Sign up

Heading Out Already?

close

Our Ivy League mentors and top admission experts can help with personalized tips to get you into your dream school

Speak with our Experts

29 May 2025

7 minutes read

15 Best Universities in Canada for Mechanical Engineering for Indian Students

Dirghayu Kaushik
avatar

Dirghayu Kaushik

linkedin

Founder & CEO

Dirghayu Kaushik is the co-founder and CEO of Ambitio. He started this platform because he’s been in your shoes—navigating confusing websites, second-guessing college choices, and trying to make sense of what actually matters in an application. A graduate of IIT BHU, Dirghayu combines personal experience with data-backed guidance to help students apply smarter. Whether it’s choosing the right course, building a standout profile, or writing essays that don’t feel forced, his mission is simple: to make getting into your dream university less overwhelming, and a little more honest.

22 August 2024

7 minutes read

Key Takeaways

  • Best universities in Canada for mechanical engineering provide globally ranked programs, industry exposure, and co-op options ideal for Indian students.
  • Tuition ranges from CAD 28,000–62,000 with scholarships and reasonable living costs easing the financial load.
  • Indian graduates secure top roles within a year, with strong demand across R&D, energy, and manufacturing sectors.

73,000+ Indian students chose Canada in 2024, many aiming for top mechanical engineering programs. But here’s the truth: most get overwhelmed by confusing rankings, vague course info, and marketing fluff. Picking the wrong university can cost you time, money, and your career direction. 

Instead of falling for random lists, it’s time to look at real, research-driven Canadian universities that offer strong faculty, hands-on labs, and global recognition. This guide breaks down the best universities in Canada for mechanical engineering for Indian students.

Why Indian Students Prefer Studying Mechanical Engineering in Canada?

Indian students prefer studying mechanical engineering in Canada due to its globally ranked mechanical engineering universities, top Canadian faculty of engineering, and strong focus on practical learning. With top universities in Canada like Waterloo, Alberta, and British Columbia, each a public research university, offering specialised programmes in mechanical design, energy, and fluid systems, Canada offers unmatched quality.

best universities in canada for mechanical engineering

The best universities in Canada for mechanical engineering consistently appear in the top 100 university rankings by subject, attracting mechanical engineering students from around the world.

Top 15 Best Universities in Canada for Mechanical Engineering

Canada is home to some of the world’s best universities for mechanical engineering, offering cutting-edge programs grounded in innovation, research, and real-world application.

For Indian students interested in studying mechanical engineering, these top Canadian institutions offer a strong foundation in the discipline of engineering while nurturing global talent through world-class education.

1. University of Toronto

The University of Toronto is consistently ranked among the top universities in the world for engineering. Its department of mechanical engineering blends rigorous academic training with innovative research across areas like robotics, energy systems, and advanced manufacturing.

QS Ranking (2025)Exam RequiredKey HighlightsGlobal Engagement
21IELTS/GREResearch-intensive, advanced labs, urban campusHigh – Global research ties with NTU and Tsinghua University

2. University of British Columbia

University of British Columbia, a public research university, offers a mechanical engineering program that focuses on sustainability, energy, and fluid systems. British Columbia is a public institution known for attracting the brightest researchers around the world.

QS Ranking (2025)Exam RequiredKey HighlightsGlobal Engagement
34IELTS/TOEFLMultidisciplinary research, green engineeringCollaborations with top 100 universities worldwide

3. McGill University

Located in Montreal, McGill’s Faculty of Engineering is one of the oldest in Canada. Its general mechanical engineering studies program is strong in biomechanics and mechanical design, attracting students interested in studying mechanical engineering with global ambitions.

QS Ranking (2025)Exam RequiredKey HighlightsGlobal Engagement
30IELTS/TOEFLLegacy institution, bilingual environmentDiverse international student base

4. University of Alberta

The University of Alberta is one of the best mechanical engineering universities in Canada, with a curriculum that emphasizes professional engineering and real-world application. The Schulich School of Engineering here is renowned for excellence.

QS Ranking (2025)Exam RequiredKey HighlightsGlobal Engagement
111IELTSStrong industrial ties, Alberta Innovates centresStrategic partnerships with industry worldwide

5. University of Waterloo

University of Waterloo is a public research powerhouse in Ontario known for its co-op program that integrates education with practical work. Its mechanical engineering at the university level offers specializations in robotics, biomechanics, and thermodynamics.

QS Ranking (2025)Exam RequiredKey HighlightsGlobal Engagement
112IELTS/TOEFLCo-op excellence, industry integrationPartnered with firms like Google and Tesla

6. McMaster University

Located in Ontario, McMaster University offers a bachelor of applied science in mechanical engineering. The university’s mechanical engineering program is part of its renowned engineering department, with strong research in manufacturing engineering.

QS Ranking (2025)Exam RequiredKey HighlightsGlobal Engagement
189IELTS/GREInnovation focus, top biomedical researchHigh research impact globally

7. University of Calgary

Calgary’s Schulich School of Engineering provides a balanced mechanical engineering program across core principles and real-world applications. Its department of mechanical engineering is involved in frontier research in energy and fluid systems.

