Universities in Canada without an application fee: Complete Guide

Did you know Indian students on average pay between ₹9,200 (for universities in Canada) and ₹51,200 (for universities in the UK) in application fees alone? The average application fee in the USA is around ₹15,000 per college. 

Now consider this. As an international applicant, you will be applying to at least three to five colleges. Even if you apply to only three colleges in the USA, it inflates your application costs to ₹45,000 without any guarantee of acceptance.

Luckily, there are some colleges in Canada without application fees. 

If you are thinking of applying to such universities in Canada without an application fee, this guide will help. 

In this guide, we will share a list of colleges in Canada that do not require you to pay any application fees. We will also share the rationale behind our selection, and the application process for those colleges. 

Also, if you are looking for community colleges in Canada without application fees or cheap colleges in Canada without application fees, this guide will help. 

Why choose universities without application fees in Canada?

There are numerous benefits to choosing colleges in Canada without application fees for international students. 

Save Money

Most Canadian universities charge CAD 50 – CAD 200 per application. Now let’s say you choose to apply only to colleges in Canada without an application fee. If you plan on applying to five universities, you are saving around ₹46,000.

Increased Chance of Admission

Applying to a college doesn’t guarantee admission. Students have to pass all the eligibility criteria to get their seats confirmed. When you save on paying the application fee for even a couple of colleges, the total number of colleges you can apply to increases. This multiplies your chance of getting accepted at a college of your choice. 

Financial Flexibility

You are going to incur multiple overhead expenses in your study abroad journey. Apply to colleges without application fees in Canada, and fund other expenses with the savings.

Education Becomes More Accessible

Many students tend to defer applying to international colleges due to money constraints. Without an application fee, pursuing an international education becomes more accessible. 

Scholarship Opportunities Increases

Many institutions provide automatic scholarship consideration as soon as the application is submitted. More applications increase your chance of getting accepted into a scholarship program.

Top universities in Canada without application fee for 2026

Before we tell you the top universities in Canada without application fees, there is an important piece of information you need to know.

• Some universities do not charge an application fee at all.
• Some universities offer an application fee waiver, meaning they usually charge a fee but may remove it for certain applicants.
• For some universities, you only need to apply for the waiver, while for others, your request will be reviewed and validated by the admissions office.

So, overall, your application fee waiver can be conditional based on specific eligibility criteria. But there are also some universities that do not charge any application fees under any circumstances. These conditions keep changing, so we strongly recommend checking the official university website when planning your study abroad.

Below is the list of universities in Canada without any application fee. Don’t forget to check out their terms for eligibility for the application fee exemption.

