Top Nursing Colleges in Canada 2026: Rankings, Fees, Courses, Eligibility & Scholarships
Nursing Colleges in CanadaNursing Colleges in Canada are the best choice for medical students, because nursing tuition fees are CAD 8,000 to CAD 55,000 annually. The BSc Nursing in Canada is a 4-year undergraduate program and Masters in Nursing in Canada is a prestigious 1.5 to 2-year postgraduate program.
The cost of living in Canada is CAD 2,561 to 3,113 per month; the amount may vary as per the student’s lifestyle. The admission intake for Indian students in Canadian medical colleges is in September.
Top Canadian universities include McGill University, University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, University of Alberta, McMaster University, University of Calgary and University of Ottawa, which offer nursing degrees to Indian students.
Top Nursing Colleges in Canada
Canada has both public and private nursing colleges that provide admission based on students' last qualification scores. Government-funded colleges are more affordable and highly preferred, while private nursing institutes offer flexible intake and easy admission.
List of Government Nursing Colleges
Here is the list of top government nursing colleges for Indian students.
University Name | Ownership | Why Indian Students Choose It |
University of Toronto | Public | Globally ranked university with strong clinical training and research-focused nursing programs |
University of British Columbia (UBC) | Public | High-quality healthcare education, modern facilities, and strong graduate employability |
Public | Known for problem-based learning and excellent nursing clinical exposure | |
University of Alberta | Public | Affordable public university with strong healthcare and research opportunities |
University of Calgary | Public | Industry-aligned nursing curriculum with good job prospects after graduation |
Western University | Public | Reputed nursing faculty and strong hospital partnerships |
Public | Well-established nursing programs with good clinical placements | |
Queen’s University | Public | Small class sizes and high-quality nursing education |
Public | Bilingual environment and strong public healthcare exposure | |
Memorial University of Newfoundland | Public | One of the most affordable public universities with good nursing outcomes |
Also Check: |
Other Nursing Colleges by Country |
List of Private Nursing Colleges
Check the list of top private nursing colleges for Indian students.
Institution Name | Ownership | Why Indian Students Choose It |
Yorkville University (B.C. Campus) | Private | Career-focused nursing programs with flexible intakes and industry-oriented training |
Canadian College of Health Science & Technology | Private | Practical healthcare programs with hands-on lab and clinical exposure |
Toronto School of Management (TSoM) | Private | Skill-based health programs located in Toronto with strong student support |
Anderson College of Health & Business | Private | Accelerated healthcare programs with multiple campus options |
Fanshawe College (Private Designation) | Private | Applied nursing education with strong employer connections |
Academy of Learning College | Private | Flexible study options and nationwide campus availability |
Evergreen College | Private | Industry-relevant healthcare programs with strong practical training |
Cestar College of Business, Health and Technology | Private | Affordable private college offering job-oriented healthcare courses |
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Best Nursing Colleges for Indian Students
These colleges actively accept Indian students and provide strong international student support.
University Name | Tuition Fees (CAD per year) |
University of Toronto | 35,550 |
McGill University | 22,644 |
University of British Columbia | 9,314 |
University of Montreal | 20,720 |
University of Ottawa | 10,473 |
University of Alberta | 10,254 |
McMaster University | 8,911 |
Western University | 31,098 |
University of Calgary | 15,084 |
Queen’s University at Kingston | 15,592 |
Featured / Partner Nursing Colleges
Nursing Programs Offered by Colleges in Canada
Canadian nursing universities offer various programs, such as BSc nursing, MSc nursing and a diploma. The program's duration may vary as per the program. For example, the BSc Nursing is a 4-year program and Masters in Nursing is a 1.5 to 2-year program.
Diploma in Nursing Programs
The nursing diploma duration is around 1to 2 years, based on the colleges and to get admission in the diploma program, you must have completed 12th class and must have an English proficiency score.
