Conestoga College: Rankings, Courses & Admissions

Since Conestoga College prioritizes practical, job-oriented training over research-intensive programs, it does not appear in global rankings like QS, THE, or US News. However, it has been ranked #19 in the top 50 research colleges by Research Infosource. 

Additionally, CourseCompare recognizes it as the best college in Ontario for its strong emphasis on career-focused education.

Here’s how Conestoga performs:-

Wondering if Conestoga College is the right fit for you? Explore Conestoga College Ranking 2025 for detailed rankings on subjects. Discover the methodology and trends that make its programs stand out!

Now that you have an overview of Conestoga College’s rankings, let’s explore its admission process, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines.

Ranked as the best college in Ontario by CourseCompare, Conestoga College welcomes students from 80 countries to its 300+ programs. While admission requirements vary by country, students generally need a minimum academic score of 65% and proof of English language proficiency.

Below are the detailed admission requirements for Conestoga College:

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements include academic transcripts, language proficiency scores like TOEFL, and visa documentation such as a valid passport. The college does not require standardized test scores like the GRE.

Here’s a breakdown of the admission requirements:-

Academic Qualification 

The academic qualifications for undergraduate admission to Conestoga College include a minimum score in 12th grade along with academic transcripts. For programs like technology, students are required to have studied subjects such as Physics and Calculus.

Here are the academic requirements:

Note: The requirements may vary with the program. Please check your requirements before applying.

Language Proficiency: 

Conestoga College requires a minimum score in tests like TOEFL, IELTS, and Cambridge Exams, depending on the program (degree or certificate). The college also accepts the Conestoga English Language Assessment and Placement and CAEL (Canadian Academic English Language) tests.

Language proficiency requirements include:

Note: The requirements may vary with the program. Please check your program requirements before applying.

Also Read: Exams required to study in Canada for international students

Competitive Exams

Conestoga College does not require standardized tests like the ACT, GMAT or GRE, as it is a practical, career-focused institution providing upskilling opportunities for students.

Visa Requirements

A study visa for Conestoga College requires you to submit a valid passport, an acceptance letter from the college, and proof of funds to study in Canada. Additionally, students from countries like India must undergo a medical examination as part of the visa application process.

Here are the visa requirements:

Unsure about the requirements to study at Conestoga College? Visit the Conestoga College Admission Page for detailed information on everything from standardized tests to visa requirements!

Now, let’s check out the detailed admission timeline.

Application Dates and Deadlines

Conestoga College follows a rolling admissions process, accepting applications until program capacity is reached. The Equal Consideration Date is February 1, after which some programs may be unavailable.

Now, let’s explore some popular programs offered by Conestoga College.

Conestoga College offers over 300 career-oriented programs, including diplomas, certificates, and more than 25 undergraduate and graduate degrees. The programs cover a range of fields, including engineering, business, animation, hospitality, health sciences, and more.

Here are some popular programs offered at Conestoga College:

• Bachelor of Applied Business (International Business): Focuses on global business strategies, trade regulations, and international marketing.
• Diploma in Mechanical Engineering Technician: Trains students in areas such as CAD design, materials science, and mechanical systems.
• Certificate in Data Analytics: Introduces students to tools like Excel, SQL, and Python, focusing on data analysis techniques.
• Diploma in Hospitality Management: Provides skills in event planning, operations management, and customer service.
• Bachelor of Computer Science (Software Engineering): Introduces students to programming, software development, and application design.

Program timelines at Conestoga College vary. Let’s take a closer look at the tuition fees for some popular programs.

Program Fees of  Conestoga University

Conestoga College sets program fees based on the type of program—diploma/certificate, graduate, or degree. A diploma costs CAD 14,588, while graduate certificate and degree programs are priced at CAD 15,844 and CAD 15,961, respectively.

Additionally, Conestoga offers a four-month English language studies program for CAD 5,500.

Here are the tuition fees for programs:

Note: Tuition fees vary by course. Please refer to your specific program for exact details.

Now, let’s examine the overall cost of studying at Conestoga College, including tuition and other expenses.

The tuition fee at Conestoga College varies based on the program type, whether it is a degree, certificate, or graduate program. A certificate program costs CAD 14,588, while graduate and degree programs cost CAD 15,844 and CAD 15,961, respectively.

Below is a detailed breakdown of tuition fees at Conestoga College in 2025.

Note: The conversion may vary based on prevailing exchange rates.

Apart from tuition fees, students may also need to manage the costs of housing, food, and course materials.

For the cost of studying at Conestoga College, 40-50% of the budget is spent on accommodation, while 20-25% goes towards food. Additional expenses like transportation, books, and utilities typically account for 10-15% of the budget.

Here are the estimated additional costs to study at Conestoga College:

Note: The tuition deposit is an advance payment made to secure your spot in the program.

Also Read: Cost of Studying in Canada – Tuition Fees, Visa Fees, etc.

Scholarships, both university-specific and external (Canadian Commonwealth), can help offset the cost of studying at Conestoga College.

​Conestoga College's Student Financial Services administers over 400 awards, bursaries, and scholarships, amounting to more than $4.6 million annually, including $2 million in donor-funded awards.

Here’s a breakdown of scholarships at Conestoga College:

Internal Scholarships

Conestoga-specific scholarships include opportunities such as degree entrance scholarships and entrance excellence scholarships, which provide financial assistance to meritorious students.

Here are some of the internal scholarships:

Note: The upcoming summer scholarships will open on April 22, 2025, and close on May 30, 2025.

Apart from college-specific scholarships, Indian students can also apply for external scholarships, such as the Canadian Commonwealth Scholarships.

External Scholarships

Indian students can also apply for scholarships such as the Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute Scholarships and the Canadian Commonwealth Program Scholarships, which provide financial assistance to students.

Here are the available external scholarships:

Also Read: Fully Funded Scholarships in Canada for International Students (2025 Admissions)

With financing options covered, let’s take a look at the placement rates and the companies that hire Conestoga College graduates.

Conestoga students graduate with practical experience and industry-aligned skills, making them strong candidates for roles in companies like Walmart, CIBC, Manulife, and other leading employers. 

• In the 2019–2020 cycle, 87% of graduates secured employment within six months, while 82% said their education helped them meet career goals. 
• 93% of employers expressed satisfaction with Conestoga graduates they hired. 

Beyond classroom learning, Conestoga College offers robust internship and co-op programs that help students gain hands-on industry exposure.

Internship & Co-op Opportunities at Conestoga College 

Conestoga College provides practical work experience through internships and co-ops, enhancing students' employability. With support from MyCareer portal, students can explore internships and co-ops with companies like Manulife and RBC.

Here are some internship and co-op opportunities for students: 

• Internships: Employers can post positions, and students can find work terms ranging from 4 to 16 months via the MyCareer portal.
• Co-op Programs: Conestoga College offers more than 85 co-op programs across various disciplines and credentials, including degrees, diplomas, and graduate certificates.

Also Read: Co-Op Courses in Canada: Colleges, Eligibility Criteria & Jobs (For 2025)

The internship and co-op component provides students with a direct path to real-world experience, making them suitable for recruiters like Walmart.

Top recruiters 

Conestoga equips students with job-ready skills through co-ops, hands-on labs, and employer-driven projects, enabling smooth transitions into fields like IT, finance, and business operations. Graduates are recruited by top companies such as:

• Walmart: A global retail leader hiring for operations, logistics, and tech roles.
• Tim Hortons: A major Canadian food service brand employing graduates in business and supply chain roles.
• Scotiabank: One of Canada’s Big Five banks, hiring for finance, data analysis, and customer service roles.
• RBC (Royal Bank of Canada): A multinational financial services firm, often recruiting for tech, risk, and banking operations.
• Manulife: A global insurance and financial services provider employing professionals in data, finance, and customer success roles.
• CIBC: A leading Canadian bank offering roles in digital banking, cybersecurity, and financial planning.

With strong industry connections, diverse co-op programs, and high employer satisfaction, Conestoga College remains a preferred choice for students seeking career-ready education.

Next, let’s compare Conestoga College with similar institutions like Centennial College.

Conestoga College offers a vibrant student experience filled with leadership, cultural, and community-building opportunities. Students can participate in leadership programs like the Conestoga Student Leadership Certificate.

The College Quality Assurance Audit Process (CQAAP) 2020 confirmed that Conestoga meets or exceeds all provincial quality assurance standards for Ontario’s public colleges, ensuring a high-quality educational environment. 

This commitment is reflected in the wide range of personal and professional development opportunities available on campus.

At Conestoga College, students can engage in various activities, such as community action day, that help them grow beyond academics. From leadership training to cultural events, here’s what you can explore on campus:

• Leadership Opportunities: Develop essential leadership skills necessary to effectively participate in a rapidly changing workforce. Students can take on leadership roles by hosting events like International Women's Day. The leadership program includes the Conestoga Student Leadership Certificate.
• Community Development: Participate in initiatives such as Community Action Day, where you visit local organizations to learn about their services and volunteer. The Human Library initiative allows you to engage in one-on-one conversations with individuals in the community.
• Cultural Inclusion: Join events like Celebrating Diversity Week, Truth and Reconciliation, and 16 Days of Activism to promote awareness and inclusivity. It helps build a sense of belonging and understanding among students from diverse backgrounds. 

Now, let’s explore Conestoga College’s well-known alumni.

With over 225,000  alumni worldwide, including 5,200 local entrepreneurs, Conestoga College plays a key role in regional economic growth by producing skilled graduates, supporting entrepreneurship, and collaborating with industries. Its alumni include notable figures such as politician Will Ferguson and filmmaker Barry Greenwald.

Here are some distinguished alumni:-

Conestoga’s alumni continue to shape industries globally, proving that a strong foundation leads to impactful careers.