University	Eligibility Criteria	Programs Covered	What we Like	QS World University Rankings (2025)
University of Winnipeg	Some applicants. Changes with every year. Check with the admission office	All undergraduate and graduate courses	Accessible tuition cost with an emphasis on Indigenous studies	NA
Cambrian College	Waivered offered for certain intakes. Check with the admission office for details	Certificate, diploma, and degree programs	Low tuition costs along with practical skills gain	NA
Fanshawe University	Waivered offered for certain intakes. Check with the admission office for details	Certificates and diplomas	Easy accessibility. Supports career-driven programs with Co-op	NA
Royal Roads	Students from Canada and abroad under sponsorship programs. Check the admission office for details	All undergraduate and graduate courses	Provides practical and professional programs	NA
Centennial College	International students who reside in Canada and have valid study permits	All undergraduate and graduate programs	Experiential learning includes co-op programs	NA
Conestoga College	Some applicants. Email the college to request a waiver	Certificates, diplomas, and degree programs	One of the best in Ontario for applied education	NA
Fairleigh Dickinson University (Vancouver Campus)	All applicants	Undergraduate and also postgraduate programs	International university with an emphasis on small classrooms	NA
Crandall University	Some applicants. Changes with every year. Check with the admission office	Eligible programs change every year	Close-knit community and personalized education	NA
Durham College	Some applicants. Contact admission office for information	All undergraduate and graduate programs	Emphasis on experiential learning and industry connections	NA
Mohawk College	Some applicants. Contact admission office for information	All undergraduate and graduate programs	Outstanding Health and Technology programs.	NA
University of British Columbia	International applicants from the least developed 50 countries in the world (as per the United Nations list)	All undergraduate and graduate programs	One of the leading universities with high-quality academic research productivity	38
St. Clair’s College	Waiver not given regularly. Check social media or admission office for updates	Certificate and diploma programs	Provides comprehensive hands-on training and job employment skills	NA
Confederation College	For specific intakes. Contact admission office	All programs	Known for its aviation and aerospace programs	NA
Fleming College	For specific intakes and returning students	All programs	Renowned for its environmental and natural resources science program	NA
North Eastern University (Toronto campus)	Need-based waiver. Contact the admission office for details	All programs	Emphasizes professional graduate courses with industry learning	388
University of Toronto Scarborough	Some applicants for specific programs. Check website for details	Psychological Clinical Science, Linguistics, and Doctor of Philosophy Programs	A close-knit community, focuses on interdisciplinary research	25
University of New Brunswick	Any international student who has attended a high school in Canada.	All undergraduate and graduate programs	Broad-scope programs and many scholarship opportunities	NA
Mount Allison University	Some applicants. Contact the admission office for details	Undergraduate	Frequently named among Canada’s top universities	NA
Algoma University	Approved students qualifying for joint admission programs. Contact admissions office	Undergraduate	Friendly environment with low faculty-to-student ratio	NA
Seneca College	Specific applicants. See admissions guidelines	Certificate, diploma, and degree programs	One of the largest postsecondary institutions in Canada with considerable industry relations	NA
University of Guelph	Canadian high school students who have attended certain UNB recruitment events	All undergraduate programs	Excellent Research and comprehensive programs	456

Also Read: How Much Gap Is Accepted for Study in Canada?

Universities in Canada without application fee for international students

Many of the university application fee waivers are for Canadian citizens or permanent residents. But a handful of universities do invite applications without a fee for international students. If you are an Indian student looking to move abroad, you can currently apply to: 

• Fairleigh Dickinson University, Vancouver campus, offers an application fee waiver for all students applying for their 2026 Spring and Fall intakes.
• The University of Guelph also has an application fee waiver for international high‑school students outside Canada for the Fall 2026 intake. International students will have to attend a webinar to get the application fee waiver. 

You can also check your preferred university’s website for the exact eligibility criteria, as some waivers apply only to specific programmes, countries or intakes.

Universities in Canada without IELTS and application fees

Some universities in Canada also offer alternatives to IELTS and a free application process for graduate courses. 

Out of the above mentioned universities, the University of Winnipeg (Manitoba) allows international students to submit alternatives such as:

• Duolingo (minimum score 120), or 
• TOEFL iBT (minimum 86 with each component at least 20). 

The University of British Columbia (Vancouver) also allows applications without an IELTS test score. It accepts CAEL, PTE Academic and TOEFL. You also skip a test if their previous degree was in English.

Look beyond just the application fee

While finding universities in Canada without application fees can help you save money upfront, it’s important to consider other key factors before making your decision. Over the long run, the application fee is a relatively small cost compared to other expenses like tuition, living costs, and career opportunities after graduation. Choosing a university based only on the absence of an application fee may not always be the best decision.

Course Curriculum

Research on possible courses and majors which you can undertake on enrollment.

Accreditation and Reputation

Key metrics to consider are rankings, and faculty and students’ performance over the years.

Tuition Fees and Living Costs

Check whether the tuition cost is affordable. Also take into account the living costs of that area.

Location and Campus Facilities

Learn about the availability of essential infrastructure. For example libraries, laboratories, student service centers, and other basic facilities.  

Post-Graduation Opportunities

Check for employment aid, internship options, and immigration rules post course-completion.

