19 Top Canadian Universities Offering Application Fee Waivers to Nigerian Applicants in 2026
Key Highlights & Statistics (2026)
19
Featured Universities$100 – $165 CAD
Avg. Saved Per AppUp to ₦800,000
Total Potential Savings5 Pathways
Waiver Request Models- Financial Hardship Consideration:80–85% of research-focused graduate programs waive application fees upon formal request.
Quick Summary: Applying to study in Canada can cost anywhere between $100 to $165 CAD (₦97,000 - ₦160,000) per application. This comprehensive guide highlights 19 top Canadian universities providing application fee waivers, automatic waivers, or fee reimbursement routes for eligible Nigerian undergraduate and graduate applicants in 2026.
Introduction
If you are a Nigerian applicant planning to study in Canada in 2026 or the coming year 2027, application fees can pose a significant financial hurdle before your admission journey even starts. With Canadian university application fees ranging between $100 CAD and $165 CAD (approximately ₦96,800 to ₦160,000 per application at current exchange rates), applying to five universities can cost nearly ₦800,000 NGN in non-refundable fees alone.
The good news is that top universities across Canada provide genuine pathways to waive these upfront payments. Whether through institutional financial hardship forms, department-level funding appeals, open house events, or through external initiatives like the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, you can secure admission without paying these application processing fees.
This article discusses in detail 19 Canadian universities offering application fee waiver opportunities for Nigerian applicants, explaining the qualification requirements, different application fee waiver models, how each waiver model works, application procedure and document submission process, with a clear roadmap for submitting an application free of charge.
Can Nigerians Apply to Canadian Universities Without Paying an Application Fee?
Yes, Nigerian students can apply to Canadian universities without paying an application fee. However, application fee waivers when not issued to candidates who meet specific general criteria through waiver codes, are rarely offered and applied universally to every international applicant automatically; rather, they are granted based on specific criteria such as financial need, graduate program supervisor appeals, merit, student fairs, open house events, or participation in targeted scholar programs.
While some universities provide automated fee waiver forms during portal submission, where application fee waiver codes are inputed, others may require applicants to submit their applications manually through recruiting agents or Program Coordinators after making appeals in which their application fee waiver request was granted.
Pro Tip: Contact Department Coordinators Early
Graduate admission committees usually hold discretionary waiver codes reserved for promising applicants, research candidates, or students from economically developing regions. Reaching out 6–8 weeks before deadlines increases your chances of securing a waiver code.
How Do Application Fee Waivers Work in Canada?
Application fee waivers in Canada operate through five distinct structural pathways. Understanding which model a university uses allows you to structure your outreach appropriately:
- Direct Application Waiver Form: Submitted directly inside the application portal or prior to submission (e.g., Thompson Rivers University, Lakehead University, University of Toronto).
- Least Developed Countries (LDC) Exemption & Need-Based Appeals: Automatic exemptions for UN-designated LDC countries at the undergraduate level, paired with financial appeal workflows to Graduate Coordinators (e.g., University of British Columbia, Trent University).
- Program-Specific & Departmental Waivers: Offered exclusively for designated high-demand or research-focused graduate fields such as Law, Computer Science, Master’s, or PhD programs (e.g., University of Alberta, Carleton University, University of Ottawa).
- Reimbursement Upon Enrollment: The candidate pays the initial fee during application submission, but the full fee is credited back to their student account balance after registration (e.g., Simon Fraser University).
- Scholarship-Integrated Waivers: Full application fee exemptions given to candidates pre-screened for fully funded cohort initiatives like the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (e.g., McGill University).
19 Canadian Universities Offering Application Fee Waivers to Eligible Nigerian Applicants
Below is the comprehensive breakdown of 19 Top Canadian universities providing application fee waivers in 2026
1. Thompson Rivers University
| University Name | Thompson Rivers University |
|---|---|
| Province | British Columbia |
| Fee Waiver Offered? | Yes (Direct Fee Waiver Form) |
| Who is Eligible | Undergraduate and Graduate candidates demonstrating academic promise or financial constraints upon portal submission. |
| General Admission & Document Requirements | undergraduate: Senior Secondary Certificate (WAEC/NECO min. 60–73% avg) + Scratch Card. postgraduate: 3 or 4-year Bachelor’s degree with min. 3.0/4.33 GPA, official transcripts, resume, and letter of intent. Passport data page required. |
| English Test Policy | WAIVED for Nigerians (English is Nigeria's official language of instruction). |
| Top Programmes | Business Administration (MBA), Computing Science, Nursing, Environmental Economics & Management. |
| University Global Ranking | #1001–1200 (QS World University Rankings) |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum | $20,880 – $26,238 CAD |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum (NGN Equivalent) | ~₦20,223,000 – ₦25,413,000 NGN |
| Domestic Student Population | ~24,200 |
| International Student Population | ~3,500 |
Why Nigerians Should Consider TRU: Affordable tuition structure, flexible entry routes, and generous credit transfer programs.
