Top Universities in Alberta: Check Top Courses, Fees, and Deadlines

The best universities in Alberta are famed for their cutting-edge research, innovative tutoring styles, and comprehensive classes. Alberta colleges are home to more than 17,000 international students from all around the world, and this makes the province one of the biggest educational hubs in Canada. The province has some top-ranked universities in Canada that consistently rank among the best universities in the world. In 2024, Alberta welcomed over 21,086 international students, representing a 36% year-on-year increase in study permit approvals for the province.

  • Over 23.2% of Alberta’s population comprises immigrants from different parts of the world, and as a result, the province is very diverse.
  • The average tuition fees for top universities in Alberta range from 12,093 CAD to 20,000 CAD.
  • You need to have English language proficiency test scores like IELTS, TOEFL, and PTE scores to study in Canada.

Why Study in Alberta?

Alberta offers numerous advantages as a top study destination in Canada. Here are a few reasons that highlight its importance:

  • Attractive Income Prospects- Graduates from Alberta earn more than from cities like Ontario and British Columbia. This stands at 72,500 CAD annually in comparison to 66,600 CAD in Ontario and 65,700 CAD in British Columbia.
  • A Relatively Younger Province- Alberta has a median age of 36 years, the lowest in any province in Canada, making it a dynamic region to work and study, with more opportunities for the youth.
  • Research Support- Alberta is an excellent destination for researchers and students, with more than 800 million CAD in sponsored funding to encourage postgraduate research.
  • Job Opportunities- Alberta is called the Energy Province of Canada, and its biggest industries include gas, oil, forestry, agriculture, telecommunications, and tourism. This ensures excellent job opportunities for graduates.
  • Initiatives for Skill Development and Employment- As a province, Alberta offers an excellent environment for skill development and job creation through its pioneering initiative called Alberta 2030: Building Skills for Jobs. One of the key tenets of this program is building better relationships/connections between post-secondary institutions and employers, along with the commercialization and innovation of research.

Top Universities in Alberta

The top colleges in Alberta for international students offer courses for various undergraduate and graduate programs in areas such as arts, science, engineering, business, education, nursing, pharmacy, and many more. Some of the the Alberta top universities in canada are listed below -

University Acceptance rate Popular courses Fees per year (CAD)
University of Alberta 52% Bachelor of Science in Agriculture

Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy|
Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering
Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting
BSc in Nursing

33,968.40
University of Calgary 10-20% Bachelor of Science Anthropology

Master of Architecture
Bachelor of Science in Archaeology
Bachelor of Commerce Business
Bachelor of Science Computer Science

35,035.07 (UG)

20,873.04 (PG)

Mount Royal University 61% Bachelor of Arts

Bachelors of Business Administration
Bachelor of Health and Physical Communication
Bachelor of Midwifery
Bachelor of Nursing

23,810 - 25,698
Lakeland College 89% Bachelor of Agriculture Technology

Diploma in Agribusiness
Bachelor of Agricultural Technology
Diploma in Business Administration - Marketing Major
Diploma in Business Administration - Accounting Major

18,275.
Bow Valley College 37% Business Administration Diploma

Supply Chain Management Major
Diploma in Esports Business Management
Diploma in Information Technology Systems
Diploma in Advanced Film Production

6,315 per 3 credit class
Southern Alberta Institute of Technology 95% Automotive Service Technology

Bachelor of Applied Technology Petroleum Engineering
Bachelor of Business Administration - Management Major

5,670 per 3 credit class
Lethbridge College 84% Diploma in Civil Engineering Technology

Certificate in Automotive systems

15,151.50
King’s University 70% BA in History

BA in Classical Studies
BSc in Accounting and Finance MSc in Cybersecurity
MSc in Aerospace Medicine
MA in Clinical Education

12371.06 CAD per term

Admission Intakes for Colleges in Alberta for PG Diploma

For international students wishing to enroll in Alberta for a PG diploma course, there are typically three main intakes.

