University of Alberta

The University of Alberta operates 5 campuses across Edmonton and Camrose. North Campus leads in major faculties and infrastructure, while Augustana emphasizes liberal arts. From French-language education at Campus Saint-Jean to agricultural innovation at South Campus, each site supports unique learning goals.

Explore the defining features of each campus in the points mentioned below. This will help you match your academic interests with the right environment.

• North Campus: 
  • It is located in central Edmonton and is bordered by the scenic North Saskatchewan River valley.
  • Known for housing most of the university’s faculties like arts, science, and engineering, research institutes, and student residences.
  • Features a blend of historic and modern architecture across 150 buildings, covering 50 city blocks.
  • Provides access to advanced labs, libraries, health sciences facilities, and the Butterdome athletic facility (Universiade Pavilion).
• South Campus: 
  • "Located in central Edmonton near the North Saskatchewan River valley, North Campus serves as the university’s academic heart. 
  • Recognized for extensive land dedicated to agricultural research, particularly through the Faculty of Agricultural, Life & Environmental Sciences.
  • Hosts several recreational facilities, including the Saville Community Sports Centre, one of Canada's largest multi-sport complexes.
  • Encompasses farming plots, research fields, greenhouses, and the Viterra Research Farm.
• Campus Saint-Jean: 
  • Situated in Edmonton’s Bonnie Doon neighborhood, approximately 4 km from North Campus.​
  • Offers French-language instruction across programs in arts, education, science, and nursing.​
  • Promotes bilingual education and cultural diversity within a close-knit community atmosphere and small class sizes.
• Augustana Campus: 
  • Located in Camrose, about 100 km southeast of Edmonton.​
  • Specializes in liberal arts and sciences with a focus on undergraduate education.
  • Uses a three-week block system for deeper engagement in each course.
  • Encourages experiential learning and community engagement through fieldwork and local projects.
• Enterprise Square: 
  • Located in downtown Edmonton in the historic Hudson’s Bay building.
  • Hosts professional development, business incubation, and continuing education programs.
  • Hosts professional development, business incubation, and continuing education programs, including TEC Edmonton and executive education units.

To improve your chances of getting admitted and to stay ahead of deadlines, visit the University of Alberta Admissions Page. You’ll find clear guidance on eligibility, required documents, and the full application process.

Now that you know what each campus offers, it’s time to understand admission requirements and deadlines at the University of Alberta.

The University of Alberta climbed from #111 in 2024 to #96 in the QS World Rankings 2025. It also holds #116 in THE Rankings, reflecting consistent academic strength and global recognition.

The table below outlines how top ranking agencies have placed the University of Alberta over the past three years. Review the data to track its steady rise.

Ranking Body	2023	2024	2025
QS Rankings	110	111	96
THE Rankings	118	109	116
U.S. News & World Report	N/A	N/A	150

Beyond overall rankings, the University of Alberta also excels in specific disciplines like Nursing and Medical & Health Sciences. Let’s explore how its top programs perform globally.

Top Course wise Ranking 2024/25

Nursing at the University of Alberta ranks #7 globally in the QS World Rankings 2025. Other fields like medical sciences and agriculture also show competitive global positions.

The following table highlights the university’s performance in specific subjects across major global rankings. Use this to identify top-performing disciplines.

Subject	Ranking Body	Global Position
Nursing	QS World Rankings 2025	7
Medical and Health	THE World Rankings 2025	74
Agricultural Sciences	U.S News & World Report Rankings 2025	37

Interested in how Alberta's courses rank globally? Explore more details, including past trends and subject-wise insights, on the University of Alberta Ranking Page. 

After reviewing the rankings, let’s now explore the campuses where this excellence in education happens. 

With over 46,201 students enrolled across five campuses, the University of Alberta attracts applicants from 150+ countries. Admission is competitive, with an acceptance rate of 51%. You must meet academic, language, and visa requirements, along with strict deadlines, to secure your seat.

Read below to understand what academic scores, test results, and documents you need to apply successfully.

Admission Requirements

You’ll need to present proof of academic readiness, language fluency, and—if you're an international applicant—compliance with Canadian visa regulations. Each section breaks down what’s expected for your application. Let’s explore all the requirements. 