Practical Application Tip: Complete the TRU fee waiver request form directly inside the online application system before confirming your final application submission.
2. University of British Columbia (UBC)
| University Name | University of British Columbia |
|---|---|
| Province | British Columbia |
| Fee Waiver Offered? | Yes (LDC UN list for Undergrad; Need-based Graduate Appeal) |
| Who is Eligible | Graduate applicants appealing directly to Graduate Program Coordinators based on financial need. |
| General Admission & Document Requirements | undergraduate: Senior Secondary School Certificate with high academic standing (B2/B3 average). postgraduate: 4-year Bachelor’s degree with B+ overall average (or First Class / Upper Second Class), official university transcripts sent directly by Registrar, 3 academic reference letters, statement of intent, and CV. Passport copy. |
| English Test Policy | WAIVED for select Nigerian institutions with proof of English medium instruction. IELTS: 6.5 – 7.0 / TOEFL iBT: 90 (required if institution is not pre-approved). |
| Top Programmes | Data Science & AI, Mineral and Mining Engineering, Forestry, Business Administration (Sauder). |
| University Global Ranking | #40–45 (QS World University Rankings) |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum | $45,000 – $68,072 CAD |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum (NGN Equivalent) | ~₦43,584,000 – ₦65,930,000 NGN |
| Domestic Student Population | ~54,091 |
| International Student Population | ~18,009 |
Why Nigerians Should Consider UBC: World-class research capabilities, prestigious brand reputation, and robust international funding options.
Practical Application Tip: For graduate studies, email the Graduate Program Coordinator with your CV and transcripts to request a need-based fee waiver prior to creating your application profile.
3. Lakehead University
| University Name | Lakehead University |
|---|---|
| Province | Ontario |
| Fee Waiver Offered? | Yes (Application Fee Waiver Form) |
| Who is Eligible | Undergraduate and thesis-based Master’s applicants requesting waiver assistance. |
| General Admission & Document Requirements | undergraduate: WAEC/NECO SSCE with minimum 70% average in 6 senior academic subjects + online scratch card details. postgraduate: 4-year Bachelor’s degree with min. 70% (B grade average), official transcripts, 2 reference reports, and research proposal (for thesis streams). Passport copy. |
| English Test Policy | WAIVED for Nigerians providing a letter of English Medium of Instruction (MOI). |
| Top Programmes | Computer Science, Business (AACSB Accredited), Civil/Chemical Engineering, Forestry. |
| University Global Ranking | #801–1000 (QS World University Rankings) |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum | $30,236 – $40,314 CAD |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum (NGN Equivalent) | ~₦29,285,000 – ₦39,046,000 NGN |
| Domestic Student Population | ~6,700 |
| International Student Population | ~1,800 |
Why Nigerians Should Consider Lakehead: High graduate employment rates, lower cost of living at Thunder Bay and Orillia campuses, and automatic entrance scholarships.
Practical Application Tip: Submit your fee waiver form along with your transcript evaluation request before the priority admission deadline.
4. University of Toronto
| University Name | University of Toronto |
|---|---|
| Province | Ontario |
| Fee Waiver Offered? | Yes (Fee Waiver Form for specific departmental streams) |
| Who is Eligible | High-achieving research-based Master’s and PhD candidates facing financial barriers. |
| General Admission & Document Requirements | undergraduate: WAEC/NECO senior results with min. B3/B2 in required subject prerequisites + Scratch Card verification. postgraduate: Recognized 4-year Bachelor’s degree with mid-B standing (or 2:1 equivalent) in final year, official post-secondary transcripts, 2–3 confidential referee letters, academic CV, and research Statement of Intent. Valid Passport. |
| English Test Policy | WAIVED for Nigerian graduates from recognized universities with MOI. |
| Top Programmes | Artificial Intelligence & Data Science, Clinical Medicine, Rotman MBA, Public Policy. |
| University Global Ranking | #29–32 (QS World University Rankings) |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum | $58,000 – $69,000 CAD |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum (NGN Equivalent) | ~₦56,176,000 – ₦66,830,000 NGN |
| Domestic Student Population | ~69,000 |
| International Student Population | ~27,000 |
Why Nigerians Should Consider U of T: Globally renowned academic prestige, extensive research funding, and unmatched networking access in Toronto.
