List Of Best Universities & Colleges in Canada (2025)

The country of maple leaves and icy winters is home to some top-notch educational institutions.

Anyone planning to pursue higher education can choose to enrol in the top universities in Canada. These institutions offer globally recognised degrees with a vibrant campus life.

According to Times Higher Education’s Rankings, eight of the top universities in Canada rank among the global top 200. For your convenience, we’ve curated a list of top universities in Canada.

Top 10 Universities in Canada You Can’t Miss

10. University of Calgary

Acceptance Rate: Approximately 10–20%

Tuition Fees: Undergraduate: £7,500–£11,000 per year; Postgraduate: £11,000–£16,000 per year

Top Courses: Petroleum Engineering, Business, Medicine, Kinesiology, Environmental Studies

The University of Calgary was founded as the University of Alberta’s Calgary branch in 1944 and has since split into an independent university with five campuses and over 33,000 students.

It is known for its strong focus on energy and environmental research, making it a hub for sustainability initiatives.

The university also boasts a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem, with programs designed to support startups and innovation.

9. Queen’s University

Acceptance Rate: Approximately 42%

Tuition Fees: Undergraduate: £15,000–£20,000 per year; Postgraduate: £10,000–£15,000 per year

Top Courses: Business, Engineering, Arts, Health Sciences, Law

With over 24,000 students, 91 per cent of the graduates of Queen’s University are employed within six months of graduation. It is one of the cheapest universities in Canada.

The university is also renowned for its historic limestone buildings and picturesque campus, offering a blend of tradition and academic excellence.

Queen’s fosters a close-knit community with a strong alumni network that spans the globe.

8. Western University

Acceptance Rate: Approximately 58%

Tuition Fees: Undergraduate: £15,000–£20,000 per year; Postgraduate: £10,000–£15,000 per year

Top Courses: Business (Ivey Business School), Law, Health Sciences, Engineering, Psychology

One of the top research universities in Canada, it was established in 1878 and has more than 38,000 students from 121 countries.

The university performs well in the citations per faculty and employer credibility metrics.

It is particularly well-regarded for its business and medical programs, which attract students seeking top-tier professional education.

The university’s sprawling campus also offers a dynamic student experience, with world-class athletic facilities and a thriving arts scene.

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7. University of Waterloo

Acceptance Rate: Approximately 53%

Tuition Fees: Undergraduate: £15,000–£20,000 per year; Postgraduate: £10,000–£15,000 per year

Top Courses: Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Business, Physics

Established in 1956, the university has three campuses and is a member of the prestigious research group U15.

It is particularly renowned for its co-operative education (co-op) programmes, which provide students with invaluable industry experience alongside their studies.

The institution excels in engineering, computer science, and innovation, attracting top talent from across the globe.

6. McMaster University

Acceptance Rate: Approximately 59%

Tuition Fees: Undergraduate: £13,000–£18,000 per year; Postgraduate: £10,000–£15,000 per year

Top Courses: Medicine, Engineering, Business, Humanities, Social Sciences

The university, which is best known for its prestigious medical school, is based in Hamilton, Ontario.

It one of the best universities in Canada for masters. McMaster follows a problem-based learning approach in medical education, influencing healthcare training worldwide.

It is also a leading institution for research in health sciences, engineering, and business.

5. University of Alberta

Acceptance Rate: Approximately 58%

Tuition Fees: Undergraduate: £12,000–£21,000 per year; Postgraduate: £6,000–£18,000 per year

Top Courses: Energy Engineering, Business, Nursing, Agriculture, Arts

The University of Alberta has four campuses and is home to 40,000 students. It gets its highest score in the international faculty indicator.

Due to its location in oil-rich Alberta, the university is a leader in energy research, particularly in petroleum and environmental sciences. It also boasts a strong reputation in artificial intelligence and machine learning.

4. Université de Montreal

Acceptance Rate: Approximately 57%

Tuition Fees: Undergraduate: £10,000–£15,000 per year; Postgraduate: £8,000–£12,000 per year

Top Courses: Medicine, Law, Engineering, Arts, Life Sciences

The university, a French-language public research university in Montreal, was founded in 1878 as the Université Laval’s satellite campus.

It is officially autonomous and has more than 67,350 students, including 10,000 foreign students.

The institution is a powerhouse in research, especially in the fields of health sciences, artificial intelligence, and social sciences.

Its affiliated schools, including HEC Montréal and Polytechnique Montréal, further strengthen its academic influence.

3. University of British Columbia

Acceptance Rate: Approximately 54%

Tuition Fees: Undergraduate: £18,000–£25,000 per year; Postgraduate: £10,000–£20,000 per year

Top Courses: Forestry, Environmental Science, Computer Science, Business, Arts

The University of British Columbia (UBC) is one of the most prestigious educational institutions in Canada, consistently ranking among the top 50 universities worldwide.

With campuses in Vancouver and Kelowna, it is home to over 66,000 students and is a leader in sustainability, innovation, and entrepreneurship.

UBC’s research output is vast, spanning fields such as quantum computing, climate change, and neuroscience.

