The Best Universities and Colleges in Ontario
Many students across the globe dream of studying in Canada for diverse reasons. Beyond providing exceptional education, Canada assures a remarkable quality of life and the potential for permanent settlement after completing studies.
Ontario is a prime destination for international students, hosting many of Canada's leading universities and colleges. Over 226,000 international students came to Ontario in 2022 alone, representing 54% of all Canadian approvals. It shows that Ontario's popularity as a popular study destination for international students is increasing yearly.
Factors driving international students to choose Ontario for studies
Top-notch Educational Institutions:
Ontario hosts some of Canada's top universities and colleges, including four among the world's top 200 universities. The programs gain popularity due to shorter durations and job-market readiness.
High Quality of Life:
Whether in urban hubs like the Greater Toronto Area or student-friendly cities like Kingston and Waterloo, Ontario offers a high standard of living. However, it's essential to note the relatively higher cost of living.
Multicultural Diversity:
Ontario thrives as a melting pot, with approximately 30% of its population born outside Canada. The province's diversity offers international students familiarity, from community connections to native foods and languages.
English as a Common Language:
English proficiency is crucial for studies and daily life in Ontario. As the dominant language, it is extensively used in schools, workplaces, and daily interactions, simplifying the adaptation process for international students.
Abundance of Part-time and Full-time Job Opportunities:
Ontario's robust job market provides ample options for part-time work during studies and full-time jobs post-graduation. Applying for a Post Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) is necessary for those aspiring to stay in Ontario after graduation. Meeting specific criteria, such as completing a study program of over eight months at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), may qualify you for a PGWP. Accumulated Canadian work experience can also facilitate eligibility for PR in Canada.
Top-Ranked Universities for International Students
1.University of Toronto
- Ranking: #21 globally
- Campuses: Mississauga, Scarborough, St. George
- Programs: 700+ undergraduate, 200+ post-graduate
- Tuition Fees: Vary by program
- Scholarships: Lester B. Pearson, International Scholar Awards, In-course scholarships
2.University of Waterloo
- Ranking: #112 worldwide
- Focus: Experiential learning, employer-student connections
- Programs: 180+ graduate, multiple undergraduate faculties
- Tuition Fees: Vary based on program
- Scholarships: Waterloo International Master's Award, President's Scholarships, International Student Entrance Scholarships
3.Western University, London
- Ranking: #114 globally
- Student Population: 43,000+ with 4,700+ international students
- Programs: 400+ undergraduate options, 160+ graduate programs
- Tuition Fees: Vary depending upon the study program
- Scholarships: Western's Admission Scholarship Program, Western International Admission Scholarships, Faculty-specific Awards
4.McMaster University, Hamilton
- Ranking: #149 in the world
- Focus: Research-oriented, prestigious medical school
- Programs: 152+ bachelor's, 100+ graduate programs
- Tuition Fees: Varies by study program
- Scholarships: McMaster University Award of Excellence, Faculty-specific Achievement Awards, B. Tech Entrance Scholarship
5.University of Ottawa
- Ranking: #203 globally
- Bilingual University: Three campuses in Ottawa, Toronto, Windsor
- Programs: 500+ undergraduate graduate programs across 10 faculties
- Tuition Fees: Vary based on study program
- Scholarships: University of Ottawa Admission Scholarships, Faculty admission scholarships, Differential Tuition Fee Exemption Scholarship
6.Queen's University at Kingston
- Ranking: #209 in the world
- Programs: 100+ bachelor's, 78 master's, 58 doctoral programs
- Tuition Fees: Vary by study program
- Scholarships: Principal's Scholarship, Queen's University International Admission Scholarship, Arts and Science International Admission Award
Leading Colleges for International Students
Several reputable colleges are popular among international students due to their quality education, diverse programs, and supportive environment.
The significant increase in study permit approvals for college-level education in Ontario indicates the growing popularity and recognition of college programs among international students. Here are some of the top colleges in Ontario for international students:
1. Seneca College
Seneca is known for its wide range of programs and has multiple campuses across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
Educational Credentials Offered:
Offers over 160 study programs across various disciplines:
- Accounting, business, aviation, marketing, engineering technology, arts, computers, and hospitality
- Provides certificate, diploma, graduate certificate, and advanced diploma programs
International Student Tuition Fees:
Annual tuition fees for international students vary based on the chosen program and duration.