Note: It’s obvious that choosing the right university isn’t just about saving on application fees. You have to find a program that fits your budget, career goals, and learning preferences. Comparing all these factors across universities can feel overwhelming.

That’s where GradRight’s university-search platform helps. 

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How to find colleges in Canada without application fees?

Now that you know how to evaluate universities beyond just the application fee, the next step is actually finding more universities in Canada that offer application fee waivers. 

While we’ve listed some of the top options, there are many more universities and colleges that may have temporary or program-specific waivers.

Manually checking each university’s policy can take a lot of time and effort. But don’t worry—there are smart ways to speed up the process.

Go Through The Individual Websites Of Universities

The best and easiest way to do this is to look at the school’s official website. Most institutions have their policies published online and if there is a waiver available, it will usually be mentioned in the admissions section. Look out for the following subheadings which may contain relevant information:

• Admission Policies
• Application Procedures
• Application Fee Waiver Policies (for international students, domestic applicants, or students applying for specific programs)

During certain months, some universities allow students to submit applications free of charge. Moreover, universities alliance with organizations that help subsidize or cover the application fees.

Check for Specific Program-Related Waivers

Certain exchange programs or consortiums allow students to submit applications without an application fee. Review the scholarship section of every university’s page to discover these offers.

Call the Admission Offices

Make a more detailed inquiry with admissions. Most universities will look to assist students who qualify for fee waivers. However, they may not actively publicize their options. This is especially true if there is limited funding available.

• Send an email or call the admissions office to ask whether they have any available waivers.
• State your academic qualifications as well your financial situation.
• Ask if there are any set periods during which applications can be submitted without a fee.

Admission representatives often explain how prospective students can avoid paying the application fee.

Look into Particular Requirements of the Application

Different universities differ in their policies of waiving application fees. Some of the schools might only offer it to students who:

• Submit applications by a specific deadline (admissions within certain time frames are often free).
• Employ Common App or ApplyBoard application submissions, both of which sometimes have waivers.
• Aim for certain programs like research-based degrees or specific scholarships.
• Come from developing countries, as some universities offer specially tailored waivers for students from poorer regions.

Understanding the nuances of the admissions policy will help you know whether you are eligible for a fee waiver or not.

Stay Updated on Changes Related to Application Fees

Most universities also have the option of setting fee-free application periods. But this is usually reserved for certain intakes or certain universities in particular. Staying updated on such information can help you make good use of such policies.

Universities usually post on social media like LinkedIn or Twitter about waivers. Follow their social media handles and keep track of their announcements. You can also receive fee waiver announcements from universities by subscribing to their newsletters.

Study in Canada, EduCanada, and other government portals offer information on scholarships and fee waivers. Keep yourself informed, invested and involved by following these pages. 

Also Read: List of Top Management Courses in Canada with Best Colleges and Fees

Tips for applying to universities without application fees in Canada

If you wish to apply to colleges in Canada without an application fee, follow these steps to ensure a smooth application process. 

Check If You Qualify for the Application Fee Waiver 

Colleges with no application fees might not include all programs under the waiver. Eligibility criteria may differ from university to university. 

• Certain universities do not charge application fees for students of selected countries.
• For specific undergraduate, graduate, or research programs within the institution.
• Waivers based on financial needs, but proof of financial difficulties may be required.

Understand the institution’s application fee guidelines before proceeding with your application.

Submit Your Applications Early

Many universities have a limited number of application fee waivers.

Be aware of the application timeline. Certain universities provide free applications to students who apply before a specific date. Take advantage of that. With rolling admissions, universities will process applications as they are received. Applying early will guarantee that your application is reviewed before classes begin.