Academic Qualifications

You must have completed a recognized high school or undergraduate program to qualify. Minimum grade thresholds differ by program and study level.

Criteria	Undergraduate	Graduate
Credentials	Completion of a secondary school program recognized by the U of A, like CBSE or ICSE.	A Bachelor’s Degree
Minimum Grades Required	Varies in programs	GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 grade. (Equivalent to a B grade)

Language Proficiency

As per the University of Alberta’s official admission criteria, international students must prove English proficiency using exams like IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo. Minimum score requirements apply for each test and section.

Criteria	Minimum Score Required
TOEFL	90, with a minimum of 21 in each section.
IELTS	6.5, with no less than 6.0 in each section.
CAEL or CAEL CE	70, with no band less than 60
PTE Academic	61, with no less than 60 in each communicative skill.
Duolingo	120, with no integrated subscore below 100.
Cambridge English Test	180, with no less than 170 in each skill

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

Competitive Exams

While ACT and SAT are not mandatory, GMAT and GRE are required for certain graduate programs, such as business and economics. The minimum GMAT score for consideration is 550, but specific requirements vary by department. 

Criteria	Minimum Score Required
GMAT	550
SAT Score	N/A
ACT	N/A
GRE	N/A

Visa Requirements

You need multiple documents to apply for a Canadian study permit. These include your acceptance letter, proof of funds, passport, and biometrics.

Requirement	Description
Valid Passport	Must be valid for your full study duration.
Letter of Acceptance	Issued by the University of Alberta after admission.
Proof of Funds	Show sufficient money for tuition and living expenses.
Medical Exam	It may be required, depending on your country.
Police Certificate	Needed to show no criminal background, if requested.
Statement of Purpose	Explains your study goals and post-study plans.
Biometrics	Fingerprints and photos are required for most applicants.
Study Permit Fee	CAD 150 (INR 8,950), paid during application via IRCC.

Also Read: Student Visa for Canada: Procedure, Documents, Cost & More

Once you've met these academic and visa conditions, the next step is keeping track of key application dates.

Application Dates and Deadlines

The University of Alberta follows a strict admissions calendar. Undergraduate deadlines span from October to August, while graduate deadlines vary by intake. Department-specific deadlines may apply.

Refer to the timeline below to plan and submit your application on time without missing key scholarship or offer dates.

Level	Deadline	Purpose
Undergraduate	October 1, 2024	Applications open for admission, residence, and awards
	January 10, 2025	Deadline to apply for entrance scholarships
	March 1, 2025	Final date to apply for most programs
	May 1, 2025	Deadline to accept offers of admission
	August 1, 2025	Deadline to submit final documents
Graduate (International)	July 1	Deadline for September admission (Fall term)
	November 1	Deadline for January admission (Winter term)
	March 1	Deadline for May admission (Spring term)
	May 1	Deadline for July admission (Summer term)
	Note	Departments may set earlier internal deadlines

Note: Deadlines may vary based on department and intake. Always check the official website for the latest updates.

Now that you've reviewed the admission requirements and key deadlines, explore the programs that align with your academic and career goals.

Application Dates and Deadlines

The University of Alberta follows a strict admissions calendar. Undergraduate deadlines span from October to August, while graduate deadlines vary by intake. Department-specific deadlines may apply.

Refer to the timeline below to plan and submit your application on time without missing key scholarship or offer dates.

Level	Deadline	Purpose
Undergraduate	October 1, 2024	Applications open for admission, residence, and awards
	January 10, 2025	Deadline to apply for entrance scholarships
	March 1, 2025	Final date to apply for most programs
	May 1, 2025	Deadline to accept offers of admission
	August 1, 2025	Deadline to submit final documents
Graduate (International)	July 1	Deadline for September admission (Fall term)
	November 1	Deadline for January admission (Winter term)
	March 1	Deadline for May admission (Spring term)
	May 1	Deadline for July admission (Summer term)
	Note	Departments may set earlier internal deadlines

Note: Deadlines may vary based on department and intake. Always check the official website for the latest updates.

Now that you've reviewed the admission requirements and key deadlines, explore the programs that align with your academic and career goals.

The University of Alberta offers over 700 undergraduate and graduate programs. From engineering to fine arts, you can choose a curriculum that fits both your career goals and interests. The average size of classrooms is 20, 22, and  38 in Campus Saint-Jean, Augustana, and North Campus, respectively. 

Explore the range of academic areas offered below. This will help you identify what suits your academic background and future plans.

• STEM programs include options like Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, and Biological Sciences.
• Arts & Humanities cover subjects such as History, Philosophy, Sociology, and English.
• Business and Economics includes degrees in Accounting, Finance, and International Business.
• Health Sciences offers Nursing, Public Health, and Kinesiology programs.
• Environmental and Agricultural Sciences includes Forestry, Ecology, and Agricultural Studies.
• Education and Law provide professional programs for future teachers and legal professionals.

Once you've explored the available academic programs, it's important to understand the admission intakes and deadlines to plan your application process effectively.

Program Fees of the University of Alberta

The majority of undergraduate programs at the University of Alberta have a Fall intake (September). However, some graduate programs may offer additional intakes in Winter (January) or Spring (May), depending on the faculty.. It's important to track both deadlines and tuition details to plan accordingly.

Check the table below to understand the first-year tuition, intake periods, and key application dates for selected programs.

Program	Tuition Fees (First Year) in CAD	Tuition Fees (First Year) in INR
Master of Business Administration (MBA)	~CAD 80,000 (for full program)	~INR 4,776,099 (for full program)
Bachelor of Arts (BA)	CAD 7,000	INR 4,17,908
Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)	CAD 7,000	INR 4,17,908
Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng./B.Tech)	CAD 7,000	INR 4,17,908

Note: Note: The INR figures are approximate conversions based on an exchange rate of 1 CAD = 59.70 INR. Actual amounts may vary depending on currency fluctuations.

After reviewing intake schedules, the next step is to calculate the overall cost of studying, including living expenses and additional fees.

The University of Alberta offers a number of programs which cover diverse fields of engineering, physiology, humanities, medicine, etc. 

Below is an overview of estimated annual tuition fees for popular programs at the University of Alberta. 

Course / Program	Approx. Tuition (CAD/year)	Approx. INR/year
UG: Bachelor of Nursing (BSc Nursing)	CAD 31,089	₹18.7 L
UG: Bachelor of Computing Science	CAD 36,175	₹21.7-22.2 L
UG: Bachelor of Commerce (Business)	CAD 36,000-42,000	₹22.0-25.2 L
PG: MBA (Business Administration)	CAD 44,000 (total)	₹27.0 L (20-month total)
PG: MSc Computer Science	CAD 25,044	₹15.0 L
PG: MEng Mechanical Engineering	CAD 9,653	₹5.9 L

Note: The fees mentioned are approximate and may vary depending on the campus and course selection. The INR values may vary depending on currency exchange rates.

Tuition fees at the University of Alberta vary by program, with undergraduate degrees typically starting around CAD 7,000 (INR 4,17,908) per year. 

The MBA and professional programs cost significantly more. The university has proposed tuition increases starting Fall 2025—2% for domestic students and up to 10% for most new international students in Fall 2026. However, thesis-based graduate programs will not see any increase in Fall 2026.

Review the tuition fee details for each program below. This will help you budget better based on your academic track.

Program	Tuition Fees (First Year) (CAD)	Tuition Fees (First Year) (INR)
Master of Business Administration (MBA)	~CAD 80,000 (for full program)	INR 47,76,099
Master of Accounting	CAD 4,836.20 per unit (typically 3 units per term)	INR 2,88,715 per unit.
Bachelor of Arts (BA)	CAD 7,000	INR 4,17,908
Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.)	CAD 7,000	INR 4,17,908
Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng./B.Tech)	CAD 7,000	INR 4,17,908

Having reviewed the academic fees, it's now important to understand the cost of living during your studies.

Cost of Living

Understanding the cost of living is essential for budgeting your education at the University of Alberta. Tuition covers only your academic fees, but day-to-day expenses—like rent, groceries, transit, and supplies—can significantly influence your financial planning. These costs also affect the overall return on your investment and may determine your need for part-time work or scholarships.

