Top 15 cheapest nursing schools in Canada for international students
Canada hosts some of the world's highest-ranked universities and higher education institutions. If you are looking forward to a nursing course, here are the top 15 cheapest nursing schools in Canada for international students. We interviewed a representative from one of these institutions to gather information on certain factors such as financial support available, additional fees students should be aware of, and the clinical placements in its nursing program.
Source: UGC
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- Key takeaways
- Cheap universities in Canada for international students to study nursing
- 15. Western University
- 14. Dalhousie University
- 13. Queen's University
- 12. The University of British Columbia
- 11. University of Toronto
- 10. University of Manitoba
- 9. Saint Francis Xavier University
- 8. University of New Brunswick
- 7. University of Ottawa
- 6. University of Prince Edward Island
- 5. Memorial University of Newfoundland
- 4. University of Regina
- 3. Mount Royal University
- 2. Cape Breton University
- 1. Brandon University
- What are some cheap nursing schools in Canada for international students without IELTS?
- Is nursing a good course?
- What is the average tuition for 1-year nursing programs in Canada for international students?
- Can you study nursing at a Canadian school from Nigeria remotely?
- Are there 2-year nursing programs available in Canada for international students?
- What is the shortest nursing program?
- What is the easiest nursing program to get into?
- What is the cheapest university in Canada to study nursing for international students?
- What are some free nursing schools in Canada for international students?
- What are the requirements to study nursing in Canada for international students?
- How expensive is nursing school in Canada for international students?
- Which nursing course is in demand in Canada?
- What are the cheapest nursing schools in the USA for international students?
Key takeaways
- Relatively affordable institutions such as the University of New Brunswick, University of Prince Edward Island and Queen's University offer a two-year accelerated option for students with a previous degree.
- Various Canadian universities, such as the University of Ottawa, offer online or distance education options for nursing.
- The tuition fees for 1-year nursing programs in Canada for international students can vary widely depending on the institution. On average, students can expect to pay somewhere around CAD 25,000.
Cheap universities in Canada for international students to study nursing
Do you want to study nursing, but the programmes in your country do not satisfy you? There are relatively affordable nursing schools in Canada for international students. Find the nursing school of your dreams today. Note that their costs vary depending on the institution and other expenses.
Rank | University |
1. | Brandon University |
2. | Cape Breton University |
3. | Mount Royal University |
4. | University of Regina |
5. | Memorial University of Newfoundland |
6. | University of Prince Edward Island |
7. | University of Ottawa |
8. | University of New Brunswick |
9. | Saint Francis Xavier University |
10. | University of Manitoba |
11. | University of Toronto |
12. | The University of British Columbia |
13. | Queen's University |
14. | Dalhousie University |
15. | Western University |
15. Western University
- Founded: 1878
- Email: international@uwo.ca
The University of Western Ontario, located in London, Ontario, Canada, is a renowned public research university. At Western, you have the opportunity to pursue nursing and work toward becoming a Registered Nurse (RN) through their collaborative four-year program with Fanshawe College.
14. Dalhousie University
Source: UGC
- Founded: 1818
- Email: admissions@dal.ca
The Dalhousie University, located in Nova Scotia, Canada, is a prominent public research institution boasting three campuses in Halifax, another in Bible Hill, and a supplementary medical school campus in Saint John, New Brunswick.
The School of Nursing presents an undergraduate baccalaureate degree program, allowing students to complete the program in either three calendar years as direct entry students or two calendar years as advanced standing students.
13. Queen's University
- Founded: 1841
- Email: admission.queensu.ca
Queen's University, situated in Kingston, Ontario, is a prestigious Canadian institution renowned for its academic excellence and rich history. Queen's University provides two comprehensive full-time degree options: the BNSc four-year program and the two-year accelerated program tailored for individuals with prior university experience.
Additionally, they offer a range of advanced graduate programs, including the Master of Nursing – Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioner, Master of Nursing Science with both thesis and course-based pathways, a Primary Healthcare Nurse Practitioner Diploma, and an innovative online PhD in Nursing program.
12. The University of British Columbia
Source: UGC
- Founded: 1908
- Email: eli.registration@ubc.ca
Founded in 1908, the University of British Columbia (UBC) is a venerable public research university. The UBC School of Nursing, situated at the Vancouver Point Grey campus, holds historical significance as one of UBC's pioneering academic endeavours.
The undergraduate and graduate programs are taught by experienced and award-winning faculty members who work to build a strong nursing community.
11. University of Toronto
Source: UGC
- Founded: 1827
- Email: admissions.sgs@utoronto.ca
Ranked among the globe's leading research-intensive institutions, the University of Toronto draws brilliant individuals from diverse backgrounds. It is one of the best universities in Canada for international students with scholarship opportunities. The Lawrence S. Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing, integral to this institution, boasts a rich legacy in baccalaureate nursing education and enjoys worldwide acclaim for its exceptional educational offerings.
10. University of Manitoba
- Founded: 1877
- Email: student_recruitment@umanitoba.ca
The University of Manitoba, located in the province of Manitoba, is a prominent Canadian public research university.
