Many international students globally are drawn to Canada’s higher education system. Studying in Canada is an attractive option for international students due to the high-quality education offered by Canadian schools, the quality of life of Canadian cities and towns, as well as the possibility of qualifying for permanent residence after graduation.
Alberta is one of the popular student destinations in Canada, and the province’s market share of student visa approvals in Canada continues to increase. In 2022, Alberta welcomed over 21,086 international students, representing a 36 per cent year-on-year increase in study permit approvals for the province. This increase was significantly higher than the national average of 27 per cent, clearly indicating the growing popularity of Albertan universities and colleges among the international student audience.
In this article:
There are many reasons why international students choose to come to Alberta to study. Here are some aspects that international students find attractive about Alberta:
Whether you’re in the capital city of Edmonton, in Calgary, or in the smaller student city of Lethbridge, you’ll experience a high quality of life. Alberta offers international students access to essential amenities that promise a comfortable life as well as the safety and freedom that Canada is well-known for. Moreover, the province has a strong job market and multicultural communities, which allow students to lead fulfilling social and professional lives outside school.
Over 23.2 per cent of Alberta’s population comprises immigrants from different parts of the world, and as a result, the province is very diverse. 21.4 per cent of Albertans speak a mother tongue other than English or French.
Whether you’re looking to build your community or find groceries and food from your home country, it may be relatively easy to find a taste of home in Alberta, especially if you’re in a large city like Calgary or Edmonton.
Alberta boasts several prestigious universities and colleges, including the University of Alberta and the University of Calgary, both of which are considered to be in the top 200 schools globally. Colleges in Alberta are also gaining popularity among international students as they tend to offer shorter study programs that are more job-oriented. Regardless of what you plan to study, you’ll find several high-ranking institutions in Alberta that offer suitable study programs.
As an international student in Canada, you’ll need to understand, speak, and write the official language of the province reasonably well. Not only is language proficiency an essential admissions criterion in most universities and colleges, but you’ll also need to be familiar with the language to get around and manage your day-to-day tasks in Canada.
English is the official language in Alberta and this is the language in which you will communicate at school, at work, and in your daily life. Many international students find it easier to master English, compared to French, Canada’s other official language.
Alberta has a strong job market with sufficient job opportunities in most fields, so it’s not too hard for international students to find part-time work during their studies or full-time opportunities after they graduate.
As an international student, you can only work part-time if your study permit allows it. That said, working while studying is an excellent way to get some Canadian experience for your resume and earn some extra money to cover part of your living expenses in Canada.
If you plan to stay and work in Alberta after you graduate, you’ll need a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). You may qualify for a PGWP if your study program was longer than eight months and if you studied at an eligible Designated Learning Institution (DLI). Canadian work experience can also make it easier for international students to qualify for permanent residence (PR) later.
Compared to provinces like Ontario and British Columbia (B.C.), the cost of education is lower in Alberta. Even accounting for the fact that international student tuition fees are typically more than double what domestic students pay, you’ll find your studies to be more affordable compared to schools in many other Canadian provinces.
Knowing what to expect before you come to Alberta for your studies can make your transition smoother. Here are a few things to keep in mind while planning for your education in Alberta:
Many of the world’s (and Canada’s) top universities are located in Alberta. According to the QS World University Ranking 2024, the following are the best universities in Alberta:
Ranked #111 in the world and #4 in Canada, the University of Alberta has four campuses in Edmonton and one in Camrose, Alberta. The school admits over 41,000 students across 18 faculties.
The school offers 200 undergraduate program options, as well as 500 graduate programs across faculties such as science, arts, education, law, engineering, business, medicine and dentistry, nursing, native studies, pharmacy, environmental sciences and more.
Ranked #8 in Canada and #182 in the world, the University of Calgary has four campuses in Calgary, Alberta, and one in Doha, Qatar. Over 34,000 students attend the school each year, including 8,000 graduate students.
UCalgary offers over 250 undergraduate programs and more than 175 graduate degrees across 65 programs. These programs cover fields such as medicine, arts, law, kinesiology, nursing, science, social work, veterinary medicine, business, architecture, engineering, and education.
With two campuses in Calgary, the school enrols nearly 15,000 students each year. Mount Royal University is best known for its personalized and innovative learning environment.
Mount Royal University offers 36 undergraduate degree programs, including study programs in arts, business, child studies, nursing, computer information systems, social work, and education, as well as several diploma and certificate programs. The school currently does not offer master’s or doctoral programs.
