Nursing is one of the fastest-growing and highest-demand professions in Canada, offering competitive salaries and clear pathways to permanent residency. No surprise that thousands of international students, especially from India, choose Canadian universities to build a strong career in healthcare. But with so many options available, how do you pick the best universities in Canada for nursing?
This blog will guide you through the top nursing programs, institutions, admission requirements, clinical opportunities, fees, scholarships, and job prospects so you can make the right decision with confidence.
Best Canadian Universities for Nursing
|
Universities |
Location |
Global QS Rank 2026 |
|
University of Toronto |
Toronto, Canada |
4 |
|
University of Alberta |
Edmonton, Canada |
14 |
|
University of British Columbia (UBC) |
Vancouver, Canada |
=16 |
|
McMaster University |
Hamilton, Canada |
30 |
|
McGill University |
Montreal, Canada |
41 |
|
Queen's University at Kingston |
Kingston, Canada |
51-100 |
|
University of Calgary |
Calgary, Canada |
51-100 |
|
University of Ottawa |
Ottawa, Canada |
51-100 |
|
Western University |
London, Canada |
51-100 |
|
Université de Montréal |
Montreal, Canada |
101-150 |
Detailed Overview- Best Nursing Universities in Canada
University of Toronto
The University of Toronto is Canada’s top-ranked research university with a global reputation for academic excellence. The Lawrence Bloomberg Faculty of Nursing is consistently ranked among the best in the world, offering innovative programs, advanced simulation labs, expert faculty, and strong clinical partnerships with leading hospitals in Toronto.
- Degree Offered: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN), Master of Nursing, Nurse Practitioner programs
- Program Duration: 2-year second-entry program (after 2 years of prior university study)
- Special Features: Advanced simulation labs, research-intensive curriculum, global health initiatives
- Why Choose: Consistently ranked as the best college in Canada for nursing, with excellent career and leadership opportunities
University of Alberta
The University of Alberta is a leading public research institution known for its health sciences and innovation. Its Faculty of Nursing is one of the largest and highest-ranked in Canada, offering flexible pathways, strong clinical placements, and extensive research opportunities, preparing graduates for leadership and advanced nursing roles.
- Degree Offered: BScN (Collaborative & After-Degree), MSc, PhD, Nurse Practitioner
- Program Duration: 4 years (collaborative) or 2 years (after-degree)
- Special Features: Flexible entry pathways via partner colleges, strong research, and rural and urban exposure
- Why Choose: High NCLEX pass rates, one of Canada’s largest and most respected nursing faculties
University of British Columbia (UBC)
UBC is a globally recognised university located in Vancouver, known for research, sustainability, and student experience. The UBC School of Nursing offers a highly respected BScN program with modern simulation labs, community and hospital-based clinical training, and a strong focus on evidence-based practice and global health.
- Degree Offered: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), MSN, Advanced Practice Nursing
- Program Duration: 2-year accelerated BSN (for prior university students)
- Special Features: Modern simulation labs, Indigenous health focus, research and global partnerships
- Why Choose: Highly ranked worldwide, it is known for offering the best nursing programs in Canada, with a strong balance of research and hands-on training
McMaster University
McMaster University is known for its innovative teaching and problem-based learning approach in health sciences. Its School of Nursing emphasises early clinical exposure, collaborative learning, and research integration. Students benefit from excellent hospital partnerships and a curriculum designed to develop critical thinking and patient-centred care skills.
- Degree Offered: BScN (Basic, Accelerated, Post-RN), MSc, Nurse Practitioner
- Program Duration: 4-year direct entry or 2-year accelerated
- Special Features: Problem-based learning model, interprofessional education, innovative curriculum
- Why Choose: Famous as the best nursing colleges in Canada for active learning and strong hospital partnerships
McGill University
McGill University in Montreal is one of Canada’s oldest and most prestigious institutions, renowned for research and global diversity. The Ingram School of Nursing combines academic rigour with community-based clinical training, offering strong support for international students and preparing graduates for advanced practice, leadership, and research roles.
- Degree Offered: BScN, Bachelor of Nursing Integrated, MSc(A), Nurse Practitioner
- Program Duration: 3–4 years, depending on the pathway
- Special Features: Community-based learning, global health, bilingual support, strong research
- Why Choose: Prestigious reputation + early clinical training + international student support
Queen's University at Kingston
Queen’s University is a respected research institution with a vibrant campus and a strong alumni network. Its School of Nursing offers small class sizes, personalised mentorship, and high NCLEX pass rates. Students gain extensive clinical experience in hospitals and community settings, focusing on holistic and patient-centred care.