College Name | Duration | Basic Eligibility |
Seneca Polytechnic | 2 years | Class 12 (Science preferred) + IELTS |
Humber College | 2 years | Class 12 + English proficiency |
Centennial College | 2 years | Class 12 with Biology + IELTS |
St. Clair College | 2 years | High school completion + IELTS |
Canadore College | 2 years | Class 12 + English test |
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Take a look at the table given below has the bachelor's degree of nursing college name and tuition fee.
University Name | Tuition Fees (CAD) | Tuition Fees (INR) |
McGill University | 27,430 | Rs 16.8 L |
University of Alberta | 31,169 | Rs 19.1 L |
Western University | 41,211 | Rs 25.2 L |
University of Windsor | 59,110 | Rs 36.13 L |
University of Montreal | 17,690 | Rs 10.62 L |
Also Read: B.Sc Nursing in Canada
Post-Basic Nursing Programs
The table below highlights post-basic nursing programs in Canada, such as college names, programs and fees.
College | Program Name | Typical Duration | Approx. Tuition (CAD) |
Langara College | Post-Degree Diploma in Nursing Practice in Canada | 2 years (full-time) | CAD 25,000 |
Master’s in Nursing Programs
The table given below has the details about MSc nursing in Canada.
University | Master’s Nursing Program | Typical Tuition Fees (CAD per year) |
University of Toronto | Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) | 20,000 – 35,000 |
McGill University | Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) | 20,000 – 35,000 |
University of British Columbia (UBC) | Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) | 20,000 – 35,000 |
Dalhousie University | Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) | 20,000 – 35,000 |
University of Alberta | Master of Nursing (MN) | 22,000 – 35,000 |
University of Ottawa | Master of Nursing (MN) | 22,000 – 35,000 |
Also Read: Masters in Nursing in Canada
Bridging and Accelerated Nursing Programs
These are short term programs with a 1 to 3-year duration for nursing students in Canada.
Program | Duration |
Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing | 2 years |
Nursing Bridging Program | 1–3 years |
How to Choose the Right Nursing College?
If you want to study abroad, you must know some important factors before choosing nursing colleges in Canada. Here are some important key factors for nursing colleges in Canada.
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Colleges by Tuition Fees
Here are the top nursing colleges for Indian students as per the tuition fee.
Fee per year (CAD) | Colleges |
Low (15,000) |
|
Medium (15,001 – 25,000) |
|
High (25,000) |
|
Colleges by Intake
The table below portrays the Nursing in Canada intake season. Knowing this is necessary for a seamless application for the Indian students.
Particulars | Intake Season |
Nursing in Canada Admission | September 2026 |
Colleges by Location / State
The location of a nursing college is a very important factor when choosing the best college for your nursing degree. Here is a list of universities and their locations for Indian students.
University | City |
University of Toronto | Toronto |
McGill University | Montreal |
University of British Columbia | Vancouver |
Université de Montréal | Montreal |
University of Ottawa | Ottawa |
Colleges by Ranking 2026
Here are the top Nursing colleges in Canada and their QS world ranking 2026.
University Name | QS World Rank 2026 |
University of Toronto | 29 |
McGill University | 27 |
University of British Columbia | 40 |
Université de Montréal | 168 |
University of Alberta | 94 |
McMaster University | 173 |
Western University | 151 |
University of Calgary | 211 |
Queen’s University at Kingston | 191 |
Colleges Accepting Indian Students
These are the top Nursing colleges in Canada that offer admission to Indian students.
- University of Toronto
- McGill University
- University of British Columbia
- Université de Montréal
- University of Alberta
- McMaster University
- Western University
- University of Calgary
- Queen’s University at Kingston
Also Read: Nursing in Canada for Indian Students 2026
Eligibility Criteria for Indian Students Applying to Nursing Colleges
To get admission to a nursing college in Canada, you must have completed your 12th class, and international students must have a valid English proficiency scorecard.
