If you’re an aspiring engineer with dreams of studying in a world-class university, engineering universities in Canada should be at the top of your list. Known for its innovation, inclusivity, and quality education, Canada offers some of the best engineering programs globally, making it a favorite for international students.
But which universities should you consider? What are the costs, and how do you apply? Relax—this guide has everything you need to know.
Overview of Engineering Education in Canada
To make an informed choice, it’s important to understand how engineering education works in Canada.
Program Structure
- Undergraduate Programs: These are typically four years long and include foundational courses, electives, and capstone projects. Most programs also integrate co-op (paid internships), which means you gain real-world experience while studying.
- Master’s Programs: These can range from one to two years and focus on specialization or research in a specific field.
- PhD Programs: If you’re interested in academia or advanced research, doctoral programs let you explore cutting-edge topics in engineering.
Accreditation Matters
All Canadian engineering programs are accredited by the Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board (CEAB). This ensures that your degree meets international standards and is recognized globally.
Co-op and Internships
Here’s a pro tip: Look for universities with robust co-op programs. These placements give you hands-on experience in your field, helping you build a network and even land a job before you graduate. Universities like Waterloo and UBC are known for their extensive co-op options.
Top 7 Engineering Universities in Canada
| University | Location | Global Rank | Top Programs | Tuition (UG/Grad) | Language | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Toronto | Toronto, Ontario | Top 30 | Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Software | UG: CAD 58K–65K Grad: CAD 25K–35K |
English | Largest faculty, innovation hubs, great for AI & tech networking |
| University of British Columbia | Vancouver, BC | Top 50 | Environmental, Biomedical, Chemical, Computer | UG: CAD 54K–60K Grad: CAD 9.5K–25K |
English | Sustainability focus, strong research, top-notch location |
| McGill University | Montreal, Quebec | Top 50 | Mechanical, Aerospace, Materials | UG: CAD 40K–48K Grad: CAD 18K–30K |
English | Bilingual city, vibrant culture, aerospace research |
| University of Waterloo | Waterloo, Ontario | Top 200 | Software, Computer, Mechatronics, Electrical | UG: CAD 54K–60K Grad: CAD 15K–30K |
English | #1 for co-op programs, tech startup culture |
| University of Alberta | Edmonton, Alberta | Top 150 | Petroleum, Mining, Mechanical, Chemical | UG: CAD 30K–38K Grad: CAD 9.2K–16K |
English | Strong ties to energy sector, affordable tuition |
| McMaster University | Hamilton, Ontario | Top 150 | Biomedical, Software, Civil, Materials | UG: CAD 48K–53K Grad: CAD 15K–25K |
English | Known for biomedical engineering and research hospitals |
1. 🇨🇦 University of Toronto (U of T)
📍 Location: Toronto, Ontario
🌍 Global Rank: Top 30 (QS & THE)
🎓 International Student Percentage: ~27%
🧠 Notable Programs: Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Software, Industrial Engineering
💰 Undergraduate Tuition (Annual): CAD 58,000 – 65,000
💰 Graduate Tuition: CAD 25,000 – 35,000
🗣️ Language of Instruction: English
Highlights:
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Largest and most prestigious engineering faculty in Canada.
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Access to cutting-edge labs and startup incubators like the Vector Institute for AI.
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Located in the heart of Canada’s financial and tech hub – great for networking and internships.
2. 🌲 University of British Columbia (UBC)
📍 Location: Vancouver, British Columbia
🌍 Global Rank: Top 50
🎓 International Student Percentage: ~32%
🧠 Notable Programs: Environmental, Civil, Chemical, Computer, Biomedical
💰 Undergraduate Tuition (Annual): CAD 54,000 – 60,000
💰 Graduate Tuition: CAD 9,500 – 25,000
🗣️ Language of Instruction: English
Highlights:
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Strong focus on climate and sustainability engineering.
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Beautiful campus and a global reputation in research and innovation.
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Offers co-op programs and strong ties with green tech companies.
