Canada offers some of the most affordable pathways to international education — but its system works differently from the UK. There is no “CAS” and no standardised deposit. Instead, each university sets its own deposit policy, and your Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) is what you need for your study permit. This guide shows you which Canadian universities cost the least upfront in 2026.

For Nigerian students comparing the UK and Canada, the biggest differences are: Canada’s tuition can be significantly lower at specific universities, the post-graduation work permit (PGWP) lasts up to 3 years (vs 2 in the UK), and Canada offers a clearer pathway to permanent residency. The trade-off is that average tuition across all Canadian universities (CAD $41,746/year) is actually higher than average UK tuition — so choosing the right university matters enormously.

How University Deposits and the LOA Work in Canada

Unlike the UK, where every university issues a standardised CAS after deposit payment, Canada’s process varies by institution:

Canadian Universities with the Lowest Tuition for International Students (2026)

These universities offer the most affordable tuition in Canada for international students. All are DLI-approved and accept Nigerian applicants.

Study Permit Costs and Requirements

Proof of funds requirement: You must show evidence of at least CAD $22,895/year for living expenses (as of September 2025), plus your first year’s tuition. For example, if tuition is CAD $20,000, you need to show access to CAD $20,000 + $22,895 = CAD $42,895 (~₦50,000,000 at current rates).

Living Costs in Canada by Province

The most affordable provinces for Nigerian students are Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Newfoundland, and New Brunswick. Living costs in these provinces can be 40–60% lower than Toronto or Vancouver, which dramatically reduces your total annual budget.

Complete First-Year Budget

How to Reduce Your Costs in Canada

• Co-op programmes: Universities like SFU, Waterloo, and UBC offer co-operative education where you alternate between study and paid work terms. Co-op earnings of CAD $15,000–$25,000 per work term can significantly offset tuition.
• Work on campus and off campus: Study permit holders can work up to 20 hours/week during term and full-time during scheduled breaks. At CAD $15–$17/hour (minimum wage varies by province), this adds CAD $1,200–$1,400/month.
• Target provinces with fast PR pathways: Manitoba (MPNP), Saskatchewan (SINP), New Brunswick (NBPNP), and Atlantic provinces have Provincial Nominee Programs specifically for international graduates. PR means you switch to domestic tuition rates if you continue studying, and opens the door to Canadian citizenship.
• Apply for scholarships: Many Canadian universities offer entrance scholarships for international students (CAD $2,000–$10,000). The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship covers CAD $50,000/year for PhD students. Apply early — most deadlines are 6–9 months before intake.
• Choose smaller cities: Brandon, St. John’s, Moncton, and Saskatoon have the lowest living costs in Canada. Rent alone can be CAD $500–$800/month vs CAD $1,500–$2,500 in Toronto or Vancouver.

Canada vs UK — Quick Comparison for Nigerian Students

For Nigerian students, Canada is the stronger choice if you want a clear path to permanent residency and are willing to study for 2 years. The UK is better if you want a shorter Masters (1 year) and lower average tuition at targeted affordable universities. For a detailed UK comparison, see our UK low deposit guide.

Already considering Canada? Check our complete Canada study visa guide for Nigerians for the full application process.