List of universities in Canada is one of the most searched phrases among Indian graduates holding a 3-year bachelor's degree. The challenge begins when students apply abroad and discover that many countries reject 15 years of education.
Canadian institutions have accepted candidates from India with non-honours and general degrees. As of 2023, over 319,000 Indian students were enrolled in Canadian universities—a number that continues to grow each year. If you’re planning for an MSc in Canada after a 3-year degree, this guide can help you shortlist the right options. Below is a 2025-ready list of Canadian universities accepting Indian 3-year degrees across provinces, including Ontario and British Columbia.
Looking to apply with a 3-year degree? These programs and universities in Canada may accept your profile:
Canada saw a steep rise in international student enrollment between 2000 and 2021, jumping by over 500%. In contrast, the U.S. recorded only a modest 45% growth.
Canada and 3-Year Degrees – What You Should Know
Many Indian students hold 3-year degrees like BA, BSc, or BCom. These often fall short of admission criteria in countries that require 16 years of education.
Why Canadian Universities Accept 3-Year Degrees
Canada aligns with the Bologna Process, which recognizes 15 years of education. So, students applying to PG programs in Canada with a 3-year degree may qualify if their academic background fits the program.
Applicability to Indian Degrees
If your degree is from a NAAC-accredited university in India with at least an “A” grade, you may be eligible. This applies to many universities in Canada accepting bachelor’s degrees from India, especially in business, arts, and science streams.
Types of Degrees Accepting 3-Year Degrees in Canada
List of Universities in Canada Accepting 3-Year Degrees
Below is the updated list of universities in Canada accepting 3-year bachelor’s degrees from India. At least 4 universities in this list rank among the top 100 globally as per QS World Rankings 2025. These schools offer PG programs in Canada with a 3-year degree, including direct-entry master’s and postgraduate diplomas.
Canadian Universities That Accept Indian 3-Year Degrees
Average Fees for PG Programs with 3-Year Degrees in Canada
Most Canadian universities accepting Indian 3-year degrees charge tuition between CAD 14,000–30,000 per year (approx. ₹8.5–18.3 lakhs). Living expenses typically add CAD 10,000–15,000 (₹6–9.2 lakhs), depending on city and province.
Cost Category
Estimated Annual Range (CAD)
INR Equivalent (approx.)
Tuition Fees
14,000 – 30,000
₹8.5 – ₹18.3 lakhs
Living Expenses
10,000 – 15,000
₹6 – ₹9.2 lakhs
Health & Misc. Costs
600 – 1,200
₹36,000 – ₹73,000
Total Yearly Cost
24,600 – 46,200
₹15 – ₹28.5 lakhs
Most programs offer January and September intakes, and several universities such as York, Western, and Lakehead offer scholarships and assistantships to Indian students applying with a 3-year UG degree.
Top Postgraduate Programs in Canada Accepting 3-Year Degrees
Indian students with a 3-year UG degree can apply to a wide range of PG programs in Canada, especially when their undergraduate subject matches the program. The most popular options include management, IT, finance, public health, and arts-related programs.
Popular PG Programs Offered by Canadian Universities Accepting Indian 3-Year Degrees
Program Name
University Examples
MSc in Data Analytics
York University, Lakehead University
Master’s in Management
HEC Montréal, University of Toronto
PG Diploma in Project Management
Fanshawe College, Western University
MSc in Computer Applications
University of Alberta (conditional), VIU
Public Health and Health Admin
McGill, Simon Fraser University
PG Diploma in Digital Marketing
Yorkville University, Humber College
Master’s in Finance or Accounting
University of Toronto, McMaster University
MSc in Environmental Science
Lakehead, University of British Columbia
Global Business or International Trade
Thompson Rivers University, Western University
MEd (Master of Education)
University of New Brunswick, UBC
Some universities in Ontario accepting 3-year degrees also offer co-op tracks, which allows students to gain paid work experience during their studies.