QS Ranking (2025)Exam RequiredKey HighlightsGlobal Engagement
182IELTS/TOEFLEnergy systems, design-focusedCollaborates with top global engineering faculties

8. Queen’s University

Situated in Eastern Province of Ontario, Queen’s University offers undergraduate and graduate programs with strong emphasis on mechanical design and engineering principles. Its public research university status allows access to top-tier facilities.

QS Ranking (2025)Exam RequiredKey HighlightsGlobal Engagement
209IELTS/TOEFLStrong alumni network, lab-intensive curriculumActive global student exchange programs

9. Western University

Western University’s mechanical engineering program blends biomechanical engineering with professional engineering practices. It’s one of the top mechanical schools offering interdisciplinary programs tailored to mechanical engineers.

QS Ranking (2025)Exam RequiredKey HighlightsGlobal Engagement
201–250IELTS/TOEFLInterdisciplinary, global-focused curriculumInternational engineering internships available

10. Dalhousie University

Dalhousie University, in the eastern Canadian city of Halifax, offers robust courses in engineering. Its mechanical engineering program is known for integrating core engineering principles with industry-driven training.

QS Ranking (2025)Exam RequiredKey HighlightsGlobal Engagement
271–280IELTS/TOEFLCoastal campus, hands-on projectsGlobal research & mobility programs

11. University of Montreal

With a strong engineering department, the University of Montreal offers French-language programs with global research output. Ideal for bilingual Indian students, its focus areas include aerospace and mechanical innovation.

QS Ranking (2025)Exam RequiredKey HighlightsGlobal Engagement
138IELTS/TEFFrench-medium programs, aerospace engineeringCollaborates with European research institutes

12. Concordia University

Concordia University is Montreal-based university, offers accessible mechanical engineering programs with specializations in robotics and automation. Known for its diversity, it’s a strong fit for students in Canada looking for value-based education.

QS Ranking (2025)Exam RequiredKey HighlightsGlobal Engagement
387IELTSAffordable tuition, high diversityStrong support for international students

13. University of Ottawa

Located in the capital city, University of Ottawa offers bilingual engineering programmes and access to government research initiatives. Mechanical engineering students here gain hands-on experience in emerging technologies.

QS Ranking (2025)Exam RequiredKey HighlightsGlobal Engagement
203IELTS/TOEFLGovernment-linked research, bilingual edgeActive in G7 academic partnerships

14. Ryerson University (now Toronto Metropolitan University)

With a downtown Toronto campus, TMU focuses on applied mechanical engineering through its Bachelor of Applied Science degree. The curriculum aligns well with industry demands and manufacturing engineering according to modern trends.

QS Ranking (2025)Exam RequiredKey HighlightsGlobal Engagement
851–900IELTSUrban exposure, design labsStrong ties with Canadian manufacturing sector

15. York University

York’s mechanical engineering program focuses on design, thermal sciences, and mechanics. It’s an emerging name in Canadian universities offering mechanical 2025-centric programs for Indian students.

QS Ranking (2025)Exam RequiredKey HighlightsGlobal Engagement
456IELTS/TOEFLModern labs, growing reputationAsia-Pacific and EU partnerships

These universities are the best fit for Indian students who want to study in Canada, especially those who wish to explore courses in engineering grounded in real-world problem-solving. With offerings across biomechanical engineering, fluid systems, and mechanical design, these institutions lead the world for engineering education.

Admission Requirements for Indian Students in Canadian Engineering Programs

Canada is one of the top destinations for Indian students aiming to study at the best universities in Canada for mechanical engineering. With institutions consistently ranking high in the world university rankings by subject, programs like mechanical 2025 are becoming increasingly competitive.

best universities in canada for mechanical engineering

Whether the university is located in Ontario or British Columbia, or whether the university is a public research hub, the core eligibility criteria remain quite structured. Here are the key admission requirements:

Academic Qualifications

Most top universities require a minimum of 70–75% in Class 12 with strong performance in Physics, Chemistry, and Mathematics. For postgraduate admissions, a 4-year undergraduate engineering degree is typically mandatory.

Standardized Test Scores

IELTS/TOEFL scores are compulsory for Indian students. Some universities may also accept GRE scores, especially for research-focused programs like biomechanical engineering or energy and fluid systems.

Statement of Purpose (SOP) and Letters of Recommendation (LORs)

Indian students must submit a detailed Statement of Purpose (SOP) explaining their interest in studying mechanical engineering. Letters of Recommendation (LORs) from academic or industry mentors strengthen the application.

Portfolio/Project Work (if applicable)

For students planning to stay in their general mechanical path or shift towards applied streams like engineering or energy and fluid systems, project portfolios can be an added advantage.

Program-Specific Requirements

Top universities like those in the mechanical engineering 2025 rankings or those aligned with Nanyang Technological University standards may have additional entrance assessments or technical interviews.

Application Deadlines

Most universities open applications between September to March for the Fall intake. Always check specific dates to find out which universities fit your timeline.