Practical Application Tip: Reach out to your prospective supervisor first; faculty members frequently issue fee waiver codes directly to preferred research applicants.
5. Trent University
| University Name | Trent University |
|---|---|
| Province | Ontario |
| Fee Waiver Offered? | Yes (Undergrad direct waiver; Need-based appeal for Grad) |
| Who is Eligible | Undergraduate applicants via partner workshops; Graduate students via coordinator appeal. |
| General Admission & Document Requirements | undergraduate: WAEC/NECO Senior Secondary Certificate with min. C5/C6 in 5 academic subjects + scratch card PIN/Serial. postgraduate: Bachelor’s degree with 77% (B+ average) in final two years, official transcripts, CV, SOP, and 2 academic reference letters. Valid International Passport. |
| English Test Policy | WAIVED for Nigerians with official secondary/tertiary English medium verification. |
| Top Programmes | Business Analytics (M.Sc.), Forensic Science, Financial Analytics, Environmental & Life Sciences. |
| University Global Ranking | #1201–1400 (QS World University Rankings) |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum | $27,500 – $34,800 CAD |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum (NGN Equivalent) | ~₦26,635,000 – ₦33,705,000 NGN |
| Domestic Student Population | ~10,500 |
| International Student Population | ~1,300 |
Why Nigerians Should Consider Trent: Voted #1 undergraduate university in Ontario for over a decade with high international student satisfaction.
Practical Application Tip: Attend virtual recruitment seminars hosted by Trent’s international team to collect promotional fee waiver codes.
6. University of Manitoba
| University Name | University of Manitoba |
|---|---|
| Province | Manitoba |
| Fee Waiver Offered? | Yes (Graduate Application Fee Waiver) |
| Who is Eligible | Eligible international applicants applying to selected Master's and PhD research programs. |
| General Admission & Document Requirements | undergraduate: WAEC/NECO SSCE with minimum 5 distinct academic subjects with B/C grades + verification card. postgraduate: 4-year Bachelor’s degree with min. 3.0 GPA (2:1 or high 2:2 standing) in last 60 credit hours, official university transcripts sent by issuing institution, 2–3 letters of recommendation, and statement of intent. Valid Passport page. |
| English Test Policy | WAIVED for Nigerians who completed tertiary education taught in English. |
| Top Programmes | Agribusiness & Agricultural Sciences, Engineering, Pharmacy (PharmD), Computer Science. |
| University Global Ranking | #661–670 (QS World University Rankings) |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum | $19,100 – $26,400 CAD |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum (NGN Equivalent) | ~₦18,499,000 – ₦25,569,000 NGN |
| Domestic Student Population | ~23,600 |
| International Student Population | ~6,700 |
Why Nigerians Should Consider U Manitoba: Lower tuition costs, affordable Winnipeg living expenses, and favorable post-graduation provincial nominee immigration routes (MPNP).
Practical Application Tip: Confirm supervisor acceptance prior to application; supervisors can directly authorize fee waivers through the graduate office.
7. University of Alberta
| University Name | University of Alberta |
|---|---|
| Province | Alberta |
| Fee Waiver Offered? | Yes (Selected graduate programs like Computer Science) |
| Who is Eligible | High-performing applicants to specific STEM and graduate departments facing economic hardship. |
| General Admission & Document Requirements | undergraduate: WAEC/NECO Senior Secondary Certificate with min. 5 academic subjects (B/C average). postgraduate: 4-year Bachelor’s degree with min. 3.0/4.0 GPA over last 60 credits (Second Class Upper Division), official digital transcripts, CV, SOP, research supervisor confirmation (for thesis routes), and 3 academic letters. Passport copy. |
| English Test Policy | WAIVED for Nigerian university graduates. |
| Top Programmes | Petroleum Engineering (Global Top 10), Mineral & Mining Engineering, Public Health, Computing Science. |
| University Global Ranking | #96–101 (QS World University Rankings / Top 5 in Canada) |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum | $31,500 – $43,000 CAD |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum (NGN Equivalent) | ~₦30,509,000 – ₦41,647,000 NGN |
| Domestic Student Population | ~38,000 |
| International Student Population | ~8,200 |
Why Nigerians Should Consider U of A: Top 100 global institution located in an oil-rich province with lower personal taxes and no provincial sales tax (PST).