- Degree Offered: Bachelor of Nursing Science (BNSc), MSc, Nurse Practitioner
- Program Duration: 4-year direct entry or 2-year accelerated
- Special Features: Small class sizes, high NCLEX pass rates, mentorship focus
- Why Choose: Supportive environment with strong clinical exposure and student success, making it one of the best universities in Canada for medical courses
University of Calgary
The University of Calgary is a dynamic, research-driven university located in Alberta. Its Faculty of Nursing focuses on innovation, community health, and leadership development. With strong clinical placements in urban and rural settings, students gain real-world experience and access to modern simulation labs and interdisciplinary learning.
- Degree Offered: Bachelor of Nursing, Accelerated Track, MSc/PhD, Nurse Practitioner
- Program Duration: 4 years or 28 months accelerated
- Special Features: Leadership development, Indigenous health, global community outreach
- Why Choose: Flexible pathways + strong focus on innovation and community care
University of Ottawa
The University of Ottawa is the world’s largest bilingual (English-French) university, located in Canada’s capital. Its School of Nursing provides cutting-edge facilities, research opportunities, and clinical placements in top healthcare centres. The program emphasises cultural competence, evidence-based care, and opportunities to study in multiple languages.
- Degree Offered: BScN (English/French), MSc, Nurse Practitioner, PhD
- Program Duration: 4 years (can be bilingual)
- Special Features: Bilingual program options, research opportunities, simulation labs
- Why Choose: Ideal for bilingual students and studying in the capital with top hospital access
Western University
Western University is known for academic excellence, student experience, and strong healthcare partnerships. The Arthur Labatt Family School of Nursing offers innovative programs, simulation-based learning, and diverse clinical placements. Students develop leadership, critical thinking, and advanced clinical skills while benefiting from Western’s supportive learning environment.
- Degree Offered: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Collaborative and Compressed), MSc, Nurse Practitioner
- Program Duration: 4-year collaborative or 19-month accelerated
- Special Features: Advanced simulation lab, leadership training, strong student support
- Why Choose: One of the top nursing colleges in Canada, it offers an excellent student experience and a strong reputation in healthcare education.
Université de Montréal
Université de Montréal is a leading French-language research university in Quebec, recognised globally for its health sciences. Its Faculty of Nursing offers top-tier French-taught programs focused on patient care, research, and community health. Students receive hands-on clinical training and opportunities in specialised healthcare settings across Quebec.
- Degree Offered: Baccalauréat en Sciences Infirmières (French), MSc, Nurse Practitioner, PhD
- Program Duration: 4 years
- Special Features: French-taught programs, research excellence, public health focus
- Why Choose: Best option for French-speaking students seeking top-tier nursing education in Quebec
Why Study Nursing in Canada?
There are several reasons why students choose Canada for nursing studies:
- Canadian nursing programs are accredited, and standards are high. Graduates are respected globally.
- Clinical placements (in hospitals, community health, aged care, public health) are integral to nursing education, giving hands-on experience.
- The health sector in Canada has a steady demand for nurses, enhancing employment prospects and job stability.
- Canada has liberal post-study work permits and friendly immigration pathways for many graduates.
- For international students, the quality of life, safety, and support services in Canadian universities make it attractive.
Eligibility Criteria for Studying Nursing in Canada
Bachelor of Nursing
The Bachelor of Nursing (BScN / BSN / BN) is an entry-level program that prepares students to become Registered Nurses (RNs) through a mix of theory, simulation labs, and clinical placements.
Academic Requirements:
- Completion of Grade 12 / High School
- Mandatory subjects: Biology, Chemistry, English
- Some universities also require Math or Physics
- Minimum 70–85% overall (top universities may require 85%+)
English Language Requirements (International Students):
- IELTS: 6.5–7.0 overall, no band below 6.5 (some require 7 in Speaking/Writing)
- PTE Academic: 60–65+ (some top universities may require 68–70+)
- TOEFL iBT: 90–100+
Other Requirements:
- CASPer Test (UofT, McMaster, etc.)
- Personal statement or supplementary application (some universities)
- Reference letter (sometimes)
- Criminal background check & immunisation (before clinical placement)
Note: Very competitive programs may require higher grades and interviews.
Master’s in Nursing
The Master’s in Nursing (MN / MScN / MSN / Nurse Practitioner) is an advanced program for registered nurses who want to specialise, take leadership roles, or qualify as Nurse Practitioners with deeper clinical and research training.
