Are you planning to study in Canada but worried about application fees? Good news—some of Canada’s top universities and colleges are waiving application fees in 2025, making it easier and more affordable for both domestic and international students to apply. Whether you are looking for hands-on college programs or globally recognised university degrees, there are plenty of options available. In this article, we highlight leading Canadian institutions that offer high-quality education without charging application fees. Let’s explore your options and find the perfect path for your academic journey—without any financial stress!
Top Universities in Canada with No Application Fees
Cambrian College
Located in the vibrant city of Sudbury, Ontario, Cambrian College is an ideal destination for students seeking practical, high-quality education in a supportive environment. Established in 1967, it has grown to become the largest college in Northern Ontario, attracting over 5,000 full-time and 7,500 part-time students annually.
Key Features of Cambrian College:
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Location: Sudbury, Ontario
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Founded: 1967
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Full-Time Enrollment: Approx. 5,000 students
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Total Enrollment: Over 12,500 students
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Popular Programs: Health Sciences, Engineering Technology, Business, Community Services
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Campus Facilities: Simulation labs, residence halls, wellness centre, library, fitness centre
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Learning Options: On-campus, online, hybrid
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Fun Fact: Over 56,000 alumni are making an impact worldwide
One of Cambrian’s biggest advantages is its application fee waiver for both domestic and international applicants.
Confederation College
Located in Thunder Bay, Ontario, Confederation College offers a personalised educational experience with a strong focus on practical learning. Established in 1967, it serves around 7,000 full-time and part-time students across eight campuses in Northwestern Ontario.
Key Features of Confederation College:
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Location: Thunder Bay, Ontario
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Founded: 1967
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Total Enrollment: Approx. 7,000 students
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International Students: 1,748 students
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Popular Programs: Aviation, Engineering Technology, Health Sciences
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Graduation Rate: 64.5% (2021-2022)
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Graduate Employment Rate: 89.7% (3.9% above provincial average)
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Campus Facilities: State-of-the-art aviation centre, wellness centre, modern labs
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Fun Fact: Operates eight campuses across a region roughly the size of France
Confederation College also offers application fee waivers for the 2025 intake.
Fanshawe College
Fanshawe College in London, Ontario, is one of the largest and most diverse colleges in the province. With more than 43,000 students annually and over 200 programs across fields such as Business, Health Sciences, and Information Technology, Fanshawe combines academic excellence with career-focused learning.
Key Features of Fanshawe College:
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Location: London, Ontario
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Founded: 1967
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Total Enrollment: 43,000+ students
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International Students: 7,000+ from 100+ countries
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Popular Programs: Business, IT, Health Sciences, Engineering Technology
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Graduate Employment Rate: 87.3% (within six months)
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Campus Facilities: Simulation labs, residences, fitness centres, research hubs
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Fun Fact: Fanshawe means “temple in the woods” in Old English
Fairleigh Dickinson University – Vancouver Campus
FDU offers an American-style education in Vancouver, British Columbia, allowing students to earn a U.S. degree while studying in Canada. Application fees are waived for early applicants or those attending information sessions.
Key Features of FDU Vancouver:
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Location: Vancouver, British Columbia
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Founded: 1942 (Vancouver campus established 2007)
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Enrollment: Approx. 1,000 students
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International Students: 60+ nationalities
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Popular Programs: Business Administration, IT, Hospitality Management
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Campus Facilities: Modern classrooms, student lounges, career centre
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Fun Fact: FDU is the first American university with a campus in British Columbia
Crandall University
Crandall University, located in Moncton, New Brunswick, offers a supportive, Christian-based academic environment focused on student success and personal growth.
Key Features of Crandall University:
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Location: Moncton, New Brunswick
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Founded: 1949
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Undergraduate Enrollment: Approx. 800 students
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International Students: From 20+ countries
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Popular Programs: Business Administration, Psychology, Education
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Campus Facilities: Modern classrooms, library, co-op programs, athletic facilities
University of Winnipeg
Located in downtown Winnipeg, Manitoba, this public university serves over 9,600 students and offers programs in Arts, Science, Business, and Kinesiology. The University of Winnipeg stands out for its accessibility, with no application fees for any student.
Key Features of the University of Winnipeg:
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Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba
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Founded: 1967
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Undergraduate Enrollment: Approx. 9,600 students
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International Students: From 75+ countries
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Popular Programs: Arts, Business, Science, Kinesiology
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Campus Facilities: Science complex, athletic centre, residences, Indigenous Student Services
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Fun Fact: Ranked among Canada’s top universities for Indigenous participation
How to Apply Without Paying Application Fees
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Check Eligibility: Ensure the institution offers an application fee waiver for your category (domestic, international, or early applicants).
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Attend Information Sessions: Some universities, like FDU, waive fees for students who attend online or in-person info sessions.
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Apply Early: Many institutions offer fee waivers to early applicants.
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Use Official Portals: For Ontario colleges, applications are usually submitted via the Ontario College Application Service (OCAS).
Additional Benefits Beyond Fee Waivers
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Scholarships and Financial Aid: For example, Cambrian College offers entrance scholarships to international students.
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High Graduate Employment Rates: Confederation College boasts an 89.7% employment rate, above the provincial average.
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Wide Range of Programs: Fanshawe College offers 200+ programs across diverse disciplines.
Choosing the right university or college doesn’t have to be expensive. These Canadian institutions are making education accessible while providing high-quality programs, supportive communities, and practical learning opportunities—without application fees. From coast to coast, they welcome students from around the world. Your future starts now!