Top Universities in Canada for Pakistani Students

Universities in Canada

Studying in Canada is a great choice for international students because of its excellent education system, friendly culture, and safe environment. Here’s a simple overview:

  • Top-ranked universities with high-quality education and strong programs.
  • Reasonable tuition costs compared to other countries.
  • Reasonable tuition costs compared to other countries.
  • Ranked 6th safest country in the world (Global Peace Index 2023).
  • Inclusive environment with a multicultural society.
  • Chance to work in Canada for up to three years following graduation.

If you’re a Pakistani student looking to study in Canada, you have many excellent universities to choose from. Canada offers a range of top-ranked institutions known for their strong programs, supportive environments, and diverse cultures. These universities provide high-quality education and opportunities to gain valuable experience, making them great options for international students. Here’s a look at some of the best universities in Canada that are especially welcoming to students from Pakistan.

Read More: Scholarships in Canada for Pakistani Students

Top Universities in Canada for the Student of Pakistan


  • University of Toronto
  • University of British Columbia (UBC)
  • McGill University
  • University of Alberta
  • University of Waterloo
  • University of Calgary

1- University of Toronto


University of Toronto

The University of Toronto, located in downtown Toronto, Ontario, Canada, is one of the country’s top universities and an excellent choice for Pakistani students. The main campus offers easy access to the city's amenities, cultural attractions, and professional opportunities. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Courses and Programs: Offers diverse undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in areas like Business, Computer Science, Engineering, and Humanities, often including practical experiences.
  • Admission Requirements: Requires strong academic grades and English proficiency (IELTS 6.5-7.0 or TOEFL). Review the specific program details for precise requirements.
  • Tuition Fees: Relatively high, so plan your budget accordingly. Tuition Fees
  • Scholarships: Available for Pakistani students to help with costs.
  • Student Life: Vibrant campus with various activities and support services for international students.

2- University of British Columbia (UBC)


British Columbia University

The University of British Columbia (UBC), located in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, is one of the country’s leading universities and a great option for Pakistani students. The main campus is situated in a beautiful city known for its natural scenery and cultural diversity. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Courses and Programs:Offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in fields such as Business, Computer Science, Engineering, and Humanities, with many programs featuring practical components.
  • Admission Requirements: Requires strong academic performance and English proficiency, typically demonstrated through IELTS (6.5-7.0) or TOEFL scores. Specific program requirements may vary.
  • Tuition Fees: Tuition can be high, so budgeting for your education is essential. Tuition Fees
  • Scholarships: Various scholarships are available for Pakistani students to help cover expenses.
  • Student Life: Features a dynamic campus with numerous activities, clubs, and support services for international students.

3- McGill University


McGill University

McGill University, located in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, is one of the country's top universities and an excellent choice for Pakistani students. The campus is in a vibrant, multicultural city known for its rich history and diverse culture. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Courses and Programs:Offers a broad range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in fields such as Business, Computer Science, Engineering, Law, and Arts, often including hands-on learning opportunities.
  • Admission Requirements: Requires strong academic performance and proof of English proficiency, typically shown through IELTS (6.5-7.0) or TOEFL scores. Specific requirements may vary by program.
  • Tuition Fees: Generally high, so it's important to plan your budget carefully. Tuition Fees Calculator
  • Scholarships: McGill offers various scholarships for Pakistani students to assist with tuition and other expenses.
  • Student Life: Provides a lively campus experience with a range of activities, student organizations, and comprehensive support services for international students.

4- University of Alberta


University of Alberta

The University of Alberta, located in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, is a top choice for Pakistani students seeking a quality education. The main campus offers a welcoming environment in a vibrant city known for its cultural diversity and outdoor activities. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Courses and Programs:Offers a variety of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in fields like Engineering, Business, Computer Science, and Arts, with many programs including practical elements like internships.
  • Admission Requirements: Requires strong academic performance and English proficiency, usually demonstrated through IELTS (6.5-7.0) or TOEFL scores. Requirements may differ by program.
  • Tuition Fees: Generally high, so planning your budget is crucial. Tuition Fees & Calculator
  • Scholarships: Generally high, so planning your budget is crucial.
  • Student Life: Features a dynamic campus with numerous activities, student groups, and support services to help international students adapt and thrive.

5- University of Waterloo


University of Waterloo

The University of Waterloo, located in Waterloo, Ontario, Canada, is a prominent choice for Pakistani students seeking a top-tier education. Known for its innovation and research, the campus offers a vibrant community in a city with a growing tech industry. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Courses and Programs:Provides a broad range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs, with strong offerings in Engineering, Computer Science, Business, and Mathematics. Many programs include co-op placements for hands-on experience.
  • Admission Requirements: Requires solid academic records and English proficiency, usually through IELTS (6.5-7.0) or TOEFL scores. Check specific program details for exact criteria.
  • Tuition Fees: Generally high, so budgeting is important. Tuition Fees
  • Scholarships: Offers various scholarships for Pakistani students to help with tuition and other expenses.
  • Student Life: Features a lively campus with many student activities, clubs, and support services for international students.

6- University of Calgary


University of Calgary

The University of Calgary, located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, is a leading university and a great option for Pakistani students. The campus is situated in a dynamic city known for its energy sector and outdoor recreation opportunities. Here’s what you need to know:

  • Courses and Programs:Offers diverse undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in areas like Business, Engineering, Computer Science, and Arts, with practical elements such as research and internships.
  • Admission Requirements: Requires strong academic performance and English language proficiency, typically shown through IELTS (6.5-7.0) or TOEFL scores. Specific program requirements can vary.
  • Tuition Fees: Typically high, so planning your finances is essential. Tuition Fees
  • Scholarships: Available for Pakistani students to help reduce educational costs.
  • Student Life: Available for Pakistani students to help reduce educational costs.

Wrap Up!


Studying in Canada offers Pakistani students an excellent opportunity due to the country's top-ranked universities and supportive environments. The University of Toronto, UBC, McGill, the University of Alberta, the University of Waterloo, and the University of Calgary are among the best options, each providing diverse programs, strong academic support, and vibrant campus life. Costs vary, with tuition ranging from CAD 7,000 to CAD 29,000 per year, plus living expenses. Major cities like Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are popular for their multicultural atmosphere and job opportunities. Fields such as Engineering, Computer Science, Business, and Health Sciences are particularly strong and in demand. Each university has specific admission requirements, and many offer scholarships to help cover costs.

Read More: Opportunities for Pakistani Students in Canada

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):


Top choices include the University of Toronto, University of British Columbia (UBC), and McGill University, known for their strong programs and support for international students.

Tuition fees range from CAD 7,000 to CAD 29,000 per year, depending on the program and university. Additional costs include living expenses, which can vary by city.

Toronto, Vancouver, and Montreal are popular choices due to their diverse cultures, strong job markets, and vibrant student communities.

Engineering, Computer Science, Business, and Health Sciences are highly regarded for their strong job prospects and demand in Canada.