Are you a Bangladeshi student looking to study in Canada? Well, you're in luck! In this article, our UniSearch experts will explore the best university in Canada for Bangladeshi students to choose from.
Studying in Canada offers numerous advantages. Its high standards and multicultural environment make it an ideal destination for international students. From vibrant cities to breathtaking natural landscapes, Canada has a lot to offer to you.
Whether you are interested in Business, Engineering, Medicine, or the Humanities, Canada offers a wide range of programs to suit your interests. Read along as we delve into the top Canadian universities and discover the opportunities that await you.
Why Study in Canada from Bangladesh?
Studying in Canada offers high-quality education, affordability, scholarships, excellent post-graduation work opportunities, and potential pathways to permanent residency. You should consider studying in Canada for these compelling reasons:
Quality Education
Canadian universities are popular because of their high-quality education. The country's strong commitment to education is reflected in its rankings and recognition worldwide.
According to the QS World University Rankings 2023, 31 Canadian universities were featured among the top universities globally, with five in the top 50. Canadian institutions offer programs and courses in so many different fields. These universities ensure that you can have ample choices to pursue your desired fields of study.
Affordability and Scholarships
Studying in Canada can be more affordable compared to other destinations. The tuition fees in Canadian universities are generally lower compared to other popular study destinations.
Additionally, numerous scholarships and funding opportunities are available to Bangladeshi students. For instance, the Canadian government invests over $200 million annually in scholarships for international students. In 2019, there were 7,310 full-time international students from Bangladesh studying in Canada, benefiting from these opportunities.
Work Opportunities in Canada for International Students
Canada offers excellent work opportunities, enabling students to gain valuable work experience while studying or after completing their degrees. You’ll be eligible to work in Canada for up to 20 hours per week during your studies and full-time during breaks.
After graduation, you can apply for a post-graduation work permit (PGWP) that allows you to work in Canada for up to three years. These work opportunities provide valuable international work experience, contributing to your career growth.
Furthermore, Canada provides immigration pathways for international students. The Canadian government introduced the Express Entry system, which gives additional points if you complete your education in Canada. This pathway increases your chances of obtaining permanent residency.
According to the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), in 2019, over 25% of all new permanent residents admitted through the Express Entry system were former international students. So, we hope you find these reasons solid enough to opt for degrees in Canada from Bangladesh.
Top 5 Best Universities in Canada for Bangladeshi Students
University Name | QS WUR 2023 | Best Program(s) |
University of British Columbia | #47 | Business Administration, Psychology |
McGill University | #31 | Medicine, Law, Computer Science |
University of Toronto | #34 | Engineering, Computer Science |
University of Alberta | #110 | Engineering, Business, Health Sciences |
University of Waterloo | #154 | Engineering, Computer Science |
University of British Columbia (UBC)
The University of British Columbia (UBC) ranks #47 in QS WUR 2023 with an overall score of 77. It is well-known for its outstanding academic programs, curriculum, teaching quality, and vibrant campus life for international students. That’s why we put it at number one on our list.
UBC offers a wide range of programs across various disciplines. It provides diverse options to pursue your academic interests. The university excels in fields like Engineering, Computer Science, Business, Health Sciences, Social Sciences, and Arts.
UBC's curriculum emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach that will encourage you to explore different subjects and develop a broad understanding of your chosen field. The university has a research-intensive environment, fostering innovation and critical thinking. UBC faculty members are experts in their respective fields. They ensure quality so that you receive high-quality education and mentorship.
The University of British Columbia provides a vibrant and inclusive campus life. The campus itself is very welcoming to international students. The university's student body represents over 160 countries. Thus it creates a diverse and multicultural community.
UBC's tuition fees can vary depending on the program and degree level. However, when compared to other high-end universities in Canada and abroad, UBC's tuition fees are competitive. For undergraduate programs, you’ll need to pay CAD 36,000 to CAD 58,000 per year, depending on your program.
