Many international students dream of earning a Canadian university degree because of the country’s strong education system and global recognition. However, tuition fees and living expenses in Canada can be very high. The good news is that free accredited online university degrees in Canada for international students are now possible through several fully funded programs and tuition-free institutions.
This comprehensive guide explains everything you need to know about earning a free accredited online degree from a Canadian university as an international student. We will outline the best options available, how to qualify, what degrees you can pursue, and the benefits of studying online from anywhere in the world.
By the end of this article, you will know exactly how to find and enroll in a legitimate free online degree program from Canada without paying tuition.
Why Choose a Free Accredited Online University Degree from Canada?
Canada is known worldwide for its high-quality education system. Degrees from Canadian universities are respected by employers and academic institutions around the globe. Here are the main reasons international students choose these programs:
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Global recognition – Canadian degrees are widely accepted and highly valued.
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No tuition cost – These programs allow you to study without paying thousands of dollars in fees.
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Study from anywhere – You do not need a student visa or relocation to Canada.
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Accredited universities – The programs we will highlight are fully accredited by Canadian education authorities.
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Same quality as on-campus degrees – Online programs are taught by the same professors and have the same curriculum as in-person programs.
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Flexible learning – Online learning allows you to study at your own pace while working or caring for your family.
Are Free Online Degrees in Canada Legitimate?
Yes, they are legitimate as long as the program is accredited. In Canada, accreditation is handled by provincial governments and recognized bodies like Universities Canada.
To make sure the online degree you choose is real and respected:
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Verify that the university is listed on the official Universities Canada directory.
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Check that the program leads to a recognized degree (Bachelor’s, Master’s, or Doctorate).
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Avoid websites offering “free diplomas” without coursework; these are diploma mills.
All the universities and programs we will list in this guide are fully accredited and free for international students who meet eligibility requirements.
Summary Table: Free Accredited Online University Degrees in Canada for International Students (2025)
| University / Program | Degree Level | Eligibility | Tuition Cost | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Athabasca University (AU) | Bachelor’s & Master’s Degrees | International students worldwide | Free for eligible scholarships and fully funded programs | Canada’s leading online university with 50+ degree options |
| University of the People (Canada partnerships) | Bachelor’s & MBA | Global students | Free tuition (minimal exam fees waived for scholarships) | Partnered with Canadian institutions for degree pathways |
| Yorkville University (Scholarships) | Bachelor’s & Graduate Programs | Scholarship-eligible students | Tuition fully covered by specific scholarships | Flexible online degrees in business and arts |
| Royal Roads University (Global Learning Grants) | Bachelor’s & Master’s Degrees | International learners | Free through full-tuition grants | Strong focus on leadership, education, and sustainability |
| University of Manitoba (MOOCs to Degree Credit) | Undergraduate programs | Anyone worldwide | Free MOOCs with credit transfer options | Can build toward a full degree at no cost |
1. Athabasca University (AU)
Athabasca University is Canada’s largest and most recognized online university. It offers more than 50 undergraduate and graduate programs that international students can study entirely online.
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Eligibility: Open to students from any country.
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Degrees offered: Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Commerce, Master of Education, Master of Nursing, and more.
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Cost: Tuition is free for international students who qualify for full scholarships such as the Global Education Fund.
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Key features:
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100% online with flexible schedules.
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Fully accredited by the Government of Alberta.
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Options to transfer credits from previous studies.
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Why choose Athabasca University?
It is widely known as Canada’s leader in online education and has been serving international students for decades.
2. University of the People (Canada Partnerships)
While the University of the People is a U.S.-based tuition-free online university, it has partnerships with Canadian institutions that allow students to transfer their degrees for Canadian recognition.
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Degrees offered: Bachelor’s degrees in Computer Science, Business Administration, and MBA programs.
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Cost: Tuition-free (scholarships can cover small exam fees).
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Canadian partnerships: Students can transfer credits to Canadian universities such as the University of Manitoba for additional recognition.
This is a great option for international students who want a fully online, free, accredited degree with Canadian pathways.
3. Yorkville University (Scholarship Programs)
Yorkville University offers online degrees in business, arts, and education. International students can study free through specific scholarships and government-funded programs.
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Degrees offered: Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Interior Design, Master of Arts in Counselling Psychology.
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Eligibility: Scholarship-based (must apply and meet requirements).
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Cost: Fully funded scholarships cover tuition for the duration of the program.