Considered one of the top universities in Alberta, over 18,000 students attend MacEwan University in downtown Edmonton each year.
The school offers 28 undergraduate degree programs across the faculties of arts and science, fine arts and communication, health and community studies, and nursing, and the school of business. At present, MacEwan does not offer graduate programs.
AUArts is one of four Canadian universities specializing in arts, crafts, and design programs. The university has a campus in Calgary, Alberta.
The school offers 14 subject areas within the field of arts and students can enrol in undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
A common misconception among international students is that college programs in Canada are not as valuable or sought after as university programs. However, this perception is rapidly changing and, in 2021, Alberta saw the second-highest year-on-year growth rate in college study permit approvals, after Ontario. Overall, college-level education was the fastest-growing study level in Alberta last year.
If you’re planning to apply to colleges in Alberta, make sure these popular schools are on your list:
Bow Valley College has its main campus in Calgary and regional campuses in Airdrie, Cochrane, Banff, and Okotoks.
The school offers post-secondary and post-graduate certificate and diploma programs in technology, business, entertainment arts, community studies, and health and wellness.
Typically, international students at Bow Valley pay a tuition fee ranging from $4,733 to $14,400 per term, depending on the credential earned. The program length can also vary significantly, from single-term to six-term programs, which can affect your total tuition cost.
In 2021-22, nearly 20 per cent of students enrolled at Bow Valley College were international students.
NAIT is a polytechnic institution and one of the largest apprenticeship training schools in Canada. At a given time, the school has over 15,700 students enrolled in credit programs and over 7,000 students in apprenticeship programs.
NAIT offers 89 credit programs leading to degrees, applied degrees, diplomas and certificates. The school also offers 31 registered trades programs.
The average international student tuition fee at Northern Alberta Institute of Technology ranges between $11,970 and $42,000 per year.
In 2021-22, international students at NAIT comprised 8.28 per cent of the total incoming students.
Located in Lethbridge, Alberta, Lethbridge College is considered to be one of Canada’s most prestigious research colleges.
The college offers more than 60 certificate, diploma, applied degree, degree and apprenticeship programs in the areas of agriculture, nursing, business, criminal justice, arts, sciences, culinary arts and other trades.
The annual tuition fee typically ranges from $10,870 to $23,251, depending on the study program chosen.
In 2021-22, 9.1 per cent of students enrolled at Lethbridge College were international students.
SAIT has one main campus and three satellite campuses in Calgary, Alberta.
SAIT offers nearly 200 programs that lead to applied and bachelor degrees, diplomas, certificates, and apprenticeships. Programs are available across multiple areas of study, including business, construction and trades, engineering technology, hospitality, arts, health, arts, transportation, and more.
The annual tuition fee typically ranges from $7,740 to $30,950, depending on the study program chosen.
SAIT offers over 850 different types of scholarships and awards, including entrance awards, athletic scholarships, school-specific awards, and apprenticeship awards.
In 2021-22, international students at SAIT comprised 13.58 per cent of the total incoming students.
Lakeland College is renowned for its agriculture research and trades programs. Over 7,000 students are enrolled across the school’s two campuses – at Lloydminster and Vermilion, Alberta.
The school offers over 50 programs in the areas of agricultural sciences, business, energy, environmental sciences, health and wellness, fire and emergency services, human services, education, interior design technology, and trades.
Typically, international students at Lakeland College pay an annual tuition fee ranging from $17,673 to $33,269.75, depending on the study program.
In 2021-22, nearly 4.52 per cent of the total incoming students at Lakeland College were international students.
As an international student planning to study in Alberta, Canada, you’ll have many universities and colleges to choose from. Alberta is home to some of the most prestigious educational institutions in the world, including the University of Alberta. Moreover, the province’s diversity and multiculturalism make it easier for international students to adapt to their new life and feel at home in Canada.
This article offers general information only and is not intended as legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. While information presented is believed to be factual and current, its accuracy is not guaranteed and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the author(s) as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by Royal Bank of Canada or its affiliates.
Arrive is operated by Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), the largest bank in Canada* and one of the most reputed banks in the world, employing 80,000 people worldwide. In collaboration with RBC, Arrive is dedicated to helping newcomers achieve their life, career, and financial goals in Canada.
*Based on market capitalization
Disclaimer:
This article offers general information only and is not intended as legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. While information presented is believed to be factual and current, its accuracy is not guaranteed and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the author(s) as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by Royal Bank of Canada or its affiliates.
Get the latest updates, resources, and stories about the Canadian experience.
Subscribe to our newsletter