Academic Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in Nursing (BScN/BSN)
- Must be from a recognised/ accredited institution
- Minimum GPA: 3.0–3.3 on 4.0 scale (B or B+ average)
Professional Requirements:
- Active RN license/registration in the home country or in Canada
- Clinical work experience (usually 1–2 years; NP programs may need 2+ years)
English Language Requirements:
- IELTS Academic: 7.0–7.5 overall (often no band below 7)
- PTE Academic: 60–65+ (some top universities may require 68–70+)
- TOEFL iBT: 92–100+
Additional Requirements:
- Resume/CV
- Statement of Purpose / Letter of Intent
- 2–3 Recommendation Letters (academic or professional)
- Interviews (for selective programs, e.g., Nurse Practitioner)
- Research proposal (for thesis-based programs or PhD)
Fees Structure
|
Universities |
Fee (approx.) |
|
University of Toronto |
$31,000 - $50,089 CAD |
|
University of Alberta |
$31,895 - $35,000 CAD |
|
University of British Columbia (UBC) |
$43,000 - $48,000 CAD |
|
McMaster University |
$44,349 - $56,232 CAD |
|
McGill University |
$23,000 – $28,000 CAD |
|
Queen's University at Kingston |
$50,000 CAD |
|
University of Calgary |
$31,949 CAD |
|
University of Ottawa |
$31,000 – $37,000 CAD |
|
Western University |
$48,000 – $55,000+ CAD |
|
Université de Montréal |
$18,000 – $27,000 CAD |
Scholarships & Financial Aid for Nursing Students in Canada
|
Name of Scholarship / Aid |
Applicable Level(s) |
What It Covers / Key Benefits |
|
Canadian Nurses Foundation (CNF) Scholarships |
BScN, MSc, PhD |
Awards typically range from CAD 750 to CAD 10,000 |
|
Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (U of T) |
Undergraduate |
Full 4-year scholarship covering tuition, books, residence, etc. |
|
University of Toronto Lawrence Bloomberg Nursing Awards |
Undergraduate & Graduate Nursing Students |
Nursing Students Multiple faculty-level awards |
|
Ontario Graduate Scholarship (OGS) |
Graduate (Master’s / PhD) |
Up to CAD 5,000 per term (for 3 consecutive terms) |
|
Global Health Education Scholarship (GHES) for Nursing (U of T) |
Nursing graduate students |
Helps cover expenses for practicum/placements |
|
FCCP Education Foundation Nursing Scholarship (U of T) |
Undergraduate (BScN) |
Awarded to second-year BScN students based on academic merit |
|
McGill Entrance Scholarships & Bursaries |
Undergraduate |
Major entrance scholarships (CAD 3,000 / 5,000 / 10,000 / 12,000) |
|
Ingram School of Nursing (McGill) Recruitment Fellowship (PhD) |
Doctoral |
First-year fellowship of CAD 20,000 – CAD 35,000 |
Career Options After Pursuing Nursing in Canada
Graduates from the best universities in Canada for BSc Nursing are highly valued in the healthcare sector and have access to a wide range of rewarding and high-demand career paths. It is also on the high-demand occupation list, making it easier to obtain a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and Permanent Residency (PR).
Below are some of the most popular and in-demand nursing career options in Canada:
- Registered Nurse (RN): The most common role for nursing graduates is working in hospitals, clinics, and long-term care.
- Nurse Practitioner (NP): An advanced role with authority to diagnose, prescribe, and lead patient care.
- Clinical Specialist or ICU/ER Nurse: Specialise in areas like critical care, paediatrics, oncology, or mental health.
- Public Health or Community Nurse: Work in government and community programs focusing on prevention and outreach.
- Nurse Educator or Instructor: Teach nursing students in colleges or universities.
- Nursing Administrator/Manager: Take leadership roles in hospitals or health organisations.
- Research Nurse: Contribute to clinical trials, data collection, and healthcare research.
- Home Care / Travel Nurse: Provide flexible care in patient homes or on contract across provinces.
Final Words
Choosing the Best Universities in Canada for Nursing is an important step toward building a successful and stable healthcare career. Canada’s top nursing schools, such as the University of Toronto, UBC, McGill, McMaster, University of Alberta and others, offer high-quality education, strong clinical placements, modern labs, and excellent support for both domestic and international students.
With growing demand for nurses, competitive salaries, and pathways to permanent residency, Canada is one of the most rewarding countries to study and work in this field.
