Colleges in Vancouver: Top 7 Colleges in Vancouver for International Students in 2024

When you think of studying abroad, then looking at colleges in Vancouver is a great idea, for a variety of reasons. The country offers op-notch education, great post-study job opportunities, and a multicultural landscape that makes your global experience well-rounded.

In 2022 Canada witnessed a remarkable 43% increase in international student enrollment over the past five years and an astonishing 170% surge over the last decade. According to a study, the top three reasons international students choose Canada include its reputation as a safe and stable country, the high quality of its education system, and the generally tolerant and non-discriminatory society it offers.

Moreover, Canada is a warm and welcoming country, which is why it’s a great option for thousands of international students from across the world.  Its cities like Vancouver, Montreal, and Calgary provide high-quality education, a wide range of opportunities, comparatively lower costs, and high levels of tolerance, acceptance, and safety.

Notably, Vancouver Island and Coast’s robust job market, with an annual growth of 8,800 jobs (2.0%) in 2023, presents promising prospects for international students seeking employment in Vancouver. So, in this article, we will be looking at:

Why study at colleges in Vancouver as an international student?

Vancouver, popularly known as Manhattan with mountains, is one of the greenest and fastest developing cities in Canada. Vancouver is also popular for its world-class universities and colleges and the quality of education offered in these educational institutions. Educational institutions in Vancouver work towards providing the best possible environment for path-breaking research and imparting practical experience for students.

Vancouver is also known for its diverse population of people from around the globe and the idyllic landscapes of water bodies, mountains, and other scenic beauties. Not surprising then that The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) has ranked Vancouver as the third most liveable city in the world.

Universities and colleges in Vancouver cover a wide range of education areas for the students to choose from; courses like Engineering and IT are the popular ones that offer the best job opportunities for students.

Universities like Simon Fraser University, University Canada West, and the University of British Columbia have always been the face of the city of Vancouver, and these universities have been attracting international students from all over the world for their best quality education and top-class facilities offered.

Vancouver was ranked 20th by the QS best student cities in the year 2023, considering the overall desirability of the students and the quality of education offered.

This is also a city that will support your future goals of green initiatives; The Vancouver Municipal government sponsors the 2020 Green city initiative, which focuses on reducing the amount of waste and emissions and also provides clean water and green spaces for the inhabitants of the city.

Public transport in Vancouver is free for international students as this is included in their tuition fee. Students can get free access to public transport by using the college ID card and tapping on the bus to ride for free.

How much does it cost to study college in Vancouver?

Vancouver is the third largest metropolitan city in Canada and has a lot to offer for students who wish to kick start their global-ed journey in this busy city. International events, conferences, musical fests, and TED talks are very common in this city. Vancouver is also one of the most populated cities in Canada and in North America.

The average cost of living for students will be a little higher than most of the other cities in Canada, as Vancouver has a lot to offer for students and families living in this faster-growing city. Tuition fees of the universities in Vancouver generally vary among the educational institutions and the course of your choice.

Tuition fees for international students to study at a university in Vancouver are around CA $ 11,000 to CA $ 50,000 or more. For instance, if the student wants to do a programme at Columbia College, the average tuition fee starts at $17,550, and at the same time, the average tuition fee for an undergraduate programme at Vancouver Island University will come to around CA $24,747.58.

Living expenses, food expenses, and other monthly utilities in Vancouver will also be a little higher than that of cities like Montreal or Toronto, as the average cost of living in Vancouver for students will be CA $1325.Rental expenses in Vancouver is largely depending on the place of your choice, students can always cut down on their living expenses by opting for student accommodations in the university or outside the main city.
Here’s an estimate of monthly expenses for international students in Vancouver.

Expenses Cost Per Month
Accommodation $1400 to $2500
Public Transport $102.55 to $185.20
Food $300 to $800
Cell Phone charges $60 to $150
Home Cable with Internet $100 to $200
Provincial Health Insurance $163 per term

What are the scholarship options for universities in Vancouver?

Do not let the numbers deter you from pursuing your dreams. While doing your research for the list of colleges in Vancouver for international students, simultaneously look for the different kinds of scholarships and financial aid that you might be eligible for. The first point of research is scholarships offered by your home country for students travelling abroad.

