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CANADA · EDMONTON

Northern Alberta Institute of Technology

public · Founded 1962 · Languages: en

In short

NAIT is a leading Canadian polytechnic in Edmonton, Alberta, offering over 200 hands-on programs for job-ready graduates. International students can expect tuition fees between CAD 9,000-30,000 annually, with estimated living costs of CAD 12,000-18,000.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 1962
Students: 35,000
International students: 3,500
Acceptance rate: 65%
Tuition (intl): €6–19k/yr
Languages: EN
Location: Edmonton, Canada

The Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT) is one of Canada's largest polytechnics, founded in 1962 and based in Edmonton, Alberta. Renowned for its applied, industry-driven approach, NAIT offers over 200 programs in technology, trades, business, health, and environmental sciences, producing job-ready graduates prized by employers across Canada. The polytechnic's hands-on model means students spend significant time in industry-grade labs, shops, and simulation centres. NAIT has strong partnerships with energy, construction, and tech companies that shape curriculum and fund world-class facilities.

Why study here

Industry-designed programs with real-world equipment donations from partners like Keyera and Eaton.
Apprenticeship training in skilled trades leading directly to Red Seal certification.
Co-op and work-integrated learning opportunities, including co-op work permits for international students.
Over 90% graduate employment rate, among the highest of any Canadian post-secondary institution.
Located in Edmonton, gateway to Alberta's energy sector and a growing tech hub.

Student life

NAIT's Edmonton campus features a student association, athletics facilities, recreation spaces, and a wide range of clubs. Student services include a food bank, mental health support, Indigenous student services, and the NAIT Students' Association. The campus community is diverse, with thousands of international students from over 80 countries. Edmonton offers affordable living, a vibrant arts scene, and outdoor access to the nearby Canadian Rockies.

Fees

InternationalInternational students pay approximately CAD 9,000–30,000 per year depending on the program, equivalent to roughly EUR 6,200–21,000.

HomeDomestic students pay approximately CAD 4,500–12,000 per year.

LivingEdmonton living costs average CAD 12,000–18,000 per year including accommodation, food, and transport.

Tuition varies by program and is reviewed annually. On-campus housing is available. Students should budget for a study permit application fee and health insurance.

Admissions

High school diplomaAlberta high school diploma or equivalent; specific course prerequisites vary by program

English proficiencyIELTS 6.0 overall (5.5 per band) or TOEFL iBT 78 for most programs

Credential evaluationInternational transcripts must be evaluated by a recognized Canadian service (e.g., IQAS)

IELTS Academic6.0 overall, 5.5 per band

TOEFL iBT78

Duolingo110

Rankings

Research Infosource – Canada's Top 50 Research CollegesTop 10

Canada's Best Employers (Forbes)Recognized employer

University scholarships

NAIT International Student AwardCAD 1,000–3,000

Alberta Student Aid – Non-Resident BursaryCAD 500–2,500

NAIT Students' Association AwardsVarious, up to CAD 2,000

Accreditation

NAIT is a provincially accredited polytechnic under Alberta's Post-secondary Learning Act. Numerous programs hold professional accreditations from bodies such as ABET, APEGA, and the Canadian Technology Accreditation Board.

For international students

Canada

Student visa & funds

International students must obtain a study permit from IRCC before arriving. Most college and undergraduate applicants must also include a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) confirming a space under the annual cap; from January 2026, master’s and doctoral students at public institutions are exempt from this requirement. Applicants must show living funds of CAD 22,895 (effective September 2025, for a single student, excluding tuition and travel), and Student Direct Stream applicants hold this amount as a GIC.

Working while you study

Full-time students at designated learning institutions whose permits include work authorization may work up to 24 hours per week off campus during academic terms — a cap in effect since November 2024 that replaced the former 20-hour rule and a temporary 40-hour exception. Students may work unlimited hours during scheduled breaks such as summer and winter holidays. From April 2026, eligible students no longer need a separate co-op work permit for mandatory placements.