  • Fall Intake: The most popular among overseas students is the fall intake which begins in September and runs through December and sometimes, occasionally, into early January.
  • Winter Intake: Also known as the secondary intake, it occurs from January to May.
  • Spring/Summer Intake: Only selected colleges and universities, as well as extremely particular programs, are eligible for this intake. It typically starts in May and lasts until August. It is the best intake to apply for short-duration courses like diplomas at one of

Admission Process for Universities in Alberta

The admissions in Canada process varies from college to college. Although there is a general admission process as described below. International students often ask about how to study in Canada.

  • Candidates must shortlist colleges or universities in Alberta
  • Then they must visit the college or university's website to check eligibility and admission details.
  • Fill in the application form.
  • The next step is to pay the application fees which range from 70-150 CAD (4324.06 INR- 9265.85 INR). Many universities in Canada without application fees give admission to international students.
  • The final part of the admissions process is an interview with the University or College Board. (Some organizations only interview candidates).
  • After receiving the confirmation of admission, the candidate can visit the University or College
  • After agreeing to the terms and conditions of the college or university, the applicant must pay the non-refundable fee

Documents Required for Study in Alberta

Candidates must have the following documents while applying for admission to Alberta University. Though the document requirement may vary from college to college, here are some general document requirements mentioned. Many universities offer study in Alberta without IELTS

The documents required for admission are given below:

  • IELTS score, TOEFL, PTE, or equivalent.
  • GMAT or GRE scores Card.
  • Academic record.
  • Statement of Purpose (SOP).
  • At least 2–3 letters of recommendation.
  • Experience Certificate.

Eligibility Criteria to Study in Alberta

Before applying, the candidates must check the eligibility criteria of the Universities. It may vary from University to University, but here is a general eligibility given below.

  • Candidates must pass the 10+2 examination from an Alberta Secondary School Diploma or equivalent, from a recognized board
  • Age must not be less than 19 years
  • The applicant must have a valid English Proficiency Test in IELTS/ TOEFL score.

University-Wise Eligibility Requirements

Admission requirements vary depending on the university and the difficulty of the course. Exams needed to study in canada with their respective scores are mentioned below. The list below contains the eligibility criteria for the best universities in Alberta-

University Eligibility criteria
University of Alberta TOEFL - Total score of 90 with a score of at least 21 on each of the individual skill areas (internet-based) or equivalent

IELTS -6.5, with at least 6.0 on each test band
PTE - 61 with a minimum band score of 60
Duolingo English Test - 120 with no subscore below 100
You have a cumulative GPA equivalent to at least a 2.5 on a 4.0 scale at the time of your application.

University of Calgary TOEFL iBT- 86

TOEFL PBT - 560
IELTS- 6.5 TO 7
PTE -60
DET - 120
Provide contact information for two references
Complete a personal profile outlining circumstances, personal achievements, and educational goals
Provide official transcripts from all high school and post-secondary institutions attended

Lakeland College Program-Specific Prerequisite courses completed at the senior level (e.g. Grade 12);

The equivalent of a minimum 70% overall final average
IELTS - 6.5 (no individual score less than 6.0)
PTE - 58 (no component score less than 50)
TOEFL - 80 (no component score less than 19)
DET - 120

Bow Valley College Final or provisional degree certificates issued by the degree-awarding institution (Bachelor, Master)

Statement of marks for each year or an academic transcript listing all subjects issued by the degree-awarding institution
IELTS - 6.5 with a minimum band score of 6.0
TOEFL -91 with minimum scores, Listening - 21, Reading - 22,
Writing – 25, and Speaking -23

Mount Royal University Minimum GPA of 2.5

TOEFL iBT - 86 (min. 20 in each of four sections)
IELTS - 6.5 (min. 5.5 on each band)
PTE -58 (min. 55 in each area)

SAIT IELTS - overall score 6.5

TOEFL - Minimum score of 20 in each component
PTE - 53
DET - 115 minimum with at least 95 in each section
Academic transcripts

King’s University GPA - 3.0 or higher

IELTS - 6.5, a minimum of 5.5 on each band.
TOEFL - overall score of 88, a minimum score of 21 on each section
PTE - 59
DET - overall score of 115 or higher, with a minimum of 95 in each section.

