When Indian students think of studying in Canada, cities like Toronto and Vancouver often come to mind first. While these metro hubs offer world-class universities and vibrant city life, they also come with high rent, intense competition and VISA related crowding. In 2025, with new student permit caps and stricter documentation, it's smarter than ever to look beyond the obvious.
Here are some of the best underrated cities in Canada for international students, offering strong academics, affordability and better post-study work advantages.
1. Halifax, Nova Scotia
Home to Dalhousie University and Saint Mary’s University, Halifax offers a strong academic reputation with a smaller-city charm. It’s more affordable than Toronto and students benefit from provincial nominee program (PNP) pathways that make permanent residency more accessible.
2. Ottawa, Ontario
Canada’s capital is often overlooked but is home to University of Ottawa and Carleton University. It’s a bilingual city with a thriving tech and policy sector, perfect for students in engineering, law, or public policy. Cost of living is lower than Toronto and job prospects are excellent.
3. Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
With University of Saskatchewan leading the charge, Saskatoon offers low tuition, low living costs, and high PR chances through the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP). It’s ideal for students in agriculture, healthcare and research.
4. Waterloo, Ontario
A tech powerhouse, Waterloo is home to University of Waterloo and Wilfrid Laurier University. Students in STEM fields thrive here, with co-op programs and strong employer connections. While close to Toronto, it’s far more affordable and student-centric.
5. Calgary, Alberta
Calgary combines strong universities (University of Calgary, Mount Royal University) with a booming economy and high demand for skilled professionals. Alberta’s PR process is favourable and the city’s low unemployment rate adds to its appeal.
Going Regional might just be for you!
Studying in lesser known Canadian cities isn’t a compromise, it’s a strategy. These locations offer better VISA approval chances, longer post-study work rights and more room to grow without the pressure of big city costs.
Want help shortlisting the right city and university in Canada? WIKATI’s expert counsellors will guide you every step of the way from applications to visas and beyond.
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