If you're aiming for an MSc in Canada after 3-year degree, contact the university’s department early to confirm program-specific requirements.
Admission Requirements for 3-Year Degree Holders in Canada
Most Canadian universities accepting Indian 3-year degrees set a minimum cutoff of 65% or equivalent GPA. Some may require 70% or higher for competitive PG programs like data science or business analytics. English language tests are mandatory for all international students.
Requirements for Admission in Canada with 15 Years of Education
Requirement Type
Standard Criteria for 3-Year Degree Holders
Minimum UG Percentage
65%–70% depending on program and university
Accepted Degree Type
3-year BA, BSc, BCom from NAAC-accredited Indian college
English Proficiency (IELTS)
6.5 overall, no band lower than 6.0
English Proficiency (TOEFL)
88–100 iBT
Credential Evaluation (WES/IQAS)
Required for non-honours or unaccredited degrees
Certain fields still expect a 4-year undergraduate background. Engineering, law, health sciences, and pharmacy often fall under this category, especially at research-intensive universities.
How to Strengthen Your Application with a 3-Year Indian Degree
If you're applying to 3 year degree accepted universities Canada 2025, add relevant work experience, pursue skill-building certifications, and submit a custom SOP with well-structured LORs. Many also include academic or professional projects to highlight subject fit and readiness for a master’s program.
1. Add Relevant Work Experience
Work experience aligned with your chosen course shows commitment. For example:
IT job roles for MSc in Canada after 3-year degree in Computer Science
Banking internships for PG programs in Finance or Management
2. Take Additional Certifications
Short online certifications or postgraduate diplomas help bridge the academic gap—especially if you're applying to universities in Canada accepting non-honours degrees.
List of Add-On Credentials for Admission to Universities in Canada Accepting 3-Year Degrees
Add-On Credential
Ideal For
Sample Platforms
PG Diploma (1 year)
Business, Data Analytics
Canadian Colleges
Coursera/Udemy Courses
Tech, Project Management
Online Platforms
Research Publications
STEM and academic-track MS degrees
Academic journals
3. Submit a Strong SOP and LORs
Your Statement of Purpose (SOP) should clearly explain:
Why this program fits your academic goals
How your 3-year degree and experience prepare you
What you plan to do after graduation
Letters of Recommendation (LORs) from professors or employers help support your case—especially for how to apply for MS in Canada with 3-year degree programs.
4. Include Research or Work Samples
If you're applying to research-based MSc programs, upload past academic work, publications, or project portfolios. These boost your credibility and show readiness—even if your degree is only three years.
Do You Need WES for Canadian Universities with 3-Year Degrees?
Many Canadian universities accepting Indian 3-year degrees require a credential evaluation from WES or a similar body to validate the Indian degree against Canadian academic standards. The need for WES depends on the institution and your undergraduate university’s accreditation status. While some schools accept transcripts directly, others use WES as a benchmark for program equivalence and course depth.
When WES Is Compulsory vs Optional
WES Requirement Type
When It's Mandatory
When It's Optional
Mandatory
For non-autonomous Indian colleges
When applying to tier-1 public research universities
Optional
From NAAC A+ autonomous colleges with strong GPA
For some arts and business programs
How WES Evaluates 3-Year Indian Degrees
WES reports usually evaluate 3-year Indian bachelor’s degrees as equivalent to a Canadian bachelor's (three years)—if the issuing institution is accredited and the degree is in a relevant academic stream.
Universities That Commonly Ask for WES Evaluation
University Name
WES Required?
Notes
University of Toronto
Yes
Especially for graduate programs in science and tech
University of British Columbia
Yes
WES or equivalent required for all international PG
York University
Optional
May waive for NAAC A/A+ universities
Concordia University
Yes
Required for all international credentials
University of Waterloo
Yes
Common for STEM programs
Tips to Get a Favourable WES Assessment
Submit consolidated transcripts with semester-wise mark sheets
Ensure your college is NAAC-accredited (A grade or higher)
Use “Document-by-Document” or “Course-by-Course” reports based on program
Double-check name spellings and program codes before uploading
Scholarships in Canada for 3-Year Degree Applicants
Students applying with a 3-year Indian UG degree can qualify for need-based and merit-based scholarships in Canada, but eligibility may differ based on the type of degree and program structure. Many universities in Canada accepting non-honours degrees offer internal scholarships for strong academic profiles or students with research or work experience.