Ranges from CAD 20,791 to CAD 35,743.
Scholarship Options:
International students enrolling in merit-based diploma or graduate certificate programs automatically qualify for entrance scholarship consideration.
Awards typically range between CAD 500 and CAD 1,000.
In-course awards might also be available based on the program enrolled in.
International Student Enrollment at Seneca:
In 2021-22, approximately 45% of students enrolled at Seneca College were international students.
2.Conestoga College
Conestoga College is renowned for top-notch apprenticeship training in Ontario and has multiple campuses across Ontario in Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph, Stratford, Ingersoll, and Brantford.
Educational Credentials Offered:
- Offers over 300 career-focused programs in various fields:
- Engineering, business, architecture, aviation, marketing, public relations, arts, hospitality, construction trades, and more
- Provides certificate, diploma, graduate certificate, advanced diploma, and degree programs catering to diverse needs and budgets
International Student Tuition Fees:
- Annual international student tuition fees typically range from CAD 20,625 to CAD 22,788 for most programs.
- However, tuition fees for degree programs might reach as high as CAD 62,000 per year.
Scholarship Options:
- Over 400 awards, scholarships, and bursaries are available to Conestoga students.
Notable options for incoming international students include:
- Conestoga College International Entrance and Regional Scholarships.
- ApplyBoard International Student Premier's Award Bursary value between CAD 1,000 and CAD 1,500
International Student Enrollment at Conestoga:
- International students constituted more than 56% of Conestoga College's incoming students in 2021-22.
3.Centennial College
The college has five campuses in Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and also has a presence in countries like China, India, South Korea, and Brazil.
Educational Credentials Offered:
Offers a diverse range of over 400 programs across various faculties:
- Business, science, engineering technology, health studies, arts, and hospitality
- Provides certificate, diploma, graduate certificate, advanced diploma, and four-year bachelor's programs in specific disciplines like information technology (IT) and public relations management
International Student Tuition Fees:
- For most programs, international student's tuition fees typically vary from CAD 15,385 to CAD 19,484 yearly.
- However, for specific degree programs, the annual tuition fees may range between CAD 50,287 and CAD 58,980.
Scholarship Options:
- Numerous merit-based scholarships are available for incoming and current Centennial College students.
- Includes college-wide awards and program-specific scholarships
International Student Enrollment at Centennial:
- International students accounted for 18% of the total student enrollment at Centennial College in 2021-22.
4.Lambton College
The main campuses are in Sarnia and Ottawa, with additional international student campuses in Toronto and Mississauga. It was established in 1967 to supply skilled workers to Ontario industries.
Educational Credentials Offered:
- Offers a range of programs, including:
- Business, community services, engineering and sciences, healthcare, hospitality, education, IT, marketing, finance, and project management
- Provides diploma, advanced diploma, and graduate certificate programs
International Student Tuition Fees:
- Total tuition fees for international students throughout the program typically range from CAD 22,192 to CAD 49,480, varying based on the chosen program and its credentials.
Scholarship Options:
- Several program-specific scholarships are available.
- Incoming international students with exceptional academic performance may qualify for up to CAD 3,000 awards.
International Student Enrollment at Lambton:
- A significant 82% of total incoming students at Lambton College were international students in the 2021-22 academic year.
5.Fanshawe College
The college has a reputation for quality education and strong ties to industry. It has campuses in Southwest Ontario and Toronto.
Educational Credentials Offered:
- Offers over 200 post-secondary programs spanning 16 areas of study
- Programs range from degrees, certificates, diplomas, and advanced diplomas to graduate certificates.
International Student Tuition Fees:
- Per-term tuition fees for international students vary between CAD 2,483 and CAD 41,039, contingent upon the selected program.
Scholarship Options:
- The college provides a variety of scholarships and awards, including offerings specifically tailored for international students.
- Eligibility for entrance scholarships based on academic achievements and athletic awards based on extracurricular activities may be available.
International Student Enrollment at Fanshawe:
- As of the 2021-22 academic year, 31% of students enrolled at Fanshawe College were international students.
6.George Brown College
The college has three campuses in downtown Toronto, providing students with an advantage in Canada's job market.
