Location: Main campus in Burnaby, British Columbia, with additional campuses in Vancouver and Surrey.
Founded: 1965
Type: Public research university
Motto: “Nous sommes prêts” (French for "We are ready")
SFU is known for its strong programs in:
Computer Science
Business (Beedie School of Business)
Engineering
Environmental Science
Health Sciences
Arts and Social Sciences
Communication and Interactive Arts & Technology
It follows a tri-semester system (Fall, Spring, Summer), which gives students more flexibility in how they plan their studies.
Regularly ranks among the top universities in Canada
Strong emphasis on research, innovation, and community engagement
Consistently ranked #1 in comprehensive university category by Maclean’s Magazine (a Canadian publication)
Diverse and inclusive student community
Strong co-op (work-study) program – especially for international students wanting to gain work experience
Vibrant campus life with clubs, student unions, and events
Beautiful campuses with views of mountains and the ocean
SFU is popular with international students from countries like India, China, Iran, Nigeria, and more.
Offers supports like academic advising, international student services, workshops, and career support.
ESL and English-language support available for non-native speakers.
Undergraduate (International): CAD $30,000–$40,000 per year depending on program
Graduate programs: Vary widely by faculty
Scholarships & bursaries: Available for both domestic and international students
SFU is a leader in areas like:
AI & Machine Learning
Climate and Environmental Sciences
Health Technologies
Home to research centers like the Big Data Initiative and SFU Innovation Office
Computing Science (BSc)
Software Systems (BSc)
Engineering Science (BASc) – specializations in Biomedical, Computer, Electronics, Systems, etc.
Mechatronic Systems Engineering (BASc)
School of Sustainable Energy Engineering
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)
Concentrations: Finance, Marketing, Human Resources, International Business, Entrepreneurship & Innovation, etc.
Psychology (BA/BSc)
Criminology (BA)
Sociology & Anthropology
Political Science
Economics
History
Philosophy
Labour Studies
Communication (BA)
Interactive Arts & Technology (BA/BSc)
Publishing (Minor/Certificate)
Contemporary Arts (Dance, Theatre, Film, Music)
Bachelor of General Studies in Education
Teacher education programs, early childhood, and lifelong learning pathways
Environmental Science (BSc)
Geography (BA/BSc)
Resource and Environmental Management (BA/BSc)
Archaeology
Global Environmental Systems
Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (BSc)
Bachelor of Arts in Health Sciences (BA)
Topics include public health, disease prevention, and health policy
SFU offers Master’s and PhD programs across all faculties. Some notable ones include:
Master of Science in Computing Science
Master of Engineering in Mechatronics
PhD in Engineering Science
MBA (Full-time, Part-time, and Executive MBA)
Master of Science in Finance
Graduate Diploma in Business Administration (GDBA)
MA/PhD in Criminology, Economics, Psychology, Political Science
MA in International Studies
Master of Publishing
MA/PhD in Communication
Master of Digital Media (offered in partnership with other institutions)
Master of Education (MEd)
Doctor of Education (EdD)
MA/MSc in Geography
Resource and Environmental Management (REM)
Master of Public Health (MPH)
PhD in Health Sciences
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
BSc in Computing Science |
4 years |
$28,000 – $31,000 |
|
BSc in Software Systems |
