty of Arts and Sciences
• Medicine
• Public Health
• Education
• Law

6. McMaster University

Since its founding in 1887, McMaster University has grown to be recognized worldwide for its consistently ranking among the top 80 universities globally. It currently has over 31,000 students making it one of the best academic institutions that host over seventy research institutes. Its campus embraces a conducive environment for learning, with excellent academic and networking opportunities. The university is committed to providing transformative education experiences as manifested by its distinguished faculty and cutting-edge programs. This institution has a rich history of scholarship and research that makes it a hub of intellectual growth and higher learning. McMaster University offers several popular subjects, including the following:

• Arts and Humanities
• Business and management
• Engineering and Technology
• Natural Sciences
• Life Sciences and Medicine

7. University of Waterloo

The university was founded in 1957 with only 74 engineering students but is now a prestigious institution with over forty-two thousand students. As one of the leading institutions in Canada, it has an alumni network of more than two hundred and twenty thousand graduates. It was placed at position 158 in the QS World University Rankings for the year 2024 which were conducted as an indicator towards its achievement academically and research-wise. The University of Waterloo is still the world’s number one in terms of experiential learning and cutting-edge innovation which nurtures global leaders capable of addressing complex problems across borders while making a difference. The University of Waterloo offers the following popular subjects:

• Arts
• Engineering
• Environment
• Health
• Mathematics
• Science

8. Western University

Western University, located in London, Ontario, is well-known for its educational quality and vibrant campus life. It was established in 1878 with a long-standing tradition of providing excellent education. Western University, on the other hand, has several research centres and institutes that enhance innovation and discovery through intensive research. These facilities include modern classrooms, libraries and laboratories among many others thus boosting the learning process. The university is renowned for being home to a supportive community and different types of students, hence an enriching atmosphere for personal growth as well as intellectual development. Western University offers several popular subjects, including the following:

• Public Relations (PR)
• Digital Communications and Multimedia
• Engineering Science
• Data Analysis
• Speech Pathology
• Social Science

Eligibility Criteria to Study in Canada

Canada stands as a premier destination for international students seeking higher education. Its welcoming immigration policies, esteemed universities, reasonable tuition fees, and diverse cultural landscape allure students globally. As Canada gradually reopens for on-campus education, aspiring students gear up to initiate their application process for upcoming intakes. Delve into this guide to understand the essential documents and examination prerequisites for studying in Canada.

• It is required to enroll in a Designated Learning Institution (DLI).
• Demonstrating financial capability to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return transportation expenses is crucial.
• Adherence to Canadian law, with no criminal record, and acquiring a police certificate if necessitated.
• Keeping oneself healthy and getting examined out if necessary.
• Convincingly proving to immigration officers that you will depart Canada upon expiration of your study permit.

Cost of Studying in Canada 

Canadian universities charge different admission fees based on the school, type of program (undergraduate or graduate), and province where you learn. Here is a rough figure:

• Typical fees for undergraduate programs range between CA$15,000 and CA$35,000 per year. 
• A graduate program can cost from CA$ 20,000 up to CA$ 50,000 per annum. 

This also includes living expenses such as accommodation, food, transport and other miscellaneous expenditures. These costs may vary depending on your way of life and city of residence. 

Why Choose Admissify as Your Partner for Universities in Canada?

We’re the one-stop shop for all your needs when it comes to studying in Canada at Admissify. Our experienced consultants will walk you through the application process which goes through choosing the university and the course that fits your best to meet entry requirements and producing a convincing personal statement.

What we offer is a full range of services including:

• University shortlisting: We will help you determine which schools are a perfect match for your academic dreams and budget conditions.
• Application guidance: Our team of professionals will guide you through the application process thus ensuring compliance with all specified requirements. 
• Scholarship guidance: Direction on scholarship sources that can ease your monetary struggles is available from us. 
• Visa application support: We have got you covered on matters about visa applications hence facilitating smooth Canada transitions. 

You may count upon Admissify as you set off for Canada academically well-equipped. Reach out today and arrange for a free consultation so that our experts can help make your dream of studying in Canada come true!

Summary

Canada has several outstanding universities renowned globally for their world-class education. This handbook covered some top institutions including the University of Toronto, McGill University, and UBC which highlighted their entry criteria as well as fee schedules. We pointed out that other factors such as program offerings and campus culture should be considered when choosing a university instead of simply basing decisions on ranking lists.

Lastly, Admissify positioned itself as your one-stop solution for navigating the Canadian university application process. Our success stories show our dedication to empowering students. When you partner with Admissify, you have access to professional advice in getting admitted easily into a stress-free journey in applying to universities in Canada. Call us now and let’s start working towards fulfilling your dream today!

FAQ

What are the fees for studying in Canada?

The tuition to study in Canada differs according to school, programme and level of education. For example, undergraduate courses can be anything between CAD 20,000-40,000 per year while postgraduate ones may range from CAD 10,000-50,000 a year. On top of this students must put aside approximately CAD 10,000 to 15,000 for living expenses.

What are some requirements to study in Canada?

Preferred qualifications to enter into Canadian universities usually include a high school diploma or its equivalent certificate as an eligibility factor into any first-degree program for secondary school leavers. Similarly, they have standard language requirements that English or French proficiency should prove through IELTS or TOEFL exams respectively. In some instances, there might also be certain requirements that are more specific like arts portfolio submissions while international students would still need to provide SAT results among other prerequisites depending on the course applied for by one learner.

What is the best course to study in Canada?

However, the answer to this question depends on personal interests, professional aspirations, and the reputation of institutions. Nevertheless, some of the most preferred disciplines in Canada are engineering, computer science, business administration, health sciences and environmental studies. The courses are known for offering quality education as well as conducting research that provides an opportunity for career growth both within and outside Canada.

How many marks are required to study in Canada?

For admission into Canadian universities, there are different minimum percentage requirements based on different streams. Usually, students who have taken humanities background in class 12th should have a minimum of 65% marks or more while those from the Science/Commerce stream need a range of 70-80% or better than it. However, students who scored below 60% can still find diploma and foundation programs available for them.1

To study in Canada, should I take the IELTS?

Many Canadian universities require an IELTS score to prove the English proficiency of their students though there are exceptions for those from English-speaking countries or who have studied it before. However, one must always check specific demands that a programme may have when applying for them. Knowing these prerequisites makes it easier for students aspiring to study in Canada and go through the application process smoothly.