Best Universities in Canada: Top 10 List of 2024

Canada is one of the most well-known education centers worldwide and in North America. International students are drawn to study in Canada by the country’s top-ranked universities, world-class educational system, and English language curriculum. Studying abroad is ideal in Canada because of the variety of full-time degree programs offered by these institutions, which are recognized worldwide. In this blog, we have discussed some of the best universities in Canada, such as the University of Toronto, McGill University and many more. 

Why Choose to Study at the Best Universities in Canada? 

Top 10 Best Universities in Canada 

Detailed Information About Some of the Best Universities in Canada

1. The University of Toronto 

The University of Toronto, founded in 1827, has one of the top research and teaching faculties in North America. Among the university’s faculties, the engineering program and the law department are well regarded for their excellence. Furthermore, under the greatest industry standards, its research performance and medical programs are commendable. Consistently ranked among the world’s finest colleges, the college takes pride in producing some of the brightest minds. 

Popular Courses at The University of Toronto 

Here is a list of some of the most popular courses that you can choose to study at the University of Toronto. 

Admissions at The University of Toronto 

Admission Requirements for Undergraduate 

The admission requirements for undergraduate degree courses are as follows. 

• Application Fee: INR 11,008 (CAD 180) 

• Requirements for Academics: Statement of Purpose (SOP) for Canada, Self-Reported Grades Form, Personal Profile 

• English Language Proficiency Test Scores: TOEFL iBT- 100 and 22 in writing, IELTS- 6.5 (6.0 Band Score)

• GPA required: 80 to 95%, which will vary depending on the course you have selected. 

Admission Requirements for Postgraduate 

The admission requirements for postgraduate degree courses are as follows. 

• Application Fee: INR 7,644 (CAD 125) 

• Standardized Exam Scores Required: The Average GMAT Score Required is 670 

• Academic Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in the relevant field is required, along with a minimum score of 73% to 76%. 

• English Language Proficiency Test Scores: IELTS Score of 7.0 (6.5 Band Score)/ TOEFL iBT Score of 93 and must have scored 22 in writing/speaking. 

• Some Additional Requirements: 2 Letters of Recommendation (LOR), Updated Resume, Statement of Purpose (SOP)/ Essay and Interview 

Top Scholarships at The University of Toronto 

You can apply for the following top scholarships to cover your tuition fees and other expenses while studying at the University of Toronto. 

• Karta Scholars Program 
• Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship
• University of Toronto International Scholars Award
• The University of Toronto Scholars Program 
• Scholars-at-Risk-Fellowship
• Dean’s Masters of Information Scholarship 

2. McGill University 

With more than 10,000 international students living there—more than 30% of the student body—McGill University is evidently well-liked among students worldwide. The university is frequently ranked as one of the top research-intensive universities in the world and among Canada’s most prestigious universities. 

The university works hard to provide international undergraduate, graduate, visiting, and exchange students with various academic and non-academic services and resources to make their time at the university unforgettable with state-of-the-art facilities and a recognized school of faculty. Eleven faculties and eleven schools make up the best university in Canada- McGill University, offering courses in everything from religious studies to music to law.

Popular Courses at McGill University 

Some of the popular courses to study at McGill University are stated below. 

Admissions at McGill University 

Admission Requirements for Undergraduate 

Here are the admission requirements for undergraduate students. 

• Application Fees: INR 7065 (CAD 114.37) for up to 2 UG programs; INR 9891.14 (CAD 160.12) for the Faculty of Dentistry or Faculty of Medicine. 

• Academic Requirements: Class 12th Academic Transcripts 

• English Language Proficiency Test Scores: PTE- 65/ TOEFL iBT- 60 to 100/ IELTS- 6.0 

• GPA Required: 75-80% 

• Other Additional Requirements: Letters of Recommendation (LOR), Personal Statement 

Admission Requirements for Postgraduate 

Here are the admission requirements for postgraduate students. 