4 years |
$28,000 – $31,000 |
|
BASc in Engineering Science |
4 years |
$30,000 – $32,500 |
|
BASc in Mechatronic Systems Engineering |
4 years |
$30,000 – $32,500 |
|
BBA in Business Administration |
4 years |
$29,000 – $31,500 |
|
BA in Psychology |
4 years |
$27,000 – $29,000 |
|
BA in Criminology |
4 years |
$27,000 – $29,000 |
|
BA/BSc in Economics |
4 years |
$27,500 – $29,500 |
|
BA in Political Science |
4 years |
$27,000 – $28,500 |
|
BSc in Health Sciences |
4 years |
$29,000 – $30,500 |
|
BA in Health Sciences |
4 years |
$29,000 – $30,500 |
|
BSc in Environmental Science |
4 years |
$28,000 – $30,000 |
|
BSc in Interactive Arts & Technology |
4 years |
$28,000 – $30,000 |
|
BA in Communication |
4 years |
$27,000 – $29,000 |
|
BA/BSc in Geography |
4 years |
$27,500 – $29,500 |
|
BA in History |
4 years |
$27,000 – $28,500 |
|
BA in Sociology & Anthropology |
4 years |
$27,000 – $28,500 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
MSc in Computing Science |
2 years |
$7,000 – $8,000 |
|
MEng in Mechatronic Systems Engineering |
2 years |
$20,000 – $22,000 |
|
MSc in Engineering Science |
2 years |
$7,000 – $8,000 |
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
12–16 months |
$36,000 – $38,000 (total) |
|
MSc in Finance (Beedie School of Business) |
1 year |
$39,000 – $41,000 (total) |
|
Graduate Diploma in Business Administration |
1 year |
$16,000 – $18,000 |
|
Master of Public Health (MPH) |
2 years |
$7,000 – $8,500 |
|
MSc in Health Sciences |
2 years |
$7,000 – $8,500 |
|
MA in Criminology |
2 years |
$7,000 – $8,000 |
|
MA in Psychology |
2 years |
$7,000 – $8,000 |
|
MA in Political Science |
2 years |
$7,000 – $8,000 |
|
MA in International Studies |
2 years |
$7,000 – $8,000 |
|
Master of Publishing |
16 months |
$20,000 – $21,500 (total) |
|
Master of Digital Media (in partnership) |
1 year |
$36,000 – $39,000 (total) |
|
MA in Communication |
2 years |
$7,000 – $8,000 |
|
MEd (Master of Education) |
2 years |
$7,500 – $9,000 |
|
MSc in Environmental Science |
2 years |
$7,000 – $8,500 |
|
MSc in Resource and Environmental Management |
2 years |
$7,000 – $8,500 |
PhD Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in Computing Science |
4–6 years |
$7,000 – $8,000 |
|
PhD in Engineering Science |
4–6 years |
$7,000 – $8,000 |
|
PhD in Mechatronic Systems Engineering |
4–6 years |
$7,000 – $8,000 |
|
PhD in Business Administration (Beedie) |
4–5 years |
$7,000 – $8,500 |
|
PhD in Economics |
4–5 years |
$7,000 – $8,000 |
|
PhD in Criminology |
4–6 years |
$7,000 – $8,000 |
|
PhD in Psychology |
5–6 years |
$7,000 – $8,000 |
|
PhD in Political Science |
4–6 years |
$7,000 – $8,000 |
|
PhD in Communication |
4–6 years |
$7,000 – $8,000 |
|
PhD in Health Sciences |
4–6 years |
$7,000 – $8,000 |
|
PhD in Environmental Science |
4–6 years |
$7,000 – $8,000 |
|
PhD in Resource and Environmental Management |
4–6 years |
$7,000 – $8,000 |
|
PhD in Education |
4–6 years |
$7,000 – $8,500 |
|
PhD in Archaeology |
4–6 years |
$7,000 – $8,000 |
|
PhD in History |
4–6 years |
$7,000 – $8,000 |
|
PhD in Sociology & Anthropology |
4–6 years |
$7,000 – $8,000 |
Location: British Columbia, Canada
Campuses: Burnaby (main campus), Surrey, and Vancouver
Type: Public research university
Founded: 1965
Student Population: Over 35,000 students, including a strong international community
Top-ranked University: SFU consistently ranks among Canada’s best comprehensive universities.
Strong Research Focus: Offers cutting-edge programs and research opportunities in science, technology, business, health, and the arts.
