Top Universities in Canada for International Students

Compare 2026 QS rankings, tuition, intakes β€” find your perfect match

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
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QS World #1 (2026)

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

Degree: Masters / PhD

Tuition: $60,000 – $82,000 / year

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Imperial College London
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QS World #2 (2026)

Imperial College London

Degree: Masters

Tuition: Β£36,000 – Β£48,000 / year

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Stanford University
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QS World #3 (2026)

Stanford University

Degree: Masters

Tuition: $62,000 – $80,000 / year

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Harvard University
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QS World Top 5 (2026)

Harvard University

Degree: Masters / PhD

Tuition: $55,000 – $75,000 / year

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University of Cambridge
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QS World Top 5 (2026)

University of Cambridge

Degree: Bachelors / Masters

Tuition: Β£25,000 – Β£45,000 / year

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University of Oxford
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QS World Top 5 (2026)

University of Oxford

Degree: Masters / PhD

Tuition: Β£28,000 – Β£50,000 / year

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National University of Singapore
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QS World Top 30 (2026)

National University of Singapore

Degree: Bachelors / Masters

Tuition: $17,000 – $38,000 / year

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University College London (UCL)
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QS World #9 (2026)

University College London (UCL)

Degree: Bachelors / Masters / PhD

Tuition: $35,000 – $55,000 / year

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University of California, Berkeley
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QS World Top 50 (2026)

University of California, Berkeley

Degree: Masters

Tuition: $44,000 – $58,000 / year

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Technical University of Munich
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QS World #50 (2026)

Technical University of Munich

Degree: Masters

Tuition: €0 – €6,000 / year

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ETH Zurich
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QS World Top 20 (2026)

ETH Zurich

Degree: Masters / PhD

Tuition: CHF 1,500 / year

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University of Sydney
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QS World Top 20 (2026)

University of Sydney

Degree: Bachelors / Masters

Tuition: $31,000 – $56,000 / year

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University of British Columbia
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QS World Top 40 (2026)

University of British Columbia

Degree: Bachelors / Masters

Tuition: $32,000 – $52,000 / year

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University of Tokyo
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QS World Top 50 (2026)

University of Tokyo

Degree: Masters / PhD

Tuition: $5,000 – $7,000 / year

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University of Toronto
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QS World #21 (2026)

University of Toronto

Degree: Masters

Tuition: $28,000 – $48,000 / year

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University of Melbourne
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QS World #33 (2026)

University of Melbourne

Degree: Bachelors / Masters

Tuition: $30,000 – $52,000 / year

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Why Study in Canada?

In 2026, Canada remains one of the top destinations for international students thanks to its world-class universities (four in global top 100 QS 2026), welcoming policies, and strong post-study opportunities.

  • Top-ranked education: McGill (#27), University of Toronto (#29), UBC (top 40) lead globally with excellent research and employability.
  • Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): Up to 3 years work rights after graduation β€” pathway to permanent residency (PR) via Express Entry or PNPs.
  • Multicultural & safe environment: Diverse campuses, high quality of life, and inclusive society.
  • Affordable compared to US/UK: Lower tuition for many programs + scholarships available.
  • Master’s/PhD exemptions: From 2026, no PAL required for graduate students at public DLIs β€” faster processing.

Canada issued ~408,000 study permits in 2026 plans, focusing on quality and sustainability.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best universities in Canada in 2026?

According to QS World University Rankings 2026, top ones include McGill University (#27 globally), University of Toronto (#29), and UBC (top 40). They excel in research, employability, and international outlook.

How much does it cost to study in Canada?

Tuition for international students ranges from CAD 20,000–60,000/year depending on program and province. Living costs add ~CAD 15,000–20,000/year. Many scholarships exist for high-achieving students.

Can I work while studying?

Yes β€” up to 24 hours/week off-campus during sessions (2026 rules), full-time during breaks. Eligibility shown on study permit.

How to get PR after studying in Canada?

Via Post-Graduation Work Permit β†’ Canadian Experience Class (Express Entry) or Provincial Nominee Programs. Many graduates successfully transition to PR.

Do I need a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)?

Most undergraduates do in 2026, but master's/doctoral students at public institutions are exempt.