Canadian Universities with free application fee in 2024

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One of the key elements that sets Canada apart from other countries as a top study abroad destination is its affordability. 28 universities in Canada made a mark for excellence in the QS rankings for 2023. For Indian students, the application fee for top Canadian universities ranges from 50 to 250 CAD, or roughly 3,000 to 14,800 INR.

It is essential to find ways to reduce pre-arrival expenses because they are entirely out-of-pocket costs. There are no financial aid or scholarship options to cover them. To ease the financial burden of attending school in Canada, we have created a comprehensive list of Canadian universities that do not charge application fees. This blog will provide information on Canadian colleges and universities that do not charge an application fee, as well as the application procedure and other expenses associated with universities that do not charge an application fee for international students.

Why Search for Canadian Universities without Application Fees?

The best way to pay for your education in Canada is to save every dollar you can. Only about 5% of Canadian colleges and universities don’t charge an application fee. You should search for Canadian universities that don’t charge an application fee for prospective international students for the following reasons:

1-An international student’s only real option for cost savings is through scholarships. So, when applying, it’s crucial to list a few affordable Canadian universities that don’t charge an application fee.

2-We’re not just talking about 50 or 250 CAD here; when you plan to apply to several universities, the price ranges from 250 to 1250 CAD. You end up spending between 14,800 and 75,000 INR in this manner.

3-Even if you apply to, let’s say, 5 institutions, you will only accept an admission offer from one of them. The application fees are non-refundable, so you cannot get your money back once you pay them. You can avoid spending a lot of money on applications by including some Canadian universities that don’t charge an application fee.

The following is a list of Canadian colleges without application fees:

Centennial College
Cambrian College
Canadore College
Confederation College
Conestoga College
Durham College
Fanshawe College
Fleming College
Lambton College
Mohawk College
Northern College
Clair College

Why University in Canada waive the application fee?

One reason is to attract more applicants, particularly those who may be deterred by the cost of the application fee. This could help increase the number of applicants, and potentially improve the diversity and quality of the applicant pool. Another reason is to support equitable access to education, particularly for students who may face financial barriers to higher education. By waiving the application fee, universities can help reduce financial barriers and promote equal access to educational opportunities. Additionally, some universities may offer waived application fees as a part of their outreach efforts to specific groups of students, such as Indigenous students, low-income students, or international students from developing countries.

Universities in Canada with free application fees

You can save your application fee in three different ways. You can apply to Canadian universities without paying an application fee, ask for an application fee waiver, or use the Student Partnership Program to so (SPP). The below table lists the Canadian universities and programs that have no application fee:

University	Popular Programs
University of Alberta	MEng in Engineering Management Master of Business Administration Master of Public Health MS in Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Science Master of Fine Arts BS in Agriculture
University of British Columbia	Bachelor of Commerce BS in Nursing BS in Data Science Master of Business Administration Master of Data Science MS in Computer Science MEng in Mechanical Engineering
Quest University	Diploma in Business Administration Diploma in Environmental Protection Technology Certificate in Healthcare Leadership Certificate in Accounting Technician
Tyndale University	BA in Global Tourism Management, BA in International Hotel Management, Master of Global Management, MA in Tourism Management, MS in Environment and Management
Royal Roads University	BS in Business Administration, BS in Information Technology, BA in Hospitality and Tourism Management, Master of Administrative Science MS in Applied Computer Science, Master of Hospitality Management Studies
Booth University College	Master of Divinity, Master of Theological Studies Master of Theology, Doctor of Ministry
Fairleigh Dickinson University	Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Technical Education, Master of Education, Master of Organizational Management, French Immersion Education Certificate
University of Calgary	BS in Computer Science BS in Software Engineering BS in Mechanical Engineering Bachelor of Nursing BA in Psychology MS in Computer Science Master of Business Administration Master of Management MA in Economics MEng in Civil Engineering MEng in Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering
University of Victoria	MEng in Mechanical Engineering MS in Psychology MBA in Sustainable Innovation MA in Economics Master of Nursing
University of Winnipeg	BA in Human Rights MA in Cultural Studies, MA in Criminal Justice, Master in Management, MS in Applied Computer Science and Society
Crandall University	BS in Business Administration, BS in Information Technology, BA in Hospitality and Tourism Management, Master of Administrative Science, MS in Applied Computer Science, Master of Hospitality Management Studies
Northeastern University Vancouver	Master of Professional Studies in Analytics Master of Science in Computer Science Master of Science in Data Analytics Engineering Align Master of Science in Computer Science
Northeastern University Toronto	Master of Science in Project Management Master of Science in Regulatory Affairs Master of Science in Biotechnology Master of Science in Information systems Master of Professional Studies in Analytics

Application Process for Universities in Canada without Application Fees

There isn’t a single application portal for all Canadian universities that applicants can use to manage their applications. A centralized website called the Ontario Universities Application Center is available for applicants to public universities in Ontario (OUAC). In addition, all international students may apply by filling out the form on the university website. Examine the application procedure for Canadian universities that don’t charge an application fee:

1-Make a short list of the colleges that offer the programs you want to study at, including a few Canadian institutions that don’t charge an international applicant fee.

