As an international student, studying in Canada can be an excellent way to access a high-quality education and experience life in Canada. Moreover, permanent resident pathways are available for international students who’ve graduated from Canadian universities or colleges and want to settle in the country.
Amidst the province’s growing popularity as a study destination for international students, the number of study permits issued for students moving to Manitoba, Canada, continues to increase. In 2022, Manitoba welcomed 14,755 international students—representing an 18 per cent year-on-year increase in study permit approvals for the province.
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There are many reasons why international students choose to study in Manitoba, Canada. Here are some things about Manitoba that resonate with students:
Whether you’re in the capital city of Winnipeg or in the student city of Brandon, you’ll experience a high quality of life in Manitoba. Manitoba gives students access to essential amenities needed for a comfortable life, as well as a safe, friendly environment. Although the cost of living in Canada may be much higher than what you’re used to back home, it will likely be less expensive to live in Manitoba than in other provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, or Alberta.
Compared to provinces like Ontario and British Columbia, universities and colleges in Manitoba tend to have a lower cost of education. Even though international students pay a significantly higher fee than domestic students, studying in Manitoba may be more affordable than in other parts of Canada.
Manitoban society is multicultural and, as a student, it isn’t too hard to find a taste of home here. In 2021, the top source countries of international students to Manitoba were India (26.5 per cent), China (12.9 per cent), Nigeria (10 per cent), Bangladesh (6.6 per cent), and Hong Kong SAR (4.7 per cent).
As an international student in Canada, you’ll need to be reasonably proficient in the official language. Language skills are an essential admissions criterion for most universities and colleges and you’ll also need to speak and understand the language to manage your day-to-day tasks in Canada.
English is the official language in Manitoba and it will be the language in which your classes and coursework will be delivered in school, and the official language of communication at work and in your daily life. Compared to French, Canada’s second official language, many international students find it easier to master English.
There is no shortage of job opportunities in Manitoba, especially in the fields of agriculture, manufacturing, tourism, electricity, oil, mining and forestry. As an international student, it’s not too hard to find part-time work during your studies or full-time opportunities after you graduate.
You can only work part-time while studying in Canada if your study permit allows it. That said, it is an excellent way to get some Canadian work experience for your resume and earn some extra money to cover some of your living expenses in Canada.
If you plan to stay and work in Manitoba after you graduate, you’ll need to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP). You may qualify for a PGWP if you studied at an eligible Designated Learning Institution (DLI) and the length of your study program was at least eight months. Any Canadian work experience you gather will make it easier for you to qualify for permanent residence (PR) later after graduation.
Here are some things you should know before moving to Manitoba for your studies:
Manitoba is home to several prestigious universities, and many international students come to the province for post-secondary education. Some of the top universities in Manitoba include:
According to the QS World University Ranking 2024, the University of Manitoba is ranked #23 in Canada. The University of Manitoba has two main campuses in Winnipeg, as well as several satellite campuses. The school enrolls over 30,000 students in its undergraduate and graduate programs.
The school offers over 100 undergraduate programs, 99 master’s programs, and 47 doctoral programs. You may be able to find study options across the faculties of agricultural and food sciences, architecture, art, business, education, engineering, environment, health sciences, kinesiology, law, music, social work, and science.
The University of Winnipeg is one of the top universities in Manitoba. The school has a campus in Winnipeg, the provincial capital. Over 8,945 students attend the university, including 1,486 (16.6 per cent) international students.
The school offers over 50 undergraduate and 17 graduate programs across five faculties — Arts, Science, Business & Economics, Kinesiology & Applied Health, and Education.
Located in Brandon, the second-largest city in Manitoba, Brandon University is one of the most popular regional schools in Canada. Nearly 3,200 students attend the school each year of which approximately 500 are international students.
The school offers 19 undergraduate, six graduate, and three certificate programs with specialization options in arts, science, education, health studies, or music.
Although international student enrollment in Manitoba’s colleges is increasing, the province’s universities still hold more appeal. If you’re planning to study in Manitoba, it’s a good idea to explore the program options available at the following colleges:
Known as one of the top colleges in Manitoba, Assiniboine has two campuses in Brandon, as well as one each in Winnipeg, Dauphin, and Southport, Manitoba. The school enrolls over 650 international students from 25 countries.
Assiniboine College offers over 60 certificate, diploma and advanced credential programs across disciplines like culinary arts and hospitality, business, agriculture and environment, health and human services, trades and technology. The school also offers apprenticeship programs for several skilled trades.
The international student fee ranges based on program type and duration, as well as the credential you receive. Typically, advanced diploma programs have an annual fee ranging from $15,270 to $16,220, while diploma programs cost between $15,270 and $19,520. Certificate programs have an annual tuition fee of $17,395 to $22,780.
Manitoba Institute of Trades and Technology is one of the leading colleges in the province. The school has three campuses in Winnipeg and enrolls over 4,000 students.
MITT offers over 30 certificate, diploma, and post–graduate programs across the fields of applied business, human services, information and communication technology, design and manufacturing technologies, health care, and skilled trades. The curriculum for each program focuses on employability skills to make your transition to the workforce easier.
The average international student tuition fee ranges between $12,500 and $19,850 depending on the program type and duration.
Red River College Polytech is Manitoba’s largest institute of applied learning and research. The institute has eight campuses across Manitoba, including three in Winnipeg and five regional campuses.
RRC offers 100+ programs in the areas of business and management, community services, IT, creative arts, culinary, education, engineering and construction technology, health sciences, Indigenous education, skilled trades, and transportation technology. The school offers the entire spectrum of credentials including degree, advanced diploma, certificate, diploma, and postgraduate diploma programs.
The average international student tuition fee ranges between $9,228 and $21,548 depending on the program type and duration.
The International College of Manitoba is a unique institution that offers pathways for students to transition to the University of Manitoba. Based in Winnipeg, within the University of Manitoba Fort Garry campus, the school enrolls international students from over 80 different countries.
The school offers University Transfer Programs at two levels: Foundation or UTP 1, into which students can enrol after grade 11 or equivalent, and UTP 2, into which students can enrol after high school. The UTP 2 undergraduate program options include agricultural and food sciences, arts, business, engineering, environment, recreation management, and science.
Students must pay a total fee of $19,689 for UTP 1 and a fee of $20,690 for UTP 2.
As an international student planning to study in Manitoba, Canada, you’ll have several prominent universities and colleges to choose from. Not only is post-secondary education in Manitoba cheaper compared to other provinces in Canada, but the province’s diversity also makes it easier for international students to adapt to their new life and feel at home in Canada.
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