And for the postgraduate program, the tuition fees are approximately CAD 8,000 to CAD 40,000 per year. However, there are so many financial aid options available that can ease down the cost. Overall, UCB is an attractive option if you are looking for a top-quality education at a comparatively reasonable cost.
McGill University
McGill University, located in Montreal, Quebec, is widely regarded as one of the best universities in Canada. Known for its academic excellence, vibrant campus life, and diverse student community, McGill offers numerous advantages.
McGill University offers a wide range of programs in Arts, Science, Engineering, Management, Medicine, and Law. With over 300 academic programs and more than 11 faculties and schools, you have ample choices to pursue your desired fields of study.
The university has a rigorous curriculum and high-quality teaching. Its faculty members are distinguished scholars and experts in their respective fields. This university has a rich and stimulating learning environment. McGill's commitment to research and innovation is also evident. The university consistently ranks among the top institutions globally in terms of research output and impact. It is now in #31 according to QS WUR 2023 data.
McGill University provides a vibrant and inclusive campus life. The student body is diverse, representing over 150 countries. It is fostering a multicultural and global learning environment. You’ll find numerous student clubs, organizations, and societies to choose from, catering to your interests.
The university's residences offer accommodation options for students. Additionally, Montreal, the city where McGill is located, offers a thriving cultural scene, with festivals, art galleries, restaurants, and a lively nightlife. You can have a fulfilling experience beyond the classroom.
The tuition fees vary depending on the program and level of study you choose. McGill University's tuition fees for undergraduate programs can range from CAD 20,000 to CAD 50,000 per year. And for postgraduate degrees, it can vary from CAD 10,000 to CAD 40,000 per year. But don’t worry - the university offers scholarships and financial aid options to help support your education. Thus, McGill presents an enticing choice for you without bearing exorbitant expenses, making it an appealing option for you in both quality and affordability.
University of Toronto
The University of Toronto ranks #34 with an overall 81.5 score in QS WUR 2023. It is one of the best universities in Canada. It offers exceptional programs and curriculum, with top-notch teaching quality and vibrant campus life.
The University of Toronto provides a vast array of programs across various disciplines. You have ample choices to pursue your academic interests. With over 700 undergraduate programs and 280 graduate programs, the university offers a comprehensive range of educational opportunities.
The curriculum at the University of Toronto fosters critical thinking, research skills, and innovation. The university emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and provides flexibility so that you can tailor your education according to your interests. The faculty comprises renowned scholars, researchers, and experts who are leaders in their respective fields. Their expertise contributes to high-quality teaching.
The University of Toronto provides vibrant and diverse campus life to its students. It has a large and diverse international student community, representing over 160 countries. This multicultural setting will allow you to engage with different cultures. You can expand your global perspectives, and develop lifelong friendships.
Tuition fees at the University of Toronto vary depending on your program, level of study, and your residency status. As an international student, you can expect approximately CAD 45,000 to CAD 59,000 per year for undergraduate degrees and CAD 16,000 to CAD 48,000 for graduate programs. The university also provides a wide range of scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid options to support you in managing your educational expenses.
University of Alberta
The University of Alberta is a top-ranked university in Canada. Excellent academic programs, curriculum, and teaching quality keep it on #110 in QS WUR 2023.
The University of Alberta offers over 400 programs across 18 faculties, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. The university is particularly well-regarded for its Science and Engineering programs. The Faculty of Engineering consistently ranks among the top 100 Engineering programs globally. The university also has a strong reputation in Business, Law, Medicine, and Education.
UAlberta has a world-class faculty who are leaders in their respective fields. The university is committed to providing high-quality education. That’s why it gained recognition as a top research-intensive university in Canada. Additionally, the university's teaching is informed by research, ensuring you receive an education that is current and relevant.
The University of Alberta provides a welcoming and inclusive campus environment for you. The university has an International Centre that offers support services such as immigration advising, orientation, and social events. The campus also has over 7,500 international students from more than 150 countries. The university's commitment to diversity and inclusivity helped it gain recognition as one of Canada's Best Diversity Employers for several years.