Their Bachelor of Nursing (BN) program provides students with a strong foundation of nursing expertise, practical clinical training, and the abilities needed to excel in a dynamic, varied, and fulfilling nursing profession.
This program is conducted in Winnipeg and extended to The Pas and Thompson in partnership with the University College of the North.
9. Saint Francis Xavier University
Source: UGC
- Founded: 1853
- Email: admissions@stfx.ca
St. Francis Xavier University is regarded as one of the greatest undergraduate institutions in Canada. Saint Francis Xavier has four academic faculties and offers various undergraduate, graduate, and professional diploma programs.
StFX's Rankin School of Nursing provides a unique program that prepares nurses to be competent, safe, caring, evidence-informed, and critical thinkers.
8. University of New Brunswick
Source: UGC
- Founded: 1785
- Email: chooseunb@unb.ca
The University of New Brunswick is a public university with two primary campuses in Fredericton and Saint John, New Brunswick. The university offers a two-year accelerated program at its Moncton site for students with at least 46 undergraduate degree credits. Students receive practical experience through clinical placements at health-related agencies across.
7. University of Ottawa
- Founded: 1848
- Email: adm.esi-nur@uOttawa.ca
Another collaborative programme that offers nursing students an opportunity to learn at one of the top Ottawa-based colleges. The students can gain the knowledge and skills required to become quality nurses during this four-year programme. The University of Ottawa is the largest English-French bilingual university in the world.
6. University of Prince Edward Island
Source: UGC
- Founded: 1969
- Email: apply@upei.ca
The University of Prince Edward Island, Faculty of Nursing, provides a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) as a conventional four-year undergraduate program and a two-year accelerated option for students with a previous degree.
Graduates can take nursing licensure exams and become members of the College of Registered Nurses of Prince Edward Island.
5. Memorial University of Newfoundland
- Founded: 1925
- Email: signalhillcampus@mun.ca
The Memorial University of Newfoundland offers another fascinating collaborative nursing programme. Students can choose between studying at the Memorial University School of Nursing, St. John's, Grenfell Campus or online. They offer a graduate diploma, bachelor's degree, master’s, and PhD.
4. University of Regina
Source: UGC
- Founded: 1974
- Email: ask.us@uregina.ca
The University of Regina is a top university in Saskatchewan that accepts international students from approximately 100 nations at its main campus. The University of Regina's nursing program is based on a culture of compassion, fairness, and inclusivity. Their curriculum and teaching methods integrate scientific, theoretical, and traditional knowledge with applied practice.
What initiatives does the University of Regina have in place to make nursing education more affordable for international students?
Professor Karen Lehmann, the Associate Dean (Undergraduate) of Nursing at the University of Regina, explained that the university has a dedicated department called UR International, which provides financial aid and scholarships for international students. She said:
All international students applying to an undergraduate degree program are automatically considered for a $3,000 award. To qualify, the students must have an admission average of at least 85%. The scholarship award can be applied toward tuition or used as a housing credit.
In addition to this, Professor Karen said the university offers other scholarships, such as:
- The Distinction Scholarship awards 50 international students with the highest high school averages each term. It is valued at $80,000 over four years and provides free housing on campus. Students applying to an undergraduate degree program directly from high school are considered for this scholarship.
- Collaborative nursing program awards—The University of Regina nursing program collaborates with Saskatchewan Polytechnic. Therefore, scholarships and awards are available through Saskatchewan Polytechnic for our international students.
Are there any additional fees or expenses that international nursing students should be aware of besides tuition?
Professor Karen stated that there are other fees that international nursing students at the University of Regina should prepare for. She outlined:
- Bus pass fee
- NCLEX RN exam – for nursing students to obtain resources to study in preparation for their licensure exam.
- Student health and wellness fee
- Student union fee
- Canadian Nursing Students Association fee
- Academic technology fee
Professor Karen also emphasized that students must pay additional fees for essential supplies such as textbooks, uniforms, stethoscopes, and lab kits. She also mentioned other mandatory fees:
Additional fees would be required for some of the training the students need to secure before, during, and after the program. They must obtain CPR certification, transfer, lifting, and other related skills.
Professor Karen said that nursing students do not have to worry or stress about searching for clinical placements and internships independently because they are all secured through the program.
3. Mount Royal University
Source: UGC
- Founded: 1910
- Email: international@mtroyal.ca
Mount Royal University (MRU) is a public university in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. It offers a Bachelor of Nursing (BN) program that prepares students for a career in nursing. Mount Royal University is known for its interdisciplinary approach to education. Their average class size is 32 students.
2. Cape Breton University
- Founded: 1951
- Email address: pb@cbu.ca
Cape Breton University offers a nursing programme to train excellent future nurses at an affordable tuition rate. The knowledge provided to students is organized in a logical order (from simple to more complex), and new skills are taught based on previously learned knowledge. Each student has an opportunity to learn at their own pace.