Check the table below for a breakdown of estimated monthly and annual living expenses. These figures are crucial for preparing your financial documents and study permit applications.

Expense	Amount (CAD)	Amount (INR)
Books, Supplies and Fees	CAD 3,500 a year	INR 2,08,954
Residence and Meal Plan	CAD 17,285 a year	INR 10,31,935
Transport Expenses	CAD 200 to CAD 500 per month	INR 11,940 to INR 29,850
Personal Expenses	CAD 2000 per month	INR 1,19,402

Note: Actual costs of books and supplies may vary by program and course requirements

Once you understand the costs involved, the next step is to explore how you can reduce your expenses through financial aid.

 

Living in Edmonton, Alberta, while studying at the University of Alberta involves a range of monthly costs depending on your housing choices, lifestyle, and spending habits. 

Compared to many major Canadian cities, Edmonton offers a relatively affordable student experience, but planning a realistic monthly budget is essential for smooth functioning.

Here's a monthly estimate of living expenses for a student at the University of Alberta.

Parameter	University Estimate (CAD/month)	Approx. INR/month
Accommodation (Off-Campus)	CAD 700-1,200	₹42,000-₹72,000
Accommodation (On Campus)	CAD 800-1,100	₹48,000-₹66,000
Food & Groceries	CAD 300-600	₹18,000-₹36,000
Public Transport (U-Pass included)	CAD 100-150	₹6,000-₹9,000
Personal/Miscellaneous	CAD 200-400	₹12,000-₹24,000

Note: The costs mentioned are only an approximation and can vary with time and currency exchange rates.

Also check out: Cost of Living in Canada. 

Let us look at some of the scholarship provisions at the University of Alberta that aim to ease the financial burden of its students.

The University of Alberta distributes over CAD 46 million (INR 274.62 crore) annually through scholarships, awards, and bursaries. These include merit-based, needs-based, and region-specific options. Some are automatically considered at the time of admission, while others require a separate application. 

Explore the key internal funding options available for both undergraduate and graduate students in the table below.

Internal Scholarships

The University of Alberta offers a wide range of internal scholarships. These include admission-based awards like the International Admission Scholarship and Gold Standard Scholarship, and high-value options like the President’s International Distinction Scholarship worth up to CAD 120,000 (INR 71 L) over four years.

Check the list below to find out which internal scholarships match your academic profile and admission type.

Scholarship Name	Type of Scholarship	Details
International Admission Scholarship	Admission-based	Eligibility: High admission average Benefits: Up to CAD 5,000 (INR 2,98,506)
Regional Excellence Scholarship	Admission-based	Eligibility: Top students from select regions Benefits: Up to CAD 5,000 (INR 2,98,506)
Gold Standard Scholarship	Admission-based	Eligibility: Top 5% in faculty Benefits: Up to CAD 6,000 (INR 3,58,207)
President’s International Distinction Scholarship	Application-based	Eligibility: Academic excellence + leadership Benefits: Up to CAD CAD 120,000 (INR 71 Lakh) over 4 yrs
Graduate Entrance Scholarship	Entrance-based (Graduate)	Eligibility: Newly admitted grad students with GPA ≥ 3.7 Benefits: CAD 17,500 (INR 10,44,771) for Master’s; CAD 21,000 (INR 12,53,726) for Doctoral, CAD 10,000 (INR 5,97,012) to international students for tuition fee.
International Supplementary Bursary	Needs-based (UG + Grad)	Eligibility: Financial shortfall Benefits: Variable, based on need

Now, let’s explore some financial aid options that you can consider from external sources while studying in Canada. 

(H3) External Scholarships

Several external organizations also provide scholarships to international students applying to the University of Alberta. These include the Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute, Canadian Commonwealth Program, and ICCC. Awards typically range from CAD 2,000 to CAD 10,000 (INR 1,19,402 to INR 5,97,012) and are geared toward Indian and Commonwealth applicants.

Review the external scholarship opportunities below to supplement your funding from outside sources.