Practical Application Tip: Submit your request to the Computer Science or target STEM department coordinator well before the primary November/December deadlines.
8. Carleton University
| University Name | Carleton University |
|---|---|
| Province | Ontario |
| Fee Waiver Offered? | Yes (Graduate Application Fee Waiver - Master's & PhD) |
| Who is Eligible | Research-based graduate applicants with outstanding academic profiles and supervisor support. |
| General Admission & Document Requirements | undergraduate: WAEC/NECO results with minimum B3/C4 in 5 relevant subjects + Scratch Card verification. postgraduate: Bachelor’s degree (4-year) with minimum B+ overall standing (80%+ or 2:1 equivalent), official transcripts uploaded electronically, 2 confidential referee reports, detailed CV, and Statement of Intent. Valid Passport. |
| English Test Policy | WAIVED for Nigerian applicants with official English instruction proof. |
| Top Programmes | International Affairs (NPSIA), Computer Science & Data Science, Public Policy & Administration, Electrical and Computer Engineering. |
| University Global Ranking | #741–780 (QS World University Rankings) |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum | $31,200 – $41,500 CAD |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum (NGN Equivalent) | ~₦30,218,000 – ₦40,195,000 NGN |
| Domestic Student Population | ~26,700 |
| International Student Population | ~6,300 |
Why Nigerians Should Consider Carleton: Strategic location in Canada's capital (Ottawa), strong co-op options, and direct links to government agencies and technology hubs.
Practical Application Tip: Request a fee waiver directly from your faculty supervisor when securing your agreement of supervision.
9. McGill University
| University Name | McGill University |
|---|---|
| Province | Quebec |
| Fee Waiver Offered? | Yes (via Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program) |
| Who is Eligible | Pre-screened African Master’s applicants demonstrating leadership track record and economic disadvantage. |
| General Admission & Document Requirements | undergraduate: SSCE WAEC/NECO credentials with top-tier grades (A1/B2 standard). postgraduate: Recognized 4-year Bachelor’s degree with min. 3.2/4.0 CGPA (Second Class Upper or First Class), official university transcripts, Mastercard Foundation eligibility form, 2 recommendation letters, detailed CV, and Personal Statement. International Passport. |
| English Test Policy | WAIVED for Nigerian applicants. |
| Top Programmes | Clinical Medicine, Public Policy, Sustainable Agriculture, Engineering Sciences. |
| University Global Ranking | #27 (QS World University Rankings) |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum | Fully Funded via Scholarship (Standard: $31,100 – $64,200 CAD) |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum (NGN Equivalent) | Fully Funded (Standard Equivalent: ~₦30,122,000 – ₦62,181,000 NGN) |
| Domestic Student Population | ~27,800 |
| International Student Population | ~11,500 |
Why Nigerians Should Consider McGill: One of the world’s elite universities offering a 100% fully funded scholarship covering tuition, living, housing, and travel.
Practical Application Tip: Register for and attend the mandatory Mastercard Foundation information sessions; pre-screened applicants receive an exclusive fee waiver code before applying to the main admission portal.
10. Simon Fraser University (SFU)
| University Name | Simon Fraser University |
|---|---|
| Province | British Columbia |
| Fee Waiver Offered? | Yes (Fee Waiver via Reimbursement after enrollment) |
| Who is Eligible | Admitted international graduate students who register and enroll into research-based programs. |
| General Admission & Document Requirements | undergraduate: WAEC/NECO SSCE with minimum B3 average in required subject areas. postgraduate: 4-year Bachelor’s degree with min. 3.0/4.33 CGPA, official transcripts sent to Registrar, 3 academic references, Statement of Purpose, and academic CV. Copy of Passport data page. |
| English Test Policy | WAIVED for Nigerian applicants. |
| Top Programmes | Computing Science & AI, Mechatronics Systems Engineering, Interactive Arts & Technology, Beedie Business Administration. |
| University Global Ranking | #308–312 (QS World University Rankings) |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum | $24,500 – $36,800 CAD |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum (NGN Equivalent) | ~₦23,729,000 – ₦35,642,000 NGN |
| Domestic Student Population | ~26,200 |
| International Student Population | ~4,300 |
Why Nigerians Should Consider SFU: Innovative trimester system, strong tech industry connections in Vancouver, and extensive research grant options.
