
Canada remains one of the most sought-after destinations for international education, and for Pakistani students, it’s easy to see why. High-quality education, multicultural campuses, and a welcoming immigration system make choosing to Study in Canada from Pakistan a gateway to global opportunities. But let’s face it cost is a major factor. So, what are the most affordable Canadian universities for Pakistani students? At Global Education Gateway, we believe quality education should be accessible. That’s why we’ve created this guide to help you find budget-friendly universities in Canada without compromising on academic standards.
Why Study in Canada from Pakistan?
Before diving into the most affordable options, let’s explore why studying in Canada is a smart investment for Pakistani students.
1. Globally Recognized Degrees
Canadian universities consistently rank among the world’s top institutions. Whether you study engineering, business, or health sciences, your degree will carry global credibility.
2. Post-Graduation Opportunities
Canada offers a clear path to permanent residency through the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) program, making it a long-term career and immigration opportunity.
3. Cultural Diversity
With over 600,000 international students, Canada is home to a diverse and inclusive student population—especially in major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal.
4. Safe and Student-Friendly Environment
Canada is ranked among the safest countries in the world, with strong laws protecting international students’ rights and welfare.
What Is Considered “Affordable” for Pakistani Students?
The term “affordable” can vary based on your program and location, but generally, Pakistani students look for tuition fees under CAD $20,000 per year (approx. PKR 4–5 million), with manageable living expenses.
Let’s break it down:
Expense Category | Estimated Annual Cost (CAD) |
Tuition Fees | $10,000 – $20,000 |
Living Expenses | $10,000 – $12,000 |
Health Insurance | $600 – $1,000 |
Books and Supplies | $500 – $1,000 |
Miscellaneous | $1,000 |
Top 7 Most Affordable Canadian Universities for Pakistani Students
Here are some top-rated yet affordable institutions across Canada:
1. Memorial University of Newfoundland
- Tuition Fee: CAD $11,500 – $13,000 per year
- Location: St. John’s, Newfoundland
- Highlights: One of the lowest tuition fees in Canada. Offers programs in engineering, business, and arts.
2. University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI)
- Tuition Fee: CAD $12,000 – $14,000 per year
- Location: Charlottetown, PEI
- Highlights: Small class sizes and affordable living costs. Great for students looking for a quiet, supportive community.
3. Brandon University
- Tuition Fee: CAD $8,000 – $10,000 per year
- Location: Manitoba
- Highlights: Among the most affordable in Canada. Known for liberal arts, education, and music programs.
4. University of Manitoba
- Tuition Fee: CAD $14,000 – $17,000 per year
- Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba
- Highlights: A large research university with excellent programs in engineering, health, and agriculture.
5. University of Saskatchewan
- Tuition Fee: CAD $15,000 – $18,000 per year
- Location: Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
- Highlights: Highly respected STEM programs. Offers a lower cost of living than larger cities.
6. Cape Breton University
- Tuition Fee: CAD $11,000 – $13,000 per year
- Location: Nova Scotia
- Highlights: Popular among Pakistani students, especially for MBA and business degrees.
7. Algoma University
- Tuition Fee: CAD $12,000 – $15,000 per year
- Location: Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario
- Highlights: Small class sizes and personalized attention. Strong business and computer science programs.
Scholarships for Pakistani Students in Canada
Good news—many Canadian universities offer scholarships specifically for international students, including those from Pakistan.
Examples:
- Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)
- International Entrance Scholarships (University of Manitoba)
- Graduate Awards (University of Saskatchewan)
- Commonwealth Scholarships (Government-funded, including Pakistan)
At Global Education Gateway, we help you explore and apply for these opportunities to reduce your financial burden.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
If you’re planning to study in Canada from Pakistan, here’s a simplified process:
1. Choose Your Program and University
Use factors like tuition, location, and course specialization to narrow down your options.
2. Prepare Required Documents
- Academic transcripts
- IELTS/TOEFL scores
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of Recommendation
- Valid passport
3. Apply to Universities
Most applications are submitted online. Some universities charge a non-refundable fee (CAD $100–$150).
4. Get Your Acceptance Letter
This is crucial for your student visa application (Study Permit).
5. Apply for a Canadian Study Permit
Submit your application through the IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) portal.
6. Plan Your Travel and Accommodation
Once approved, arrange your housing and travel at least 4–6 weeks before classes start.
Tip: Let Global Education Gateway handle your admission and visa process for a stress-free experience.
Why Choose Global Education Gateway?
We are more than just an education consultancy—we are your partners in success.
✅ 100% Free Consultation
✅ University Selection Based on Budget
✅ Expert Visa & SOP Assistance
✅ Scholarship Matching
✅ Pre-Departure Support
Whether you want to study business, IT, health, or engineering in Canada, Global Education Gateway helps Pakistani students achieve their dreams within budget.
Final Thoughts
Canada offers incredible opportunities for Pakistani students seeking high-quality, affordable education. With numerous universities offering programs under CAD $20,000 per year, and plenty of scholarships and visa support options, studying in Canada is more accessible than ever.
At Global Education Gateway, we specialize in helping students from Pakistan find the right university in Canada academically and financially. Your future is one consultation away.