The second step is to look at scholarships offered by the Government of Canada. Through Global Affairs Canada, the government participates in some of the major international scholarship programs. Some of their featured scholarships are

  • Canada-ASEAN Scholarships and Educational Exchanges for Development (SEED)
  • Canada-CARICOM Skills Training for the Green Economy Scholarships
  • Canada-China Scholars’ Exchange Program
  • Banting Postdoctoral Fellowships
  • Emerging Leaders in the Americas Program
  • Organization of American States Academic Scholarship Program
  • Study in Canada Scholarships
  • Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

Simultaneously, you also look for scholarships offered by the colleges or universities in Vancouver you are applying to. When doing your research, ensure that they are open to international students. Double-check if you will be automatically considered, or if you need a separate application for the scholarship.

Here are some of the top scholarships you can look into, offered by the top colleges in Vancouver.

  • The International Major Entrance Scholarship and the Outstanding International Student Award, University of British Columbia
  • Langara Scholarships in recognition and support of outstanding achievement, Langara College
  • Columbia College Entrance and Academic Scholarships, Columbia College
  • SFU Undergraduate Scholars and Graduate Entrance Scholarships, Simon Fraser University
  • The President’s Scholarship and the Merit Scholarship, Kwantlen Polytechnic University
  • Entrance scholarships and Scholarships for Academic Excellence, University Canada West
  • International Undergraduate Student Regional Entrance Scholarship, Vancouver Island University

What are the best colleges in Vancouver for international students?

Let us take a look at the list of colleges in Vancouver for international students

Rank Name IELTS/TOEFL Undergraduate Tuition Fee Range Postgraduate Tuition Fee Range
Ranked ranks 34th in QS World University Rankings and 41st in Times Higher Education World University Rankings. The University of British Columbia IELTS: 6.5 6.5 overall with no band less than 6.0 $44,942.40 to
$58,153.50
$29,495.40 to
$80,259.21
School of Management has ranked 6 in the country. Langara College IELTS: 6.5 or above, internet TOEFL: 80 or above NA $535.50 to $601.80 per credit
47th rank by U.S. News Columbia College IELTS: 6 or above, internet TOEFL: 79or above $17,550 to $35,100 $17,550 to $35,100
Ranked 1st as
Canada’s Fair Trade Gold Campus.
Simon Fraser University IELTS: 6 or above, Internet TOEFL iBT 93 or above $34,012 on average NA
Canada’s only polytechnic university. Kwantlen Polytechnic University IELTS: 6.5 or above, internet TOEFL: 88 or above $15,100 – $24,367 NA
5 QS Stars by QS World University Rankings University Canada West IELTS: 6.5 or above, internet TOEFL: 88 or above $76,800 on average $38,700 on average
1001-1200 Vancouver Island University IELTS: 6.5 or above, internet TOEFL iBT : 88 or above $21,742 on average $26,400 on average

The University of British Columbia


The University of British Columbia is one of the most popular and best universities in the whole of Canada and also Vancouver. They are popular for the quality of education, unique and effective teaching methods, and modern facilities available on campus. The University of British Columbia is home to students from more than 162 countries, and currently, they maintain a student-faculty ratio of 11:1.

Why is it good to study here?

A degree from the University of British Columbia possesses high international recognition, providing graduates with a wide range of career opportunities. The university is ranked 47 in the QS world university ranking and 37 in the World university ranking. Currently, there are 27% of international students in the university, and the university has a student strength of 57,000 students.

The University of British Columbia outperforms all the other major universities in Canada in terms of research outcomes, quality of education, and also placement opportunities, as they have always made the university a holistic platform for path-breaking research.

Fees

  • Graduate tuition fees at the University of British Columbia range from $44,942.40 to $58,153.50 for domestic students.
  • Postgraduate tuition fees ranges from $29,495.40 to $80,259.21.

Eligibility

  • IELTS: 6.5 6.5 overall with no band less than 6.0
  • Additional requirements such as personal statement, CV, letters of reference, and application summary
  • PET, TOEFL, TOEFL iBT are a few other accepted proficiency tests
  • Completion of grade 12 with the necessary marks is the basic requirement for undergraduate courses.

Courses offered

Following are the most popular courses offered at the university :

  • Faculty of Applied Science
  • Faculty of Forestry
  • Interprofessional Continuing Education.
  • Master of Business Administration.
  • Master of Community and Regional Planning.
  • Master of Engineering Leadership.
  • Master of Geomatics for Environmental Management.