Academic Requirements
- Class 12 with Physics, Chemistry, Biology
- Minimum 60-70% aggregate
- Recognised Indian board
- IELTS 6.5–7.0 or TOEFL iBT 88–100
English Language Requirements
English proficiency cutoffs are mandatory for all international students applying to nursing programs in Canada.
English Test | Minimum Score Required |
IELTS Academic | 6.5–7.0 overall (no band below 6.0–6.5) |
TOEFL iBT | 90–100 overall |
PTE Academic | 60–68 |
Duolingo English Test | 115–120 |
CAEL / CanTEST | CAEL 70 |
Entrance Exams Required
Given below are the various types of entrance exams and assessments for admissions to Nursing courses in Canada.
Exam / Test | Mandatory? |
IELTS / TOEFL / PTE | Yes |
CASPer Test | Sometimes |
Interview (Virtual / Recorded) | Sometimes |
Also Read: How to Improve IELTS Listening and Speaking: Expert Preparation Tips
Work Experience
For a Bachelor’s degree in Nursing in Canada, students do not require work experience, but for a Master’s degree, you must have at least 1 year of clinical work experience
Course Level | Work Experience |
Not required | |
1 required |
Admission Process for Nursing Colleges in Canada
Here is the step-by-step guidance for Nursing admission in Canadian colleges:
Step | Description |
Step 1 | You must have a 12th-class marksheet and meet the eligibility |
Step 2 | Prepare documents: transcripts, English test scores, and other required documents. |
Step 3 | Apply online and pay the application fee. |
Step 4 | Attend interviews or complete additional assessments if required. |
Step 5 | Receive offer and confirm admission; complete WIL requirements before starting. |
Application Timeline for Indian Students
Admissions for Nursing in Canada follow three main intakes: Fall, Winter, and Spring. The Fall session is most popular, with deadlines between October 2025 and April 2026.
Event | Timing 2026 |
Fall semester starts | September 2026 |
Winter intake starts | January 2026 |
Spring intake starts | May 2026 (select universities only) |
Scholarship deadlines | Expected between October 2025 and March 2026 |
Documents Required from India
- Academic transcripts (10th, 12th or Nursing Diploma)
- IELTS/TOEFL scores (minimum 6.5 overall)
- Valid passport
- Statement of Purpose (SOP)
- Letters of Recommendation (LORs)
- Proof of funds (bank statements)
Offer Letter and Acceptance Process
After reviewing your application, the university will send you mail about the confirmation you have to accept the offer letter.
- Offer sent: After the verification university will send an offer letter and you have to accept it through mail.
- Accept offer: Confirm the offer later before the deadline.
- Conditional offers: The university will ask you to submit some confidential documents. You need to provide these documents.
- International students: Pay the tuition deposit and get documents for a study permit.
Tuition Fees and Cost of Studying Nursing in Canada
Nursing Colleges in Canada tuition fee is CAD 8,000 to CAD 55,000 annually. And the cost of living in Canada is CAD 2,561 to 3,113 per month.
Tuition Fees by College
Here are the tuition fees in Canada for Nursing courses in the major universities.
University Name | Tuition Fees (CAD) |
University of Toronto | 35,550 |
McGill University | 22,644 |
University of British Columbia | 9,314 |
University of Montreal | 20,720 |
University of Ottawa | 10,473 |
University of Alberta | 10,254 |
McMaster University | 8,911 |
Western University | 31,098 |
University of Calgary | 15,084 |
Queen’s University at Kingston | 15,592 |
Cost of Living by City
Here is the city-wise cost of living in Canada for Indian students.