The tuition fees at the University of Alberta vary depending on the program, but they are generally competitive compared to other top universities in Canada. For example, the tuition fees for international undergraduate students range from CAD 20,000 to CAD 30,000 per year, while the tuition fees for international graduate students range from CAD 9,000 to CAD 19,000 per year.
This makes it a quite affordable university comparatively. Better yet, the university also offers numerous scholarships and funding opportunities for you to help offset the cost of tuition. So, it is an appealing choice for you as it combines exceptional quality with a comparatively affordable investment.
University of Waterloo
Many consider the University of Waterloo one of the best universities in Canada. It is highly popular with a rank of #154 in QS WUR 2023. Its exceptional programs, rigorous curriculum, high teaching quality, vibrant campus life, and reasonable tuition fees are factors to consider before choosing a university in Canada.
The University of Waterloo offers a diverse range of programs across various disciplines, including engineering, mathematics, computer science, health sciences, business, arts, and more. The university is particularly renowned for its cooperative education (co-op) programs. It will provide you with valuable work experience alongside your studies. Co-op students alternate between academic terms and work terms, gaining practical skills and industry exposure. This unique approach to education fosters strong industry connections and enhances students' employability.
The University of Waterloo prides itself on its high teaching standards. Faculty members are renowned experts in their respective fields. The university emphasizes interactive and innovative teaching methods. These methods promote critical thinking, problem-solving, and hands-on learning.
Small class sizes allow for personalized attention, fostering an engaging learning environment. The university's commitment to teaching excellence is reflected in numerous accolades and awards received by its faculty members.
The University of Waterloo offers a vibrant and diverse community of international students. The International Student Experience team organizes cultural events, workshops, and trips, facilitating cross-cultural interaction and creating a sense of community. You can connect with fellow students from around the world. This will create lifelong friendships and expand your global network.
The tuition fees can vary depending on the program of study and level of degree. The University of Waterloo's tuition fees are generally competitive compared to other top Canadian universities. The fees for undergraduate programs for international students range from approximately CAD 23,000 to CAD 46,000 per year.
Graduate programs typically have different fee structures, including per term or per course fees. The university also provides various scholarships, grants, and financial aid options so that you can easily continue your studies there.
7 Best Courses To Study In Canada for Bangladeshi Students
Canada offers many different courses to choose from. These courses are up-to-date and enrich your skills to compete in the world. Here are some of the best courses that you can study in Canada:
Computer Science and Information Technology
Canada has a strong technology sector and studying computer science or IT can lead to excellent career prospects. You can gain knowledge in software development, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science, and computer networks. Top universities like the University of Toronto, the University of British Columbia, and McGill University offer excellent programs in this field.
Engineering
Canada has a robust engineering sector. Studying engineering can provide you with ample opportunities. Popular branches of Engineering include Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Chemical Engineering. The University of Waterloo is renowned for its engineering programs.
Business and Management
Canada has a thriving business environment. This makes it an attractive destination for studying Business and Management. You can choose to specialize in areas such as finance, marketing, entrepreneurship, international business, or supply chain management.
Institutions like the University of British Columbia, the University of Toronto, and McGill University offer top-notch business programs. Queen's University and Western University are also strong contenders.
Health Sciences and Nursing
Canada has an excellent healthcare system. So, if you study Health Sciences or Nursing, it can lead you to rewarding career opportunities. Programs include areas such as medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and nursing. The University of Toronto, the University of British Columbia, and McMaster University provide exceptional programs in this field.
Environmental Sciences and Sustainability
With its diverse natural landscapes and commitment to environmental conservation, Canada offers great programs in environmental sciences and sustainability. You can explore areas such as environmental biology, ecology, conservation, environmental policy, and sustainable resource management.
Canadian universities often have strong research programs and partnerships with environmental organizations. The top three, the University of British Columbia, the University of Toronto, and McGill University, again offer strong programs in this field. Other great options include the University of Guelph and the University of Saskatchewan.