Following are the most popular schools at The University of British Columbia

  • School of Journalism
  • School of Music
  • Faculty of Science
  • Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences
  • Vancouver School of Economics

Langara College


Langara College is one of the finest colleges in the whole of Canada and Vancouver. The college was founded in 1965 and is currently a public college in Vancouver under the provincial college and institute. Currently, the college has a strength of 21,000 students, and out of this, more than 7000 students are international. There are students from more than 102 countries currently part of the college, and they have very strong student support.

Why is it good to study here?

The School of Nursing at the Langara School has been named the school of the year by the Canadian Nursing Students Association, and the School of Management is ranked in the top 6 business schools in Canada. At Langara College, students get to choose from more than 90 programmes and over 10000 courses. The college is famous for its practice-oriented teaching, where the students are given all the necessary industry experience to work in the field of their interest. The college also has a good acceptance rate of 85% and a strong international student community.

Fees

The postgraduate tuition fees at Langara College range from $535.50 to $601.80 per credit.

Eligibility

  • IELTS: 6.5 or above, internet TOEFL: 80 or above
  • Transcripts from the three years of high school
  • Undergraduate or Graduate
  • Out-of-grade examination results

Courses offered

  • English
  • Film Arts
  • Fine Arts
  • BBA
  • Accounting
  • Financial Management Marketing
  • Computer Science
  • Ecology
  • Asian Studies
  • Criminal Justice
  • Family Studies
  • Post Degree Diploma, Web and Mobile App Design and Development
  • Post Degree Diploma, Business Administration
  • Diploma, Applied Science for Engineering

Columbia College


Columbia College is one of the best and leading colleges in the list of colleges in Vancouver and the whole of Canada with more than 1000 students intakes every year. The International Center for Student Success at Columbia College provides the best student support for students with all their student needs. Established in 1936, the college is currently ranked at 47th position by U.S News. The college provides an associate degree for transfer and an associate degree in science and arts, and this will help the student prepare for the path they are interested in.

Why is it good to study here?

Columbia College actively participates in the Student Partnership Program in India, expediting admission procedures for Indian students. Additionally, the college facilitates seamless transfer courses, fostering connections with renowned universities in Vancouver, Canada, such as UBC, McGill, and Simon Fraser. Furthermore, Columbia University extends a range of educational opportunities, including associate degree programs, high school programs, and academic ESL courses.

Fees

The average international tuition fee at Columbia College ranges from $17,550 to $35,100.

Eligibility

  • IELTS: 6 or above, internet TOEFL: 79 or above
  • Grade 9, 10, or 11 completion with satisfactory marks (equivalent to British Columbia’s 60% average or better)
  • Form 3, 4, or 5 with a minimum average ‘C’ on academic subjects in the most recently completed year

Courses offered

  • Business Administration
  • Bachelor Business
  • Economics
  • Communication
  • Psychology
  • Associate of Arts Economics
  • Computer Science
  • Mathematics

Simon Fraser University


Simon Fraser University is one of the most popular public research universities in Vancouver Canada and Vancouver. The university is also a member of international higher education associations such as the Association of Commonwealth Universities and Universities in Canada. They have three campuses in Burnaby, Surrey, and Vancouver, and the main campus is located in Burnaby, British Columbia.

Why is it good to study here?

SFU has a student strength of 30,000 students from more than 145 different countries. They also offer a trimester system for students in a few courses and practice-based learning to grab best-in-class exposure during their studies. According to the Times ranking, the university is ranked between 201-250. The university also offers co-op programs for students to find placement in the world’s best companies.

Fees

The average tuition fee at Simon Fraser University is approximately $34,012.

Eligibility

  • IELTS: 6 or above, internet TOEFL iBT 93 or above
  • Completion of grade 12 with the necessary marks is the basic requirement for undergraduate courses
  • Students should meet SFU’s quantitative and analytical skill requirements.
  • A good grade in 12 mathematics.

Courses offered

  • Arts and Humanities.
  • Biology and Biochemistry
  • Chemistry
  • Clinical Medicine
  • Computer Science
  • Economics and Business
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Kwantlen Polytechnic University


Kwantlen is Canada’s only polytechnic university with the best-in-class facilities and educational standards. They also offer exchange and study abroad programs for students who wish to get the best in class education. Established in 1981 by the government of British Columbia, Kwantlen is a public university. Kwantlen also offers bachelor’s degree courses, diplomas, and certificate courses in over 120 programmes.
.

