7 Universities In Canada Without Application Fee For International Students

Redeemer University, University of British Columbia, and Quest University are some universities in Canada that you can apply to as an international student without application fee.

Are you dreaming of studying in the Great White North but frowning at the pile-up of application fees? You’re not alone in this! Let’s talk about a topic that’s as refreshing as a crisp Canadian autumn breeze: Universities in Canada Without Application Fee. That’s right, my friends, this magical phrase isn’t just a myth; it’s a reality that could save you some serious loonies and toonies (Canadian dollars for the uninitiated!).

Now, why should this matter to you? Imagine this: you’re sitting at your desk, sifting through countless university options in Canada, each promising a world-class education, stunning campuses, and the kind of welcoming community that feels like a warm hug on a cold day. 

Canada isn’t just about maple syrup and friendly moose; it’s a country known for its top-tier universities, diverse cultures, and breathtaking landscapes. But just as you’re getting excited, you notice the application fees stacking up, casting a shadow over your dreams. Sounds disheartening, doesn’t it?

But here’s where our hero enters the scene—universities that have decided to nix those pesky application fees for international students like you. This isn’t just about saving money (though that’s a huge plus); it’s about making education more accessible and encouraging a more diverse group of students to explore their options without financial barriers holding them back.

Before we start though, I want you to understand that no Canadian university outrightly and completely waives off application fees like American universities. For the Canadian universities that do waive the application fees , they do so only when the applicant has met specific requirements.

As we explore deeper, we will venture into the heart of Canada to uncover some hidden gems: universities that welcome applications without charging a fee.

Get ready to explore where your academic adventures could take you, minus the application fee dread. Who knows? This might just be the first step toward your dream of studying in Canada, surrounded by new friends, experiences, and a world of opportunity. Let’s get started, shall we?

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The 7 Best Universities In Canada Without Application Fees

Here is a list of the 7 best universities in Canada without application fees as well as the specific requirements  for getting the application waivers

1. Fairleigh Dickinson University

Location: Teaneck, New Jersey

Fairleigh Dickinson University Canada, specifically its Vancouver Campus, offers a unique educational opportunity for students wishing to pursue an American degree in Canada. 

Established in 1942, the university is renowned for its comprehensive range of graduate, undergraduate, doctoral, and associate programs, including online options for graduate and undergraduate certificates.

Fairleigh Dickinson University’s Vancouver Campus stands out for allowing students to earn a U.S. degree on Canadian soil. Situated in the scenic district of Yaletown, near the Vancouver Public Library, the campus boasts a modern and vibrant setting conducive to learning and innovation.

What Makes It Unique:

• Professional Degree Programs: The Vancouver campus is celebrated for its accredited professional undergraduate degree programs in business administration, information technology, and hospitality and tourism management. 

It also offers master’s degree programs in administrative science and hospitality management studies.

• Global Education: The campus enriches students’ academic experiences by offering a pre-university program for those requiring additional English language training and facilitates small class sizes to enhance interactions between students, faculty, and staff.
• Student Life: A comprehensive student life, including housing, dining, wellness services, disability support, clubs and organizations, career support, and athletics, ensures a well-rounded college experience.
• International Presence: With over 1,300 international students from 96 countries having graduated, it’s a hub for global education, reflecting Fairleigh Dickinson University’s commitment to preparing world citizens.

Application Process:

Prospective students can choose from various programs, including bachelor’s and master’s degrees and a Pre-University Program (PUP) for those who meet the university’s admission standards but require additional English training. 

The application process and enrollment details can be found directly on the university’s website, as well as details of their $50 application fee waiver for first-year students, making it one of the best universities in Canada without application fees.

2. Redeemer University, Canada

Location: Hamilton, Ontario.

Redeemer University is a private Christian liberal arts and science university that provides a unique educational experience in the heart of Hamilton, Ontario. 