Canadian City | Monthly Cost of Living (Excl. Rent) (CAD) | Average Rent (1 Bed – Outside Centre) (CAD) | Total Estimated Monthly Cost (CAD) |
Vancouver | 1,610 | 2,378 | 3,988 |
Toronto | 1,516 | 2,152 | 3,668 |
Ottawa | 1,524 | 1,779 | 3,303 |
Calgary | 1,592 | 1,640 | 3,232 |
Montreal | 1,325 | 1,340 | 2,665 |
Additional College-Specific Costs
The living costs for Indian students studying Nursing in Canada are given below.
Expense Category | Estimated Cost (CAD/month) | Estimated Cost (INR/month) |
Accommodation (Rent) | 600 – 1,000 | ₹36,600 – ₹61,000 |
Food & Groceries | 200 – 400 | ₹12,200 – ₹24,400 |
Transportation | 40 – 85 | ₹2,400 – ₹5,200 |
Health Insurance | 50 – 85 | ₹3,000 – ₹5,200 |
Books & Supplies | 80 – 170 | ₹4,900 – ₹10,400 |
Phone & Internet | 50 – 70 | ₹3,000 – ₹4,300 |
Miscellaneous (clothing, personal items, entertainment) | 80 – 160 | ₹4,900 – ₹9,800 |
Scholarships Offered by Nursing Colleges in Canada
Nursing Colleges in Canada offer various types of scholarships to international students to support them financially and give them some relaxation in tuition fees.
College-Specific Scholarships
Check the table below for the scholarships provided by various institutions along with their values.
Scholarship Name | Institution | Award Value |
Lester B. Pearson Intl. Scholarship | University of Toronto | Full tuition + residence |
UBC International Major Entrance Scholarship (IMES) | University of British Columbia | Up to full tuition |
Alberta Intl. Entrance Scholarship | University of Alberta | Up to CAD 9,000 |
Manitoba Intl. Student Award | University of Manitoba | Up to CAD 5,000 |
Bloomberg Nursing Faculty Awards | University of Toronto – Faculty of Nursing | Varies (merit/need-based) |
Dalhousie Nursing Bursaries | Dalhousie University | Varies |
Memorial University Nursing Scholarship | Memorial University | Varies |
Galt Alumnae Nursing Scholarship | University of Lethbridge | CAD 1,000 |
Yukon Health Care & Social Services Bursary | Government of Yukon | CAD 2,500 – 7,000 |
Merit-Based Scholarships
These are the merit-based scholarships for international students:
- Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
- Kathleen Arpin Doctoral Fellowship
- Elsevier Health Science Scholarship
- Susan Davies Scholarship in Nursing
Scholarships for Indian Students
These are the Scholarships for international students:
- International Excellence Entrance Scholarship
- Queen’s University International Admission Scholarship
- Merit Scholarship
- University of Saskatchewan International Excellence Awards
- President’s Scholarship
Accreditation and Recognition of Nursing Colleges
Nursing Colleges in Canada are accredited by the Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing (CASN), which ensures national standards and program excellence.
National Nursing Councils and Boards
The Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing (CASN) ensures program excellence and national standards.
- Approved by provincial nursing councils
- Ensures quality education standards
- Required for nursing licensing
Recognition in India (INC / State Councils)
- Canadian nursing degrees are not directly approved by INC
- Returning to India may require equivalence or extra registration
- Approval depends on State Nursing Councils
- Rules vary based on career plans in India
Licensing Eligibility After Graduation
- Graduation from an accredited college is mandatory
- Accreditation allows you to take the NCLEX-RN
- Required for nursing license approval
- Non-accredited programs limit jobs and licensing
Nursing Colleges Accepting Indian Students
These are the top nursing colleges in Canada that provide admission to Indian students.
University Name | Tuition Fees (CAD) |
University of Toronto | 35,550 |
McGill University | 22,644 |
University of British Columbia | 9,314 |
University of Montreal | 20,720 |
University of Ottawa | 10,473 |
University of Alberta | 10,254 |
Colleges Without IELTS
These are the university provide admission without an IELTS score:
- University of Regina
- University of Winnipeg
- Brock University
- Cape Breton University
Colleges with High Acceptance Rate
Check the list of nursing colleges with a high acceptance rate in Canada.