• Application Fees: INR 7721.66 (CAD 125)

• Academic Requirements: A bachelor’s degree of 3 to 4 years. 

• Standardized Test Scores: GRE- 321/ GMAT- 650 to 700 

• GPA/ Aggregate required: 3.0 or 4.0 (~83-86%) 

• English Language Proficiency Test Scores: MELAB- 85%/ TOEFL- 86 for paper-based and 567 for internet-based 

• Other Additional Requirements: Statement of Purpose (SOP) for personal statement; 2 Letters of Recommendation (LOR); Updated Resume/ CV, Essays and Interview

Admission Requirements for MBA 

Here are the admission requirements for MBA students. 

• Application Fees: INR 7967.57 (CAD 129.03) 

• Academic Requirements: A 4 years of undergraduate degree 

• English Language Proficiency Test Scores: IELTS- 7.0/ TOEFL iBT- 100 

• Standardized Test Scores: GMAT- 675 score required 

• Other Additional Requirements: 2 Letters of Recommendation (LOR), MBA Applicant Survey, 3 essays of 500 words each and an updated resume. 

Top Scholarships at McGill University 

The Top Scholarships for international students at McGill University are as follows. 

• Major Entrance Scholarships 
• McGill Faculty Major Entrance Bursaries 
• Arthur and Crystal Lau Scholarships 
• CAE Scholarship in Engineering Excellence 
• John Bonsall Porter Scholarship 
• Lionel Pelham Kent Scholarship 
• Sheila Wellington BMO Financial Group Award

3. The University of British Columbia 

One of the best universities in Canada is the University of British Columbia, which employs cutting-edge facilities and innovative teaching strategies to provide an education for its students. The university has a stellar 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio. The university offers a varied atmosphere to its students, who come from over 162 different nations.

Popular Courses at The University of British Columbia 

Select from the popular courses offered at the University of British Columbia, which are listed below. 

Admissions at The University of British Columbia 

Admission Requirements for Undergraduate 

The admission requirements for undergraduate courses are as follows. 

• Application Fees: INR 7,352 (CAD 118.5) 

• Academic Requirements: High School Academic Transcripts 

• English Language Proficiency Test Scores: Duolingo- 125/ TOEFL iBT- 90/ PTE- 65/ IELTS- 6.5 

• GPA Required: 3.0 or 85% aggregate 

• Other Additional Requirements: Valid Passport 

Admission Requirements for Graduate

The admission requirements for graduate courses are as follows. 

• Application Fees: INR 10,439 (CAD 168.25) 

• Academic Requirements: A bachelor’s degree in a related field 

• Standardized Test Scores: GRE- 320+/ GMAT- 650+ 

• English Language Proficiency Test Scores: TOEFL iBT- 90/ PTE- 65; IELTS- 6.5 

• GPA required: Should be equivalent to 65% 

• Other Additional Requirements: 2 Letters of Recommendation (LOR); a statement of Purpose (SOP) that will depend upon the program you have chosen to pursue; an updated CV/ Resume; professional experience proof (if you have one); and a valid passport. 

Admission Requirements for MBA 

The admission requirements for an MBA are as follows. 

• Application Fees: INR 9,570 (CAD 154.25) 

• Academic Requirements: a bachelor’s degree of 3 to 4 years 

• Standardized Test Scores: GRE- Verbal score should be 155 and Quantitative score should be 1555, and a total of 320 scores for a competitive edge. 

• English Language Proficiency Test Scores: TOEFL iBT- 100/ PTE- 70/ IELTS- 7.0 

• GPA required: Equivalent grade of 76% or B+ 

• Other Additional Requirements: 2 letters of reference, one of which should be a professional reference; updated resume/ CV; 2 years of work experience required in full-time and 3-5 years for the competitive edge; interview. 

Top Scholarships at The University of British Columbia 

Get financial support by applying for the following top scholarships awarded to international students at the University of British Columbia 

• International Impact Award 
• Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award
• Vantage One Excellence Award 
• Four-Year Fellowships for Ph.D. Students 
• International Tuition Awards 
• C.D. Howe Graduate Fellowship in Public Policy

4. The University of Alberta 

The University of Alberta is home to 400 research facilities, offers international students a wide range of undergraduate programs, and has over 18 faculties. Thirteen on-campus apartments provide a safe place for students to study at this university, which many consider their second home. During their stay in Alberta, students can also participate in more than 450 clubs and groups inside the institution. The institution provides students with financial aid, scholarships, and awards totaling more than $28 million (CAD) annually.

Popular Courses at The University of Alberta 

Admissions at The University of Alberta 

Admission Requirements for Undergraduate 

• Application Fees: INR 7,750 (CAD 125) 

• Academic Requirements: Academic Transcripts, High school grades, diplomas and certificates. Description of the postsecondary courses that have been completed outside of Canada. 

• Standardized Test Scores: DAT- 68/ LSAT- 161/ MCAT- 128

• Aggregate of GPA: 75% or 2.0 

• English Language Proficiency Test Scores: In 12th grade, English must have scored 75%+; IELTS- 6.5; TOEFL- 90 

Admission Requirements for Graduate 

• Application Fees: INR 8,370 (CAD 135) 

• Academic Requirements: An undergraduate degree 

• Standardized Test Scores: GRE- 310/ GMAT- 550+ 

• Aggregate or GPA required: 85% or 3.0 

• English Language Proficiency Test Scores: TOEFL iBT- 90 and 21 in each section/ IELTS- 6.5 and 6.0 in each section. 

• Other Additional Requirements: Letter of Recommendation (LOR); Updated CV/ Resume; Statement of Intent and writing samples

Admission Requirements for MBA

• Application Fees: INR 8370 (CAD 135) 

• Academic Requirements: An undergraduate degree 

• GPA or aggregate: 3.0 or 85% 

• Documents Required: A statement of Purpose (SOP) in 1-2 pages; 2 Letters of Recommendation (LOR); Updated Resume/ CV; and an interview. 

• Standardized Test Scores: GRE- 50th percentile/ GMAT- 550 

• English Language Proficiency Test Scores: TOEFL iBT- 100/ IELTS- 7.0 

• Required Work Experience: Professional Work Experience of 2 years 

Top Scholarships at The University of Alberta 

• International Student Scholarship 
• International Entrance Leadership Scholarship 
• The University of Alberta Gold Standard Scholarship 
• Andrew Stewart Memorial Graduate Prize 
• BMO Financial Group Graduate Scholarship 
• Jeans Isabel Soper Memorial Graduate Scholarship in Science 

5. The University of Waterloo 

The University of Waterloo is one of the best universities in Canada. It was founded in 1957, and just 74 engineering students enrolled this year. According to the QS World University Rankings 2024, the university is rated 158th. With over 220,000 graduates, the university currently hosts over 42,000 students. 

Popular Courses at The University of Waterloo 

Admissions at The University of Waterloo 

Admission Requirements for Undergraduate 

• Application Fees: INR 7,667 (CAD 125) 

• Academic Requirements: Academic Transcripts of classes 10th, 11th and 12th 

• English Language Proficiency Test Scores: TOEFL iBT- 90/ IELTS- 6.5 

Admission Requirements for Graduate 

• Application Fees: INR 7,667 (CAD 125) 

• Standardized Test Scores: GMAT- 550 or above/ GRE- 300-310 

• English Language Proficiency Test Scores: TOEFL iBT- 90/ IELTS- 7.0 

• Other Additional Requirements: Two academic letters of recommendation (LOR) and a professional LOR should be from a senior-level employer or supervisor, as well as an updated resume/ CV, a writing sample, a portfolio, and proof of sponsorship. 