Social Sciences and Humanities
Canadian universities excel in social sciences and humanities. It has a broad range of disciplines such as Psychology, Sociology, Anthropology, History, and Political Science. The University of Toronto, the University of British Columbia, and McGill University have renowned social sciences and humanities programs. You can pursue disciplines such as psychology, sociology, anthropology, history, political science, international relations, and linguistics.
Applied Sciences and Technology
In Canada, you can study Applied Sciences and Technology, like Applied Physics, Applied Chemistry, Biotechnology, and Applied Mathematics. Institutions such as the University of Waterloo, the University of Toronto, and the University of British Columbia provide opportunities to study in these areas. You can choose from applied physics, applied chemistry, biotechnology, applied mathematics, and materials science.
First, research specific universities and their programs to find the best fit for your academic and career goals. Then, it is best to consider factors such as admission requirements, tuition fees, scholarship opportunities, and location preferences when making your decision.
Requirements to Study in Canada from Bangladesh
To study in Canada from Bangladesh, you must meet specific requirements. From obtaining an acceptance letter to securing a study permit, we have your back. Here is a detailed description of the requirements:
- Letter of Acceptance: You need an acceptance letter from a Canadian DLI. For example, receiving an acceptance letter from the University of Toronto or McGill University demonstrates admission to a recognized institution. To secure this letter you will typically need:
- A completed application form for your chosen program and chosen university
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Proof of English proficiency
- Letters of recommendation
- Statement of purpose
- CV/resume
- Proof of identity
- Program-specific requirements
- Proof of Financial Stability: You must show proof of funds to cover tuition fees, living expenses, and return travel. For instance, maintaining a bank balance of the amount needed for one year of tuition and living expenses or obtaining a scholarship can serve as financial proof
- Language Proficiency: Demonstrating your proficiency in English or French is necessary. For example, you need to achieve a minimum score of 6.5 on the IELTS exam or a B2 level in the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)
- Valid Passport: Having a valid passport for the duration of your stay in Canada is essential. Ensure that your passport is valid for at least the length of your intended study program
- Health Insurance: It is mandatory to have health insurance coverage while studying in Canada. You can obtain this through a Canadian provider or through the institution's group health insurance plan for international students
- Police Clearance Certificate: Submitting a police clearance certificate or undergoing a background check is necessary. It will demonstrate your good character and ensure that you will be a positive addition to Canadian society.
- Study Permit: After obtaining the acceptance letter, you must apply for a study permit. Complete the online application, pay the fee, and submit the required documents, including the acceptance letter, financial proof, and passport details.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which university is best for Bangladeshi students in Canada?
The "best" university will depend on your preferences, the desired field of study, location, and other factors. There are several universities in Canada that offer excellent academic programs and support services for Bangladeshi students.
Some of the top universities for Bangladeshi students in Canada are the University of Toronto, McGill University, University of British Columbia, University of Waterloo, York University, Simon Fraser University, McMaster University, Western University, University of Alberta, Carleton University, etc.
How much does it cost to study in Canada for Bangladeshi students?
The cost of studying in Canada for Bangladeshi students can depend on the university, program of study, location, and lifestyle choices. Generally, you can expect to pay tuition fees ranging from CAD 15,000 to CAD 35,000 per year for undergraduate programs, and CAD 20,000 to CAD 60,000 per year for graduate programs.
Additionally, keep an estimated budget of CAD 15,000 to CAD 20,000 per year for living expenses.
How can I get admission in Canadian universities from Bangladesh?
To get admission to a Canadian university from Bangladesh, research universities and programs that align with your interests, meet admission requirements, apply online through the university's portal or OUAC for Ontario-based universities. Submit required documents, pay application fees, and wait for the admission decision. Once you get a study permit after receiving the acceptance letter, you can prepare for your arrival in Canada.
Our Concluding Thoughts
Canada has undoubtedly the best university for Bangladeshi students. No matter which field you choose, Canadian universities will provide top-notch academic programs. Institutions like the University of Toronto, McGill University, University of British Columbia, and many others consistently rank among the best universities in the world. By choosing the right university that aligns with your interests and career aspirations, embark on an enriching academic journey and lay the foundation for a successful future.