It is distinguished by its commitment to integrating faith with learning, aiming to prepare students for their callings and careers with a solid foundation rooted in the Christian perspective.

What Makes It Unique:

• Faith-Integrated Education: A commitment to a Christ-centered core curriculum that encourages students to integrate their faith into all aspects of their lives and learning.
• Wide Range of Programs: Offers Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science, Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Education, and Bachelor of Kinesiology degrees, among others, through more than 40 programs and streams​​​​.
• Research and Innovation: Hosts research institutes such as the Albert M. Wolters Centre for Christian Scholarship and the Pascal Centre for Advanced Studies in Faith and Science, fostering an environment where students can engage in meaningful research alongside their professors​​.
• Vibrant Community Life: A plethora of student activities, traditions, and residential options enriches the student experience, fostering a close-knit community that supports spiritual growth and personal development.

Redeemers University offers a free application to all who apply from August to January 31st but only to North American Candidates.

3. Booth University College

Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba

Booth University College, affiliated with the Salvation Army, is a unique blend of Christian faith, rigorous scholarship, and a passion for service. This institution in the heart of Winnipeg offers a personalized educational experience, emphasizing social justice and community service alongside academic excellence. 

It is one of the best universities in Canada without an application fee.

What Makes It Unique:

• Small class sizes ensuring personalized attention for each student, fostering a close-knit community atmosphere.
• The college’s commitment to integrating Christian faith with learning across all its programs, including business, social work, humanities, and social sciences.
• A strong focus on social justice and community service, preparing students to make meaningful contributions to society.

Application Process:

• Booth University College does not charge application fees for applicants from Ukraine who arrived in the country in the past year.
• Prospective students should submit their academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal essay outlining their educational goals and how they align with Booth’s values.
• For international students and those whose first language is not English, proof of English proficiency is required.

Booth University College offers various undergraduate programs designed to prepare students for a life of service and leadership. With its unique mission and values, Booth is an ideal choice for students seeking an education combining academic rigor and a heart for community engagement.

4. University of British Columbia

Location: Vancouver, British Columbia

The University of British Columbia (UBC) is a prestigious institution renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and diverse student community. 

Situated in one of Canada’s most vibrant cities, Vancouver, UBC offers a picturesque campus nestled between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains, providing an unparalleled backdrop for learning and exploration.

What Makes It Unique:

• UBC waives application fees for international students from the United Nations’ 50 least-developed countries, demonstrating its dedication to accessibility and inclusivity in higher education. This makes it one of the best universities in Canada without application fees.
• With over 400 programs across two campuses (Vancouver and Okanagan), UBC offers a vast array of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degree options in various disciplines.

Application Process:

• International students from eligible countries can apply for free through the university’s online application portal.
• Prospective students must submit academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of intent, and proof of English proficiency (if applicable).
• For specific graduate programs, such as those offered by the Department of Chemistry, application fees are waived for both domestic and international students, further expanding access to higher education opportunities.

5. Quest University International

Location: Squamish, British Columbia  

Quest University International is a hidden gem nestled in the breathtaking landscapes of Squamish, British Columbia. 

Known for its innovative approach to education, Quest offers a unique Bachelor of Arts and Sciences program that encourages students to explore their passions across various disciplines.

What Makes It Unique:

• Small class sizes foster a close-knit community and personalized learning experience.
• Emphasis on critical thinking, interdisciplinary studies, and experiential learning.
• Stunning campus surrounded by mountains, forests, and the stunning beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Application Process:

• International students can apply without incurring fees by submitting their applications online before the deadline; however, this is only for postgraduate programs.
• The university offers a rolling admissions process, but applying early to secure a spot in the competitive program is recommended.
• Applicants must provide academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement highlighting their academic interests and goals.
• For non-native English speakers, proof of English proficiency may be required.

6. University of New Brunswick

Location: Fredericton and Saint John, New Brunswick

The University of New Brunswick (UNB), established in 1785, is Canada’s oldest English-language university and is located on the scenic east coast of Canada. 