3. 🏛️ McGill University
📍 Location: Montreal, Quebec
🌍 Global Rank: Top 50
🎓 International Student Percentage: ~30%
🧠 Notable Programs: Mechanical, Aerospace, Electrical, Materials
💰 Undergraduate Tuition (Annual): CAD 40,000 – 48,000
💰 Graduate Tuition: CAD 18,000 – 30,000
🗣️ Language of Instruction: English (French is also used in the community)
Highlights:
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Known for cutting-edge aerospace and medical device engineering.
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Situated in the bilingual, vibrant city of Montreal — lower cost of living than Toronto/Vancouver.
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Strong culture of international collaboration and research.
4. 💻 University of Waterloo
📍 Location: Waterloo, Ontario
🌍 Global Rank: Top 200
🎓 International Student Percentage: ~22%
🧠 Notable Programs: Software, Computer, Mechatronics, Electrical, Systems Design
💰 Undergraduate Tuition (Annual): CAD 54,000 – 60,000
💰 Graduate Tuition: CAD 15,000 – 30,000
🗣️ Language of Instruction: English
Highlights:
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#1 in Canada for computer and software engineering.
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World-renowned co-op program – earn up to CAD 50,000 during your degree through internships.
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Partnered with tech giants like Google, Microsoft, Apple, and Shopify.
5. ⛽ University of Alberta
📍 Location: Edmonton, Alberta
🌍 Global Rank: Top 150
🎓 International Student Percentage: ~20%
🧠 Notable Programs: Petroleum, Chemical, Civil, Mechanical, Mining
💰 Undergraduate Tuition (Annual): CAD 30,000 – 38,000
💰 Graduate Tuition: CAD 9,200 – 16,000
🗣️ Language of Instruction: English
Highlights:
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Leading school for energy, mining, and petroleum engineering.
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Affordable tuition compared to eastern provinces.
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Good scholarship options and strong industry links, especially in Canada’s energy sector.
6. 🧬 McMaster University
📍 Location: Hamilton, Ontario
🌍 Global Rank: Top 150
🎓 International Student Percentage: ~17%
🧠 Notable Programs: Biomedical, Software, Mechanical, Civil, Materials
💰 Undergraduate Tuition (Annual): CAD 48,000 – 53,000
💰 Graduate Tuition: CAD 15,000 – 25,000
🗣️ Language of Instruction: English
Highlights:
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One of Canada’s top universities for biomedical engineering.
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Located close to Toronto — access to job markets and research hospitals.
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Strong interdisciplinary focus with health sciences.
7. 👑 Queen’s University
📍 Location: Kingston, Ontario
🌍 Global Rank: Top 250
🎓 International Student Percentage: ~12%
🧠 Notable Programs: Mining, Mechanical, Civil, Electrical
💰 Undergraduate Tuition (Annual): CAD 48,000 – 52,000
💰 Graduate Tuition: CAD 15,000 – 20,000
🗣️ Language of Instruction: English
Highlights:
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Offers one of the oldest and most respected mining engineering programs in the world.
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Excellent alumni network and close-knit campus culture.
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Strong entrepreneurship support through programs like QICSI.
Bonus: 🇨🇦 Other Noteworthy Engineering Schools
If you’re looking beyond the top 7, here are other strong contenders:
| University | Location | Popular Programs |
|---|---|---|
| University of Calgary | Alberta | Petroleum, Electrical, Software |
| Simon Fraser University (SFU) | BC | Mechatronics, Computing, Electronics |
| Concordia University | Montreal, QC | Aerospace, Civil, Industrial |
| Carleton University | Ottawa, ON | Aerospace, Civil, Mechanical |
| University of Ottawa | Ottawa, ON | Biomedical, Electrical, Software |
Admission Requirements for Engineering Programs
So, you’re thinking about studying engineering in Canada? Awesome choice! But before you pack your bags and dream of maple syrup and lab experiments, let’s break down exactly what you’ll need to get accepted into an engineering program — whether it’s for a bachelor’s or a master’s degree.
For Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) Engineering Programs
If you’re applying right out of high school, here’s what most top universities in Canada expect:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| 📄 Academic Qualifications | Completion of 12 years of schooling with strong grades in Math, Physics, Chemistry, and English. A minimum GPA equivalent to 70%–85% is usually required. |
| 🎯 Prerequisite Courses | – Math (Advanced Functions & Calculus) – Physics – Chemistry – English (Grade 12 level) |
| 🧪 English Proficiency | – IELTS: 6.5+ overall (no band below 6.0) – TOEFL iBT: 90–100 – Duolingo: Often accepted (minimum 115–120) |
| 📃 Documents Required | – Transcripts – Passport – Statement of Purpose (sometimes optional) – Letters of Reference (only a few schools ask for this) |
| 💻 Additional Materials | Some competitive programs (e.g., Waterloo) may require: ✓ Online assessments (like AIF) ✓ Video interviews |
🔍 Pro Tip: GPA requirements can vary by university and by country. For example, if you’re from Bangladesh or India, you’ll likely need a minimum of 75–80% overall in your Higher Secondary Certificate or equivalent.
For Graduate (Master’s) Engineering Programs
If you’re aiming for a Master’s (MEng, MASc, or MSc), you’ll need a more advanced academic and professional profile.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| 🎓 Academic Background | A 4-year bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related field with a minimum B+ average (GPA 3.0/4.0 or 70–75%). |
| ✍️ Statement of Purpose (SOP) | A strong SOP explaining your goals, background, and why you chose that specific program. |
| 🧪 English Proficiency | – IELTS: 6.5–7.0+ – TOEFL iBT: 90–100+ – Duolingo: Minimum 115–120 |
| 📑 Letters of Recommendation | Typically 2–3 letters from professors or work supervisors. |
| 📊 GRE (Sometimes Required) | Not always needed, but top-tier schools (like U of T, UBC) may require GRE scores for certain programs. |
| 📄 Resume or CV | Should highlight your academic projects, work experience, technical skills, and research (if applicable). |
🎓 MEng vs. MASc:
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MEng is course-based (ideal for working professionals).
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MASc is research-based (great if you’re considering a PhD later).
Application Deadlines
Most Canadian universities follow these general timelines:
| Intake Season | Application Period |
|---|---|
| Fall (September) | November – March (the year before intake) |
| Winter (January) | June – September (previous year) |
| Summer (May) | Rare for engineering, check specific programs |
⏰ Pro Tip: Apply early for scholarships and co-op opportunities. Some engineering schools have early admission rounds or priority deadlines.
Application Fees (Estimated)
| University | Fee (CAD) |
|---|---|
| University of Toronto | $180 |
| University of British Columbia | $168 |
| McGill University | $129.50 |
| Waterloo / Alberta / McMaster | $125–150 |
Tuition Costs and Financial Aid for International Students
Studying engineering in Canada isn’t cheap, but with proper planning, it’s manageable.
Average Tuition Fees
- Undergraduate Programs: $20,000–$50,000 CAD/year.
- Graduate Programs: $15,000–$40,000 CAD/year.
Other Costs
- Student Fees: Covers services like health insurance and campus facilities.
- Living Expenses: Expect $10,000–$15,000 CAD/year, depending on the city.
Scholarships
- University-Specific: U of T’s Lester B. Pearson Scholarship or UBC’s International Leader of Tomorrow Award.
- Government-Funded: Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships.
Post-Graduation Opportunities for Engineering Students
Once you graduate, your journey doesn’t end—it evolves.
Post-Graduate Work Permit (PGWP)
This allows you to stay and work in Canada for up to three years, giving you time to gain valuable experience.
High-Demand Fields
- Software engineering.
- Renewable energy.
- Urban infrastructure development.
Pathways to Permanent Residency
Through programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), you can transition to PR and stay in Canada long-term.
Tips for Choosing the Right Engineering University
Here’s how to make the best decision:
- Specialization Matters: Focus on universities that excel in your chosen field.
- Location Counts: Consider the city’s cost of living and job market.
- Talk to Alumni: Their experiences can give you insider tips.
Conclusion
Canada is more than maple syrup and hockey — it’s also one of the best places in the world to study engineering. Whether you’re into building bridges, creating apps, or exploring outer space, there’s a top-tier program here for you.
If you’re serious about becoming an engineer, start researching the universities that match your goals, and don’t hesitate to reach out for help with your application or scholarship search.