Why is it good to study here?

Kwantlen Polytechnic University has 7 faculties offering more than 120 programmes and a small classroom strength to ensure personalised attention for students. They have also partnered with institutions around the world to improve the quality of education and to focus more on the needs of companies around the world.KPU has around 21 externally funded projects with a funding of over 2.58 million.

Fees

The average tuition fee at Kwantlen Polytechnic University ranges from $15,100 – $24,367.

Eligibility

  • IELTS: 6.5 or above, internet TOEFL: 88 or above
  • Intermediate or High School certificate
  • Intermediate or High School mark sheets issued by the examination authority
  • PTE score of 61 or higher

Courses offered

  • Faculty of Academic and Career Preparation
  • Faculty of Trades and Technology
  • Faculty of Arts
  • Faculty of Health
  • School of Business
  • Wilson School of Design
  • Faculty of Science and Horticulture

University Canada West


University Canada West is a popular business-oriented private university established in 2005. They are popular for offering the best learning environment at the lowest cost. They are a member of the global university systems and allow students to transfer academic credits from one recognised institution to pursue a course in UCW. They have an international student strength of over 8000 students hailing from 110 countries.

Why is it good to study here?

QS university ranking has given UCW 5 stars considering the research outcome, education quality and on-campus facilities. UCW offers personalised learning and flexible delivery modes for work-oriented education. They offer admission to ACBSP programs and also NCMA programs. Students get to choose from the MBA-ACCA pathway and MBA foundation programs on campus. The university also offers personalised scholarships for students who have good academic scores.

Fees

The average tuition fee at University Canada West is approximately $76,800 for graduate courses and around $38,700 for postgraduate courses.

Eligibility

  • IELTS: 6.5 or above, internet TOEFL: 88 or above
  • PTE Overall 61 with at least 60 in Writing
  • CAE/CPE score of 176
  • Canadian High School (Grade 12) diploma or its equivalent with an overall average of C or better (2.0 on a 4.33 scale)

Courses offered

  • Master of Business Administration
  • Bachelor of Commerce
  • Associate of Arts
  • Bachelor of Arts in Business Communication

Vancouver Island University


Vancouver Island University is a research university in Vancouver that was established in 1936. University is popular for offering top-quality education at a lower expense for students. VIU has 4 campuses located in Canada and offers more than 120 programs. They have a student strength of around 18,000 full-time students and part-time students; out of this 1,100 students are international students from over 40 countries.

Why is it good to study here?

VIU is popular for its student-faculty ratio as they have a 6:1 ratio and offers the best in class education. MBA and BBA are the most popular courses in the university, and there are more than 700 Indian students currently studying at the university which makes India the top country of origin for an intentional student applying to VIU.

Fees

The graduate international tuition fee at Vancouver Island University West is $21,742 on average whereas the postgraduate fee is $26,400 on average.

Eligibility

  • Minimum GPA of 2.0 for the UG program and 3.0 for the PG program
  • IELTS: 6.5 or above, internet TOEFL iBT : 88 or above
  • Application from higher secondary school (Min. GPA 2.0)
  • Official high school transcripts
  • GMAT or GRE scores
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Work experience

Courses offered

  • Childhood Education
  • Performing Arts
  • Visual Communication
  • Business Administration
  • Liberal Studies
  • Music Therapy
  • Tourism

Let’s get you into top courses with no stress

We have discussed the top 7 colleges in Vancouver, their courses, eligibility, and fees for international students in Vancouver in 2022. You can also look at other public colleges in Vancouver such as the Vancouver Community College or the Emily Carr University of Arts.

Here’s a look at how you can apply seamlessly for these courses. Applying for the best courses is literally a touch away with the T.C. Global web application or mobile app.
Explore courses and start your journey here.

Getting Started

To move forward with us, download our app or visit tcglobal.com and sign in to create an account on our student platform! 🚀 Once you’re logged in to your platform, onboard with us by giving us some initial information! ✅Once you’ve done this, visit Calendly.com/tcglobal to pick a Relationships team closest to you and choose a slot that works well for you for an e-meet with our team 🤙🏻🥳Let’s shape your future together 🌍😊

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Date added
30.11.2023

Filed under:

Global Ed

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