Canada has become a sought-after destination for international students, offering top-tier education at a fraction of the cost found in other countries. Designated Learning Institutions (DLIs) in Canada, which are approved by provincial or territorial governments to host international students, provide a unique blend of quality and affordability. For those looking to maximize their education while minimizing expenses, this article highlights the 15 cheapest DLI colleges in Canada, guiding you toward an excellent education in a culturally rich and supportive environment without breaking the bank.
What is DLI?
DLI, short for Designated Learning Institution, is a school approved by a provincial or territorial government to host international students. To study in Canada, international students must be enrolled in a DLI. These institutions include universities, colleges, and other educational institutions that meet specific requirements set by the Canadian government.
What is a College?
In Canada, colleges are post-secondary institutions that focus on providing practical, hands-on training and education in a variety of fields. They offer diploma and certificate programs, and some colleges also offer bachelor's degrees. Colleges are different from universities in that they generally emphasize career-oriented programs and may have smaller class sizes, providing students with a more personalized learning experience.
18 Cheapest DLI Colleges in Canada
Provided below is a list of the 18 cheapest DLI colleges in Canada. Note that tuition fees vary depending on your specific course load and level of study:
1. New Brunswick Community College (NBCC)
Location: Fredericton, New Brunswick
Tuition Fees
The tuition cost starts from CAD 9,767.20 per academic year.
Estimated Cost of Accommodation
Costs between CAD 1,200 to CAD 1,500 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
Costs about CAD 750 per month for a zero-bedroom apartment.
New Brunswick Community College (NBCC) is a public institution offering a wide range of programs across six campuses in New Brunswick. NBCC focuses on hands-on learning, providing programs in areas such as business, engineering technology, health sciences, and information technology.
2. Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC)
Location: Halifax, Nova Scotia
Tuition Fees
The tuition cost starts from CAD 11,690 per academic year.
Estimated Cost of Accommodation
Costs between CAD 1,900 to CAD 2,100 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
Costs about CAD 1,250 per month for a zero-bedroom apartment.
Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC) is a leading public institution in the province of Nova Scotia, offering over 130 programs across different campuses. NSCC is known for its innovative programs that are aligned with the needs of the local and global job markets, including courses in technology, health services, creative industries, and even trades.
3. Algonquin College
Location: Ottawa, Ontario
Tuition Fees
Undergraduate diploma: cost starts from CAD 16,200 per academic year.
Postgraduate (Graduate certificates): cost starts from CAD 16,200 per academic year.
Estimated Cost of Accommodation
Costs between CAD 1,800 to CAD 2,000 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
Costs about CAD 1,239 per month for a one-bedroom in a shared apartment.
Algonquin College is a highly reputable public institution known for its emphasis on hands-on learning and industry partnerships. It offers over 300 programs across various fields, including technology, business, health, and design.
4. Centennial College of Applied Arts and Technology
Location: Toronto, Ontario
Tuition Fees
Undergraduate: cost starts from CAD 16,649 per academic year.
Postgraduate (Graduate certificates): cost starts from CAD 16,649 per academic year.
Estimated Cost of Accommodation
Costs about CAD 2,444 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
Costs about CAD 1,600 per month for a one-bedroom in a shared apartment.
Centennial College, Ontario's first community college, is recognized for its diverse programs in applied arts, technology, health sciences, and business. This public college has a strong focus on experiential learning, offering co-op programs and internships to prepare students for the workforce.
5. Camosun College
Location: Victoria, British Columbia
Tuition Fees
Undergraduate: cost about CAD 17,100 per academic year. This amount may slightly vary depending on your program and the number of courses.
Postgraduate: cost about CAD 17,000 per academic year. This amount may slightly vary depending on your program and the number of courses.
Estimated Cost of Accommodation
Costs about CAD 2,178 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
Costs about CAD 1,430 per month for a one-bedroom in a shared apartment.
Camosun College is a reputable college that offers a wide range of academic and vocational programs, including university transfer courses, diplomas, and trades training. The college is committed to sustainable practices and provides students with a supportive and engaging learning environment.
6. George Brown College
Location: Toronto, Ontario
Tuition Fees
Undergraduate: starts from CAD 16,274 per year. This amount varies depending on your program.
Postgraduate: starts from CAD 16,274 per year. This amount varies depending on your program.
Estimated Cost of Accommodation
Costs about CAD 2,444 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
Costs about CAD 1,600 per month for a one-bedroom in a shared apartment.
George Brown College, an accredited public college of technology and applied arts, offers a variety of career-focused programs in arts, design, business, health sciences, and hospitality. The college is situated in the heart of downtown Toronto, providing students with access to numerous job opportunities.
7. Bow Valley College
Location: Calgary, Alberta
Tuition Fees
Undergraduate (diploma): starts from CAD 12,500 per academic year. This amount varies depending on your program.
Postgraduate diploma: starts from CAD 17,000 for one academic year.
