Top 10 Colleges in Calgary for International Students in 2024

What are the Different Types of Colleges in Calgary?

Below we have given a list of colleges in Calgary based on their types. Let us now understand the types of colleges in Calgary:

1. Public College

Public colleges in Calgary are generally recognized and accredited by the Canadian government based on the Provincial College and Institute Act. These colleges offer several academic upgrading, certificate, and baccalaureate degree programs. Some of the best colleges in Calgary are given below:

• Bow Valley College
• Grande Prairie Regional College (Northwestern Polytechnic)
• Lakeland College
• Keyano College
• Lethbridge College

 2. Private Colleges

The private colleges in Calgary are accredited by some private training branches of Canada. Those institutions have been popular for their diversified teaching, highly flexible schedule, and established quality education. Some of these private institutions are:

• ABM College
• CDI College
• Bay River College
• Reeves College
• Rocky Mountain College

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Top 10 Colleges in Calgary for International Students

Calgary is one of the best cities to study in Canada among international candidates. Here are top 6 colleges in Calgary with their average Tuitions fees:

Below we have a piece of brief information about some of the colleges listed above

1. Bow Valley College

Home to more than 15,000 students, it is the largest community college in Alberta. Bow Valley College has an acceptance rate of 37% which means getting admission to the college is much more competitive. The college provides admissions to international students in a wide range of courses.

2. Grande Prairie Regional College (Northwestern Polytechnic)

The Northwestern Polytechnic is a polytechnic college in Calgary that offers degree, diploma, certificate, and apprenticeship programs. It offers credit programs from diverse backgrounds and the annual fees are based on the student’s credit score.

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3. Lakeland College

Lakeland College is a publicly-funded college in Calgary. It has two campuses, one in Vermilion and one in Lloydminster. It has both onsite and offsite courses to help students with flexibility.

4. Keyano College

Keyano College is located in the Woods Buffalo Municipality, one of the largest in Canada. It balances industrial and cultural needs in a student’s academic life and ensures both are given importance. Diploma, degree, and certificate courses are provided here.

Also Read: 25 Best Scholarships for International Students in Canada

5. Lethbridge College

Lethbridge College is one of the best colleges in Canada offering multiple degrees, diplomas, and other certification programs. The college also emphasizes extracurricular activities, youth programs, and support services.

6. ABM College

It is one of the leading training colleges in Toronto and Calgary that provides admissions to Information Technology, Health, and Business Administration programs. The ABM college aims to provide well-established quality education to their students so that they get employment and a successful and long-lasting career.

Also Read: 5 Best Universities in Calgary

7. CDI College

This is a private non-profit academic institution accredited by the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Higher Education in the province of Quebec Canada. Admissions to international students in the CDI College are on a rolling basis in its wide range of courses. The college also provides several scholarships and financial aid to students.

8. Bay River College

The Bay River College aims to provide a well-established education to its students. They focus on the diploma and certification programs designed for the students to fill the space of today's job market. The college is committed to the success of its students and graduates.

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9. Reeves College

This is a private vocational training institute under the Branch of Alberta Higher Education. The  Reeves College has been recognized for its highest standard of education and training. It provides a world-class education for professionals in business, art and design, healthcare, and legal studies.

10. Rocky Mountain College

It is a small private liberal arts academic institution that provides admissions to around 1,000 students in Calgary. Rocky Mountain College is one of the oldest colleges located in Montana, Canada focused on their student’s academic success and personal growth. Apart from academic studies, it also offers its students a variety of co-curricular activities such as athletics, outdoor recreation, theatre, music, clubs, and many more.

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Cost of Studying at Calgary Colleges

Several factors go into the cost of studying at colleges in Calgary, like tuition fees, rent, program, personal expenses, etc. While some costs might be covered by financial aid, you must be prepared to bear a few others.

• Tuition Fee: The tuition fees vary depending on the college and program. Many colleges offer financial aid for tuition fees. An average estimate of tuition fees would be CAD 10,000 to CAD 50,000 (₹6,10,800 to ₹30,54,000).

• Living Expenses: Living expenses include accommodation, food, personal expenses, daily commute, etc. The average cost of living is approximately CAD 2,500 (₹1,50,000) per month.

• Other expenses: A student must consider other miscellaneous expenses like recreation, flight fares, university charges related to books and clubs, etc.

Admission Requirements for Top Calgary Colleges

The admission requirements vary according to the university and program you plan to apply to. It is important to keep your documents ready before the application process for a hassle-free experience.

• Academic Qualifications: A student must have their previous transcripts. A minimum of 3 GPA on a 4-point system is required for admission. A four-year bachelor's degree is required for a master’s program.
• English Language Proficiency Tests: The scores of standardized tests like IELTS and TOEFL are required for admission. The minimum score for each college is different. An IELTS Score of 6+ and a TOEFL score of 80+ is recommended.
• Standardized Test Scores: For specific courses, GRE and GMAT scores are required for admission.
• 1-2 Letters of Recommendation 
• Statement of Purpose

Life of International Students in Calgary, Canada

Calgary is home to some of the best universities and colleges in Canada as well as among the major cities of Canada. Students who want to get the best education without burning their pockets can look for the institutions of Calgary. The average monthly cost of staying in an off-campus apartment is around CAD 1,389 (₹84,400). However, living in on-campus houses is cheaper, at around CAD 600 to CAD 1,500 (₹36,400-  ₹91,100) monthly.

From The Desk of Yocket

Calgary offers students amazing educational opportunities and a high standard of living. Canada is becoming an increasingly popular study-abroad destination, and Calgary is one of the best and most opted-for cities. Sectors like tourism and energy are well established in Calgary, and technology is an emerging sector, thus providing students with various opportunities after university. 

Need help with your application process for applying to Calgary colleges? Our professionals at Yocket Premium have helped more than 10,000 students secure admission to top international universities. Get in touch with Yocket today!