Career Support & Co-ops: SFU has one of Canada's largest co-op education programs, giving international students real-world work experience during their studies.
Global Community: SFU welcomes students from over 130 countries, creating a culturally diverse environment.
Flexible Semester System: SFU operates on a trimester system (Fall, Spring, Summer), giving students flexibility to fast-track or take lighter terms.
Undergraduate Degrees: Business, Computing Science, Engineering, Psychology, Interactive Arts, Health Sciences, and Environmental Studies.
Graduate Degrees: Master’s and PhD programs in areas like Business Administration, Computing Science, Engineering, Public Health, Economics, and International Studies.
Undergraduate Programs: $27,000 – $32,000 per year
Master’s Programs: $7,000 – $22,000 per year (coursework-based master's like MBA may cost more)
PhD Programs: Around $7,000 – $8,500 per year
Note: These fees are for tuition only. Living costs, books, and other expenses are additional.
SFU’s campuses are located in beautiful British Columbia, surrounded by nature and close to Vancouver—one of the world’s most livable cities.
Living expenses can range from $12,000 to $18,000 per year, depending on lifestyle and housing choices.
On-campus housing is available, and SFU also supports students in finding off-campus accommodations.
International Student Advisors
Academic Advising and Tutoring
Language Support and Writing Help
Orientation and Integration Programs
Career and Employment Services
Fall (September) – Main intake
Spring (January)
Summer (May) – Smaller intake, depending on the program
Undergraduate: Completion of high school, strong grades, and English proficiency (IELTS 6.5+, TOEFL iBT 88+)
Graduate: Bachelor’s degree, relevant background, letters of reference, statement of purpose, English proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL), and sometimes GRE/GMAT depending on the program
Explore programs via SFU’s undergraduate programs page.
Decide your major and campus (Burnaby, Surrey, or Vancouver).
Academic Requirements: Completion of high school (Grade 12 equivalent) with strong grades.
Specific Course Requirements: Varies by program (e.g., Math, Chemistry, Physics for Science/Engineering).
English Language Proficiency:
IELTS: Minimum 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0)
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 88 (with no section less than 20)
Duolingo and other tests may also be accepted.
High school transcripts (official and translated if needed)
Proof of English language proficiency
Passport copy
Personal profile or supplemental forms (for competitive programs like Business)
Application portal: N/A
Application Fee: Approx. CAD $81 (≈ USD $60)
After applying, SFU will request document uploads via its student portal (goSFU).
Keep an eye on deadlines and upload all documents on time.
Log in to goSFU to check status updates.
Offers usually sent via email and portal between January–May (for Fall intake).
Accept your offer and pay any required deposit to confirm your spot.
You’ll need the offer letter to apply for a Canadian Study Permit (student visa) via IRCC.
Explore programs: SFU Graduate Studies
Decide between course-based (professional) or research-based (thesis) programs.
Academic: Bachelor’s degree (typically with a GPA equivalent to a B+ or higher)
English Proficiency:
IELTS: 7.0 (minimum 6.5 in each section)
TOEFL iBT: 93+ (minimum 20 in each section)
Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
CV/Resume
Statement of purpose or letter of intent
Letters of recommendation (usually 2–3)
English test scores
Portfolio (if applying to creative programs)
GRE/GMAT (only for select programs like MBA)
If applying to a thesis-based Master’s or PhD, many programs require you to connect with a faculty supervisor in advance.
Apply via SFU’s Graduate Studies online portal
Application Fee: CAD $125 (≈ USD $93)
Monitor your status via the graduate portal.
Admission decisions typically take 8–12 weeks depending on the program.
Once admitted, accept your offer and apply for your Canadian study permit (student visa).
Fall (September) – Primary intake
Most programs are available
Competitive for admissions and scholarships
Spring (January)
Fewer programs than Fall, but still popular for undergrad and grad students
Summer (May)
Limited course offerings
Mainly for continuing students or some grad programs
It’s best to apply 9–12 months in advance of your preferred intake.
