Explore the top 10 colleges in Surrey for international students in 2025 with tuition costs, key programs, and application insights.
Why International Students Are Flocking to Surrey in 2025
When it comes to choosing a study destination in Canada, Surrey colleges are quickly gaining popularity among international students. Situated in British Columbia and part of the Metro Vancouver area, Surrey offers the perfect blend of academic excellence, cultural diversity, and affordability. The city is home to high-ranking institutions with practical programs, strong industry links, and support systems tailored for global learners.
With over 600 parks, thriving student festivals, and affordable public transport, Surrey offers more than just an education. Students here get a vibrant lifestyle, green landscapes, and real-world exposure. The city’s growing immigrant population, especially from Asia and India, makes international students feel at home while preparing for globally competitive careers.
What Makes Surrey Colleges a Smart Choice?
Surrey stands out due to its strategic location, affordability, and high-quality education. Unlike the costlier cities like Toronto or Vancouver, students in Surrey enjoy lower tuition fees and reasonable living costs. The average tuition fee ranges from CAD 15,000 to CAD 50,000 annually, depending on the institution. Living expenses fall between CAD 1,265 and CAD 1,500 per month, with rental prices varying based on location. A downtown one-bedroom might cost CAD 1,694, while options outside the city center go for as low as CAD 1,100.
Beyond cost, Surrey colleges are known for their strong academic frameworks and practical focus. They offer diplomas, post-graduate programs, certifications, and career-ready training, often complemented with co-op options and internships.
Top 10 Colleges in Surrey for International Students (2025 Edition)
Douglas College remains a preferred choice due to its world-class infrastructure, strong university partnerships, and alumni success stories. It offers over 1,000 programs, including social work, criminology, and performing arts. The average tuition fee is about CAD 18,900 per year. International students benefit from dedicated support and access to both on-campus and off-campus housing.
Justice Institute of British Columbia (JIBC) is another standout. With six campuses and over 32,000 learners annually, JIBC excels in public safety and emergency services education. Students here experience hands-on learning and access to advanced training tech. Tuition is approximately CAD 19,000 per year.
Brighton College offers flexible study modes with a focus on practical, career-aligned education. Known for business, IT, and architectural design courses, it supports online and blended learning, with fees around CAD 15,000.
Sprott Shaw College, one of BC’s oldest institutions, is ideal for healthcare and design studies. Offering 130+ programs with small class sizes and flexible schedules, it charges an average fee of CAD 15,000 per year.
Oscar International College provides co-op enabled programs in fields such as healthcare and industrial training. It’s popular for its affordable fees (CAD 13,000) and strong faculty with decades of professional experience.
Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU) is known for its balance between research and applied learning. With over 140 programs and CAD 2.58M in research funding, it remains a hub for innovation and real-world skills. Tuition averages CAD 14,000.
CDI College Surrey shines in career-centric training with an 85% graduate placement rate. Programs in business, digital marketing, and hospitality are popular, and annual fees sit at around CAD 30,000.
Keystone College is recognized for its post-grad diplomas in business, project management, and hospitality. As an ITA-certified and PTIB-accredited school, it charges CAD 15,000 annually and maintains strong teaching outcomes.
Pacific Link College offers industry-aligned courses with weekend class options for working students. With programs in business, hospitality, and digital media, it blends theory and practice efficiently. The tuition averages CAD 18,000.
Langara College, though located slightly outside Surrey, is a popular pick for students in the region. Known for sustainability and HR programs, Langara is home to over 6,300 international students and offers diplomas and degrees at around CAD 18,000 per year.
Final Thoughts: Why 2025 Is Surrey’s Year
With a rising student population, global course offerings, and a lifestyle that balances urban energy with green spaces, Surrey is emerging as a top destination for higher education in Canada. The city’s colleges are not only preparing students for jobs but also shaping global citizens.
Whether you’re aiming for business, tech, or public safety, Surrey’s educational institutions provide the support and training you need to thrive.
Stay tuned to Surreyspeak for the latest updates on student life, colleges, and career tips. Stay informed. Stay inspired.