Top Scholarships at The University of Waterloo 

• President’s Scholarship 
• University of Waterloo Graduate Scholarship
• International Master’s Award of Excellence (IMAE)
• International Student Entrance Scholarships 
• Various Entrance Scholarship 

6. Western University 

The University of Western Ontario, commonly referred to as Western University, was founded in 1878. There are now 43,352 students enrolled on the Western University campus, including 4,759 international students from 129 different countries. 

Western University is ranked #144 in the QS World University Rankings 2024, guaranteeing a spot among the top 200 Canadian universities worldwide. Western University offers more than 400 undergraduate combinations and 160 graduate degree programs.

Popular Courses at Western University 

Admissions at Western University 

Admission Requirements for Undergraduate 

• Application Fees: INR 9,298 (CAD 150) 

• Academic Requirements: Results of Class 10th and 12th (from a recognized board); official high school transcripts 

• Standardized Test Scores: ACT- 24; SAT- 1100 in Maths and Critical Reading 

• GPA or Aggregate Required: 2.7/40 [70%] 

• English Language Proficiency Test Scores: IELTS- 6.5; TOEFL iBT- 83 

• Other Requirements: Updated Resume/ CV, Personal Essay, Passport Copy and Letter of Recommendation (LOR). 

Admission Requirements for Graduate 

• Application Fees: INR 7,748 to 9,298 (CAD 125 to 150) 

• Academic Requirements: Official Academic Transcripts, 4 years undergraduate degree from a well-recognized university 

• Test Scores: GRE- 300; GMAT- 650 

• GPA or Aggregate Required: At least 70% overall average for the last 2 years of full-time undergraduate degree. 

• English Language Proficiency Test Scores: IELTS- 6.5; TOEFL iBT- 86 

• Other Requirements: Statement of Purpose (SOP), 2 Letters of Recommendation (LOR) and some of the programs require additional documents such as resumes, etc. 

Admission Requirements for MBA 

• Application Fees: INR 9,298 (CAD 150) 

• Academic Requirements: At least 70% overall average for the last 2 years of full-time undergraduate degree. 

• Test Scores: IELTS- 7.0; TOEFL iBT- 100 

• Documents Required: Statement of Purpose (SOP), Updated Resume/ CV and Letters of Recommendation (LOR) 

• English Language Proficiency Test Scores: IELTS- 7.0; TOEFL iBT: 100 

• Work Experience: Full-time work experience for 2 years. 

Top Scholarships at Western University 

• Western Scholarship for Excellence 
• Western Academic Scholarships 
• Rotary Foundation Scholarships- Global Grants 
• BrokerFish International Student Scholarship 

7. The University of Montreal 

Founded in 1878, the University of Montreal provides students with a top-notch education. One of the top universities in Quebec for higher education is the University of Montreal, together with its sister institutions, Polytechnique and HEC Montréal. The university consistently maintains strong rankings with approximately 69,000 students, 10,000 of whom are from overseas populations. The university’s 13 schools provide about 600 programs. Furthermore, the university has excelled in both athletics and research.

Popular Courses at The University of Montreal 

Admissions at The University of Montreal 

Admission Requirements for Undergraduate 

• Application Fees: INR 6,709 (CAD 112.50) 

• Academic Requirements: High School Diploma

• French Language Proficiency Test Scores: 605/990 on TFI; B2 or 605 on TEF/ DALF

• GPA or Aggregate Required: 3.0 on a 4.3 scale (82%)

• Other Additional Requirements: If required, submit the Letter of Recommendation (LOR), proof of citizenship or PR of Canada, and a copy of the birth certificate. 

Admission Requirements for Graduate 

• Application Fees: INR 6,709 (CAD 112.50) 

• Test Scores: TAGE MAGE- 300 or Better; GMAT- 630; GRE- 318-320 

• French Language Proficiency Test Scores: 605 or B2 on TFI 

• English Language Proficiency Test Scores: IELTS- 6.5 

• GPA or Aggregate required: 

• For Master’s- 3.0 on a scale of 4.3 (82%) 

• For Doctoral-  3.3 on a scale of 4.3 (85%) 

• Other Additional Requirements: Statement of Purpose (SOP), Letters of Recommendation (LOR), Birth Certificate Copy, etc. 

