5 Canadian Universities with Accessible Admission in 2026
Getting into a Canadian university does not always require exceptionally high grades. Some public universities have moderate entry requirements, clear application processes and flexible admission routes for international students.
This article looks at five Canadian universities with relatively accessible admission, along with their estimated fees, popular programmes and available scholarships.
All five schools are listed as Designated Learning Institutions by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. However, students must still meet the requirements of their chosen programme.
Why Study in Canada?
Canada remains one of the world’s most popular study destinations for international students because students benefit from globally recognized universities, a welcoming multicultural environment and programmes that prepare them for careers in fields such as business, technology, healthcare and engineering.
For many students, another major advantage is the opportunity to qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit after completing an eligible programme which prepares them for permanent residency.
What Makes Admission More Accessible?
A university is generally considered more accessible when it publishes clear admission requirements, accepts a wider range of international qualifications or offers alternative pathways for students who still need to meet the English-language requirement.
That doesn’t mean admission is guaranteed. Competitive programmes such as nursing, engineering and some health-related courses often have higher entry requirements.
For this article, we’ve selected five public Canadian universities based on their published admission requirements, recognised international qualifications, English-language pathways and overall accessibility for international students.
1. Cape Breton University
Located in Sydney, Nova Scotia, Cape Breton University has become a popular choice for international students because of its straightforward admission requirements and wide range of undergraduate programmes.
For most undergraduate credit programmes, the university require an overall high school average of approximately 65%. Applicants who meet the minimum requirements may be admitted when spaces are available.
Popular programmes include business, engineering technology, health sciences, hospitality, tourism, arts and science.
Why admission is accessible: The general 65% requirement is moderate compared with the entry grades required by many highly competitive Canadian universities.
Estimated fees: The estimated total international cost of a four-year Bachelor of Arts is approximately about $23,794 or maximum of $95,177.60 per year. The exact amount will depend on the student’s course selection. This estimate includes tuition, mandatory fees and living expenses over the full four years, not tuition alone.
Application fee: You will pay a one-time, non-refundable application fee of $80 when submitting your application to the university.
Scholarships: Cape Breton University awards about CA$2.6 million in scholarships and bursaries every year. Eligible international students may receive entrance scholarships such as the Chancellor’s Scholarship (up to CA$30,000), the President’s Scholarship (up to CA$20,000) or the Dean’s Scholarship (up to CA$10,000), depending on their academic performance and whether they meet the university’s eligibility requirements.
2. Brandon University
Brandon University is a public university in Manitoba and may appeal to students who prefer a smaller campus environment.
For students applying with WASSCE results, the university generally requires at least C5 in five subjects, including English and Mathematics. International Baccalaureate applicants are typically expected to have a minimum diploma score of 24.
Students can choose from a range of undergraduate programmes, including Business Administration, Arts, Science, Music, Environmental Science and Physical Education.
Why admission is accessible: Brandon University publishes clear requirements for applicants from different countries and accepts moderate secondary school results for general admission.
Estimated fees: International students are advised to budget approximately $35,000 for their first year. This estimate covers tuition, residence with a meal plan, books and health insurance. The international application fee is $140.
Scholarships: Students completing the full International Baccalaureate Diploma may qualify for scholarships ranging from $1,100 to $2,800, depending on their results. Other entrance and continuing awards are also available, although the requirements vary.
3. University of Regina
The University of Regina is a public university in Saskatchewan.
Students who meet the academic requirements but have not yet submitted an approved English-language test may receive conditional admission. They must later meet the language requirement before receiving full acceptance.
Available programmes include business, engineering, computer science, education, journalism, nursing, arts and social work.
Why admission is accessible: Its conditional English admission option allows academically qualified students to begin the application process while working towards the required language score.
Estimated fees: International undergraduate tuition and mandatory fees for 2026–2027 are estimated at approximately $32,500 for 10 courses. The university estimates that students may need a total yearly budget of about $47,000 after including books, accommodation and personal expenses. A $1,000 enrollment deposit is required after admission.
Scholarships: International undergraduate applicants with an admission average of at least 83% are automatically considered for a $5,000 International Entrance Scholarship. The university also offers an International Undergraduate Student Bursary worth up to $20,000 over four years to students who meet the required conditions.
4. Mount Saint Vincent University
Mount Saint Vincent University is a public university in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
International high school applicants generally need an average of approximately 70% across five academic subjects. Conditional English-language admission may also be available to eligible students.
