Top PhD & Doctoral Programs in Canada Online (2025-2026)
Canada is also known for its Top PhD online Programs backed by world-class research institutions and academic excellence. Offering affordability, flexibility and easy accessibility to local and international students equally.
No matter you are in search oof fully-funded PhD online programs in canada or want a fast, no GRE and No Dissertation options, or looking for the cheapest online doctorate, like other countries we cover it all and offer you best options with comparisons so you can make the choice for career.
Why Study for a PhD Online in Canada?
- Globally Respected Degrees – Online PhD and doctorate programs offered by Canadian universities are highly recognized globally.
- Ideal for International Students – Fully Online options offer you the opportunity to earn your degree without relocating to Canada as well it also offers visa policies and funding options
- Online & Distance Learning –100% online PhD programs- offering you the flexibility to study from anywhere in world as per your own schedule.
- Funding & Scholarships – Many universities offer fully funded PhD programs in Canada
- No GRE Required – Most programs do not require GRE or GMAT
- Capstone/Project Options – Some allow alternatives to traditional dissertations
Best Online PhD Programs in Canada (2025)
Athabasca University
- Program: Doctorate in Distance Education (EdD)
- Format: Fully Online
- Length: ~3–5 years
- Dissertation: Required (research-based)
- Funding: Limited internal scholarships
Royal Roads University
- Program: Doctor of Social Sciences (DSocSci)
- Format: Blended (Online + short residencies)
- Length: ~4 years
- Funding: Some external scholarships available
University of Toronto (School of Continuing Studies)
- Program: Executive Doctorate Options (Professional Streams)
- Format: Hybrid / Online Modules
- Highlights: World-ranked university with strong research credentials
- Note: Typically research-based & highly selective
University of British Columbia (UBC)
- Program: PhD in Education (with online/hybrid options)
- Length: ~4–6 years
- Format: Distance with some on-campus events
- Funding: Strong support for international students
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Compare Online PhD Programs in Canada
| University | Degree | Format | GRE Required? | Funding Available | Est. Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Athabasca University | EdD in Distance Education | Fully Online | No | Limited | $28,000 |
| Royal Roads University | DSocSci | Online + Resid. | No | Some | $30,000 |
| University of Toronto | Executive Doctorates | Online/Hybrid | No | Competitive | Varies |
| UBC | PhD in Education | Hybrid/Distance | No | Yes | $35,000 |
Fully Funded & Affordable PhD Options in Canada
Looking for a fully funded PhD program in Canada? Here’s what to know:
- Tri-Council Grants (SSHRC, NSERC, CIHR) – Major Canadian research funding bodies
- University Funding – UBC, Toronto, and others offer international PhD scholarships
- Employer Sponsorships – Often available in EdD, DProf, or DBA programs
- Graduate Assistantships – Teaching or research roles with tuition waivers and stipends
Tip: Many programs do not require the GRE, and some allow capstone projects instead of dissertations.
Fast, No-GRE & Professional Doctorates
Want to save time or avoid traditional academic routes?
- Athabasca EdD – Self-paced, fully online
- Royal Roads DProf / DSocSci – No GRE and flexible project-based assessment
- DBA/EdD Tracks – Ideal for experienced professionals
- Canada PhD Without Dissertation – Possible in some DProf or EdD programs
Frequently Asked Questions About Online PhD Programs
Yes, Online PhD programs in Canada are open for international students, though most of the programs are offered fully online so you don’t need visa requirements but in case you need to than it offer visa support for hybrid/residency visits if needed.
Yes — Athabasca, Royal Roads, and UBC offer fully or mostly online options.
Yes — through Canadian government programs or university assistantships.
Yes — several professional doctorates are project-based and GRE-free.
Start Your Online PhD in Canada
Whether you’re seeking a fully funded PhD in Canada, a distance learning option, or a no-GRE, fast-track doctorate, Canadian universities offer flexible and respected pathways for local and international students alike.
✅ Compare top online doctoral programs in Canada
✅ Apply for scholarships and funding
✅ Start your PhD — from anywhere in the world