List of Top Universities in Canada

Top Universities in Canada: From cutting-edge research to diverse academic programs, these institutions in Canada offer students a pathway to success in their chosen fields. These renowned universities provide world-class education and vibrant campus life, shaping the future leaders of tomorrow.

Let’s get a closer look at the top Universities in Canada.

List of Top Universities in Canada 2024

Rank	University	Location	Tuition (per year)	Student Enrollment	Website
1	University of Toronto	Toronto, Ontario	$6,590 – $49,800	93,081 (2019)	https://www.utoronto.ca/
2	University of British Columbia	Vancouver, British Columbia	$5,265 – $48,815	67,958 (2019)	https://www.ubc.ca/
3	McGill University	Montreal, Quebec	$7,631 – $38,590	40,694 (2019)	https://www.mcgill.ca/
4	University of Alberta	Edmonton, Alberta	$6,566 – $49,742	40,621 (2019)	https://www.ualberta.ca/
5	University of Montreal	Montreal, Quebec	$3,857 – $9,674	37,913 (2019)	https://www.umontreal.ca/en/
6	University of Waterloo	Waterloo, Ontario	$7,061 – $43,896	36,567 (2019)	https://uwaterloo.ca/
7	McMaster University	Hamilton, Ontario	$6,697 – $30,956	33,528 (2019)	https://www.mcmaster.ca/
8	University of Calgary	Calgary, Alberta	$6,053 – $28,738	32,127 (2019)	https://www.ucalgary.ca/
9	University of Ottawa	Ottawa, Ontario	$6,628 – $30,140	32,013 (2019)	https://www.uottawa.ca/en
10	University of Western Ontario	London, Ontario	$7,243 – $34,200	29,522 (2019)

Best Universities in Canada for International Students

The following is the Best Universities in Canada for International Students:

1. University of Toronto

• Tuition: Varies by program, ranging from $6,590 to $49,800 CAD per year.
• Renowned for academic excellence and diverse student body.
• Strong support services for international students.

A renowned institution established in 1827, offering diverse undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across three campuses in Toronto. It’s known for its academic excellence, research impact, and diverse student body.

2. University of British Columbia (UBC)

• Tuition: Varies by program, ranging from $5,265 to $48,815 CAD per year.
• Located in Vancouver, consistently ranked among the top 40 universities worldwide.
• Offers a wide range of programs and research opportunities.

Located in Vancouver, UBC is consistently ranked among the top universities globally. It offers comprehensive academic programs, innovative research initiatives, and a dynamic learning environment.

3. McGill University

• Tuition: Varies by program, ranging from $7,631 to $38,590 CAD per year.
• Known for its vibrant multicultural environment and strong reputation in clinical subjects.
• Offers over 300 degree subjects to a diverse student population.

Established in 1821 in Montreal, McGill is one of Canada’s leading research-intensive universities. It offers programs in English and French, attracting students from around the world with its strong academic reputation and vibrant campus life.

4. University of Waterloo

• Tuition: Varies by program, ranging from $7,061 to $43,896 CAD per year.
• Known for its co-op programs providing practical work experience.
• Located in Ontario, offers programs in engineering, technology, and business.

Recognized for its co-operative education programs and innovation, Waterloo is located in Ontario. It provides students with practical work experience, strong industry ties, and opportunities for research and entrepreneurship.

5. University of Alberta

• Tuition: Varies by program, ranging from $6,566 to $49,742 CAD per year.
• Offers a diverse range of programs and research opportunities.
• Strong support services for international students, including academic advising.

Located in Edmonton, UAlberta is known for its research excellence and commitment to student success. It offers a diverse range of programs and provides students with a supportive and inclusive learning environment.

6. University of Ottawa

• Tuition: Varies by program, ranging from $6,628 to $30,140 CAD per year.
• Bilingual institution located in the capital city of Canada.
• Proximity to government institutions and international organizations for career opportunities.

As a bilingual institution located in the capital city of Canada, uOttawa offers programs in English and French. It provides students with unique opportunities for internships, research, and engagement with government institutions.

7. University of Calgary

• Tuition: Varies by program, ranging from $6,053 to $28,738 CAD per year.
• Known for its strong ties to industry and research excellence.
• Vibrant campus community and opportunities for hands-on learning.

Located in Calgary, UCalgary is known for its research excellence and strong ties to industry. It offers a wide range of programs and provides students with opportunities for experiential learning and community engagement.

8. University of Montreal (UdeM)

• Tuition: Varies by program, ranging from $3,857 to $9,674 CAD per year.
• Francophone institution offering programs in French.
• Strong research programs and support services for academic success.

A Francophone institution located in Montreal, UdeM is known for its research-intensive programs and vibrant campus community. It offers programs in French and provides students with a rich cultural experience.

