Best 5 Tuition-Free Universities in Canada

Education is costly, and tuition fees are a major stumbling block for many people seeking higher education. Tuition-free universities are a great option as students only have to worry about feeding and housing costs. Typically, you’d expect sub-par education quality from a tuition-free school, but these five Canadian universities are different.

Concordia University

Concordia University is not only a great university but also a good option if you’re worried about tuition costs. While the University isn’t tuition-free per se, students can attend without worrying about tuition thanks to various scholarship options. The scholarship opportunities don’t apply to Canadian locals alone; even international students can secure the prize.

This scholarship opportunity extends to living costs, making studying at Concordia University a finance-free option. Unfortunately, the prize only applies to undergraduate programs, even though anyone from any program can apply.

Should a student continually meet the renewal criterion, the scholarship can be renewed and last throughout the student’s program. Under the right conditions, every expense a student will incur at Concordia University won’t be out of pocket, making it a great tuition-free option.

University of British Columbia

One of the oldest and most reputable universities in Canada, it’s no surprise that it is one of the best universities with a tuition-free option.

The University is heavily invested in financial aid to students, spending more than $20 million yearly on scholarships and other award programs. Scholarships and financial aid are accessible to both graduate and undergraduate students and are generally awarded based on merit.

The Outstanding International Student (OIS) award goes to a student with a strong presence both in and out of the classroom and is a one-time financial award. On the other hand, the International Major Entrance Scholarships (IMES) award is strictly for undergraduates. With a renewal option, this scholarship can last for up to four years, effectively the duration of an undergraduate degree. 

Saint Mary’s University

Considered to be one of the best universities in Canada, it’s a surprise to learn that Saint Mary offers tuition-free options. With a number of fully-funded scholarship options available, students may always be able to handle out-of-pocket payments.

Unfortunately, the scholarship programs available at Saint Mary’s University are only for undergraduate students, though they apply to both local and international students.

For a student to be eligible for scholarships here, they need to have a strong academic background and demonstrate a need for financial assistance. Scholarships are only available to newly admitted students but are renewable for up to four years, effectively covering a student until graduation. 

Southern Alberta Institute Of Technology

A high-caliber university in Canada, the Southern Alberta Institute Of Technology is a great destination for local and international students alike. The University is also committed to financial aid for students, especially those in need, spending more than $5 million annually on financial aid.

Students from all nationalities and disciplines are welcome to apply for financial aid, provided they excel academically and have a need for financial assistance. At an undergraduate level, scholarships can be renewed for up to four years, though renewal requirements will apply. The more accomplishments a student can demonstrate, the higher their chances of bagging financial aid at the Southern Alberta Institute Of Technology.

The University Of Calgary

The University of Calgary is another one on the list, thanks to several scholarships and financial aid opportunities. The government also provides funding to some students, though this option is for Canadian natives alone. For international students, the best tuition-free option is the Venier Canada Graduate Scholarship.

As the name implies, this scholarship is only available for graduate students and is a great way to study tuition-free at the University of Calgary. This scholarship option is also available at a few other Universities across Canada and can be renewable for up to three years. At an undergraduate level, the University also offers an entrance-level scholarship, making it tuition-free at both undergraduate and graduate levels. 

Which University In Canada Has The Lowest Tuition Fee?

There are many universities in Canada with tuition fees that are largely considered affordable. Of the universities listed above, the University of Calgary and Concordia University have the lowest tuitions. If you are unable to secure a scholarship at either University, you may still be able to afford the tuition.