1. Brandon University
Source: UGC
- Founded: 1890
- Email address: admissions@brandonu.ca
If you want to study in Canada and not go broke, consider Brandon University. It is widely considered to be the cheapest university in Canada for international nurses-to-be. Brandon University has small class sizes, which allows the students to get to know each other and their teachers better and better grasp the subject.
The Nursing programme at this university offers various exciting and unique clinical opportunities at different hospitals, clinics and care facilities. Students can also enjoy the newly built Health Studies Complex with up-to-date facilities.
What are some cheap nursing schools in Canada for international students without IELTS?
Here are some cheap universities in Canada without IELTS:
- University of Manitoba
- Memorial University of Newfoundland
- Brandon University
- University of Winnipeg
- Memorial University
- University of Regina
These universities often accept alternatives like TOEFL, PTE, Duolingo, or proof of English-medium education.
Is nursing a good course?
Nursing is a profession that is in high demand across the world. It offers a high degree of job stability. Also, the demand for nurses is not limited to a single country; it's a global demand.
What is the average tuition for 1-year nursing programs in Canada for international students?
The tuition fees for 1-year nursing programs in Canada for international students can vary widely depending on the institution. On average, students can expect to pay somewhere around CAD 25,000.
Can you study nursing at a Canadian school from Nigeria remotely?
Various Canadian universities, such as the University of Ottawa, offer online or distance education options for nursing.
Are there 2-year nursing programs available in Canada for international students?
Institutions such as the University of New Brunswick, University of Prince Edward Island and Queen's University offer some of the cheapest accelerated nursing programs in Canada for international students with a previous degree.
For those looking to pursue 2-year nursing programs in Canada (like Practical Nursing Diplomas or Post-Degree BScN) for international students, you should expect fees ranging from CAD $15,000 to $30,000+ annually, with some university-level programs potentially exceeding $40,000 CAD per year.
What is the shortest nursing program?
A Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is the shortest program that can be completed in about 1 to 2 years.
What is the easiest nursing program to get into?
There's no single "easiest" nursing program, as "easy" is subjective, but Lakehead University in Ontario is cited for higher acceptance rates (around 82%), making it relatively accessible.
What is the cheapest university in Canada to study nursing for international students?
According to this list, the cheapest university in Canada to study nursing is Brandon University.
What are some free nursing schools in Canada for international students?
There are generally no truly "free" nursing schools for international students in Canada, as tuition is significant, but you can find fully-funded scholarships and grants covering costs, especially at the graduate level or for specific demographics (like African students via Mastercard Foundation), or explore cheaper options in certain provinces or universities like Brandon University or Memorial University to reduce overall expenses.
What are the requirements to study nursing in Canada for international students?
To study nursing in Canada as an international student, you need:
- Proof of English/French proficiency (IELTS 6.5+)
- A strong high school record (especially in sciences like Biology, Chemistry, and Math)
- Letters of Recommendation
- A Statement of Purpose
- A study permit
- financial proof
- A criminal record check, plus
How expensive is nursing school in Canada for international students?
Nursing fees in Canada for international students vary significantly, with average annual undergraduate tuition ranging roughly from CAD 12,000 to over CAD 40,000, and total program costs reaching CAD 50,000 to over CAD 170,000.
Which nursing course is in demand in Canada?
The most in-demand nursing areas in Canada focus on specialized skills for an aging population and complex care, with high demand for nursing specialties such as Oncology, Critical Care, Geriatrics, Pediatrics, Mental Health, and Cardiac Nursing.
What are the cheapest nursing schools in the USA for international students?
The cheapest nursing programs in the United States for international students are widely reported to be in:
- University of Florida
- Utah Tech University
- CSU system schools (like Stanislaus)
- UT Rio Grande Valley
Canada is known for being safe and welcoming to international students. If you are looking for the cheapest nursing schools in Canada for international students, the above institutions will serve you well.
Legit.ng recently published a list of the best universities to study Computer Science in Nigeria. It encompasses the study of algorithms, data structures, programming languages, software engineering, artificial intelligence, computer graphics and networking.
In Nigeria, computer science is taught at several universities. Some are better than others because they are well-equipped, sufficiently staffed, and provide a favourable learning atmosphere.
Source: Legit.ng
Jackline Wangare (Lifestyle writer) Jackline Simwa is a content writer at Legit.ng, where she has worked since mid-2021. She tackles diverse topics, including finance, entertainment, sports, and lifestyle. Previously, she worked at The Campanile by Kenyatta University. She has more than five years in writing. Jackline graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Economics (2019) and a Diploma in Marketing (2015) from Kenyatta University. In 2023, Jackline finished the AFP course on Digital Investigation Techniques and Google News Initiative course in 2024. Email: simwajackie2022@gmail.com.
Adrianna Simwa (Lifestyle writer) Adrianna Simwa is a content writer at Legit.ng where she has worked since mid-2022. She has written for many periodicals on a variety of subjects, including news, celebrities, and lifestyle, for more than three years. She has worked for The Hoth, The Standard Group and Triple P Media. Adrianna graduated from Nairobi University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in 2020. In 2023, Simwa finished the AFP course on Digital Investigation Techniques. You can reach her through her email: adriannasimwa@gmail.com