9. McMaster University

• Tuition: Varies by program, ranging from $6,697 to $30,956 CAD per year.
• Known for its problem-based learning approach and research-intensive programs.
• Opportunities for research and experiential learning in various fields.

Located in Hamilton, McMaster is known for its problem-based learning approach and research excellence. It offers a wide range of programs and provides students with opportunities for hands-on learning and collaboration.

10. Western University

• Tuition: Varies by program, ranging from $7,243 to $34,200 CAD per year.
• Personalized learning experience with small class sizes.
• Strong sense of community and support services for international students.

Located in London, Ontario, Western offers a personalized learning experience with a strong sense of community. It is known for its academic excellence, research impact, and vibrant campus life.

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Top Universities in Canada for Masters

The following is the Top Universities in Canada to study Masters in Canda:

1. University of Toronto
   • Country Ranking: 1
   • World Ranking 2024: 21
   • Type: Public research university
   • Location: Toronto, Ontario
   • Popular Programs:
     • Masters in Engineering
     • Masters of Business Administration
     • Masters of Computer Science
     • Masters of Public Policy
     • Masters of Health Sciences
   • Average Tuition Fee: 25,000+ CAD
2. McGill University
   • Country Ranking: 2
   • World Ranking 2024: 24
   • Type: Public research university
   • Location: Quebec
   • Popular Programs:
     • Masters in Agriculture and Environmental Sciences
     • Masters of Business Administration
     • Masters of Medical and Health Sciences
     • Masters of Education
     • Masters in Interfaculty Studies
   • Average Tuition Fee: 23,000+ CAD
3. University of British Columbia (UBC)
   • Country Ranking: 3
   • World Ranking 2024: X
   • Type: Public research university
   • Location: Vancouver, British Columbia
   • Popular Programs:
     • Masters in Computer Science
     • Masters of Business Administration
     • Masters in Environmental Studies
     • Masters of Public Health
     • Masters of Engineering
   • Average Tuition Fee: X CAD

Top Universities in Canada and Their Global Ranking

Rank	University	QS World University Ranking 2024	THE Ranking 2023
1	University of Toronto	21	18
2	University of British Columbia	34	40
3	McGill University	30	46
4	University of Alberta	111	118
5	University of Montreal	141	111
6	McMaster University	189	85
7	University of Waterloo	112	201-250
8	Western University	114	201-250
9	University of Ottawa	203	137
10	Queen’s University	209	251-300

FAQs on Top Universities in Canada

What is the No 1 university in Canada?

Based on various rankings and criteria, the No. 1 university in Canada can vary. Are you looking for the university with the highest global ranking, the one with the most research funding, or perhaps the one with the largest student body?

What are the Big 4 universities in Canada?

The term “Big 4” isn’t universally defined in Canada. Are you referring to the four universities with the largest student populations, the ones with the highest research output, or perhaps the most prestigious ones based on historical significance?

Which university is best for international students in Canada?

The best university for international students can depend on various factors such as program offerings, location, support services, and cultural diversity. Are you looking for a university with strong support for international students, a diverse student body, or perhaps one located in a specific city?

Which university is cheapest in Canada?

The cost of university tuition can vary depending on factors such as residency status, program of study, and location. Are you looking for the university with the lowest tuition fees for domestic or international students?

Which is the best course to study in Canada?

The best course to study in Canada can depend on individual interests, career goals, and industry demand. Are you interested in a course with high job prospects, one aligned with your passion, or perhaps one leading to a specific career path?

Which are the top undergraduate (UG) courses to study in Canada?

The top undergraduate courses can vary based on factors such as job demand, industry growth, and personal interests. Are you looking for courses in STEM fields, business, humanities, or perhaps healthcare?

Which are the top postgraduate (PG) courses to study in Canada?

The top postgraduate courses can depend on factors such as industry demand, research opportunities, and personal career goals. Are you interested in courses leading to advanced degrees in STEM fields, business, social sciences, or perhaps healthcare?

Which jobs are in demand in Canada?

In-demand jobs in Canada can vary based on factors such as industry growth, demographic trends, and regional demand. Are you looking for information on jobs in technology, healthcare, skilled trades, or perhaps specific provinces?

Which is the cheapest course in Canada for international students?

The cost of courses for international students can vary depending on factors such as program type, duration, and institution. Are you looking for information on courses with lower tuition fees or perhaps scholarship opportunities for international students?

Is it expensive to study in Canada?

The cost of studying in Canada can vary depending on factors such as tuition fees, living expenses, and individual lifestyle choices. Are you asking about the overall cost of education or specific expenses such as tuition, accommodation, or transportation?

How Can I study in Canada for free?

While studying in Canada for free is uncommon, there are various scholarships, grants, and financial aid options available to help offset the costs of education. Are you looking for information on scholarships, work-study programs, or other financial assistance opportunities for international students?