Calgary, Alberta, is one of the fastest-growing cities in Canada, known for its excellent educational institutions, high quality of life, and employment opportunities. Home to top-ranking colleges and universities, Calgary attracts thousands of international students every year. If you’re planning to study in Canada, exploring colleges in Calgary for international students can be a great choice.
This guide provides a list of colleges in Calgary for international students, covering tuition fees, programs, and key highlights to help you make an informed decision.
Why Study in Calgary, Alberta?
Before we dive into the Calgary college list, let’s explore why Calgary is an excellent study destination:
✅ Quality Education – Calgary hosts several top-ranked colleges and universities offering high academic standards.
✅ Affordable Cost of Living – Compared to cities like Toronto and Vancouver, Calgary has a relatively lower cost of living.
✅ Job Opportunities – Many colleges in Calgary, Canada, for international students provide co-op programs and work placements.
✅ Public Colleges – There are many public colleges in Calgary, which offer affordable tuition fees for international students.
✅ Safe and Student-Friendly – Calgary is one of the safest cities in Canada, with a multicultural and welcoming environment.
List of Colleges in Calgary for International Students
Calgary offers a variety of colleges catering to international students, with programs in business, technology, healthcare, and more. Below is a detailed list of colleges in Calgary for international students, including public and private institutions.
1. Bow Valley College
📍 Location: Calgary, Alberta
📚 Type: Public College
Bow Valley College is one of the most popular public colleges in Calgary, offering career-focused programs in business, healthcare, IT, and social services. It provides affordable tuition fees, making it a top choice among colleges in Calgary for international students.
Popular Programs:
- Business Administration
- Software Development
- Practical Nursing
- Early Childhood Education
Tuition Fees for International Students:
💰 CAD 12,000 – 18,000 per year
2. SAIT (Southern Alberta Institute of Technology)
📍 Location: Calgary, Alberta
📚 Type: Public Polytechnic College
SAIT is a leading public college in Calgary, known for hands-on learning and applied research. It ranks among the top colleges in Calgary, Alberta for technology, engineering, and business programs.
Popular Programs:
- Information Technology
- Hospitality & Tourism Management
- Engineering Technology
- Culinary Arts
Tuition Fees for International Students:
💰 CAD 18,000 – 22,000 per year
Why Choose SAIT?
✅ Strong industry partnerships
✅ High employment rate for graduates
✅ State-of-the-art campus facilities
3. Alberta University of the Arts (AUArts)
📍 Location: Calgary, Alberta
📚 Type: Public University
For students interested in fine arts, AUArts is one of the best colleges in Calgary, Canada, for international students specializing in creative disciplines.
Popular Programs:
- Visual Communications
- Media Arts
- Animation
- Fine Arts
Tuition Fees for International Students:
💰 CAD 18,000 – 24,000 per year
Why Choose AUArts?
✅ Strong reputation in the arts industry
✅ Scholarships available for international students
✅ Small class sizes for personalized learning
4. University of Calgary
📍 Location: Calgary, Alberta
📚 Type: Public University
Though primarily a university, the University of Calgary offers diploma and certificate programs alongside full-time degrees. It is among the best colleges and universities in Calgary for international students.
Popular Programs:
- Business and Finance
- Engineering and Computer Science
- Health Sciences
- Environmental Studies
Tuition Fees for International Students:
💰 CAD 20,000 – 30,000 per year
Why Choose the University of Calgary?
✅ Ranked among Canada’s top research universities
✅ Offers scholarships for international students
✅ Strong alumni network and job placement
5. Reeves College
📍 Location: Calgary, Alberta
📚 Type: Private College
Reeves College offers career-focused diploma programs in business, healthcare, and legal studies. If you are looking for fast-track programs in colleges in Calgary for international students, Reeves College is a great option.
Popular Programs:
- Business Administration
- Legal Administration
- Medical Office Assistant
Tuition Fees for International Students:
💰 CAD 15,000 – 22,000 per year
Why Choose Reeves College?
✅ Short-duration career programs
✅ Industry-relevant curriculum
✅ Flexible class schedules
6. CDI College
📍 Location: Calgary, Alberta
📚 Type: Private College
CDI College is known for offering professional training programs in business, technology, and healthcare.
Popular Programs:
- Graphic Design
- Network Administration
- Dental Assisting
- Pharmacy Technician
Tuition Fees for International Students:
💰 CAD 14,000 – 20,000 per year
Why Choose CDI College?
✅ Hands-on learning approach
✅ Strong employer connections
✅ High employment rate for graduates
Admission Requirements for Colleges in Calgary, Alberta
Most colleges in Calgary, Alberta, have the following general requirements for international students:
📌 Academic Transcripts – High school or bachelor’s degree certificates
📌 English Proficiency Test Scores – IELTS (6.0-6.5) or TOEFL (80-90)
📌 Statement of Purpose (SOP) – Explaining your study goals
📌 Letter of Recommendation – From teachers or employers
📌 Student Visa & Study Permit – Required for all international students
How to Apply to Colleges in Calgary for International Students
📢 Follow these steps to apply to colleges in Calgary, Canada, for international students:
1️⃣ Choose Your College & Program – Research Calgary college list and select a suitable program.
2️⃣ Check Admission Requirements – Each college has specific criteria for international students.
3️⃣ Prepare Documents – Get your transcripts, English test scores, and other required documents.
4️⃣ Submit Application Online – Apply through the college’s official website.
5️⃣ Receive Offer Letter – If accepted, the college will issue an admission letter.
6️⃣ Apply for a Study Permit – Use the offer letter to apply for a Canadian student visa.
7️⃣ Plan Your Arrival in Calgary – Arrange accommodation and travel before your classes start.
Final Thoughts
Studying in Calgary provides international students with quality education, affordable tuition, and excellent career opportunities. Whether you are looking for public colleges in Calgary or private institutions, the city offers a diverse range of programs.
If you’re planning to study in Canada, exploring this list of colleges in Calgary for international students will help you find the best option to achieve your academic and career goals.
📌 Have any questions about studying in Calgary? Drop a comment below!
