Calgary, a cosmopolitan city in Alberta, Canada, is well-known as a popular study destination with a significant international student population. The city boasts renowned colleges that offer world-class education not only within Canada but globally as well. These institutions provide students with a top-notch academic education, a high quality of life, extracurricular activities, and excellent employment prospects post-graduation. If you're considering studying in Calgary, this blog will help you explore the list of colleges in Calgary, Canada, along with some essential details.

What are the Different Types of Colleges in Calgary?

Several types of colleges in Calgary cater to different educational needs and career goals. Here are the main types of colleges in Calgary:

• Universities: Calgary is home to two major universities, the University of Calgary and Mount Royal University. These institutions offer undergraduate and graduate degree programs across various disciplines, including arts, sciences, engineering, business, and health sciences.
• Colleges: Calgary also has several colleges that provide diploma and certificate programs in various fields such as business, healthcare, technology, and trades. Bow Valley College, SAIT (Southern Alberta Institute of Technology), and Columbia College.
• Language Schools: Several language schools in Calgary provide English language courses for international students who want to improve their language skills before pursuing academic studies or for personal development.
• Career Colleges: These colleges provide diploma and certificate programs designed to prepare students for specific careers such as accounting, computer programming, culinary arts, or graphic design. Examples of career colleges in Calgary include Reeves College and CDI College.
• Bible Colleges: Calgary has several Bible colleges for students interested in theological studies, such as Ambrose University and Rocky Mountain College.

Why Study at Colleges in Calgary?

For several reasons, studying at colleges in Calgary, Canada, can be an excellent choice for international students. Here are some of the top reasons:

• High-Quality Education: Colleges in Calgary are renowned for providing high-quality education focusing on practical and hands-on learning. Many institutions have state-of-the-art facilities, experienced faculty, and a rigorous academic curriculum.
• Employment Opportunities: Calgary is known for its strong economy, with many employment opportunities in industries such as oil and gas, technology, healthcare, and finance. Graduates from colleges in Calgary are highly sought after by employers in these industries, making it easier for students to find employment after graduation.
• Multicultural Environment: Calgary is a multicultural city with a diverse population of people from different ethnic backgrounds. This makes for a welcoming and inclusive environment for international students, where they can feel at home and connect with people from their cultures and others.
• Affordable Cost of Living: Compared to other major Canadian cities such as Vancouver and Toronto, Calgary has a lower cost of living. This means that international students can enjoy a good quality of life without spending too much on accommodation, food, and other living expenses.
• Outdoor Activities: Calgary is located close to the Rocky Mountains and has a beautiful natural landscape, which makes it an ideal location for outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and mountain biking. This provides an outstanding balance to academic life, allowing students to stay physically active and mentally refreshed.

Top 6 Colleges in Calgary

Bow Valley College: 

Bow Valley College is a public college in downtown Calgary that offers certificate and diploma programs in business, health and wellness, creative technologies, justice studies, and community studies. The college focuses on practical, hands-on learning and offers small class sizes, personalised attention from instructors, and industry partnerships to help students gain real-world experience.

ABM College:

ABM College is a private career college with campuses in Calgary and Toronto that offers diploma and certificate programs in healthcare, business, accounting, and technology. The college's programs are designed to prepare students for specific careers and provide practical, job-focused training.

CDI College: 

CDI College is a private career college with campuses across Canada, including Calgary. The college offers diploma and certificate programs in business, healthcare, technology, and art and design. CDI College's programs are designed to prepare students for in-demand careers and include hands-on training and industry partnerships.

Bay River College: 

Bay River College is a private college in Calgary that offers diploma programs in business, healthcare, and technology. The college's programs are designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their chosen careers and include practical, hands-on training and industry connections.

Reeves College: 

Reeves College is a private career college with campuses in Calgary, Edmonton, Lethbridge, and Lloydminster that offers diploma and certificate programs in healthcare, business, legal studies, technology, and art and design. The college's programs are designed to prepare students for in-demand careers and include hands-on training, industry partnerships, and job placement assistance.

Rocky Mountain College: 

Rocky Mountain College is a private Christian college in Calgary that offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in theology, ministry, and leadership. The college's programs are designed to prepare students for Christian ministry and leadership careers, focusing on spiritual formation and practical ministry experience.

Life of International Students in Calgary

Calgary is a vibrant and diverse city that provides a welcoming environment for international students. Here are some aspects of the life of international students in Calgary:

• Housing: International students have several options for housing in Calgary, including on-campus housing, homestays, apartments, and shared housing. The cost of living in Calgary is relatively affordable compared to other Canadian cities, which makes it easier for international students to find suitable housing.
• Culture and Recreation: Calgary has a rich cultural scene with many museums, art galleries, theatres, and music venues. There are also numerous recreational opportunities in and around the city, including parks, hiking trails, ski resorts, and sports facilities.
• Employment: International students in Calgary can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during scheduled breaks. Many students find part-time jobs on campus or in the city to help support themselves financially and gain valuable work experience.
• Support Services: Calgary colleges and universities provide various support services for international students, including orientation programs, academic advising, counselling, and language support. Several community organisations provide assistance and resources for international students.
• Diversity: Calgary is a diverse city with many immigrants and international students. This diversity creates a welcoming environment for international students, where they can connect with people from different backgrounds and learn about different cultures.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Colleges in Calgary

What programs are offered at colleges in Calgary?

Colleges in Calgary offer a wide range of programs, including diploma and certificate programs in business, healthcare, technology, art and design, justice studies, community studies, and more.

What are the admission requirements for colleges in Calgary?

Admission requirements vary depending on the college and program but typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, English language proficiency, and sometimes additional requirements like entrance exams or interviews.

Can international students apply to colleges in Calgary?

Yes, international students are welcome to apply to colleges in Calgary. They may need additional documentation, such as proof of English language proficiency and study permits.

What is the cost of tuition and fees at colleges in Calgary?

Tuition and fees vary depending on the college and program but generally range from CAD 5,000 to $20,000 annually for domestic students and CAD 15,000 to $40,000 annually for international students.

Is financial aid available for students attending colleges in Calgary?

Yes, various financial aid options are available to students attending colleges in Calgary, including scholarships, bursaries, and student loans. Students can contact their college's financial aid office for more information.

What is campus life like at colleges in Calgary?

Campus life varies depending on the college, but most colleges in Calgary offer a range of extracurricular activities, student organisations, and amenities such as dining facilities, libraries, and sports facilities.

Are there opportunities for international students to work while studying in Calgary?

International students in Calgary can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during scheduled breaks. Many students find part-time jobs on campus or in the city to help support themselves financially and gain valuable work experience.