After you graduate

Graduates of eligible programs may apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) within 180 days of confirmed completion. The PGWP matches program length up to a maximum of three years, and master’s graduates receive a three-year permit regardless of program length. Since November 2024 most applicants must show a recent language test at CLB 7 (university graduates) or CLB 5 (college graduates); degree graduates are exempt from the field-of-study alignment rule that applies to other applicants.

English tests

IELTS Academic6.0–6.5 with no band below 6.0; research-intensive universities 6.5–7.0
TOEFL iBT80–100; top universities (e.g. University of Toronto) 100+

Main intakes

SeptemberJanuaryMay

Typical living cost

€1,250/month

Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.

SourcesIRCC — Study permit: get the right documents · CIC News — Increased fund requirements for study permits (Sept 2025) · CIC News — Off-campus work rules update (May 2026) · IRCC — Post-graduation work permit: who can apply · ETS — Minimum TOEFL score requirements for the USA, UK and Canada · Mastersportal — Living costs & tuition in Canada

Programs

a selection

View top programs →

Northern Alberta Institute of Technology · Canada

Computer Systems Technology

The Computer Systems Technology diploma program at NAIT equips students with a strong foundation in information technology, preparing them for diverse roles in the tech industry. This program focuses on practical, hands-on learning, ensuring graduates are ready to meet the demands of employers. You'll gain expertise in areas such as programming, networking, database management, and systems analysis, which are essential for modern IT careers. The curriculum is designed to be relevant and up-to-date with industry trends, providing a comprehensive understanding of computer systems and their applications.

Northern Alberta Institute of Technology · Canada

Culinary Arts

The Culinary Arts program at NAIT provides comprehensive training for a career in the dynamic food industry. You'll gain hands-on experience in professional kitchens, learning fundamental cooking techniques, recipe development, and menu planning. The program emphasizes practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge, preparing you for diverse roles in kitchens, restaurants, hotels, and catering operations. You will also learn about food safety, costing, and management principles essential for success in the culinary world.

Northern Alberta Institute of Technology · Canada

Program - Engineering Technology

NAIT offers a comprehensive Engineering Technology diploma program designed to equip students with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge needed for a successful career in the field. This program focuses on hands-on learning and industry-relevant training, preparing graduates for diverse roles in engineering and technical sectors. Students will gain experience with modern technologies and methodologies, fostering problem-solving abilities and critical thinking essential for the modern workplace.

Northern Alberta Institute of Technology · Canada

Program Name

NAIT offers a wide range of programs designed to prepare students for successful careers in various industries. Our hands-on approach to learning, combined with industry-relevant curriculum, ensures graduates are job-ready. We are committed to providing students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in today's dynamic job market.

Diploma

Level

For doctoral students undertaking a PhD at a Canadian institution, with an outstanding academic record. Awards are made by Canada's tri-agency (CIHR, NSERC, SSHRC); applicants apply through their university, and eligibility (including for international students) follows the current Canada Graduate Scholarships rules.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT)?

NAIT is a large polytechnic founded in 1962 in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada. It is known for its applied, industry-driven approach, offering over 200 programs designed to produce job-ready graduates.

What kind of programs does NAIT offer?

NAIT provides a wide range of programs in technology, trades, business, health, and environmental sciences. Their hands-on learning model utilizes industry-grade labs and simulation centers.

What are the estimated annual fees for international students at NAIT?

International student tuition fees at NAIT range from approximately CAD 9,000 to CAD 30,000 per year, depending on the program. This is equivalent to about EUR 6,200 to EUR 21,000.

What are the English proficiency requirements for international students?

Most programs require an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 overall with no band below 5.5, or a TOEFL iBT score of 78. Duolingo is also accepted with a score of 110.

What are the living costs in Edmonton for students?

Average living costs in Edmonton, including accommodation, food, and transport, are estimated to be between CAD 12,000 and CAD 18,000 per year.

Does NAIT offer work opportunities for international students?

Yes, NAIT provides co-op and work-integrated learning opportunities, including co-op work permits for international students. They also boast over a 90% graduate employment rate.

Last updated 3 July 2026