2. McGill University

Acceptance Rate: Approximately 46%

Tuition Fees: Undergraduate: £16,000–£27,000 per year; Postgraduate: £9,000–£21,000 per year

Top Courses: Medicine, Law, Engineering, Arts, Life Sciences

Along with Canada’s new Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, McGill University counts 12 Nobel laureates and 145 Rhodes Scholars among its alumni. Located in Montréal, it is widely regarded as the most internationally recognised university in Canada.

McGill has an exceptional reputation in medicine, law, and business, attracting students from over 150 countries.

Its historic campus and strong research initiatives make it a top choice for scholars worldwide.

1. University of Toronto

Acceptance Rate: Approximately 43%

Tuition Fees: Undergraduate: £20,000–£30,000 per year; Postgraduate: £10,000–£25,000 per year

Top Courses: Medicine, Engineering, Computer Science, Business, Humanities

It is one of the best universities in Canada. It is known for its groundbreaking research, including innovations in insulin, stem cell science, and artificial intelligence.

With three campuses and over 90,000 students, it offers a vast range of programmes and a vibrant academic environment, making it a hub for intellectual growth and discovery.

Scholarships Available at Universities in Canada

Canada offers a wide range of scholarships to help international and domestic students pursue higher education. These scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence, leadership, research potential, and financial need.

Below are some of the most prestigious scholarships available at Canadian universities.

1. Lester B. Pearson International Scholarship (University of Toronto)

One of the most competitive scholarships for international students, it covers full tuition, books, incidental fees, and residence costs for four years. The estimated value is approximately £70,000 – £90,000 over the duration of the program.

2. Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships (Multiple Universities)

This prestigious scholarship for doctoral students provides £29,000 per year for three years. It is awarded to students who exhibit leadership skills and exceptional academic performance in health research, natural sciences, engineering, and social sciences.

3. President’s International Distinction Scholarship (University of Alberta)

This scholarship is available to top-performing international undergraduate students and provides up to £70,000 over four years, supporting tuition and living expenses.

4. Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award (University of British Columbia)

UBC offers this scholarship to international students who demonstrate strong leadership skills and academic excellence. It covers full tuition and living expenses, valued at approximately £30,000 – £50,000 per year, depending on financial need.

5. Schulich Leader Scholarships (Multiple Universities)

Awarded to students pursuing STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) degrees, this scholarship provides up to £58,000 for engineering students and £34,000 for science and maths students, spread over four years.

Tips For Getting Admission to the Top Universities in Canada

Here are some effective tips to increase your chances of getting admission to the top universities in Canada:

1. Maintain a High Academic Score

A strong academic record is crucial for admission to top Canadian universities. Aim for a GPA of 3.5 or higher on a 4.0 scale, as most competitive programs have strict academic cut-offs.

Excelling in subjects related to your intended major, particularly in advanced placement (AP), IB, or honours courses, can set you apart from other applicants.

2. Score Well on Standardised Tests

Many universities require English proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL. For competitive programs, an IELTS score between 6.5 and 8.0 or a TOEFL score between 90 and 110 is recommended.

Additionally, some undergraduate programs may require SAT or ACT scores, while postgraduate programs might ask for GRE or GMAT scores, depending on the course requirements.

3. Build a Strong Extracurricular Profile

Top universities seek well-rounded applicants who excel beyond academics. Leadership roles in student clubs, community service, sports, arts, and research projects add significant value to an application.

Demonstrating active participation and achievements in extracurricular activities showcases your ability to contribute meaningfully to campus life.

4. Write a Compelling Statement of Purpose (SOP)

A well-written SOP can make a significant impact on your application. Clearly articulate why you want to join the university and how it aligns with your academic and career aspirations.

Highlight the passion, achievements, and experiences that have shaped your goals. A strong SOP should be engaging, concise, and free of errors.

5. Secure Strong Letters of Recommendation

Letters of recommendation from teachers, professors, or employers who can vouch for your skills and character play an important role.

Choose recommenders who can highlight your academic excellence, leadership abilities, and personal qualities with concrete examples. Strong recommendations provide universities with insights into your potential as a student.

6. Apply Early & Check Deadlines

Most top Canadian universities have early deadlines between November and January. Submitting your application early ensures that you do not miss out on priority admission considerations, scholarships, or funding opportunities. Early applications also reflect your seriousness and preparedness.

7. Gain Relevant Work or Research Experience

For postgraduate programs, having relevant work experience, research projects, or internships enhances your profile.

Universities prefer applicants who have hands-on experience in their chosen field, as it demonstrates practical knowledge and readiness for advanced studies.

Research experience, in particular, can be highly valuable for students applying for STEM and business programs.

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Start your journey toward studying at Canada’s best universities with the right financial support through UniCreds.

FAQs

1. What are the admission requirements for top universities in Canada?

Most universities require strong academic records, English proficiency tests (IELTS/TOEFL), letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and, in some cases, GRE/GMAT scores for postgraduate courses.

2. How much does it cost to study at a top Canadian university?

Tuition fees vary by university and program, but on average, they range from £10,000 to £40,000 per year. Additional living expenses can be around £8,000 to £12,000 per year.

3. Can international students work while studying in Canada?

Yes, international students with a valid study permit can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during scheduled breaks.

4. Are there full scholarships available for international students in Canada?

Yes, universities like Toronto, UBC, and McGill offer full scholarships based on academic excellence, leadership, and financial need, covering tuition and living expenses.