Lethbridge College Senior School Certificate; Higher Secondary School Certificate; Intermediate Certificate

Minimum GPA- 2.0

Scholarships for Universities in Alberta

Studying at the top universities in Alberta offers various scholarship programs that you can avail. This program will help you reduce your tuition fee to some extent. Some of the scholarships are listed below -

Scholarship Program University Eligibility Award

University of Alberta - India First Year Excellence Scholarship

University of Alberta

Applicable to students who are enrolled in any undergraduate programs at the University of Alberta.

$5,000 will be given to the students

Alberta Graduate Excellence Scholarship

Students must be admitted to any graduate program.

Students must obtain a minimum of 60% of a full course load in any term

Gold Standard Scholarship

The top five percent of students in each undergraduate faculty can receive scholarships of up to $6,000.

President’s Admission Scholarship

The University of Calgary

To qualify, students must have a final high school average of 95% or above. Awards of up to $5,000 are offered to eligible undergraduate students entering their first year of study at the University of Calgary
Faculty of Graduate Studies International Master’s Scholarship students registered full-time in a thesis-based Master’s program in the Faculty of Graduate Studies $10,000 awarded to postgraduate students
Eyes High International Doctoral Recruitment Scholarship students entering their first year of a doctoral program at UCalgary Ten awards of $15,000 are available
Mount Royal Bright Future Scholarship Mount Royal University students must demonstrate financial need, have an admissions average of at least 70%and have a track record of extracurricular or communication. $3,500 renewable award is offered to eligible students enrolling in their first year of undergraduate study at MRU
Alberta Excellence in Agriculture Scholarship - have attended fall and winter terms in the previous academic year and are currently enrolled full-time in the second or subsequent year of undergraduate post-secondary study in a diploma or degree program at a publicly funded post-secondary institution in Alberta in a discipline related to agriculture. Four awards of $1,500 each:

two for students in a diploma program, and

two for students in a degree program.

CEA Entrance Scholarship

Bow Valley College

The scholarship is based on portfolio assessment at the time of application and acceptance to the program. offers eligible international students registering for a two-year program at the Centre for Entertainment Arts scholarships ranging from $3,250 to $19,500
International Student Entrance Bursary International students entering a post-secondary career program, based on financial need offers bursaries valued at $2,000

Top Job Sectors and Economy in Alberta

The top sectors include Wholesale and Retail trade with 14.84% of the workforce, followed by Health care and social assistance at 13.38%. Construction, professional services, and education are also major contributors.

Industry No of Workers Percentage of workers
Wholesale & retail trade 2,855,300 14.44%
Health care & social assistance 2,608,000 13.19%
Professional, scientific & technical services 1,844,000 9.33%
Manufacturing 1,754,900 8.88%
Construction 1,544,300 7.81%
Educational services 1,483,800 7.51%
Public administration 1,154,600 5.84%

The top universities in Alberta offer some of the best courses with much affordable fees. 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.

FAQs

Ques. What are the top universities in Alberta?

Ans. The top universities in Alberta include the University of Alberta, the University of Calgary, and the University of Lethbridge, among others.

Ques. What programs of study are offered at these universities?

Ans. These universities offer a wide range of programs across various disciplines including arts, sciences, engineering, business, health sciences, and more.

Ques. How do I apply to these universities?

Ans. Each university has its own application process which typically involves submitting an online application, academic transcripts, standardized test scores (if required), letters of recommendation, and a personal statement or essay.

Ques. What are the admission requirements for international students?

Ans. Admission requirements for international students may vary depending on the university and the program applied to. Generally, they include academic qualifications, English language proficiency tests (such as IELTS or TOEFL), and sometimes additional requirements specific to certain programs.

Ques. Are scholarships available for international students at these universities?

Ans. Yes, many universities in Alberta offer scholarships and financial aid for international students based on academic merit, financial need, or a combination of both. Students are encouraged to check each university's scholarship offerings and eligibility criteria.

Ques. What is the cost of tuition for international students at these universities?

Ans. Tuition fees for international students vary depending on the university, program of study, and whether the student is an undergraduate or graduate student. Tuition fees are typically higher for international students compared to domestic students.

Ques. Are there on-campus housing options available for students?

