Cheapest Nursing School in Canada for international Students

💉 Cheapest Nursing Schools in Canada for International Students: My Guide to Quality & Affordability

When I first considered studying nursing abroad, Canada stood out not just for its healthcare standards, but for how welcoming it is to international students. But like many others, my biggest concern was cost. I wanted a program that wouldn’t bury me in debt but would still give me a solid education and a future in healthcare.

So I did the digging and now I’m sharing what I found. If you’re wondering which are the cheapest nursing schools in Canada for international students, here’s everything I wish someone had told me.

🧭 Why Study Nursing in Canada?

Canada’s healthcare system is among the best in the world. Nursing graduates from Canadian institutions are globally respected, and Canada’s pathway from education to employment especially for healthcare workers makes it an ideal destination.

For international students like me, the appeal goes beyond academics:

• Safe, multicultural environment

• Post-graduation work permits

• Options to apply for permanent residency

And yes affordable nursing schools if you know where to look!

💸 Understanding the Cost of Nursing Education in Canada

Let’s break down the typical tuition you might expect as an international student:

Program Type	Domestic Students	International Students
Diploma (2 yrs)	CAD $4,000–$8,000/year	CAD $13,000–$18,000/year
BScN (4 yrs)	CAD $7,000–$10,000/year	CAD $20,000–$30,000/year

💡 Tip: Some schools charge international students less than CAD $20,000/year those are the ones I’ve focused on below.

🏫 Top 10 Cheapest Nursing Schools in Canada for International Students

Here’s the list you came for affordable nursing programs with great reputations.

1. Brandon University (Manitoba)

• Tuition: ~CAD $16,000/year

• Program: Bachelor of Nursing (4 years)

• Small class sizes + low living costs in Brandon

2. Cape Breton University (Nova Scotia)

• Tuition: ~CAD $18,515/year

• Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing

• Beautiful east coast campus with strong support for international students

3. Memorial University of Newfoundland

• Tuition: ~CAD $11,460/year

• Program: Collaborative Nursing Program

• One of the most affordable universities in Canada for all programs

4. University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI)

• Tuition: ~CAD $17,000/year

• Program: BScN (4 years)

• Low tuition + peaceful island lifestyle

5. University of Regina (Saskatchewan)

• Tuition: ~CAD $17,640/year

• Program: SCBScN with Saskatchewan Polytechnic

• Collaborative program = hands-on learning

6. Athabasca University (Online & Alberta-based)

• Tuition: ~CAD $16,000–$18,000/year

• Program: Post-LPN BN (for licensed practical nurses)

• Great for distance learners or working professionals

7. NorQuest College (Alberta)

• Tuition: ~CAD $14,300/year

• Program: Practical Nurse Diploma

• Shorter program + excellent job placement

8. Langara College (British Columbia)

• Tuition: ~CAD $19,000/year

• Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing

• Located in Vancouver, a vibrant international student hub

9. Thompson Rivers University (British Columbia)

• Tuition: ~CAD $18,000/year

• Program: BScN

• Smaller city = lower living costs than major metros

10. Douglas College (British Columbia)

• Tuition: ~CAD $19,830/year

• Program: BSN Degree

• Practical-focused curriculum with hospital partnerships

📍 Location Matters: Affordable Cities for International Students

Where you study affects not just tuition, but living expenses and that adds up.

Top budget-friendly cities:

• 🏙️ Brandon, Manitoba – Safe, student-focused, affordable

• 🌊 Charlottetown, PEI – Coastal charm + low rent

• 🏞️ Edmonton, Alberta – Access to good schools with lower cost of living

• 🏡 Regina, Saskatchewan – Great rental prices and supportive healthcare community

💡 Tip: Big cities like Toronto or Vancouver are exciting but more expensive. Smaller cities stretch your budget further.

