The year 2025 is almost coming to an end. Every year, towards the end of the year, many Nigerians start making plans to study abroad. Truth be told, the search for an affordable school to attend abroad can be exhausting. The biggest concern for most families is cost, but the good news is, you don’t have to spend millions to get a Canadian degree. There are several affordable universities in Canada offering world-class education at affordable rates.
This article has a list out 10 cheap Canadian universities for Nigerians who want to study in Canada, and why you should choose any of them.
So, grab a cup of your favourite coffee and let’s begin:
Why Nigerian Students Love to Study in Canada
Canada remains one of the most attractive destinations for Nigerian students due to their favourable immigration policy which creates an easy pathway for jobs and permanent residency for international students. The quality of degrees from Canadian schools internationally is another factor that attracts students from around the world – Canada is one of the globally recognized countries you can study in and be proud of your degree.
How We Chose These Affordable Universities
The list of Canadian universities below is based on the following criteria:
- Average annual tuition for international students in 2025
- Cities with affordable living costs
- Reputation and visa success rates for Nigerian students
- Availability of scholarships and payment plan
Top 10 Budget-Friendly Canadian Universities
1. Memorial University of Newfoundland
Location: St. John’s, Newfoundland
Average Tuition: $8,800 CAD per year
Why Choose It: One of the most affordable universities in Canada with strong programs in Engineering, Business, and Nursing.
Scholarships: Entrance awards available for high-performing international students.
2. University of Regina
Location: Saskatchewan
Average Tuition: $10,000 CAD per year
Why Choose It: Offers generous scholarships and part-time job opportunities.
Programs: Business, Computer Science, and Environmental Studies.
3. Brandon University
Location: Manitoba
Average Tuition: $8,200 CAD per year
Why Choose It: Small class sizes and personalized teaching. Perfect for international students who prefer a quiet study environment.
4. University of Manitoba
Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba
Average Tuition: $12,000 CAD per year
Why Choose It: A top research university with strong international student support.
5. Cape Breton University
Location: Nova Scotia
Average Tuition: $9,800 CAD per year
Why Choose It: Great for Business and Tourism programs. Offers paid internships and a friendly community.
6. Thompson Rivers University
Location: British Columbia
Average Tuition: $10,500 CAD per year
Why Choose It: Combines affordability with beautiful campus life. Ideal for students in Hospitality, IT, or Business.
7. University of Saskatchewan
Location: Saskatoon
Average Tuition: $12,500 CAD per year
Why Choose It: Strong research institution with excellent post-graduation work permit support.
8. University of Prince Edward Island
Location: Charlottetown
Average Tuition: $11,000 CAD per year
Why Choose It: Small island environment, friendly locals, and excellent programs in Education and Science.
9. Algoma University
Location: Ontario
Average Tuition: $10,000 CAD per year
Why Choose It: Affordable for an Ontario school; known for IT and Business programs.
10. Vancouver Island University
Location: Nanaimo, British Columbia
Average Tuition: $11,500 CAD per year
Why Choose It: Beautiful coastal city, excellent for Tourism, Arts, and Business students.
Tips for Reducing Costs as an International Student
Here are a few ways Nigerian students can save money in Canada:
- Apply early to access scholarships and bursaries.
- Live off-campus or share apartments to cut accommodation costs.
- Work part-time (up to 20 hours/week during school and full-time during breaks).
- Use public transport passes — they’re cheaper for students.
How to Apply to These Schools Easily
Manually applying for multiple schools can be exhausting and confusing. But the truth is, you don’t have to do it alone. At WakaTheWorld, we help students like you apply to top universities in Canada, the US, the UK, and beyond, through our global school application network.
What you’ll get:
- Personalized university matches based on your budget and goals
- Assistance with your statement of purpose (SOP) and visa documents
- Step-by-step guidance until you get your admission letter
Studying in Canada doesn’t have to be out of reach, these universities have made it possible for you to pursue your dream of studying abroad without breaking the bank. If you’re ready to take the next step, start your application today.
Also read: How to Study Abroad from Nigeria in 2025: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide