Hi Finance Newsletter:
3rd Edition
When students think about tuition, they usually picture one number, but in reality, the total cost of school depends on where you go, what you study, and how many credits you take. On top of tuition, there are mandatory fees, transit passes, health plans, books, and supplies that can add up quickly.
Below is a high-level look at what students in Edmonton can generally expect to pay.
🏫 What Edmonton Universities Cost
At the University of Alberta, tuition is charged per course and varies significantly by program. For many undergraduate domestic students, base tuition can start around $7,000 per year, but professional and specialized programs cost more (up to ~$20,000). Additionally, International tuition is higher and varies significantly depending on the faculty.
In addition to tuition, all students pay non-instructional fees for services such as student services, athletics, health and dental plans, and transit, which increase the total annual cost.
University of Alberta
MacEwan charges tuition based on the number of credits you enroll in, which means your total cost depends on your course load and program. For many students, MacEwan tends to land on the more affordable side (~$6,000 to $7,000 per year) compared to larger research universities like the UofA.
Like most schools, MacEwan also has mandatory student fees that cover health benefits, student services, and transit, so the final cost is more than just tuition alone.
MacEwan University
NAIT
NAIT programs are structured differently from traditional universities, and costs vary depending on whether you’re in a diploma, certificate, or technology-focused program. For domestic students, annual cost estimates place it at around $4,000 to $5,000 per year.
International students typically face significantly higher total costs, especially when living expenses are factored in.
Concordia charges tuition per credit, and for a typical full-time course load, tuition alone can be in the $5,000 range. As a smaller institution, Concordia often appeals to students looking for smaller class sizes and a more tight-knit campus environment.
Mandatory fees and optional benefit plans can increase the total annual cost beyond tuition.
Concordia University
NorQuest tuition varies widely depending on the program and is charged per credit. Many programs are designed to be career-focused and accessible, which can make NorQuest a more affordable option for some students, particularly for diplomas and certificates. On average, expect to spend about ~$4,000 per year on tuition.
International tuition rates are higher, but often still lower than those at large universities.
NorQuest College
Last Updated: December 12th, 2025
Contributors: Montse Rodriguez, Kyle Le