Vancouver, British Columbia, is a popular study destination with access to urban amenities and outdoor activities. This guide covers seven comparatively affordable institutions in Vancouver. Tuition varies by program, course load, and intake, so review each institution’s official fee page before applying.
Affordable Schools in Vancouver for International Students
1. Simon Fraser University
- Admissions | Tuition Fees | Scholarships
- Tuition Fees: around CA$18,944/term (international undergraduate, based on five courses or 15 units of normal fees) | around CA$2,193/term (regular full-time graduate research term; specialty programs vary)
Simon Fraser University has campuses in Burnaby, Surrey, and Vancouver. Its original Burnaby campus is located on Burnaby Mountain, while its Vancouver campus includes Harbour Centre in the historic Spencer Building.
For the 2026/27 academic year, SFU estimates international undergraduate tuition at CA$18,944 per term for a student taking five courses or 15 units of normal fees. The university estimates tuition for a regular full-time graduate research term at CA$2,193. However, specialty graduate programs may charge different rates.
International undergraduate students should note that SFU assigns international tuition fee cohorts based on the term in which students begin their studies. The cohort determines the tuition rate used to calculate international tuition fees.
2. Capilano University
Capilano University has a main campus in North Vancouver. The campus is approximately a 20-minute drive from downtown Vancouver and includes the Centre for Sport and Wellness.
Capilano University lists a standard international tuition rate of CA$689.75 per credit, although additional fees apply to certain courses and programs. New international students applying to Capilano University for the first time generally need to pay a one-time CA$5,000 deposit. This deposit is applied against international tuition fees after the student registers for courses.
Capilano University offers some tuition-free courses, but the university’s official fee page states that this eligibility applies to groups such as Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and seniors. International students should not assume that a course is tuition-free unless the university confirms their eligibility.
3. University Canada West
- Admissions | Tuition Fees | Scholarships
- Tuition Fees: CA$2,225/course (2026 international bachelor’s degree programs) | CA$3,073/course or CA$46,095 total (2026 international hybrid MBA)
University Canada West is a business- and technology-oriented institution with two downtown Vancouver campuses. UCW offers programs including the Bachelor of Commerce, Bachelor of Arts in Business Communication, Associate of Arts, and Master of Business Administration. Courses are also available online.
For 2026, the international tuition rate for UCW bachelor’s degree programs is CA$2,225 per course. The 2026 international hybrid MBA rate is CA$3,073 per course, or CA$46,095 in total for 15 courses. Tuition is reviewed regularly, so students should check the official fee page and their offer letter for the rates that apply to their intake.
4. Langara College
Langara College is located in Vancouver and welcomes students from the local community and almost 100 countries around the world. Langara Global supports international student recruitment, admissions, and student services.
For regular studies, Langara estimates that a typical first- or second-year international student taking a full course load of 15 credits will pay approximately CA$9,955.35 in tuition per semester. The college also estimates tuition of approximately CA$19,910.70 for an academic year consisting of 30 credits over two semesters. Tuition, student fees, books, and other costs vary among programs.
Students should review the official fee page and calculate their costs based on their intended program and course load before applying.
International students should also budget for accommodation, insurance, food, transportation, books, supplies, and other living expenses. Reviewing the official fee information before applying can help you plan your studies more effectively.
We hope this article on affordable institutions in and near Vancouver was helpful. If you’re interested in studying in Canada, make sure to check out our Canada Page and the Open Courses for International Students!