Programmes include business administration, public relations, tourism and hospitality management, applied human nutrition, arts, science and education.
Why admission is accessible: Its published 70% general average and English-language pathways give international students clear options for entry.
Estimated fees: New international undergraduate students taking 10 courses can expect tuition and required fees of approximately $23,215 to $23,667 for the 2026–2027 academic year. Room and board are estimated separately at $12,575.
Scholarships: High school applicants who apply by March 1 with an admission average of at least 80% may be considered for entrance scholarships. Some awards are automatic, while others require a separate application or supporting documents.
5. Memorial University of Newfoundland
Memorial University of Newfoundland is a public university with campuses in St. John’s and Corner Brook.
The university accepts international qualifications such as WAEC, NECO, GCE and the International Baccalaureate. General admission normally considers five senior secondary subjects, including English, mathematics and science.
Students can choose from programmes in business, engineering, computer science, nursing, pharmacy, marine studies, arts and science.
Why admission is accessible: Memorial University recognises several international qualifications, offers hundreds of programme options and accepts students for multiple semesters during the year.
Estimated fees: International undergraduate tuition for 10 courses during the 2026–2027 academic year is approximately $22,500. Additional student, recreation, union and insurance fees may apply. The international undergraduate application fee is $300.
Scholarships: Qualified international applicants are automatically considered for entrance scholarships, depending on available funding. The IUGS Entrance Scholarship for international undergraduate students is worth $6,000 and is generally not renewable.
Choose a PGWP-Eligible Programme
Studying at a Designated Learning Institution does not automatically mean that every programme offered by the school qualifies for a Post-Graduation Work Permit.
Before accepting an offer or paying tuition, check the official IRCC website to confirm that your school is a DLI and that your specific programme meets the current PGWP requirements. You should also check the programme length, qualification type, field of study and language requirements.
Students who are unsure can also book a consultation with a Licensed Immigration Professional to review the school, the programme and the immigration rules that may apply before you make a major financial commitment.
How to Choose the Right University
Start by comparing your grades and completed subjects with the requirements of your chosen programme.
You should also consider tuition, living expenses, location, programme length, career relevance, available intakes and PGWP eligibility. Remember that competitive programmes may require stronger grades than the university’s general admission requirement.
How Sehli Global Can Help
As a licensed Canadian immigration consulting firm, Sehli Global helps students understand the study permit process and make informed decisions before applying.
We can help you check whether a school is listed as a DLI, review whether your chosen programme may be eligible for a PGWP and explain the immigration requirements connected to your study plans.
We also guide students through the study permit application process and help them understand the documents and information required for their individual situation.
You can book a consultation with Sehli Global to receive professional guidance from a Licensed RCIC in Ontario.
Conclusion
Accessible admission can make studying in Canada possible for students who may not meet the highly competitive entry standards of some universities.
However, the right choice should be based on more than the minimum admission grade. Students should consider the total cost, programme quality, career relevance and PGWP eligibility before accepting an offer.
Careful research and professional guidance can help you choose a programme that supports both your education and your long-term plans in Canada.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Canadian university has the most accessible admission?
There is no official ranking. Admission depends on the student’s grades, completed subjects, English proficiency and chosen programme.
Does meeting the minimum grade guarantee admission?
No. Meeting the minimum requirement only makes a student eligible for consideration. Admission may also depend on available spaces and competition.
Can international students apply without IELTS?
In some cases, yes. Several universities, including the University of Regina and Mount Saint Vincent University, accept alternative English tests, prior English-language education, or conditional admission pathways for students who haven’t yet completed a formal test.
Are these universities on the IRCC DLI list?
Yes. All five are public institutions currently listed as Designated Learning Institutions by IRCC.
Does studying at a DLI guarantee a PGWP?
No. The student must complete an eligible programme and meet all the other PGWP requirements.
Are scholarships guaranteed?
No. Scholarships depend on academic results, deadlines, available funding and the applicant’s eligibility.
How would I know if my programme is PGWP eligible?
The most reliable way is to check the eligibility details published directly on the school’s official website for that exact programme, since requirements can vary even between similar-sounding programmes at the same institution. If you’d rather have it confirmed by a professional before accepting an offer or paying tuition, you can book a consultation with Sehli Global, who can help verify a programme’s PGWP eligibility as part of a broader review of your study and immigration plans.
Can Sehli Global help with study permit applications?
Yes. We provide professional immigration guidance and help students understand the study permit requirements that apply to their situation.