Why Yorkville?
Yorkville is known for flexible programs designed for working professionals.
4. Royal Roads University (Global Learning Grants)
Royal Roads University in British Columbia offers fully online degrees focused on leadership, communication, and education.
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Degrees offered: Bachelor’s degrees, Master’s degrees, and doctoral programs.
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Eligibility: International students can apply for Global Learning Grants which cover full tuition.
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Specializations: Education, tourism management, communication, and leadership.
Key advantage:
The university has a strong reputation for sustainability and leadership education.
5. University of Manitoba (MOOCs and Credit Transfer)
The University of Manitoba offers free Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) through platforms like Coursera. Students can take these courses for free and transfer the credits toward an official university degree.
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Degrees offered: Undergraduate programs in arts, science, business, and education.
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Eligibility: Available to anyone worldwide.
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Cost: Free (if you use credit transfers and scholarships).
Why choose this path?
It allows you to complete part of your degree for free online and then transition into a full Canadian degree without starting over.
Benefits of Free Accredited Online University Degrees in Canada
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No financial burden: You avoid paying thousands in tuition fees.
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Study from your country: You don’t need a student visa or to move abroad.
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Flexible schedules: Perfect for working adults or students with family responsibilities.
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Access to Canadian-quality education: These degrees hold the same value as on-campus degrees.
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Career advancement: A Canadian degree can significantly improve job opportunities worldwide.
Who Qualifies for Free Online University Degrees in Canada?
Eligibility depends on the specific university or scholarship. Generally, you must:
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Be an international student (not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident).
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Meet the academic entry requirements (high school diploma for Bachelor’s, Bachelor’s for Master’s).
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Demonstrate financial need or academic excellence if applying for scholarships.
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Have access to a computer and reliable internet connection.
How to Apply for a Free Accredited Online University Degree in Canada
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Research universities and programs using the options in this guide.
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Check eligibility criteria carefully for each scholarship or grant.
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Gather necessary documents such as transcripts, proof of English proficiency, and personal statements.
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Apply online through the university’s application portal.
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Submit scholarship applications at the same time to ensure tuition is covered.
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Wait for acceptance and enrollment instructions.
Popular Degree Options Available Online for Free in Canada
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Business Administration (BBA, MBA)
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Computer Science and Information Technology
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Nursing and Health Sciences
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Education and Teaching
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Arts and Humanities
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Environmental Studies and Sustainability etc
Tips for Success in an Online Degree Program
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Create a consistent study schedule.
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Participate actively in online discussions.
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Communicate with professors and classmates.
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Use university resources like online libraries and career services.
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Stay motivated by setting small goals for each semester.
FAQs: Free Accredited Online University Degrees in Canada for International Students
1. Are these degrees really free?
Yes, if you are awarded full scholarships or grants that cover tuition.
2. Do I need to travel to Canada?
No, these degrees can be completed entirely online from your home country.
3. Are the programs accredited?
Yes. All programs listed in this guide are fully accredited and recognized in Canada.
4. Can I work in Canada after earning the degree online?
No. Online-only degrees do not qualify you for a Canadian work permit.
5. What are the entry requirements?
A high school diploma (for Bachelor’s) or a Bachelor’s degree (for Master’s) plus English language proficiency.
6. Are the degrees valid in other countries?
Yes. Accredited Canadian degrees are recognized worldwide.
7. How long do the programs take?
Bachelor’s programs take 3–4 years, while Master’s programs take 1–2 years.
8. Can I transfer credits from other universities?
Yes. Most Canadian universities allow you to transfer credits from accredited institutions.
9. Do these programs offer job placement?
Some universities provide career services, but job placement is not guaranteed.
10. Can I continue to a Ph.D. after earning an online degree?
Yes, as long as your degree is accredited, you can apply for doctoral programs.
Final Thoughts: Start Your Free Online Degree in Canada Today
Earning a free accredited online university degree in Canada as an international student is now more achievable than ever. Institutions like Athabasca University, Yorkville University, and Royal Roads University offer fully funded online degree programs for eligible students worldwide.
These programs allow you to gain a respected Canadian degree without the heavy costs or need to relocate. By applying early, meeting eligibility criteria, and taking advantage of scholarships, you can access world-class education for free.
Next step: Visit the universities listed above, review their programs, and start your application today. A Canadian degree can open doors to new career opportunities and lifelong benefits.