Estimated Cost of Accommodation
Costs about CAD 1,700 to CAD 1,800 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
Costs about CAD 1,073 per month for a one-bedroom in a shared apartment.
Bow Valley College, a reputable pulic insititution, offers a wide range of programs in health, business, technology, and community studies. The college is known for its flexible learning options, including online and part-time programs, making it accessible to a diverse student population.
8. Assiniboine Community College
Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees start from CAD 15,450 per academic year.
Estimated Cost of Accommodation
Costs between CAD 1,400 to CAD 1,500 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
Costs about CAD 920 per month for a one-bedroom in a shared apartment.
Assiniboine Community College offers a wide range of diploma and certificate programs in fields such as agriculture, health, and business. This public college is known for its hands-on learning approach and strong connections with local industries, providing students with practical skills.
9. Loyalist College
Location: Belleville, Ontario
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees start from CAD 14,429 per academic year.
Estimated Cost of Accommodation
Costs about CAD 1,300 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
Costs about CAD 900 per month for a one-bedroom in a shared apartment.
Loyalist College is a public institution that offers a wide range of diploma and certificate programs with a focus on practical, hands-on learning. The college is known for its small class sizes and close-knit community, which provides students with personalized attention and a supportive environment.
10. Northern Lakes College
Location: Slave Lake, Alberta
Tuition Fees
Tuition fees start from CAD 14,478 per academic year.
Estimated Cost of Accommodation
Costs about CAD 968 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
Costs about CAD 600 per month for a one-bedroom in a shared apartment.
Northern Lakes College is a public college that provides flexible learning options through online and on-campus programs. It serves a vast region, including remote and Indigenous communities, offering programs that cater to the local job market, such as health services, trades, and business.
11. Holland College
Location: Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island
Tuition
Tuition starts from CAD 9,650 per academic year
Estimated Cost of Accommodation
Costs about CAD 1,067 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
Holland College, a publicly-funded college, is known for its career-focused programs. The college emphasizes practical skills and experiential learning, making it a popular choice for students aiming for immediate employment after graduation.
12. Prairie College
Location: Three Hills, Alberta
Tuition
Tuition starts from CAD 11,520 per academic year
Estimated Cost of Accommodation
Costs about CAD 1,200 per month for a one-bedroom in a shared apartment.
Prairie College, located in Three Hills, Alberta, is a Christian post-secondary private institution offering a blend of academic and spiritual education. It provides programs in theology, ministry, and arts, catering to students who seek to integrate their faith with their studies.
13. Keyano College
Location: Fort McMurray, Alberta
Tuition
Tuition starts from 8,256 per academic year
Estimated Cost of Accommodation
Costs between CAD 1,100 to CAD 1,200 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
Costs about CAD 700 per month for a one-bedroom in a shared apartment.
Keyano College, a reputable public institution, offers a variety of programs, including trades, business, and health studies. The college is closely tied to the local industries, providing tailored training and education.
14. Lethbridge College
Location: Lethbridge, Alberta
Tuition
Tuition starts from CAD 10,800 per academic year
Estimated Cost of Accommodation
Costs between CAD 1,300 to CAD 1,400 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
Costs about CAD 750 per month for a one-bedroom in a shared apartment.
Lethbridge College is a public post-secondary institution that offers a diverse range of programs, including agriculture, business, environmental science, and technology. The college is known for its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and applied research, providing students with opportunities to engage in real-world projects.
15. Medicine Hat College
Location: Medicine Hat, Alberta
Tuition
Tuition starts from CAD 13,822 per academic year
Estimated Cost of Accommodation
Costs between CAD 1,200 to CAD 1,300 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
Costs about CAD 750 per month for a one-bedroom in a shared apartment.
Situated in Medicine Hat, Alberta, this public college provides a variety of programs in arts, sciences, trades, and business. Medicine Hat College is known for its strong support services, smaller class sizes, and welcoming community that fosters student success.
16. Olds College
Location: Olds, Alberta
Tuition
Tuition starts from CAD 15,900 per academic year
Estimated Cost of Accommodation
Costs about CAD 840 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
Costs about CAD 560 per month for a one-bedroom in a shared apartment.
Olds College is a specialized public institution focused on agriculture, horticulture, land, and environmental management. The college is recognized for its hands-on learning approach and its innovative Smart Farm, where students can work with cutting-edge agricultural technology.
17. Portage College
Location: Lac la Biche, Alberta
Tuition
Tuition starts from CAD 10,400 per academic year
Estimated Cost of Accommodation
Costs about CAD 1,000 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
Costs about CAD 700 per month for a one-bedroom in a shared apartment.
Portage College is a public instituition that offers a wide range of programs, including trades, business, health, and culinary arts. The college is dedicated to serving Indigenous communities and provides flexible learning options to accommodate students from diverse backgrounds.
18. Red Deer Polytechnic
Location: Red Deer, Alberta
Tuition
Tuition starts from CAD 10,680 per academic year
Estimated Cost of Accommodation
Costs about CAD 1,200 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.
