If you hope to pursue higher education in Canada, studying in Ontario is worth considering. Ontario has 23 publicly assisted universities, 24 colleges, nine Indigenous Institutes, and more than 500 registered career colleges and institutions.
However, international tuition can vary widely by institution, program, course load, and academic year. Below are seven Ontario universities and colleges that international students may wish to compare when looking for relatively affordable options.
Affordable Schools in Ontario for International Students
1. Algoma University
Established in Sault Ste. Marie in 1965 as Algoma College, Algoma University now offers undergraduate and graduate programs. It has locations in Sault Ste. Marie, Brampton, and Timmins.
Algoma has a special mission centered on cross-cultural learning between Anishinaabe communities and the world. For new international students starting in spring 2026, the International Scholars Degree Award can reduce tuition to CA$15,000 per academic year. Other awards may also be available.
2. University of Windsor
The University of Windsor has more than 18,000 students. It was incorporated by the Ontario Legislature in December 1962.
Tuition is calculated per term and depends on the student’s program, major, course load, fee category, and term. The university allocates more than CA$14 million in scholarships, bursaries, and awards annually.
3. Toronto Metropolitan University
Founded in 1948 and formerly known as Ryerson University, Toronto Metropolitan University adopted its current name in 2022. Its main campus is in downtown Toronto. It has nearly 48,000 students, including approximately 2,900 master’s and Ph.D. students.
Toronto Metropolitan University offers undergraduate and graduate programs across a wide range of fields. International tuition varies by program and student status. Across all levels of study, the university provides more than CA$20 million in awards, scholarships, and bursaries.
4. Centennial College
Centennial College is next on our list of Ontario institutions to compare. Established in 1966, it was Ontario’s first community college. It primarily serves the eastern Greater Toronto Area through five campuses and seven satellite locations.
Centennial offers more than 400 diploma, degree, and certificate program options. International tuition varies by program; students should also use the college’s scholarships and bursaries finder to review available financial support.
5. Lakehead University
Lakehead University opened its doors in Thunder Bay in 1965. Its locations include Thunder Bay and Orillia, and its Barrie STEM Hub is scheduled to open in fall 2026. Lakehead offers more than 85 academic programs grouped into nine faculties.
International tuition varies by level, program, and academic year. The university provides more than CA$11 million annually in scholarships, bursaries, and awards.
As Canada’s most populous province, Ontario offers many study options and opportunities to meet new people. Compare official fee pages carefully because amounts vary by program, course load, and academic year.
We hope this article on affordable schools in Ontario was helpful. For more information about studying in this North American country, also check out our Canada Page and the Available Courses for International Students!