Must have completed Grade 12 / high school diploma or equivalent.
Minimum GPA depends on the program and country of education. Competitive programs (like Business, Engineering, or Computing Science) may require higher grades.
Engineering/Science: Math, Physics, Chemistry
Business: Math is typically required
Arts & Social Sciences: English + electives
Required if English is not your first language or if your previous education wasn't in English.
Accepted tests:
IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0)
TOEFL iBT: 88 (no section less than 20)
Duolingo English Test: 125+ (subject to change)
Exemptions possible if English was the primary language of instruction
Master’s Programs: A 4-year undergraduate degree or equivalent with a minimum GPA of 3.0/4.33 (B average) in the last 60 credits.
PhD Programs: A recognized Master’s degree (or sometimes direct entry from a Bachelor’s for exceptional candidates), usually with a GPA of 3.5/4.33 or higher.
Academic transcripts (official)
CV/Resume
Letters of recommendation (usually 2–3)
Statement of purpose / research proposal
English language scores
GRE/GMAT (only for specific programs like MBA or MSc Finance)
IELTS Academic: Minimum 7.0 (with 6.5 in each section)
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 93 (with at least 20 in each section)
Other tests may be accepted – check with the specific program
You may need to contact and secure a faculty supervisor before applying.
A strong research background and relevant experience will help your application.
Ranking Platform |
Category |
Rank |
|---|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Global University Ranking |
300–350 |
|
QS |
Graduate Employability Ranking |
200–250 |
|
QS |
By Subject (Computer Science) |
150–200 |
|
QS |
By Subject (Business & Management) |
201–250 |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
Global Universities |
300–350 |
|
U.S. News |
Best Global Universities in Canada |
Top 10 |
|
U.S. News |
By Subject (Engineering) |
250–300 |
|
U.S. News |
By Subject (Computer Science) |
150–200 |
Scholarship Name |
Level |
Eligibility Criteria |
Value (CAD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Undergraduate Scholars Entrance Scholarship |
Undergraduate |
High academic achievement (90%+ average), leadership |
Up to $20,000 |
|
International Entrance Scholarship |
Undergraduate |
International students with exceptional academic records |
Up to $20,000 |
|
Continuing Student Scholarships |
Undergraduate |
GPA 3.67+ (after first year at SFU) |
$1,000 – $5,000/year |
|
SFU Open Scholarship |
Undergraduate |
GPA 3.67+ over 30 credit hours |
N/A |
|
Graduate Fellowship (GF) |
Graduate (Master's & PhD) |
Academic excellence (GPA 3.50+), research potential |
Up to $6,500 per term |
|
Special Graduate Entrance Scholarship (SGES) |
Graduate |
New international students entering a grad program |
$5,000 – $10,000 |
|
Provost International Fellowship |
Graduate (PhD) |
High-achieving international PhD students |
$5,000 – $10,000/year |
|
President’s PhD Scholarship |
PhD |
Outstanding doctoral candidates with excellent records |
$18,000/year (renewable) |
|
Research Assistantships (RA) |
Graduate (MSc/PhD) |
Supervisor-funded based on research involvement |
($5,000–$15,000+) |
|
Teaching Assistantships (TA) |
Graduate |
Based on availability and departmental need |
$5,000 – $12,000/year |
Campus |
Location |
Key Features |
|---|---|---|
|
Burnaby |
Burnaby, BC (Main) |
Largest campus, home to most undergraduate programs, residence halls, research labs |
|
Surrey |
Surrey, BC |
Urban, modern campus; programs in computing, interactive arts, business |
|
Vancouver |
Downtown Vancouver |
Focus on continuing studies, graduate programs, business, and public policy |
Residence Name |
Type |
For |
Cost/Term (CAD) |
Cost/Term (USD) |
Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Residence Hall (Traditional) |
Shared dorm-style |
First-year students |
$3,200 – $3,700 |
~$2,400 – $2,700 |
Shared bathroom, meal plan required |
|
Shell House |
Dorm-style |
First-year & undergrads |
$3,300 – $3,700 |
~$2,450 – $2,700 |
Meal plan required, community living |
|
Townhouses |
Shared townhouse |
Upper-year students |
$3,000 – $3,600 |
~$2,250 – $2,700 |
Kitchen, private bedroom, shared bathroom |
|
Graduate Residence (Hamilton) |
Studio / 1-bedroom |
Graduate students |
$3,700 – $4,200 |
~$2,700 – $3,100 |
Kitchenette, private bath |
|
University Apartments (UFF) |
Apartment (shared) |
Upper-year & grads |
$3,000 – $4,000 |
~$2,250 – $3,000 |
Kitchen, private/shared bedrooms |
Meal Plan (if applicable): Approx. $2,800 – $3,500 CAD/term (~$2,100 – $2,600 USD)
SFU’s main campus in Burnaby sits atop Burnaby Mountain, offering breathtaking views of the city, forests, and the Pacific Ocean. The Surrey and Vancouver campuses are more urban and modern, located right in the city hubs. Regardless of location, all campuses offer a supportive, inclusive, and lively environment.
SFU is home to over 7,000 international students from 130+ countries, creating a rich multicultural atmosphere. It’s a very welcoming environment where different cultures and languages are embraced. There are also student groups dedicated to different cultural and international communities.
On-campus housing helps students quickly build a social network. Residence life includes events like movie nights, cultural dinners, mental wellness sessions, and group hikes. There’s a strong sense of belonging and support through residence advisors and peer leaders.
SFU has over 300 student clubs and societies. Whether you’re into debate, anime, dance, coding, business, or volunteering – there’s something for everyone. If not, students are encouraged to start their own clubs!
There are also regular events like:
Clubs Days
Cultural Festivals
Hackathons and case competitions
Outdoor trips (skiing, kayaking, hiking)
SFU provides strong academic support through:
Peer tutoring
Writing and learning workshops
Mentorship programs
Career services, resume clinics, and job fairs
There’s also the co-op (paid internship) program, which is a big part of SFU’s identity—allowing students to work with real companies in their field of study, often earning income and experience before graduation.
SFU’s recreation centers are well-equipped with gyms, group fitness classes, swimming pools, climbing walls, and even outdoor sports fields. Intramural leagues (basketball, soccer, volleyball) are open to all students—whether you're competitive or just playing for fun.
Burnaby Mountain is also perfect for hiking, jogging, or just relaxing in nature.
From on-campus Starbucks to food courts and multi-cuisine restaurants, you’ll find:
International food options (Indian, Asian, Middle Eastern, etc.)
Meal plans for students in residence
Cozy spots for studying or meeting friends
The nearby areas (like Metrotown in Burnaby or Downtown Vancouver) offer even more dining and entertainment options.
SFU takes mental wellness seriously, offering:
Free counselling and mental health resources
Peer support networks
Stress-relief events like therapy dog visits and art therapy
Students get access to the U-Pass, a discounted transit card included in student fees. It gives unlimited access to buses, SkyTrain, and SeaBus across Metro Vancouver—super convenient for commuting and exploring the area.
Student life at SFU is active, inclusive, and empowering. Whether you’re focused on academics, excited about joining clubs, eager for co-op experiences, or just looking to explore life in Canada—SFU offers something for every kind of student.
One of SFU's biggest strengths is its Co-op program—one of the largest and most established in Canada.