Visa and Financial Documentation

Alongside university acceptance, proof of funds, tuition payment capacity, and visa documentation are required for both domestic and international students.

These criteria apply broadly across Canada’s engineering programs, especially at institutions featured in the best universities in Canada for mechanical engineering. Whether your chosen university is a public institution or a global research leader, meeting these requirements is crucial to getting accepted.

Tuition Fees, Scholarships, and Living Costs for Indian Students

Studying at the best universities in Canada for mechanical engineering offers Indian students access to top-tier education, but it’s essential to plan for the financial investment involved.

While tuition varies by university and program, there are ample Canada Universities Scholarships for International Students and manageable living costs that help reduce the burden. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated expenses:

UniversityTuition Fees/Year (CAD)Popular ScholarshipsAverage Living Cost/Year (CAD)
University of Toronto58,000 – 62,000Lester B. Pearson Scholarship15,000 – 18,000
University of British Columbia45,000 – 51,000UBC International Major Entrance Scholarship13,000 – 16,000
McGill University30,000 – 36,000McGill Entrance Scholarships12,000 – 15,000
University of Alberta32,000 – 37,000International Student Scholarship12,500 – 14,500
University of Waterloo38,000 – 44,000International Student Entrance Scholarships13,500 – 15,000
McMaster University34,000 – 39,000McMaster International Awards12,000 – 14,000
University of Calgary30,000 – 36,000University of Calgary International Scholarships11,000 – 13,000
Queen’s University32,000 – 38,000Queen’s Financial Aid and International Awards12,500 – 14,000
Western University33,000 – 37,000Western International Admission Scholarship12,000 – 13,500
Dalhousie University28,000 – 32,000Dalhousie Entrance Scholarships11,000 – 12,500

Career Opportunities in Canada After Mechanical Engineering for Indian Graduates

Graduating from the best universities in Canada for mechanical engineering opens up a range of high-paying and high-impact roles across industries. Canadian companies actively recruit skilled mechanical engineers, and Indian graduates often benefit from post-study work permits, PR pathways, and international exposure. Here’s what the job market looks like:

Job RoleAverage Salary (CAD/year)Top Hiring SectorsWork Permit & PR Advantage
Mechanical Design Engineer65,000 – 85,000Automotive, Robotics, Consumer ProductsEligible for PGWP, PR through Express Entry
HVAC Engineer60,000 – 78,000Construction, Green EnergyDemand in skilled worker categories
Manufacturing Engineer63,000 – 82,000Aerospace, Electronics, AutomotivePR boost due to NOC code relevance
Project Engineer70,000 – 90,000Infrastructure, Renewable EnergyStrong eligibility under CEC or FSWP
R&D Engineer72,000 – 95,000Medical Devices, Automation, CleanTechHigh demand in innovation zones
Energy Systems Analyst68,000 – 88,000Oil & Gas, Renewable Energy, UtilitiesRelevant to biomechanical/energy pathways
Mechatronics Engineer70,000 – 92,000Robotics, Manufacturing, AerospaceEasily mapped to emerging tech categories

Most graduates from top mechanical engineering universities in Canada find employment within 6–12 months, with co-op programs and faculty-industry links playing a key role.

Conclusion

Choosing from the best universities in Canada for mechanical engineering is a career-defining decision, especially for Indian students aiming to stand out in a competitive global market. From hands-on labs to top-tier faculty, Canada offers unmatched opportunities. But cracking admissions takes more than good grades.

That’s where Ambitio steps in. We don’t just guide you. We build your profile, sharpen your edge, and make your application impossible to ignore. 

Want your dream admit to work for you? Let’s build your future, together. Tap into your potential with Ambitio—India’s #1 profile-building platform for study abroad success. 

FAQs

Can international students study mechanical engineering in Canada?

Yes, Canadian universities welcome international students in their mechanical engineering programs.

Are there scholarships available for mechanical engineering students in Canada?

Many universities offer scholarships and financial aid to qualified students, including those pursuing mechanical engineering.

How long does it take to complete a master’s in mechanical engineering in Canada?

A typical master’s program in mechanical engineering takes 1 to 2 years to complete.

What are the job prospects for mechanical engineers in Canada?

Canada has a strong demand for mechanical engineers in various industries, including manufacturing, aerospace, and renewable energy.

What are the best universities in Canada for mechanical engineering?

The best universities in Canada for mechanical engineering include the University of Toronto, McGill University, University of British Columbia, University of Waterloo, McMaster University, University of Alberta, and University of Calgary.

What unique features do the best universities in Canada for mechanical engineering offer?

The best universities in Canada for mechanical engineering provide options like co-op programs, specializations in areas such as mechatronics and biomechanics, and access to advanced research facilities.

How competitive is admission to the best universities in Canada for mechanical engineering?

Admission to the best universities in Canada for mechanical engineering is highly competitive, often requiring strong academic records and impressive personal profiles.

top universities

You can study at top universities worldwide!

Get expert tips and tricks to get into top universities with a free expert session.

Book Your Free 30-Minute Session Now! Book a call now
Scroll to Top