Ans. Yes, most universities in Alberta offer on-campus housing options for students, including residence halls and apartments. Availability and amenities vary by university, so it's best to check with each institution for specific details.

Ques. What resources are available for student support services?

Ans. Alberta universities typically offer a range of student support services including academic advising, counseling services, career services, health and wellness resources, disability services, and more.

Ques. Are there opportunities for research or internships at these universities?

Ans. Yes, Alberta universities provide numerous opportunities for students to engage in research projects, internships, co-op programs, and other experiential learning opportunities both on and off campus.

Ques. What is the campus life like at these universities?

Campus life varies by university but typically includes a vibrant student community, clubs and organizations, cultural events, recreational facilities, and opportunities for socializing and networking.

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Found 20 universities
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CD RankCollege InfoTuition Fees & living Cost(Avg.)Top CoursesRanking & Reviews
#1University of Alberta logo

University of Alberta, Edmonton

Alberta, Canada66%Acceptance Rate
Tuition:  $19.8K/Yr (CA$27,463/Yr)Living$11.2K/Yr (CA$15,600/Yr)Admission M.B.AGMAT550TOEFL100PTE68$23.4K/Yr
CA$32,565
Course duration: 20 months
138+ More Programs
7.0/10(20 Users)Ranked 109 by THE in 2024Ranked 96 by QS in 2025
#2University of Calgary logo

University of Calgary, Calgary

Alberta, Canada63%Acceptance Rate
Tuition:  $21.7K/Yr (CA$30,163/Yr)Living$9K/Yr (CA$12,534/Yr)Admission Master Data Science and Analytic...IELTS6.5PTE59$33K/Yr
CA$45,778
Course duration: 12 months
136+ More Programs
7.7/10(32 Users)Ranked 201 by THE in 2024Ranked 198 by QS in 2025
#3University of Lethbridge logo

University of Lethbridge, Lethbridge

Alberta, Canada84%Acceptance Rate
Tuition:  $15K/Yr (CA$20,773/Yr)Living$5.7K/Yr (CA$7,941/Yr)Admission M.S Computer ScienceDuolingo115TOEFL80PTE54$11.2K/Yr
CA$15,521
Course duration: 2 years
223+ More Programs
6.3/10(4 Users)Ranked 1201 by THE in 2024Ranked 1418 by CWUR in 2022
#4The King's University logo

The King's University, Edmonton

Alberta, Canada80%Acceptance Rate
Tuition:  $5.5K/Yr (CA$7,673/Yr)Living$4.2K/Yr (CA$5,802/Yr)Admission B.S Computing ScienceDuolingo115IELTS6.5PTE59$5.2K/Yr
CA$7,275
Course duration: 4 years
35+ More Programs
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#5Athabasca University logo

Athabasca University, Athabasca

Alberta, Canada75%Acceptance Rate
Tuition:  $14.7K/Yr (CA$20,372/Yr)Living$576/Yr (CA$800/Yr)Admission M.B.A Supply Chain ManagementGMAT500IELTS6.0PTE59$12K/Yr
CA$16,705
Course duration: 2 years
11+ More Programs
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#6MacEwan University logo

MacEwan University, Edmonton

Alberta, Canada59%Acceptance Rate
Tuition:  $17.6K/Yr (CA$24,480/Yr)Living$7.7K/Yr (CA$10,640/Yr)Admission B.S Computer ScienceDuolingo115IELTS6.5PTE59$17.6K/Yr
CA$24,480
Course duration: 4 years
39+ More Programs
4.2/10(3 Users)
#7Mount Royal University logo

Mount Royal University, Calgary

Alberta, Canada18%Acceptance Rate
Tuition:  $18.5K/Yr (CA$25,698/Yr)Living$5.9K/Yr (CA$8,160/Yr)Admission B.S Computer ScienceTOEFL83PTE58$18.5K/Yr
CA$25,698
Course duration: 4 years
44+ More Programs
9.3/10(3 Users)
#8Bow Valley College logo