🎓 Types of Nursing Programs Available

Program Type	Duration	Best For
Diploma (e.g., Practical Nurse)	2 years	Quick job entry, hands-on training
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN)	4 years	Full RN qualification, leadership roles
Accelerated BScN	2 years	Students with prior degrees (fast-tracked)
Post-LPN BN	2–3 years	LPNs upgrading to RN level

🧾 Hidden Costs to Consider Beyond Tuition

Here’s what surprised me when budgeting:

• 📘 Books & Materials: CAD $1,000–$2,000/year

• 👕 Uniforms & Lab Equipment: CAD $300–$500

• 🏥 Health Insurance: CAD $600–$1,000/year

• 🚍 Transportation/Commute: Depends on location

• 🏠 Housing: Ranges from CAD $400–$900/month (shared housing)

🧠 Admission Requirements for International Students

Here’s a basic checklist I followed:

✅ High school diploma with science prerequisites (e.g., biology, chemistry)
✅ English language test (IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL equivalent)
✅ Valid passport
✅ Study permit (after getting admission offer)
✅ Some programs may require a criminal record check or immunizations

👩‍⚕️ Post-Graduation Work Opportunities & PR Pathways

One of the best parts of studying nursing in Canada? You can stay and work.

• 🎓 Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): Up to 3 years

• 👩‍⚕️ High demand for nurses across Canada, especially in rural areas

• 🛂 Permanent Residency (PR): Pathways through Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)

This isn’t just a degree it’s an investment in your future.

📚 Scholarships & Financial Aid for International Nursing Students

Even affordable schools can be more manageable with financial help.

Here are some options I explored:

• 🏫 Institution-specific scholarships: Many offer entrance or merit-based awards

• 🌐 Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (for research programs)

• 💡 Tips:

  • Apply early

  • Write a compelling personal statement

  • Ask your school’s financial aid office for internal or lesser-known bursaries

🎯 How to Choose the Right Nursing School for You

When narrowing down options, I asked myself:

• Is the school accredited?

• What’s the NCLEX pass rate?

• Do they offer clinical placements?

• Are there student support services for internationals?

• What’s the city like for cost and lifestyle?

💡 Don't just chase the cheapest tuition balance cost with career outcomes and support.

🧩 Conclusion: Affordable Doesn’t Mean Low Quality

Studying nursing in Canada doesn’t have to break the bank. I’ve learned that affordability and quality can go hand in hand you just need to do your homework.

Whether it’s Brandon University in Manitoba or NorQuest College in Alberta, there are real options for international students who want a respected nursing degree on a budget.

If you’re serious about this path, start early, research thoroughly, and don’t be afraid to reach out to schools directly. Your future in healthcare starts with one smart decision and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

FAQ About Cheapest Nursing School in Canada for International Students

1. What is the cheapest nursing school in Canada for international students?

Brandon University is widely recognized as the most affordable nursing school in Canada for international students, with tuition fees significantly lower than the national average.

2. How much does it cost to study nursing in Canada as an international student?

Tuition fees vary, but the average cost for international students is around CA$25,809 per year. Some schools, like University of Prince Edward Island, offer programs starting from CA$7,170 annually1.

3. Are there scholarships available for international nursing students in Canada?

Yes. Many universities offer scholarships and bursaries for international nursing students, including entrance awards and merit-based funding. UPEI and University of Regina are known for generous support.

4. Can I study nursing in Canada without prior healthcare experience?

Yes. Most undergraduate nursing programs in Canada accept students directly from high school, provided they meet prerequisites in subjects like biology, chemistry, and English.

5. What is the shortest nursing program available in Canada?

Practical Nursing diplomas typically take 2 years, while some accelerated Bachelor of Nursing programs can be completed in 2–3 years depending on prior education.

6. Which Canadian nursing schools offer 2-year programs for international students?

Schools like University of Ottawa, Lakehead University, and Stenberg College offer 2-year nursing programs, often tailored for students with prior degrees or healthcare backgrounds.

7. Is nursing a good career choice in Canada for international students?

Absolutely. Canada faces a growing demand for nurses, and international graduates often find strong job prospects, especially with pathways to permanent residency through healthcare roles.