Scholarship Name	Provided By	Type of Scholarship	Details
Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute Scholarships	Shastri Indo-Canadian Institute	Merit-based	Eligibility Criteria: Undergraduate and graduate students from India.  Benefits: Up to CAD 8,500 (INR 5L) for a 6-8 week research project
Canadian Commonwealth Scholarship Program	Government of Canada	Merit-based	Eligibility Criteria: Commonwealth country students in undergraduate or diploma programs at recognized Canadian institutions Benefits: Up to CAD 10,000 (INR 5.9L) per year.
Indo-Canadian Chamber of Commerce (ICCC) Scholarships	Indo-Canadian Chamber of Commerce	Merit-based	Eligibility Criteria: Indian students looking to study in Canada. Benefits: Financial grant of  CAD 2,000 to  CAD 5,000 (INR 1.1L - 2.9L)

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

Once you’ve explored funding options, the next step is to understand your future job prospects.

The University of Alberta ranked 99th globally in the QS Graduate Employability Rankings. In 2024, the Bachelor of Commerce program reported a 79% employment rate for active job seekers, with co-op placements reaching 88%. Graduates earn an average salary of CAD 60,833 (INR 36L), while co-op students report earnings around CAD 57,548 (INR 34L).

Explore the key placement statistics and services offered by the university below. These figures can help you assess the return on your academic investment.

• Career Centre Services: The U of A Career Centre conducts regular employment surveys, offers job search support, resume building workshops, and connects students with employers through fairs and networking events.
• Business Program Outcomes: The Alberta School of Business tracks BCom placement data. In 2024, 79% of active job seekers were employed within three months, and co-op students achieved an 88% placement rate.
• Graduate Salaries: In 2024, the average salary for BCom graduates was CAD 60,833 (INR 35L). Co-op students earned CAD 57,548 (INR 34L), reflecting strong industry demand for practical experience.
• PhD Graduate Employment: Over 12 years, 56% of PhD graduates entered academia, 29% joined the private sector, and 12% found roles in government. Fewer than 20% were unemployed at graduation.
• QS Employability Ranking: U of A placed 99th globally, 35th in North America, and 5th in Canada in the QS Graduate Employability Rankings, thanks to strong employer partnerships and alumni outcomes.

Once you’ve reviewed these outcomes, it’s useful to know which companies are hiring U of A graduates.

Top Recruiters

This section gives you a quick look at the top companies that hire graduates from the University of Alberta. These recruiters represent sectors like energy, finance, healthcare, consulting, and technology.

Look at the list below to see where many graduates land jobs after completing their programs.

• ATB Financial – Regular recruiter for finance and business grads.
• Deloitte – Hires across consulting, audit, and advisory roles.
• EY (Ernst & Young) – Offers placements for accounting, tax, and business majors.
• Government of Alberta – Recruits for policy, research, and administrative roles.
• Stantec – Hires engineers, architects, and project managers.
• Suncor Energy – One of the largest employers for petroleum and chemical engineers.
• Alberta Health Services – Employs graduates in nursing, healthcare admin, and public health.
• Amazon – Hires for operations, software, and business roles.

After exploring job outcomes and recruiters, see how the University of Alberta compares to other top Canadian universities.

The University of Alberta offers a vibrant student life with over 450 student-run organizations and clubs, catering to a wide array of interests. These groups provide opportunities for cultural, academic, recreational, and social engagement, enriching your university experience.​

Discover some of the avenues through which you can engage and connect with the campus community:

• Student Groups and Associations: With more than 450 unique student groups, you can join organizations that align with your academic pursuits, cultural background, hobbies, or social causes. ​
• Campus & Community Recreation: Participate in various recreational activities, including intramurals, aquatics, climbing, martial arts, and fitness programs. These activities promote a healthy lifestyle and provide a break from academic routines.​
• Club Sports: Engage in student-led sports clubs that focus on physical activity, leadership development, and social interaction. These clubs cater to a range of interests and skill levels, fostering a sense of community and teamwork.​
• Cheer Team: If you have an interest in gymnastics, stunting, jumping, and dancing, consider joining the U of A Cheerleading Team. This competitive collegiate team participates in local, national, and international events, promoting school spirit and athleticism.​
• Golden Bears and Pandas Athletics: Support or try out for the university's official athletic teams, known as the Golden Bears (men's teams) and Pandas (women's teams). These teams have a rich history of success, with the university securing 103 national championships across various sports.