University Name | Acceptance Rate |
University of Toronto | Low |
McGill University | Low |
University of British Columbia | Medium |
University of Montreal | Medium |
University of Ottawa | Medium |
University of Alberta | Medium |
Western University | High |
Colleges with Clinical Placement Support
- University of Toronto
- University of British Columbia
Career Outcomes from Nursing Colleges in Canada
After getting a nursing degree from Canadian universities, you can get a high paying job and there are many career options for you.
- Critical Care Nursing
- Mental Health Nursing
- Pediatric Nursing
- Geriatric Nursing
- Oncology Nursing
- Nurse Educator
Average Salary Outcomes
Check the roles and average salary packages per year available for Indian students after completing a nursing course in Canada.
Specialization | Average Salary (CAD/year) |
Critical Care Nursing | 75,000 – 90,000 |
Mental Health Nursing | 70,000 – 85,000 |
Pediatric Nursing | 68,000 – 83,000 |
Geriatric Nursing | 65,000 – 80,000 |
Oncology Nursing | 75,000 – 90,000 |
Nurse Educator | 80,000 – 95,000 |
Licensing and Exam Readiness
For nursing in Canada, students need to prepare for two licensure exam such as NCLEX-RN (for registered nurses) or CPNRE/REx-PN (for practical nurses),
- Check eligibility with language tests
- Get ATT and register
- Follow 8–12 week study plan
- Use prep books and Q-banks
- Daily practice with mock tests
- Focus on Canadian standards and safety
- Test strategies: ABC, priority, eliminate wrong options
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Apply to Nursing Colleges in Canada
Here are some important points you must remember while applying to Nursing colleges in Canada.
Compare Nursing Colleges
Here are some points you must look for while taking admission in the Canadian Nursing College:
- Tuition Fees: Public vs private colleges and international student rates.
- Programs: BSc Nursing, Practical Nursing, or MSc Nursing.
- Facilities: City, hospitals and clinical training opportunities.
- Ranking: You must check the college ranking before applying to colleges
- Eligibility: Minimum academic requirements and admission timelines.
Shortlist Colleges Based on Profile
International students should shortlist colleges based on academic scores, English proficiency, and budget.
- Academic Scores
- English Proficiency
- Budget and Fees
- Intake Availability
Get Free Counseling for Indian Students
Need help choosing the best Nursing college? Our Expert counseling for Indian students can help you. Connect with our counsellor to select your university!
Also Check:
Nursing Courses Abroad | |
Canada | |
USA | |
Australia | |
Hungary | |
Georgia | |
Sweden | |
FAQs
Ques: Do I need the TOEFL/IELTS exam to secure my admission for Nursing in Canada?
Ans: Yes, in all Canadian colleges, you need TOEFL/IELTS to secure your admission for Nursing in Canada. The necessary score can vary from college to college.
Ques: What are the top Nursing Colleges in Canada?
Ans: These are the top Nursing Colleges in Canada:
- University of Toronto
- McGill University
- University of British Columbia
- University of Montreal
- University of Ottawa
Ques: How many hours can I work while pursuing Nursing in Canada?
Ans: You can work up to 20 hours on or off campus during your BSc Nursing course in Canada.
Ques: What is the tuition fee for international students for Nursing Colleges in Canada?
Ans: Nursing Colleges in Canada are the best choice for medical students, because nursing tuition fee is CAD 8,000 to CAD 55,000 annually.
Ques: What is the cost of living in Canada?
Ans: The cost of living in Canada is CAD 2,561 to 3,113 per month, the amount may vary as per the student’s lifestyle.
Ques: What are the funding opportunities for Nursing students in Canada in 2026?
Ans: For international students, including Indians, university scholarships and scholarship programs run by the government and private organisations are the main funding options.