Types of Scholarships for Indian 3-Year Degree Holders
Scholarship Type
Eligibility for 3-Year UG Applicants
Common Conditions
Merit-Based
Yes
GPA, research, or professional achievements
Need-Based
Yes
Financial documents required
Graduate Assistantships
Limited at some schools
Based on prior research, SOP, and faculty interest
University-Specific Scholarships Accepting 3-Year UG Degrees
University Name
Scholarship Opportunities Available
Degree Duration Criteria
Simon Fraser University
Entrance Awards, Need-Based Aid
Accepts 3-year UG in most faculties
Memorial University of Newfoundland
Graduate Fellowships, Stipends
3-year UG accepted with strong GPA
University of Regina
Global Excellence Scholarships
Available to eligible Indian UG
Carleton University
International Student Scholarships
Must meet GPA and IELTS requirements
Brock University
Emerging Market Awards
3-year UG accepted in PG Diploma
Student Visa and 3-Year Degrees – What You Must Know
The IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) does not reject a student visa application solely based on a 3-year Indian degree. What matters is whether your chosen course is full-time, leads to a diploma or degree, and is PGWP-eligible (Post-Graduation Work Permit). Most Canadian universities accepting Indian 3-year degrees offer eligible programs, provided academic fit and institutional recognition are clear.
PGWP Eligibility for 3-Year Degree Applicants
Visa Requirement
Accepted Criteria for PGWP
Program Type
Must be a full-time, PG-level program
Designated Learning Institution (DLI)
Must be on IRCC’s DLI list
Program Duration
Minimum 8 months; 2+ years = 3-year PGWP
Admission Type
Conditional offers accepted if justified
Impact of Conditional Offers on Visa
Students applying with a 3-year UG from India may receive conditional admission if their GPA is slightly below the threshold or if WES reports are pending. These offers are valid for visa application if supported by a clear study plan and documentation.
How to Justify Your Background in the Visa SOP
A well-written Statement of Purpose (for visa) should:
Explain why a 3-year Indian degree aligns with the Canadian PG program
Emphasise relevance of coursework, research, or work experience
Include mention of your university’s NAAC accreditation
Show long-term academic and career goals tied to your field of study
Application Tips for Indian Students Applying with 3-Year Degrees
Several universities in Canada accepting bachelor’s degrees from India evaluate applications on a case-by-case basis, especially for non-honours degrees.
Shortlist Courses That Accept 3-Year Degrees from India
Many PG programs in Canada with a 3-year degree accept Indian students, especially when their undergraduate subject matches the master's curriculum.
Canadian PG Courses That Accept Indian 3-Year Degrees
Program Category
Accepts 3-Year Degrees
Exceptions to Note
Arts and Humanities
Yes
Research-focused MA programs may differ
Management and Business
Yes
Some MBA programs prefer a 4-year degree
Computer Science, Engineering
Limited
Applied programs may accept with strong profile
Data Analytics, Finance
Often
UG subject must align with PG curriculum
How to Contact Admissions for Eligibility Confirmation
Before submitting your application, contact the university’s admissions office to confirm whether your 3-year degree qualifies. Include the following:
A copy of your final semester transcript
Full details of your degree-awarding university
Mention that your institution holds a NAAC ‘A’ or higher accreditation
A short explanation linking your UG background to the course
This step helps avoid rejections and improves clarity—especially at Canadian universities accepting Indian 3-year degrees with program-specific admission filters.
Align Your Background with the Canadian Master’s Program
When applying to 3 year degree accepted universities Canada 2025, your SOP and application materials must show strong academic alignment.
