SAIT is a large public polytechnic in Calgary, on a hill just north-west of downtown, with its own CTrain station. It's known for trades, energy, engineering technology, IT, business and hospitality, with modern shops and labs used by industry. Many programmes are two-year diplomas that lead straight into work.
Calgary, Canada
Official website: sait.ca
Public polytechnic in Alberta
1916 in Calgary
One of Canada's largest polytechnics
CA$18,000 – CA$24,000
International students, diplomas and certificates
CA$14,000 – CA$18,000
Rent, food and local transport
Approximate figures for 2026-27, please verify. Fees change every year and vary by course, so check the latest amount on sait.ca before you apply.
Information Technology Diploma
DiplomaDuration
24 Months
Intake
Sep, Jan
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 86
Petroleum Engineering Technology Diploma
DiplomaDuration
24 Months
Intake
Sep
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 86
Business Administration Diploma
DiplomaDuration
24 Months
Intake
Sep, Jan
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 86
Culinary Arts Diploma
DiplomaDuration
24 Months
Intake
Sep
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL: 86
Industry-grade trades and energy labs.
A CTrain station on campus.
Culinary programmes with a student-run restaurant.
Graduates join Calgary's energy, construction, IT and hospitality employers.
Eligible graduates can apply for a post-graduation work permit; check field-of-study rules.
Alberta's nominee programme supports graduates who stay.
Undergrad
Rolling
Postgrad
No PG intake
Undergrad
Limited programmes
Postgrad
No PG intake
The main campus overlooks downtown, with residences and labs; downtown is one CTrain stop away.
Calgary is sunny, close to the Rockies and has no provincial sales tax.
Letter of acceptance from SAIT
Alberta provincial attestation letter
Proof of funds for tuition and living
Online IRCC study permit application
Medical exam, if requested
Valid passport and biometrics
SAIT opens applications about a year ahead and many programmes fill quickly. Apply as early as possible.
Most programmes start in September; some in January.
A Canadian study permit. Start with the letter of acceptance from SAIT and, where required, the provincial attestation letter, then apply to IRCC online. Allow a few months, as processing times vary by country.
IT, petroleum engineering technology, business administration and culinary arts are popular. Entry needs high school completion and IELTS 6.5.
SAIT offers some awards for international students. Check the awards page.
