The province of Ontario is currently experiencing a significant increase in the number of international students choosing to pursue their education there. Ontario, which is the most populous province in Canada, is home to nearly 38% of the country's entire population. It is also where you'll find Toronto, the most populous city in Canada, as well as Ottawa, the capital of Canada.
Did You Know?
Did you know that Ontario boasts some of the most renowned colleges and universities in the country? Don’t you think it will be useful to learn more about these institutions so that you can prioritise them while applying to universities in Canada?
If you're interested in learning more about these top institutions and the eligibility requirements for studying there, you're in the right place. As you continue reading, you will discover detailed information about colleges in Ontario that welcome international students. Opting to study in Ontario is an excellent choice if you're considering pursuing your education in Canada.
Why Study in Ontario?
Colleges and universities in Ontario provide a wide range of programs, including Certificate courses, Diplomas, Undergraduate degrees, and Postgraduate degrees, ensuring that you can find courses and programs that align with your interests. Additionally, these programs and institutions are recognised globally, offering you the advantage of holding a degree that is respected not only in Canada but also around the world.
Studying in Ontario comes with several benefits, some of which are highlighted below.
- Global recognition: As mentioned earlier, the universities and colleges in Ontario have a strong global reputation. This recognition ensures that the degree you earn will be valued not just within Canada but also in other countries worldwide.
- Improved career prospects: Graduates from Ontario have experienced a high employment rate of 92% within Canada. This statistic highlights the excellent career prospects available to students studying in Ontario, making it easier for them to secure employment and potentially obtain Permanent Residency (PR) in Canada.
- Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP): The OINP provides a straightforward pathway for international students who aspire to obtain permanent residency and settle in Canada permanently. This program offers support and opportunities for international students to transition to permanent residents.
Which Are the Best Colleges in Ontario for International Students?
Ontario is home to several esteemed colleges and universities in Canada, known for their high rankings and reputation. To assist you in making an informed decision when applying to study abroad, we have compiled a list of these top institutions below. Feel free to refer to this list as you explore your options.
- Sault College
- Seneca College
- Conestoga College
- Durham College
- Lambton College
- Niagara College Main Campus
- Toronto Metropolitan University
- Wilfrid Laurier International College
- Fleming College
- Georgian College
- St Laurence College
- York University
- Brock University
- Algonquin College
Sault College
Sault College, with an impressive overall student satisfaction rate of 83.3%, provides a diverse range of diploma and certificate programs. The college attracts over 3000 students who are enrolled in various fields of study. Furthermore, you have the option to select from more than 150 programs offered by the college.
Type |
Public |
QS Ranking 2023 |
– |
Application Fee |
CAD 100 |
Types of Degrees Offered |
Certificates, Diplomas, UG |
Courses Offered |
Business, Medicine, Health Care |
Duration |
1-4 years |
Tuition Fees |
CAD 16,000 - CAD 20,000 |
Seneca College
With its eight campuses, Seneca College provides study programs across a wide range of streams and disciplines. The college is known for its high Return On Investment (ROI), with students having the potential to earn approximately CAD 53,000 per year. Additionally, Seneca College boasts an impressive employment rate of 71.4%.
Type |
Public |
QS Ranking 2023 |
– |
Application Fee |
CAD 90 |
Types of Degrees Offered |
Certificates, Diplomas, UG |
Courses Offered |
Technology, Engineering, Aviation |
Duration |
1-4 years |
Tuition Fees |
CAD 15,000 - CAD 20,000 |
Conestoga College
Conestoga College, recognised as one of the premier colleges in Ontario, provides intake options in January, May, and September. The college offers scholarships valued at over USD 3.8 million, providing excellent financial support to its students. Notably, the Polytechnic Education program at Conestoga College is highly sought after and attracts a large number of enrollments. Additionally, the college boasts an impressive graduate employment rate of 87%.
Type |
Public |
QS Ranking 2023 |
– |
Application Fee |
CAD 100 |
Types of Degrees Offered |
Certificates, Diplomas, UG |
Courses Offered |
Computer Science, Sciences, Arts |
Duration |
1-4 years |
Tuition Fees |
CAD 10,000 - CAD 26,000 |
Durham College
Durham College, accommodating more than 2000 international students, maintains an acceptance rate of 40%. The college prides itself on its impressive graduate employability rate of 84%. With a wide range of educational options, Durham College provides 180 full-time programs and eight apprenticeship courses to choose from.