Practical Application Tip: Save all application fee receipts; apply for tuition credit reimbursement through your department administrator during your first term of enrollment.
11. University of Ottawa
| University Name | University of Ottawa |
|---|---|
| Province | Ontario |
| Fee Waiver Offered? | Yes (Specific programs such as Law & Graduate streams) |
| Who is Eligible | Applicants targeting designated professional programs (e.g., Faculty of Law) or research graduate applicants. |
| General Admission & Document Requirements | undergraduate: SSCE (WAEC/NECO) with minimum C5/C6 average across 5 required subjects + verification card. postgraduate: 4-year Bachelor’s degree with min. 70–75% (7.0/10 or 2:1 equivalent), official transcripts, 2 confidential reference forms, research outline (if applicable), and detailed CV. Valid Passport. |
| English Test Policy | WAIVED for Nigerian graduates. |
| Top Programmes | Common Law, International Development & Globalization, Biomedical Mechanical Engineering, Translation Studies. |
| University Global Ranking | #219–228 (QS World University Rankings) |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum | $31,800 – $52,000 CAD |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum (NGN Equivalent) | ~₦30,800,000 – ₦50,364,000 NGN |
| Domestic Student Population | ~34,500 |
| International Student Population | ~7,000 |
Why Nigerians Should Consider uOttawa: World's largest bilingual university with generous differential tuition fee waivers for students studying in French or select graduate disciplines.
Practical Application Tip: Submit your fee waiver request directly through the Faculty of Law or target department portal before generating your OUAC application link.
12. Queen's University
| University Name | Queen's University |
|---|---|
| Province | Ontario |
| Fee Waiver Offered? | Yes (Appeal to Program Coordinator for Graduate Programs) |
| Who is Eligible | High-achieving graduate candidates in research Master’s and PhD programs demonstrating financial constraints. |
| General Admission & Document Requirements | undergraduate: WAEC/NECO results with min. B3/C4 grades in relevant prerequisites + scratch card details. postgraduate: 4-year Bachelor’s degree with min. B+ standing (or Upper Second Class), official transcripts, 2–3 academic references submitted via portal, Statement of Interest, and CV. Valid Passport data page. |
| English Test Policy | WAIVED for Nigerian applicants with English instruction documentation. |
| Top Programmes | Smith Graduate Business (MBA), Mining Engineering, Biomedical & Molecular Sciences, Constitutional Law. |
| University Global Ranking | #190–210 (QS World University Rankings bracket alignment) |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum | $33,600 – $57,400 CAD |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum (NGN Equivalent) | ~₦32,543,000 – ₦55,594,000 NGN |
| Domestic Student Population | ~24,600 |
| International Student Population | ~3,735 |
Why Nigerians Should Consider Queen's: Strong alumni network, high graduate placement rates, and prestigious research scholarships.
Practical Application Tip: Email the Graduate Coordinator in your department prior to submitting your application online to request a fee exemption token.
13. McMaster University
| University Name | McMaster University |
|---|---|
| Province | Ontario |
| Fee Waiver Offered? | Yes (Appeal to Graduate Program Coordinator) |
| Who is Eligible | Qualified applicants to research-focused graduate programs with strong academic records. |
| General Admission & Document Requirements | undergraduate: WAEC/NECO Senior Secondary Certificate with minimum B average. postgraduate: 4-year Bachelor’s degree with B+ minimum average (80%+ or 2:1 standing) in final year, official post-secondary transcripts, 2 academic reference letters, statement of research interest, and CV. Passport copy. |
| English Test Policy | WAIVED for Nigerian university graduates. |
| Top Programmes | Health Sciences & Medicine, DeGroote Business Administration, Software Engineering, Computing Science. |
| University Global Ranking | #174–179 (QS World University Rankings bracket) |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum | $46,000 – $61,000 CAD |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum (NGN Equivalent) | ~₦44,553,000 – ₦59,081,000 NGN |
| Domestic Student Population | ~32,000 |
| International Student Population | ~5,200 |
Why Nigerians Should Consider McMaster: Recognized globally for problem-based learning and world-leading health and engineering research facilities.