Costs about CAD 800 per month for a one-bedroom in a shared apartment.
Formerly known as Red Deer College, Red Deer Polytechnic is a public institution located in Red Deer, Alberta. It offers a broad range of programs, from arts and sciences to trades and technology. The institution is known fod providing a comprehensive educational experience.
FAQ
What are the Cheapest DLI Colleges in Canada for International Students?
The cheapest DLI Colleges in Canada for international students include:
New Brunswick Community College (NBCC)
Nova Scotia Community College (NSCC)
Algonquin College
Centennial College of Applied Arts and Technology
Camosun College
George Brown College
Bow Valley College
Assiniboine Community College
Loyalist College
Northern Lakes College
Holland College
Prairie College
Keyano College
Lethbridge College
Medicine Hat College
Olds College
Portage College
Red Deer Polytechnic
How Can International Students Apply to DLIs in Canada?
International students can apply to DLIs in Canada by following these steps:
1. Research and Select Your DLI
Begin by researching the DLIs that offer programs aligned with your academic goals. Ensure that the institution is recognized as a DLI, as only these institutions can admit international students.
Consider factors like tuition fees, location, program offerings, and student support services when making your selection.
2. Check Admission Requirements
Review the admission requirements for your chosen program. This typically includes academic qualifications, language proficiency (such as IELTS or TOEFL scores), and other prerequisites specific to the program.
Ensure you meet the minimum grade requirements and have the necessary documentation, such as transcripts and certificates.
3. Prepare Your Application
Gather all required documents, including your academic records, proof of language proficiency, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a resume or CV if required.
Some programs may require additional materials, such as a portfolio for creative courses or standardized test scores like the GRE or GMAT.
4. Submit Your Application
Apply directly through the college or university's official website or through a centralized application portal if applicable. Be mindful of application deadlines, which can vary between institutions and programs.
Pay the application fee, if required.
5. Await Admission Decision
After submitting your application, the DLI will review it. This process may take several weeks to months, depending on the institution and program.
If accepted, you will receive an official offer letter. This letter is crucial for the next steps in the visa application process.
6. Apply for a Study Permit
With your offer letter, you can apply for a Canadian study permit. This involves submitting an application to Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) along with required documents like proof of financial support, a valid passport, and possibly a medical exam.
You may also need to provide biometric information as part of the application process.
7. Plan for Arrival in Canada
Once your study permit is approved, plan your move to Canada. Arrange accommodation, travel, and other logistical details.
Some institutions offer orientation programs for international students, which can help you settle in and get familiar with the new environment.
8. Maintain Your Status
Upon arrival, ensure you maintain your study permit and comply with the conditions set by your DLI. This includes staying enrolled and making satisfactory progress in your studies.
By carefully following these steps as an international student, you can successfully apply to and enrol in a DLI in Canada.
Are Scholarships Available for International Students at DLIs in Canada?
Yes, many DLIs in Canada offer scholarships and financial aid to international students. These can be merit-based, need-based, or specific to certain fields of study. If you seek a scholarship at a DLI in Canada, simply research and apply for scholarships directly through the DLI institution or external scholarship programs.
What Are the Language Requirements for Studying in Canada?
Most DLIs in Canada require international students to demonstrate proficiency in English or French. Commonly accepted tests include IELTS, TOEFL, and CAEL for English, and TEF for French. Specific score requirements vary by academic institution and program.
How Can International Students Manage Living Expenses in Canada?
Here are some tips to help you manage living expenses as an international student in Canada:
1. Budgeting
Create a monthly budget to track all expenses. This helps in understanding where the money goes and finding ways to cut unnecessary costs.
2. Working Part-Time
International students in Canada are allowed to work part-time on or off campus during their studies. This can provide a significant supplement to their finances. However, students should ensure their work hours comply with the restrictions set by their study permits.
3. Scholarships and Grants
Apply for as many scholarships and grants as possible. Many institutions and organizations offer financial aid to international students, which can substantially reduce the cost of education.
4. Shared Accommodation
Sharing living spaces with other students can significantly reduce accommodation costs. Look for roommates or student housing options that offer shared living arrangements.
5. Meal Planning
Cooking at home is generally cheaper than eating out. Students can save money by planning meals, buying groceries in bulk, and cooking in batches.
6. Public Transportation
Use public transportation instead of taxis or owning a car. Many cities in Canada offer student discounts on public transport passes.
7. Student Discounts
Take advantage of student discounts available at many retailers, restaurants, and service providers. Carry a student ID to use discounts wherever possible.
8. Healthcare
Ensure you have adequate health insurance coverage. Some provinces offer healthcare coverage to international students, but it's important to know what is covered and what isn't.
Final Thoughts
Canada offers numerous affordable DLI colleges that provide quality education to international students. By understanding the options available and preparing accordingly, you can pursue your academic goals at a Canadian college without incurring excessive costs. For those seeking to study in a welcoming and diverse environment, Canada remains an excellent choice.