Educational Credentials Offered:
Offers a wide array of over 177 programs:
- Certificate, diploma, advanced diploma, graduate certificate, and degree programs
- Programs span various areas such as art, information technology, business, education, health sciences, engineering technology, hospitality, and more.
International Student Tuition Fees:
- Annual tuition fees for international students at George Brown College range from CAD 15,190 to CAD 41,895, contingent upon the chosen program
Scholarship Options:
- Scholarships for international students include the Assist on Scholarship for International Students in Two-year Programs, Post-Secondary Scholarship for International Students, and International Student Scholarship, among others.
International Student Enrollment at George Brown:
- 27% of students enrolled at George Brown College in 2021-22 were international students.
7.Sheridan College
The college is recognized as one of the top colleges in Ontario and has campuses in several locations, including Oakville, Brampton, and Mississauga.
Educational Credentials Offered:
Offers over 140 programs categorized into five faculties:
- Animation, Arts and Design, Applied Health and Community Studies, Applied Science and Technology, Humanities and Social Sciences, and Business.
- Many programs (90) include integrated work opportunities like internships, co-ops, apprenticeships, or field placements.
- Credentials earned include certificates, diplomas, graduate certificates, and bachelor's degrees.
International Student Tuition Fees:
- Annual tuition fees for international students at Sheridan College typically range from CAD 16,771 to CAD 30,182, contingent upon the selected program.
Scholarship Options:
- The International Entrance Scholarship is available for all full-time post-secondary international students at Sheridan.
- The scholarship ranges between CAD 500 and CAD 2,000, excluding students enrolled in English Language Studies or programs with tuition reductions.
International Student Enrollment at Sheridan:
- In the 2021-22 academic year, international students constituted 26.4% of students enrolled at Sheridan College.
8.Humber College
Established in 1967, Humber is known for its research partnerships and industry-specific programs. It has three campuses in Toronto, including a dedicated campus for international graduate students.
Educational Credentials Offered:
- Offers a diverse range of over 220 programs:
- Certificate, diploma, advanced diploma, graduate certificate, and degree programs
- Programs include technology, engineering, business, health, social services, hospitality, and more.
International Student Tuition Fees:
- Annual tuition fees for international students at Humber College typically vary from CAD 11,005 to CAD 32,042, contingent upon the chosen program.
Scholarship Options:
Humber College offers various scholarships for international students:
- International entrance scholarships of CAD 2,000 each for deserving students commencing their Diploma and/or Advanced Diploma studies.
- Bachelor's degree scholarships for incoming international students with an academic average of 75% and above
International Student Enrollment at Humber:
- 17% of students enrolled at Humber College were international students as of 2021-22 records.
Key Considerations for International Students Planning Studies in Ontario
High Tuition Costs:
- Ensure your study program expenses align with your budget, as academic and non-academic fees in Ontario are higher than in any other province.
Cost of Living:
- Living costs in Ontario, especially in Toronto and the GTA, are high. Sticking to your budget reduces financial stress and helps you focus on your studies.
Limited Student Housing:
- On-campus housing in Ontario is limited and fills up fast, particularly for first-year international students. To secure a spot, it's advisable to reserve accommodation shortly after receiving your acceptance letter.
Expensive Off-Campus Housing:
- If opting for off-campus living, begin your search for affordable accommodation early. Due to high costs, consider sharing accommodation to manage expenses effectively.
Job Opportunities in Rural Areas:
- Rural parts of Ontario might offer fewer job prospects after graduation than areas like the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). To make insightful plans, research the college and its location thoroughly before applying, especially if it's in a rural area.
Note: The Student Direct Stream (SDS) offers an incredible opportunity for students from 14 countries, including India and China, to fasten their study permit processing. To qualify for SDS, you must obtain a Guaranteed Investment Certificate (GIC) of CAD 20,635 from a financial institution. Upon arriving in Canada, you will receive monthly reimbursements of a portion of your investment and the interest to help cover your student expenses.
Ontario is a hub for prestigious educational institutions, welcoming students from diverse backgrounds worldwide. Its embrace of diversity and multiculturalism fosters an environment where international students can comfortably adapt to their new academic journey and feel a sense of belonging in Canada.
For seamless study plans, college selection, and a streamlined migration process, please get in touch with ImmiEd Global. Our team includes overseas study experts and skilled immigration lawyers who can assist you throughout your academic journey.
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