Practical Application Tip: Contact potential research supervisors to endorse your application; endorsed candidates receive direct fee waiver approvals.
14. Concordia University
| University Name | Concordia University |
|---|---|
| Province | Quebec |
| Fee Waiver Offered? | Yes (Balance via graduate funding for thesis-based Master’s) |
| Who is Eligible | Thesis-based Master’s and PhD applicants selected for department award funding. |
| General Admission & Document Requirements | undergraduate: WAEC/NECO SSCE with minimum C5/C6 in 5 subjects + Scratch Card PIN. postgraduate: Bachelor’s degree (4-year) with minimum 3.0/4.3 CGPA (or Second Class Upper Division), official transcripts, 2 referee letters, CV, and Statement of Purpose. International Passport page. |
| English Test Policy | WAIVED for Nigerian university graduates. |
| Top Programmes | Gina Cody Software Engineering, Fine Arts & Digital Design, John Molson MBA, Computer Science. |
| University Global Ranking | #497 (QS World University Rankings) |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum | $27,500 – $38,000 CAD |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum (NGN Equivalent) | ~₦26,635,000 – ₦36,805,000 NGN |
| Domestic Student Population | ~35,500 |
| International Student Population | ~15,500 |
Why Nigerians Should Consider Concordia: Located in vibrant Montreal with affordable living costs and strong tech sector integration.
Practical Application Tip: Apply for departmental funding packages; accepted thesis-based candidates get application fee amounts offset against their tuition balance.
15. University of Guelph
| University Name | University of Guelph |
|---|---|
| Province | Ontario |
| Fee Waiver Offered? | Yes (Need-based by appeal request to Graduate Coordinator) |
| Who is Eligible | Graduate applicants demonstrating financial hardship or attending virtual international fairs. |
| General Admission & Document Requirements | undergraduate: SSCE WAEC/NECO with minimum B3/C4 standing in relevant subjects + verification PIN. postgraduate: 4-year Bachelor’s degree with minimum 73–76% (B standing) in final two years, official transcripts, 2–3 referee reports, Statement of Research Intent, and CV. Copy of Passport. |
| English Test Policy | WAIVED for Nigerian applicants with letter of instruction from recognized institutions. |
| Top Programmes | Ontario Veterinary College Medicine (Global Top 5), Food Science, Agriculture & Forestry, Environmental Engineering. |
| University Global Ranking | #546 (QS World University Rankings) |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum | $31,000 – $44,500 CAD |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum (NGN Equivalent) | ~₦30,025,000 – ₦43,100,000 NGN |
| Domestic Student Population | ~27,500 |
| International Student Population | ~2,200 |
Why Nigerians Should Consider Guelph: Global leader in agri-food research, life sciences, and community-focused learning environments.
Practical Application Tip: Attend University of Guelph international webinars to receive attendee-exclusive waiver codes.
16. Dalhousie University
| University Name | Dalhousie University |
|---|---|
| Province | Nova Scotia |
| Fee Waiver Offered? | Yes (Need-Based Fee Waiver) |
| Who is Eligible | Applicants with demonstrated financial need applying to graduate degrees. |
| General Admission & Document Requirements | undergraduate: WAEC/NECO Senior Secondary credentials with minimum B/C grades across 5 subjects + Scratch Card. postgraduate: 4-year Bachelor’s degree with min. 3.0/4.3 CGPA (B average / Second Class Upper), official transcripts sent directly from university Registrar, 2 academic reference letters, Statement of Intent, and CV. Passport copy. |
| English Test Policy | WAIVED for Nigerians with tertiary degrees taught in English. |
| Top Programmes | Oceanography & Marine Sciences, Computer Science, Public Administration, Health Administration. |
| University Global Ranking | #298–312 (QS World University Rankings bracket placement) |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum | $29,000 – $43,500 CAD |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum (NGN Equivalent) | ~₦28,088,000 – ₦42,132,000 NGN |
| Domestic Student Population | ~16,200 |
| International Student Population | ~4,800 |
Why Nigerians Should Consider Dalhousie: Premier research institution in Atlantic Canada with rapid regional permanent residency pathways (AIPP).