2-Gather information about the university’s eligibility requirements, admissions options, and application deadlines by visiting the university’s official website.

3-Complete the online application found on the school’s website and submit it along with the required application fee or, in the case of Canadian universities that don’t charge an application fee for international students, a request for an application fee waiver.

4-On time, upload the supporting documents for your application.

5-Search for available scholarships and submit your application by the deadlines.

6-Keep tabs on the progress of your application and watch for any changes.

7-You will get the letter of admission via email if you are accepted.

8-Make sure you accept the offer for admission within the deadline mentioned on the offer and submit the tuition deposit.

9-Once you have received the admission offer, you can apply for a Canadian study permit.

Costs Involved in the Application Process to Study in Canada

There are additional costs associated with applying to Canadian universities in addition to the application fee. There will be pre-arrival costs, such as registration fees for competitive exams, visa processing fees, health insurance, air tickets, etc., even if you apply to Canadian universities without an application fee. Look at the additional fees associated with applying to Canadian universities as an international student without paying an application fee:

Expense	Average Cost for International Students
SAT fees	7,860 INR (132 CAD)
ACT fees	11,714 INR (198 CAD)
GRE fees	16,098 INR (270 CAD)
GMAT fees	18,895 INR (320 CAD)
TOEFL fees	14,197 INR (245 CAD)
IELTS fees	16,250-18,895 INR (275-320 CAD)
Visa processing fees	8,880 INR (150 CAD)
Health insurance	35,000-53,000 INR (600-900 CAD)
Airfare	43,000-95,000 INR (720-1600 CAD)

How to waive application fees for universities in Canada?

The process for waiving the application fee for international students at Canadian universities may vary by institution. Some universities automatically waive the fee for certain groups of international students, such as those from developing countries, while others may require an application or supporting documentation. Here are some general steps that international students can take to waive the application fee at Canadian universities potentially:

1-Research universities: Identify universities in Canada that offer free application fees for international students or fee waivers based on specific criteria.

2-Check eligibility: Review the eligibility criteria for the waived application fee at each university. This may include academic requirements, financial need, or other factors.

3-Follow instructions: Follow the instructions provided by the university to apply for the waived application fee. This may involve completing an application form, submitting supporting documentation, or meeting with an advisor.

4-Submit application: Complete and submit your application for admission, including any required supporting documents.

5-Follow up: If you do not receive confirmation within a reasonable time that your application fee has been waived, follow up with the university to ensure your application has been processed correctly.

It’s important to note that the availability of waived application fees for international students can vary by university and may be subject to change. Therefore, it’s always a good idea to check with the individual institution for the most up-to-date information and instructions.

Frequently Asked Questions: Canadian Universities with Free Application Fee 2024

1- Which Canadian universities have free application fees?

Some Canadian universities that offer free application fees include the University of Alberta, the University of Manitoba, the University of Prince Edward Island, and Dalhousie University. However, it’s important to note that this information can change over time, so it’s always a good idea to check with the individual universities.

2- Are there any specific requirements to be eligible for a waived application fee?

The requirements for waived application fees can vary by university. Some universities may waive application fees for certain groups, such as low-income students, Indigenous students, or international students from developing countries. Other universities may have different requirements, so checking with the individual institution is best.

3- How do I apply for a waived application fee at a Canadian university?

The process for applying for a waived application fee can vary by university. Some universities may automatically waive the fee for certain groups, while others may require an application or supporting documentation. It’s best to check with the individual institution for specific instructions.

4- Can international students receive waived application fees at Canadian universities?

Yes, some Canadian universities waive application fees for international students. However, the availability of these waivers can vary by institution, so it’s best to check with the individual university.

5- How long does a Canadian university process a waived application fee take?

The processing time for a waived application fee can vary by university. Some universities may process the fee immediately, while others may take several days or weeks. It’s best to check with the individual institution for more information.

6- Will I receive a confirmation when my waived application fee has been processed?

Most universities will send a confirmation email or letter once the application fee has been processed. If you don’t receive a confirmation within a reasonable time, it’s a good idea to follow up with the university.

7- Are there any limitations to the number of universities that can waive their application fees?

There are generally no limitations to the number of universities that can waive their application fees. However, it’s important to note that the availability of waived application fees can change over time, so it’s always a good idea to check with individual universities.

8- Can I still apply for financial aid or scholarships if I receive a waived application fee?

Yes, receiving a waived application fee does not affect your eligibility for financial aid or scholarships. You can still apply for these programs if you meet the eligibility criteria.

9- Do Canadian universities waive application fees for graduate and undergraduate programs?

Some Canadian universities offer waived application fees for undergraduate and graduate programs. However, the availability of these waivers can vary by institution, so it’s best to check with the individual university.

10- Will my application be given priority if I receive a waived application fee?

Generally, receiving a waived application fee does not affect the priority given to your application. However, some universities may prioritize certain groups, such as early applicants or students with exceptional academic records. It’s best to check with the individual institution for more information.