It is renowned for its strong focus on research and innovation, offering over 75 undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, with a notable student-to-faculty ratio of 15:1, ensuring personalized attention and a supportive learning environment. 

The Fredericton and Saint John campuses provide a vibrant community with a mix of athletic, recreational, and academic facilities designed to support a diverse and engaging student life​​​​.

What Makes It Unique:

• Historical Significance: As Canada’s oldest English-language university, UNB holds a rich academic excellence and innovation tradition.
• Research Opportunities: UNB strongly emphasizes research and innovation, and initiatives like The Fulcrum Initiative and the Advanced Manufacturing Convergence Hub, showing its commitment to contributing significant advancements across various fields​​.
• Diverse Program Offerings: UNB offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including unique options such as the Master in Quantitative Investment Management (MQIM) and specialized engineering and forestry programs​​.
• Supportive Environment for International Students: UNB offers comprehensive support for international students, including scholarships and a robust research community. 

The university values the diversity international students bring to their campuses, which is evident in their dedicated student support services.

The University offers free applications for international applicants who attended Canadian High schools. To me, this makes it one of the best universities in Canada without application fees.

7. Saint Mary’s University

Location: Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.

Saint Mary’s University is recognized for its diverse and comprehensive academic programs spanning across various disciplines. The university offers a wide array of programs, including 23 graduate academic programs, ensuring a world-class education in a vibrant regional center. 

With a focus on innovation and excellence, Saint Mary’s is dedicated to providing an enriching educational experience to its students.

What Makes It Unique:

• Saint Mary’s University stands out for its high engagement with international communities. It hosts students from 118 countries and establishes 106 partnerships with global institutions. 

It is noted for having the second most engaged alumni in Canada and holds a prominent position in Maclean’s ranking for undergraduate universities, showcasing its commitment to excellence in education and community building​​.

• The university’s broad academic offerings cover areas ranging from Arts and Humanities, Business and Management, Engineering and Technology, Life Sciences, and Medicine to Natural Sciences, Social Sciences, and Management. This breadth allows students to pursue a variety of interests and career paths​​.

Application Process:

• The application process at Saint Mary’s University is streamlined for both undergraduate and graduate students, with specific details available through their official website. 
• The university offers application fee waivers in the form of codes on their websites.

The Importance of Choosing Universities in Canada Without Application Fee

So why do you need to take advantage of the opportunities on the list you just read, what are the benefits of applying to Canadian universities with application waivers? Read on to find out!

1. Saving Your Bucks

First, imagine you’re saving all those application fee dollars like a boss. Every university you apply to without a fee puts money back into your pocket. Now, think of all the awesome things you could do with that extra cash. Maybe treat yourself to an epic day out in the Canadian Rockies, or just stash it away for a rainy day. The point is that not paying application fees means more money for you to use on anything else.

2. Opening More Doors

Here’s the thing – applying to universities in Canada without an application fee is like getting an all-access pass to the college fair. No fees mean you’re more likely to throw your hat in the ring at multiple spots, giving you a better shot at finding the perfect fit. 

It’s all about playing the field but in a good way. You get to explore more options, which means you’re more likely to end up at a place that feels like home.

3. Making Education Accessible

This one’s about leveling the playing field. Universities ditching the application fee are basically rolling out the welcome mat for everyone, regardless of their bank account status. It’s their way of saying, “Hey, we want YOU here!” And that’s pretty awesome because it makes the education scene much more inclusive.

Conclusion

In summary, exploring universities in Canada without application fees opens doors to diverse educational opportunities while alleviating financial burdens for international students. By considering these institutions, students can embark on their academic journeys in a welcoming and inclusive environment backed by Canada’s renowned quality of education. 

So, why wait? Dive into the world of possibilities offered by universities in Canada without application fees and take the first step towards your educational dreams today.