Practical Application Tip: Submit your financial need statement to the Registrar’s Office at least 4 weeks prior to the application deadline.
17. University of Windsor
| University Name | University of Windsor |
|---|---|
| Province | Ontario |
| Fee Waiver Offered? | Yes (Appeal to Program Coordinator) |
| Who is Eligible | Graduate candidates appealing directly to department directors based on merit or financial constraints. |
| General Admission & Document Requirements | undergraduate: WAEC/NECO SSCE with minimum 70% overall average in senior prerequisites + verification PIN. postgraduate: 4-year Bachelor’s degree with min. 70% average (73%+ for Engineering/Business), official transcripts, 2 recommendation letters, SOP, and CV. Valid International Passport. |
| English Test Policy | WAIVED for Nigerian applicants. |
| Top Programmes | Automotive Engineering (International Baseline), Applied Computing (MACA), Odette Business Administration (MBA). |
| University Global Ranking | #530–540 (QS World University Rankings milestone) |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum | $31,200 – $41,900 CAD |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum (NGN Equivalent) | ~₦30,218,000 – ₦40,582,000 NGN |
| Domestic Student Population | ~12,200 |
| International Student Population | ~4,300 |
Why Nigerians Should Consider Windsor: Strategic border location next to Detroit, strong engineering co-op programs, and lower housing costs.
Practical Application Tip: Write a concise appeal email to the Graduate Program Coordinator highlighting your academic GPA and financial context.
18. York University
| University Name | York University |
|---|---|
| Province | Ontario |
| Fee Waiver Offered? | Yes (Event-based & Departmental Fee Waiver Opportunities) |
| Who is Eligible | Applicants attending York international recruitment sessions or research candidates with supervisor backing. |
| General Admission & Document Requirements | undergraduate: WAEC/NECO Senior Secondary Certificate with minimum B3/C4 average + Scratch Card verification. postgraduate: 4-year Bachelor’s degree with min. B grade average (or 2:1 equivalent) over last 2 years, official post-secondary transcripts, 2–3 reference letters, Statement of Purpose, and CV. Valid Passport page. |
| English Test Policy | WAIVED for Nigerian university graduates. |
| Top Programmes | Schulich School of Business (MBA), Osgoode Hall Law, Cybersecurity & Computer Security, Biotechnology. |
| University Global Ranking | #340–355 (QS World University Rankings bracket) |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum | $35,100 – $47,400 CAD |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum (NGN Equivalent) | ~₦33,996,000 – ₦45,909,000 NGN |
| Domestic Student Population | ~46,500 |
| International Student Population | ~10,500 |
Why Nigerians Should Consider York: Home to top-ranked business and law schools with direct Toronto subway access on campus.
Practical Application Tip: Join York University virtual student info sessions to receive promotional waiver codes distributed during Q&A segments.
19. Memorial University of Newfoundland (MUN)
| University Name | Memorial University of Newfoundland |
|---|---|
| Province | Newfoundland and Labrador |
| Fee Waiver Offered? | Yes (Low baseline fees / Departmental waiver incentives) |
| Who is Eligible | Graduate candidates in research streams and attendees of regional education fairs. |
| General Admission & Document Requirements | undergraduate: WAEC/NECO Senior Secondary Certificate with C5/C6 or better across 5 core subjects + online verification Scratch Card. postgraduate: Bachelor’s degree (4-year) with min. Second Class Upper Division (or Second Class Lower with relevant experience), official transcripts, 2 referee reports, Statement of Intent, and CV. International Passport data page. |
| English Test Policy | WAIVED for Nigerian applicants. |
| Top Programmes | Ocean and Naval Architecture Engineering, Earth Sciences & Geosciences, Faculty of Medicine, Computing Science. |
| University Global Ranking | #720–740 (QS World University Rankings cluster) |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum | $19,800 – $24,500 CAD |
| Tuition Fee Per Annum (NGN Equivalent) | ~₦19,177,000 – ₦23,729,000 NGN |
| Domestic Student Population | ~14,300 |
| International Student Population | ~3,700 |
Why Nigerians Should Consider MUN: Highly competitive coastal tuition tier in Atlantic Canada paired with affordable regional living expenses.
Practical Application Tip: Secure supervisor approval in advance to have your application fee absorbed directly by faculty research funds.