Type |
Public |
QS Ranking 2023 |
– |
Application Fee |
CAD 110 |
Types of Degrees Offered |
Certificates, Diplomas, UG |
Courses Offered |
Technology, Engineering, Medicine |
Duration |
1-4 years |
Tuition Fees |
CAD 17,000 - CAD 22,000 |
Lambton College
Lambton College presents its students with a diverse selection of educational paths, including 113 degree, certificate, diploma, and apprenticeship programs. Within a total student population of 10,000, approximately 3,500 are international, representing a significant portion of the college's multicultural community.
Type |
Public |
QS Ranking 2023 |
– |
Application Fee |
CAD 150 |
Types of Degrees Offered |
Certificates, Diplomas, UG |
Courses Offered |
Nursing, Digital Marketing, Cyber Security |
Duration |
1-4 years |
Tuition Fees |
CAD 7000 - CAD 18,000 |
York University
According to the 2023 rankings by QS, US News and World Report, and THE (Times Higher Education), York University has secured its place among the top 500 universities worldwide. At York University, students have a wide array of options to choose from, including more than 78 undergraduate certificate programs, 92 postgraduate diploma programs, and 41 PhD programs.
Type |
Public |
QS Ranking 2023 |
456 |
Application Fee |
CAD 130 |
Types of Degrees Offered |
Certificates, Diplomas, UG, PG, PhD |
Courses Offered |
Finance, Arts, Law |
Duration |
1-4 years |
Tuition Fees |
CAD 28,000 - CAD 34,000 |
Brock University
Brock University, with a good acceptance rate of 70%, operates across two campuses and provides approximately 70 Bachelor's programs. Notably, Business courses attract around 50% of the total population of international students at the university.
Type |
Public |
QS Ranking 2023 |
1001-1200 |
Application Fee |
CAD 110 - CAD 140 |
Types of Degrees Offered |
Diplomas, UG, PG, PhD |
Courses Offered |
Biotechnology, Sciences, Psychology |
Duration |
1-4 years |
Tuition Fees |
CAD 7000 - CAD 67,000 |
Admission Process to Study at Colleges in Ontario, Canada
The application procedures for colleges and universities in Ontario may vary from institution to institution. Therefore, it is not possible to provide an exact step-by-step process for admission. However, we have compiled a general outline that you can follow. In addition to this, it is highly recommended to visit the official website of the specific institution to obtain the most up-to-date and accurate information.
Here is a general overview of the application process.
- Visit the official website of the college or university you are interested in and create an account, if required.
- Log in to your account and complete the application form, providing all the necessary information accurately.
- Prepare and upload all the required documents, which may include transcripts, Letters Of Recommendation (LORs), essays, and any other requested materials.
- Pay the application fee as instructed by the university or college. The payment method and amount will be specified on their website.
- Review your completed application to ensure all information and documents are accurate and complete.
- Submit your application through the designated online portal or method specified by the institution.
Remember to check the specific requirements and deadlines for each institution, as they may vary. By following these general steps and referring to the official website of the college or university, you will have the most accurate and updated information for the admission process.
Scholarships to Study at Colleges in Ontario, Canada
International students studying in Canada have various scholarship opportunities available to them through the Canadian government, universities, and private institutions. The eligibility requirements and scholarship values can differ depending on the sponsoring organisation. Here is a compilation of popular scholarships that you can consider applying for during your studies in Canada.
- Horowitz Foundation Grants
- Ontario Trillium Scholarships
- Boehringer Ingelheim Fonds PhD Fellowships
- Ontario Graduate Scholarship Program
- Khyentse Foundation Individual Practice Grants
High Demand Jobs in Ontario
To assist you in making a career-oriented course selection, it would be beneficial to have access to a list of high-demand jobs in Ontario. This will enable you to make an informed decision regarding your future path. You can find below a list of high-demand jobs in Ontario that can guide in your decision-making process.
- Registered Nurse
- Physician
- Delivery Truck Driver
- Heavy Equipment Operator
- Software Developer
- Sales Manager
- Cloud Architect
- Machining Tool Operator
Ontario is undoubtedly one of the prime provinces to consider for studying in Canada. The colleges and universities in this region have earned a good reputation and are recognised for their high rankings. Moreover, you can expect a favourable Return On Investment (ROI) following your education at these esteemed institutions.
AECC is one of the world's leading educational consultancies with versatile expert professionals who are ready to help you with any queries you may have. Contact us so we can be of assistance to you in your journey of fulfilling your dream.