Arrange Required Documents

Compile all necessary paperwork before submitting your application. The following are the requisite documents:

• Academic transcripts (translated where needed)
• English as a second language assessment (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)
• Statement of purpose (SOP) or personal essay
• Letters of recommendation (where necessary)
• A valid passport and ID
• Resume/CV (applicable for graduate or other relevant employment applications)

Costs of Studying in Canada (Beyond Application Fees)

Over the long term, the application fee is just a small part of the total cost of studying abroad. To make an informed decision, you need to look at the bigger picture. Here are some key expenses you should consider when planning your study abroad journey:

• One of the most notable expenses is academic fees. Depending on the university and program, tuition can cost anywhere between CAD 7,000 and CAD 60,000 per annum. 
• Apart from tuition fees, you will have to set aside money for textbooks, laboratory fees, or software required for the coursework. Add to this the cost of acquiring a study permit, Visa application fees and the cost of taking your proficiency examinations like the IELTS or TOEFL.
• You must also take into account the living expenses in Canada, which depend on the lifestyle and the city. Living in Toronto or Vancouver can be less affordable for some students. For example, on-campus housing at the University of British Columbia ranges from CAD 8,000 to CAD 15,000 a year. Off-campus rentals are usually more expensive. 
• Other costs like health insurance and transportation range from CAD 80 to 150 a month. Phone bills, groceries, and other daily expenses are also part of the living cost. 
• Overall, the cost of studying in Canada for Indian students in large cities like Toronto or Vancouver can reach CAD 1,500 per month or more.. 

How to Fund Your Education at a University in Canada

Here are some ways to fund your education while studying in Canada:

• Research about Education loans. Look for a low-interest education loan and negotiate with the bank or NBFC for the best terms. 
• Seek scholarship funds. A majority of institutions have financial aid or sponsorship schemes for promising pupils. For example, start-year funding, and waivers for financial distress. You can also explore external scholarship grants.
• Look for part-time employment opportunities to support yourself while studying.
• Explore Assistantship positions. Some graduate students qualify for teaching or research assistant positions. Working while getting your degree can help offset tuition and living expenses.

Student visa in Canada

If you plan to study in Canada, you will also need a student visa or study permit. International students are eligible if they enrol at a Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) approved institution known as a “designated learning institution” (DLI). 

 You must also prove you have enough money for tuition, living expenses and return transportation. 

After receiving your letter of acceptance from a DLI, you have to gather documents: 

• proof of identity (passport), 
• financial support, and 
• a provincial or territorial attestation letter (PAL or TAL). 

 The process is usually online, and the application fee for a study permit is CAD 150

But financial support minimums to qualify for a student visa in Canada are going up. 

International students now have to show living‑expense funds of CAD 22,895 (for one person) in addition to tuition and travel.

In 2024, the Canadian government also announced it would cap new international student study permits at around 360,000. That was a reduction of about 35% from 2023 levels. The cap was further set at approximately 437,000 study permits in 2025 and similar trends are expected for 2026.

Note: Funding your education in Canada can feel overwhelming, but the right strategy makes it manageable. While scholarships and part-time jobs help, securing an education loan with the best terms is often essential. That’s where GradRight’s loan-search platform comes in.

Instead of visiting multiple banks and comparing loan options on your own, GradRight’s loan-search platform connects you with 15+ lenders—Indian banks, international NBFCs, and private lenders—all in one place.

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• Sign up and create your profile.
• Get loan offers from multiple lenders in real-time.
• Compare options based on interest rates, loan terms, and repayment flexibility.
• Speak to a financial advisor for unbiased guidance.
• Select the best offer and complete your loan process—all online.

With zero paperwork and no need for multiple applications, GradRight’s loan-search platform simplifies your loan search, helping you secure funds stress-free.

Also Read: Education Loan for Study in Canada: Interest Rates, Courses, Requirements & Banks

Conclusion

Extensive research and outreach are needed to find universities without application fees in Canada. That said, checking university websites for available scholarships, reaching out to admissions to find out their criteria, and remaining up to date with the news are all effective ways to increase your chances of applying to reputable universities. Following these steps will help you save money and at the same time increase your chances of being admitted into a Canadian top-tier university.

FAQ’S