How to Check Whether a University Is Currently Offering a Fee Waiver
University application policies update annually. To verify whether a fee waiver is actively available, follow this quick step-by-step checklist:
- Visit the Official Graduate Admissions FAQ: Search directly for "Application Fee Waiver" or "Exemptions" on the target university's `.ca` domain.
- Inspect the Application Payment Gateway: Start an application profile and navigate to the payment screen to check if "Fee Waiver Code" or "Financial Hardship Request" exists as an option.
- Check Virtual Fair Announcements: Look at the university’s International Recruitment Events calendar for upcoming webinars offering waiver codes to attendees.
- Email the Department Coordinator: Send a brief email to the Graduate Program Assistant asking if fee waivers are available for Nigerian candidates.
How to Request an Application Fee Waiver: Step-by-Step Guide
When requesting a fee waiver from a Graduate Coordinator or admissions office, follow these exact steps:
- Step 1: Draft a Clear Financial Hardship Statement: Prepare a 250-word letter explaining your financial constraints, including FX restrictions and banking limitations in Nigeria.
- Step 2: Attach Unofficial Transcripts and CV: Show that you are academically qualified before asking for financial concessions.
- Step 3: Reference Academic Match: State specifically why you are applying to their program and name potential faculty supervisors.
- Step 4: Request a Waiver Code: Politely ask if a departmental waiver code or appeal form is available to process your application.
Sample Email Subject Line:
Application Fee Waiver Request – [Your Full Name] – [Target Program Name] (Fall 2026)
Documents to Prepare Before Applying
Gather these documents prior to starting your application to ensure a smooth waiver request process:
- Official/Unofficial Transcripts: Showing degree classification (First Class or Second Class Upper/Lower).
- WAEC/NECO Examination Scratch Cards: Providing Serial Number and PIN details for direct online credential verification.
- Letter of English Medium of Instruction (MOI): Issued by your Nigerian university confirming that your degree was taught entirely in English.
- Updated Academic CV: Highlighting research projects, work experience, publications, and leadership activities.
- Statement of Purpose (SOP): Tailored specifically to the program and institution.
- 2–3 Recommendation Letters: Contact details of academic or professional referees.
- Proof of Financial Hardship / Bank Statement: Showing current currency context (if requested for need-based appeals).
Common Mistakes That Cause Applications to Be Rejected
- Submitting Applications Without Applying the Waiver Code: Once paid, application fees in Canada are strictly non-refundable.
- Generic Appeal Emails: Sending mass emails to program coordinators without referencing specific research interests.
- Ignoring Medium of Instruction (MOI) Verification: Assuming English proof is automatic without submitting an official MOI letter.
- Omission of WAEC/NECO Verification Details: Forgetting to attach active examination scratch card PINs for secondary credential checks.
- Applying Too Close to Deadlines: Fee waiver codes take 1–3 weeks to process and must be secured before final deadlines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is IELTS mandatory for Nigerian applicants in Canadian universities?
No, IELTS is generally not mandatory for Nigerians at most Canadian universities because Nigeria is recognized as an English-speaking country. Submitting a Letter of English Medium of Instruction (MOI) from your previous institution usually satisfies this requirement.
Can I get a fee waiver refund if I already paid my application fee?
No. Canadian universities do not issue refunds for application fees once they have been paid online. Always secure your fee waiver code before completing submission.
Do fee waivers lower my chances of securing admission?
Not at all. Fee waiver requests are handled administratively or based on merit/need and have zero negative impact on how admission committees evaluate your academic qualifications.
When should I start requesting application fee waivers for 2027 intakes?
Start your outreach between August and October for Fall (September) intakes, or at least 4–6 months prior to your target program’s official application deadline.
Your Next Steps
Ready to start your fee-free application journey to Canada? Take the following steps immediately:
- Shortlist 4–5 Universities: Select target universities from the list above matching your course and academic profile.
- Obtain Your Credentials & Scratch Cards: Request official transcripts and purchase WAEC/NECO verification scratch cards (if apply).
- Obtain Your Medium of Instruction Letter: Contact your Nigerian alma mater to request an official MOI letter.
- Draft Your SOP & CV: Update your CV and write a program-specific Statement of Purpose. For expert assistance with this contact Brown Consult
- Contact Program Coordinators: Email department coordinators early to request fee waiver codes or appeal forms.
- Submit Application Before Priority Deadlines: Apply early to maximize opportunities for entrance scholarships and graduate assistantships!