Top 10 Canadian Universities & Colleges Preferred by Nepalese Students 2025/26

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Studying in Canada from Nepal in 2025/26 has become the first choice for Nepalese students. Why? Because it combines world-class universities, post-graduate work opportunities, welcoming communities, and pathways to permanent residency.

Yes, tuition and living costs are higher than in Nepal, but the value, global recognition, and career opportunities Canadian universities provide make it an investment worth making.

Here’s your guide to the universities most chosen by Nepalese students in 2026.

Top Colleges in Canada for Nepalese Students (2026)

Canadian public colleges are the most popular choice for Nepalese students because of affordable fees, co-op programs, and PGWP eligibility.

RankCollegeLocationWhy Nepalese Students Prefer It
1Centennial CollegeToronto, OntarioToronto’s oldest public college; strong in IT, health & business
2Durham CollegeOshawa, OntarioJob-oriented diplomas, affordable housing near Toronto
3Humber CollegeToronto, OntarioOne of Canada’s largest colleges, excellent co-op placements
4Seneca PolytechnicToronto, OntarioFocused on technology, aviation, health & media
5Bow Valley CollegeCalgary, AlbertaAffordable tuition, strong PR pathways in Alberta
6Algonquin CollegeOttawa, OntarioInnovation hub, strong trades & IT programs
7St. Lawrence CollegeKingston/Brockville/Cornwall, OntarioAffordable + excellent support for internationals
8Sheridan CollegeOakville/Brampton/Mississauga, OntarioFamous worldwide for animation & creative programs
9Douglas CollegeNew Westminster/Coquitlam, BCAffordable diplomas + university transfer options
10Sault CollegeSault Ste. Marie/Brampton, OntarioAviation, trades & affordable diplomas

Other favorites: Mohawk (Hamilton), Fanshawe (London, Ontario), George Brown (Toronto).

 

🏛 Top Universities in Canada for Nepalese Students (2026)

For those aiming at research-based, globally ranked degrees, here are the most popular Canadian universities among Nepalese students:

  • University of Toronto (Ontario): Canada’s #1 ranked, strong across all fields.

  • University of British Columbia (UBC – Vancouver/Kelowna): Global reputation, excellent for sciences & business.

  • McGill University (Montreal, Quebec): Ivy-league level Canadian university, top in medicine & research.

  • University of Waterloo (Ontario): World famous for engineering, IT & co-op programs.

  • University of Manitoba (Winnipeg): Affordable tuition, diverse programs, strong Nepalese community.

  • Memorial University of Newfoundland (St. John’s): Lowest tuition fees among Canadian universities.

  • University of Windsor (Ontario): Business, engineering & automotive programs.

  • Lakehead University (Ontario): Smaller, supportive, affordable tuition.

  • University of Calgary / Alberta / Saskatchewan: Strong for engineering, medicine, and research.

  • Concordia & York University (Montreal/Toronto): Popular among international students for business & tech.


    IELTS Requirement for Nepalese Students

    Unlike the UK, Nepalese students must take IELTS or another accepted English test to study in Canada.

    • IELTS Academic (SDS Stream): Minimum 6.0 in each band

    • Alternatives: PTE Academic, TOEFL iBT, Duolingo (accepted by some)

    • Without IELTS/PTE, Nepalese students cannot apply under SDS visa stream

    This makes IELTS preparation in Nepal the first step for your Canada journey.


    🎓 Scholarships in Canada for Nepalese Students

    While not as high as some UK/USA offers, scholarships in Canada still help.

    • Entrance Scholarships: CAD $1,000–$5,000 (based on grades)

    • Merit Scholarships: Up to CAD $10,000 (for top students)

    • College Bursaries: CAD $500–$2,000

    • Government Awards: Vanier (PhD), Canada Graduate Scholarships

    💡 Most Nepalese students benefit from entrance scholarships + small bursaries when applying early.


    Canada Student Visa (SDS) – Requirements for Nepalese Students

    To apply for a Canada study visa from Nepal under SDS (Student Direct Stream):

    • Offer letter from a DLI-approved college/university

    • Tuition fees (at least 1 year) paid in advance

    • GIC (Guaranteed Investment Certificate): CAD $20,635

    • IELTS Academic with 6.0 in each band (or PTE equivalent)

    • Proof of funds + medical & police report

    • SOP (Statement of Purpose): Explaining study plan, career goals, and reason for choosing Canada.

    Work Rights under Student Visa:

    • 20 hours/week during study term

    • Full-time during scheduled breaks

    • PGWP (Post-Graduation Work Permit): Up to 3 years → pathway to PR


    Cost of Living in Canada (Nepalese Students)

    • Toronto / Vancouver: CAD $1,200–$1,800 per month (~NPR 115,000–175,000)

    • Smaller cities (Winnipeg, Calgary, Halifax): CAD $700–$1,000 (~NPR 70,000–95,000)

    • Shared housing: Most Nepalese students save money by renting together.


    Weather in Canada – What Nepali Students Should Expect

    • Winter (Nov–Mar): Very cold (–10°C to –25°C).

    • Spring (Apr–May): Mild and refreshing.

    • Summer (Jun–Aug): 20–30°C, best for part-time jobs.

    • Fall (Sep–Oct): Beautiful but chilly.


    Why Nepalese Students Choose Canada

    • Globally recognized degrees

    • Affordable tuition compared to UK/USA

    • Clear PR pathway through PGWP + Express Entry

    • Safe & multicultural

    • Large Nepalese communities in major cities


    Your Canada Journey with Goreto

    At Goreto Educational Consultancy, we make your Canada dream simple and achievable:

    ✅ College & university selection
    ✅ IELTS/PTE preparation guidance
    ✅ Application & documents
    ✅ Scholarship & financial planning
    ✅ SOP (Statement of Purpose) & study plan writing support.
    ✅ Visa processing (SDS/Non-SDS)
    ✅ Pre-departure & settlement support

    Contact Goreto Today. Your Study in Canada journey starts here!

     


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Sources & References

 

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