Admission Requirements for MBA

• Application Fees: INR 12,530 (CAD 210.36) 

• Academic Requirements: Bachelor’s degree 

• French Language Requirements: UQAM French test and at least 60% in the institutional language test. 

• English Language Requirements: 30 Credits along with an English Language Certificate and 102 Level in English as a secondary language. 

• Test Scores: 

• TAGE MAGE- Minimum 250 scores required 

• GMAT- Minimum 570 scores required 

• GRE- 312 minimum score required 

• Other Additional Requirements: 4 video essays, 2 Letters of Recommendation (LOR), etc. 

8. The University of Calgary 

Founded in 1966, the University of Calgary is regarded as one of Canada’s best comprehensive research universities. There are over 33,000 students on the University of Calgary campuses, including more than 26,000 undergraduate students and 6,000 graduate program participants. The University of Calgary offers more than 250 programs to international students across its 14 faculties and 5 locations. UCalgary offers over 110 undergraduate majors. Additionally, the university provides over 70 graduate and certification programs.

Popular Courses at The University of Calgary 

Admissions at the University of Calgary 

Admission Requirements for Undergraduate 

• Application Fees: INR 8,714 (CAD 145) 

• Academic Requirements: High School Academic Transcripts 

• English Language Proficiency Test Scores: Duolingo- 115; PTE- 60; TOEFL iBT- 86; IELTS- 6.5. 

• GPA or Aggregate Required: 3.0 (85%) 

• Other Additional Requirements: Personal Essay and Letter of Reference 

Admission Requirements for Graduate 

• Application Fees: INR 8,714 (CAD 145) 

• Academic Requirements: A 4-year bachelor’s degree 

• English Language Proficiency Test Scores: PTE- 59; TOEFL iBT- 86; IELTS- 6.5 

• Test Scores: GRE- 310; GMAT- 550 

• GPA or Aggregate Required: 3.0 (92%) 

• Other Additional Requirements: Updated Resume/ CV, 2 Letters of Recommendation (LOR) and many more. 

Admission Requirements for MBA 

• Application Fees: INR 8,714 (CAD 145) 

• Academic Requirements: 4 years of undergraduate degree 

• English Language Proficiency Test Scores: TOEFL- 97; IELTS- 7.0 

• Test Scores: GRE- 310; GMAT- 550 

• GPA or Aggregate Required: 3.0 (85%) 

• Other Additional Requirements: Statement of Purpose (SOP of 250 Words), Letter of Recommendation (LOR), etc. 

Top Scholarships at the University of Calgary 

• CIBC International Entrance Scholarships 
• The University of Calgary Award for International Student-Athletes
• The University of Calgary International Entrance Scholarship 
• The University of Calgary International Undergraduate Scholarship 

Admission Process

Fee

Faq

What is the #1 university in Canada?

#1 university in Canada is as follows;

What are the top 5 universities in Canada?

The top 5 universities in Canada are listed as;

1. University of Toronto Toronto, Canada
2. University of British, Canada, Columbia
3. McGill University, Montreal, Canada
4. McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada
5. University of Alberta Edmonton, Canada

Which is the cheapest university in Canada for international students?

Newfoundland and Labrador’s University, also known as the MUN (Memorial University of Newfoundland ), is the cheapest university in Canada for international students. It was founded in the year 1925 in memory of WWI veterans.

What are the top universities in Canada for MBA?

The top universities in Canada for MBA courses are mentioned below;

• Toronto (Rotman) universities.
• Queen’s (Smith) universities.
• Western (Ivey) universities.
• McGill (Desautels) universities.
• York (Schulich) universities.