Ways to Strengthen Program Fit
Mention 1–2 core UG subjects relevant to the PG course
Share any research work, academic projects, or seminar papers
Include relevant certifications or PG diplomas that bridge the academic gap
This approach helps your profile stand out—particularly when applying to universities in Canada accepting non-honours degrees or competitive programs in business and technology.
Get free counseling to find out which Canadian universities accept 3-year degrees and fit your goals
FAQs About List of Universities in Canada Accepting 3-Year Degrees
Can Indian students apply for PR in Canada after studying with a 3-year bachelor’s degree?
Yes. If your program in Canada is PGWP-eligible and you meet the work experience and language requirements under Express Entry or PNP, you can apply for PR—even if your original degree was 3 years long.
Do Canadian universities consider NAAC accreditation when evaluating 3-year degrees?
Yes. Most Canadian universities accepting Indian 3-year degrees prefer applicants from NAAC ‘A’ or ‘A+’ accredited institutions. Accreditation boosts academic credibility and may waive the need for WES evaluation.
Is it better to apply for a PG diploma or master’s in Canada with a 3-year degree?
Both are viable. However, PG programs in Canada with a 3-year degree often start with PG diplomas. You can later transition to a master’s if your performance and credits qualify.
What’s the role of course relevance when applying to Canadian universities with a 3-year UG degree?
Relevance is key. Universities assess whether your undergraduate coursework matches the master's syllabus. This is critical when applying for MSc in Canada after a 3-year degree.
Can I get into co-op programs in Canada if I have a 3-year degree from India?
Yes, if your degree aligns with the course and the university recognises your UG background. Many universities in Canada accepting bachelor’s degrees from India offer co-op PG diplomas and master's with work terms.
Does having professional experience help if I have a 3-year bachelor’s degree?
Absolutely. Work experience strengthens your application, especially for master's in Canada with a 3-year UG where departments look beyond academic duration.
Can I combine my 3-year Indian degree with a diploma to meet 4-year requirements in Canada?
Yes. Some students complete a 1-year PG diploma in India or Canada to meet the equivalent of a 4-year academic profile, especially for admission in Canada with 15 years of education.
How do I explain a 3-year degree in my Canadian student visa SOP?
Your SOP should justify how your degree meets the course demands, include NAAC details, and explain course relevance. Link your academic background to future career goals.
Are there any private universities in Canada that are more flexible with 3-year degrees?
Yes. Institutions like Yorkville University and University Canada West are known for flexibility. However, verify if the program is PGWP-eligible before applying.
Can I use an honours certificate or lateral entry diploma to support my 3-year degree application?
Yes. An honours add-on or diploma can help bridge the credit gap when applying to universities in Canada accepting non-honours degrees.
Does the type of 3-year degree (BA, BSc, BCom) affect acceptance in Canadian universities?
It does. The match between your degree stream and the PG course matters. For example, a BSc is better suited for MSc programs, while a BCom aligns with business and analytics.
Are Canadian MBA programs open to students with a 3-year undergraduate degree?
Some are, but many top-tier MBAs still prefer a 4-year UG. Mid-tier or universities in Ontario accepting 3-year degrees may accept strong applicants with experience and a 3-year BCom.
How do I choose the right Canadian university that will accept my 3-year bachelor’s degree?
Check university websites or contact admissions directly. Look for schools listed in our 3 year degree accepted universities Canada 2025 section that specify flexible entry rules.
Can I apply for January intake in Canada with a 3-year degree from India?
Yes. Many Canadian universities accepting Indian 3-year degrees offer January and May intakes for PG diplomas and some master's programs.
Will my 3-year degree affect my chances of getting a student visa approval in Canada?
No, if your program is PGWP-eligible and your admission offer is from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI). IRCC focuses on course relevance and financial proof, not just degree length.
Pragya Sharma is a content developer and marketer with 6.5+ years of experience in the education industry. She started her career as a social media copywriter for NIELIT, Ministry of Electronics & IT,...
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