7 Colleges in Toronto Perfect for International Students

An international student on campus at one of many great institutions near Toronto, Ontario.

Have your sights set on Canada’s biggest city? Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) is a dream study abroad destination. If you’re interested in studying in Canada, these seven colleges in Toronto and nearby regions could be a great match for international students like you.

Each of these colleges offers unique programs and opportunities that fit the needs of international students. Plus, most of these programs will give you the chance to work in your field during your studies, setting you up perfectly to launch your career.

Keep reading to learn more about having an enriching study experience at one of these incredible colleges in Toronto!

A photo of George Brown College, one of many excellent colleges in Toronto for international students.

Image Courtesy: George Brown College

George Brown College

With three different campuses located in downtown Toronto, George Brown College offers over 160 programs to international students. It’s a vibrant and multicultural college, as nearly 30% of its student population are international students. You can rest assured that the college is committed to providing a supportive and inclusive environment for all. 

George Brown College offers services tailored for international students, including language support, academic advising, and career services. George Brown is also known for building in practical, hands-on work experience; nearly every career-focused program includes an experiential learning opportunity, meaning you’ll graduate in a great position to kick off your career.

Wondering how you can stay and work in Canada for up to three years after graduating? Read all about how to get Canada’s Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP).

A photo of a Centennial College building with the college name visible in large letters on the roof.

Image Courtesy: Centennial College

Centennial College

Centennial College in Toronto prepares students for future success through its emphasis on applied learning and hands-on experience. With five main campuses located throughout the city, its 160+ programs span fields like business, engineering technology, health sciences, and hospitality. 

Students get a uniquely global perspective from programs at Centennial. You’ll graduate with the knowledge and support you need to apply your skills around the world, impress your employer, and make our planet a better place. Centennial College offers its international students access to dedicated language support and career services, enabling a smooth transition to studying and living in Toronto.

Fun Fact: Did you know that Centennial is recognized as one of the most culturally diverse post-secondary institutions in Canada? Almost 1,000 ethnic groups are represented, and 80 languages are spoken on campus!

A photo of three students sitting outside on a sunny day at Seneca College Newnham Campus in Toronto.

Image Courtesy: Seneca College

Seneca College

Did you know that Seneca College is Canada’s largest provider of polytechnic education? It has campuses across Toronto, and offers over 160 programs! This means you’re sure to find a location and program that’s an excellent fit for you. Popular programs focus on business, engineering, health sciences, and early childhood education. Plus, you’ll benefit from Seneca’s strong connections with local industry partners. These links will give you unique opportunities for networking, internships, and co-op placements. 

With state-of-the-art facilities and innovative programs, Seneca College is one of the best colleges in Toronto, offering international students services like language support, study strategies, and career services. 

On top of being an economic and cultural hub, Toronto has plenty of beautiful parks and green spaces to explore. Check out a few of them on our blog!

A photo of the entrance to the Humber College North campus, one of many popular colleges in Toronto.

Image Courtesy: Humber College

Humber College

Humber College is a leading polytechnic college in Toronto that offers over 220 programs to international students, including business, creative arts, health sciences, and technology. With a focus on hands-on learning and practical experience, you’ll be sure to get a high-quality education when choosing Humber. The college also offers a lot of helpful services for international students, including peer mentoring and great language support. 

Students in technology programs at the Humber College – North campus spend a lot of time in the cutting-edge Barrett Centre for Technology Innovation. If you’re looking for work-integrated learning opportunities in fields like robotics, automation, and user experience (UX), the Barrett Centre is exactly where you want to be. 

A photo of Sheridan College's campus in Mississauga, just outside Toronto.

Image Courtesy: Sheridan College

Sheridan College

Sheridan College is another one of the GTA’s leading polytechnic colleges. Its three campuses are located just outside of Toronto, in the western cities of Brampton, Mississauga, and Oakville. This means you’ll have quick access to Toronto itself, and much of the GTA as well.  

Sheridan offers over 120 programs in fields including animation, business, design, and technology. With innovative programs and state-of-the-art facilities, Sheridan College provides international students with many different services, including academic advising, health insurance support, and career guidance. You’ll be supported every step of the way.

Fun Fact: Graduates from Sheridan include fourteen Oscar nominees and seven Oscar winners

A photo of Fanshawe College's library.

Image Courtesy: Fanshawe College

Colleges Outside of Toronto and the GTA

Want to be outside of the hustle and bustle of the big city? These excellent college options outside of Toronto might suit your style: 

Georgian College

With a main campus in Barrie, a small city north of Toronto, Georgian College offers over 130 programs in fields such as business, engineering technology, health sciences, hospitality, and design. The college provides international students with a number of services, including academic and career advising, to promote students’ success. Georgian College also offers a diverse student community and a supportive environment to help you and other international students thrive.

All Georgian College programs focus on practical, hands-on learning. Most of them also include an internship, work placement, or even a paid co-op term—so you can kickstart your career before even graduating.

Read more about co-ops, placements, and internships in Canada on our blog

Fanshawe College

Two hours west of Toronto is lively London, Ontario, home to Fanshawe College’s main campus. Fanshawe offers over 200 programs in fields ranging from business and hospitality to engineering technology, health sciences, and design. The college also offers several unique services for international students that support their transition to living in Canada. In fact, Fanshawe College has a dedicated International Centre that provides a variety of services tailored to the needs of international students. You’ll have access to immigration advisors, work permit advice, housing guidance, and more. 

Fanshawe’s London Campus is also renowned for its Norton Wolf School of Aviation and Aerospace Technology. Fanshawe has a strong reputation as a top aviation and flight repair institution. Its 80,000-square-foot hangar at the London International Airport, just minutes from the main campus, offers students the chance to work on a fleet of aircraft. As well, you’ll find student lounges, classrooms, hands-on labs, and plenty of hangar space on site. 

An illustration of the Canadian flag.



Ready to launch your study abroad adventure? Toronto is one of the best destinations for international students looking for high-quality educational opportunities in Canada. By starting with these seven colleges in Toronto and the surrounding region, you’ll be sure to find programs and services that fit your needs. So, take advantage of these opportunities and get ready for an exciting study experience in one of Canada’s most vibrant cities.

Not sure where to start? ApplyBoard makes applying to study abroad easy, and it’s free for students to use. Get started here!

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