Over 8,500 students participate each year
Students can complete up to 3 paid work terms (each lasting 4 months)
Available in most programs: Business, Computing Science, Engineering, Health Sciences, Environment, Arts, and more
Average co-op salary: CAD $3,000–$4,000/month (≈ USD $2,200–$3,000/month)
Top Co-op Employers Include:
Amazon
Microsoft
Tesla
Google (through international placements)
IBM, SAP, Dell
BC Government, City of Vancouver
Deloitte, KPMG
Health Canada, Fraser Health
Co-op gives international students valuable Canadian work experience, which is critical for post-graduation job opportunities and permanent residency pathways.
SFU graduates are highly employable, especially in fields like tech, business, and health sciences.
Average employment rate: Over 85–90% of SFU grads find a job within 6 months of graduation (varies by faculty).
Many students receive job offers from co-op employers after graduation.
SFU also offers entrepreneurship and startup support through VentureLabs, the university's innovation hub.
SFU’s Career & Volunteer Services team offers:
Career advising
Resume and cover letter reviews
Mock interviews
Job fairs and networking events
Online job boards (MyExperience portal)
LinkedIn and personal branding workshops
There are faculty-specific career advisors for more personalized guidance based on your field.
After graduation, international students are eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP):
Valid for up to 3 years
Gives time to gain work experience and apply for Permanent Residency (PR) through programs like Express Entry
Computer Science / IT: CAD $65,000 – $90,000/year
Engineering (all disciplines): CAD $60,000 – $85,000/year
Business / Finance: CAD $55,000 – $75,000/year
Health Sciences / Public Health: CAD $50,000 – $70,000/year
Social Sciences / Humanities: CAD $40,000 – $60,000/year (varies by role)
These are average starting ranges and can go much higher with experience or strong co-op experience.
Strong Co-op & Internship Culture
Deep Industry Ties with Major Employers
Dedicated Career Services and Personalized Support
Competitive Salaries & Post-Grad Work Permits
Strong Pathways to Canadian Permanent Residency
The overall acceptance rate at SFU is estimated to be around:
59% – 65%
This means that SFU is moderately selective—competitive, but still accessible if you meet the academic and language requirements.
Some programs are more competitive than others, especially for international applicants:
Program |
Estimated Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|
|
Business (Beedie School) |
30% – 40% |
|
Computer Science |
35% – 45% |
|
Engineering |
40% – 50% |
|
Health Sciences |
45% – 55% |
|
Arts & Social Sciences |
60% – 70% |
|
Environmental Science |
60% – 70% |
|
Education |
65% – 75% |
Graduate programs (Master’s & PhD) are more selective, especially research-based degrees. Acceptance depends on GPA, research experience, supervisor availability, and funding.
Academic performance (GPA or % average)
English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL)
Strength of personal statement and references (especially for graduate applicants)
Relevant coursework for the program you're applying to
Demand and seat availability for the program
SFU has three main campuses, all located in the province of British Columbia (BC), in and around the Metro Vancouver area:
Location: 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC
Setting: Mountain-top, surrounded by forests and nature
Features:
Largest campus
Most undergraduate programs offered here
Main residence halls, labs, libraries, and recreational facilities
Designed by famous architect Arthur Erickson
Stunning views of Vancouver and mountains
Location: 515 West Hastings Street, Downtown Vancouver
Setting: Urban, central location in Vancouver’s business and cultural district
Features:
Graduate & continuing studies programs (Public Policy, Business, Urban Studies)
State-of-the-art classrooms and event spaces
Close to internships, networking, and job opportunities
Location: 250–13450 102 Avenue, Surrey, BC (inside Central City Mall complex)
Setting: Modern and vibrant city hub
Features:
High-tech facilities and innovation labs
Programs in Mechatronics, Interactive Arts & Technology, Computing, and Business
Easily accessible via SkyTrain (public transit)
All campuses are connected via public transportation (TransLink)
Students receive a U-Pass for unlimited travel on buses, SkyTrain, and SeaBus throughout Metro Vancouver
Each campus offers a unique experience:
Burnaby for nature and a classic campus feel
Vancouver for urban professionals and grad students
Surrey for innovation and tech-focused programs