Bow Valley College, Calgary

Alberta, Canada37%Acceptance Rate
Tuition:  $11.6K/Yr (CA$16,146/Yr)Living$2.9K/Yr (CA$4,000/Yr)Admission B.A International English Langua...PTE59$6.8K/Yr
CA$9,444
Course duration: 4 years
25+ More Programs
8.8/10(3 Users)
#9Northern Alberta Institute of Technology logo

Northern Alberta Institute of Technology, Edmonton

Alberta, Canada58%Acceptance Rate
Tuition:  $16.9K/Yr (CA$23,423/Yr)Admission B.TechIELTS6.0PTE60$18K/Yr
CA$25,020
Course duration: 2 years
62+ More Programs
8.3/10(3 Users)
#10Haskayne School of Business logo

Haskayne School of Business, Calgary

Alberta, Canada56%Acceptance Rate
Tuition:  $28.4K/Yr (CA$39,405/Yr)Admission M.B.AGMAT550IELTS7$27.3K/Yr
CA$37,914
Course duration: 2 years
11+ More Programs
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#11School of Business, University of Alberta logo

School of Business, University of Alberta, Edmonton

Alberta, Canada21%Acceptance Rate
Tuition:  $21.9K/Yr (CA$30,455/Yr)Admission M.B.AGMAT550TOEFL100PTE68$23.4K/Yr
CA$32,565
Course duration: 20 months
6+ More Programs
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#12Lakeland College logo

Lakeland College, Vermilion

Alberta, Canada55%Acceptance Rate
Tuition:  $12.5K/Yr (CA$17,360/Yr)Admission B.A PsychologyIELTS6$12.3K/Yr
CA$17,100
Course duration: 3 years
8+ More Programs
6.0/10(1 User)
#13Lethbridge College logo

Lethbridge College, Lethbridge

Alberta, Canada80%Acceptance Rate
Tuition:  $3.6K/Yr (CA$5,033/Yr)Admission B.A.Sc Conservation EnforcementTOEFL80$4.7K/Yr
CA$6,477
Course duration: 2 years
14+ More Programs
8.8/10(1 User)
#14Medicine Hat College logo

Medicine Hat College, Medicine Hat

Alberta, Canada72%Acceptance Rate
Tuition:  $13K/Yr (CA$18,028/Yr)Living$3.1K/Yr (CA$4,360/Yr)Admission B.NIELTS6PTE54$13K/Yr
CA$18,074
Course duration: 4 years
24+ More Programs
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#15NorQuest College logo

NorQuest College, Edmonton

Alberta, Canada57%Acceptance Rate
Tuition:  $13.2K/Yr (CA$18,386/Yr)Living$4.7K/Yr (CA$6,502/Yr)Admission Diploma Environmental Protection...TOEFL84PTE59$10K/Yr
CA$13,893
Course duration: 2 years
4+ More Programs
6.7/10(6 Users)
#16Northern Lakes College logo

Northern Lakes College, Slave lake

Alberta, Canada65%Acceptance Rate
Tuition:  $3K/Yr (CA$4,170/Yr)Living$3.6K/Yr (CA$4,950/Yr)Admission Diploma Addiction CounsellingTOEFL84$3K/Yr
CA$4,110
Course duration: 2 years
3+ More Programs
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#17Portage College logo

Portage College, Lac la Biche

Alberta, Canada60%Acceptance Rate
Tuition:  $12.4K/Yr (CA$17,242/Yr)Admission B.B.A ManagementTOEFL86PTE59$14.7K/Yr
CA$20,460
Course duration: 2 years
4+ More Programs
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#18Red Deer College logo

Red Deer College, Red Deer

Alberta, Canada37%Acceptance Rate
Tuition:  $11.2K/Yr (CA$15,572/Yr)Admission B.S NursingIELTS7.0PTE67$8.9K/Yr
CA$12,341
Course duration: 4 years
44+ More Programs
8.7/10(1 User)
#19SAIT Polytechnic logo

SAIT Polytechnic, Calgary

Alberta, Canada60%Acceptance Rate
Tuition:  $14.1K/Yr (CA$19,537/Yr)Admission B.B.AIELTS6.0PTE53$15.3K/Yr
CA$21,240
Course duration: 4 years
42+ More Programs
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