Beyond academics, these activities create opportunities for personal growth, leadership, and lifelong friendships, making your university years even more enriching.

Now, let's explore some of the distinguished individuals who have walked the halls of the University of Alberta.

With a global alumni network of over 300,000 graduates across 140+ countries, the University of Alberta continues to shape leadership and innovation on a worldwide scale. Its alumni have gone on to become Nobel Prize winners, heads of state, entrepreneurs, and pioneers in research and culture. 

Among them are former Prime Minister Joe Clark and Nobel laureate Richard E. Taylor, reflecting the university’s influence across politics, science, and the arts.

Explore the list below to learn about notable University of Alberta alumni and their contributions:

Name	Field of Work	Notable Contributions
Joe Clark	Politics	Served as the 16th Prime Minister of Canada.
Nathan Fillion	Entertainment	Known for his roles in television series such as "Firefly" and "Castle".
Daryl Katz	Business	Chairman of the Katz Group of Companies and owner of the Edmonton Oilers.
Ray Muzyka	Video Game Development	Co-founder of BioWare, a renowned video game development company.
Greg Zeschuk	Video Game Development	Co-founder of BioWare, contributing to popular game franchises.
Beverley McLachlin	Law	Served as the 17th Chief Justice of Canada, the first woman to hold this position.
Roland Michener	Politics	Served as the 20th Governor General of Canada.
Peter Lougheed	Politics	Served as the 10th Premier of Alberta, known for his contributions to the province's development.
Rachel Notley	Politics	Served as the 17th Premier of Alberta, leading various policy initiatives.
Richard E. Taylor	Physics	Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1990 for his work in deep inelastic scattering, leading to the discovery of quarks.
Michael Houghton	Virology	Awarded the Nobel Prize in Medicine in 2020 for the discovery of the Hepatitis C virus.
Raymond Lemieux	Chemistry	First to synthesize sucrose; his work laid the groundwork for new antibiotics and treatments for diseases.
Margaret-Ann Armour	Chemistry and Advocacy	Known for her expertise in hazardous lab waste disposal and advocacy for women in science; founded the WISEST program.
Shirley Stinson	Nursing	Pioneered nursing research in Canada; established the first Master of Nursing program in Western Canada and the first Doctoral Nursing program in Canada.
Catherine Fraser	Law	First woman appointed Chief Justice of Alberta; served from 1992 to 2022.

When comparing the University of Alberta, McMaster, and York, Alberta ranks the highest in QS 2025 (#96). It offers 700+ programs and an average graduate salary of CAD 60,833 (INR 35L). While McMaster has a stronger placement rate (~91%), Alberta stands out for course variety and affordability.

Review the table below to compare these three universities across key factors like rankings, fees, and program offerings.

Criteria	University of Alberta	McMaster University	York University
QS Rankings 2025	96	176	362
Tuition Fees (Annual)	CAD 7,000 (INR 4.1L) for undergraduate courses.	CAD 1,437.20 (INR 85K) to CAD 1,668.24 (INR 99K) per unit	CAD 37,281 (INR 22L) to CAD 43,424 (INR 25L)
Number of Courses	500+ Undergraduate and 200+ Graduate	100+	200+
Popular Courses	Nursing, Petroleum Engineering, Environmental Sciences, Chemistry, Food Science and Technology, Agricultural Sciences.	Arts & Humanities, Cardiac & Cardiovascular Studies, Cell Biology, Chemistry	N/A
Placement Rates	79% for B.com program in 2024	~91% after 6 months of graduation	N/A
Average Salary After Graduation	CAD 60,833 (INR 35L)	N/A	CAD 98,165 (INR 58L) (for MBA 2022)

The University of Alberta ranks 96th in QS 2025, offers 500+ undergraduate and 200+ graduate programs, and charges just CAD 7,000 (INR 4.1L) annually. Its B.Com placement rate is 79% with an average salary of CAD 60,833 (INR 35L). McMaster, ranked 176th, offers 100+ programs, and reports a 91% placement rate post-graduation. York, ranked 362nd, charges up to CAD 43,424 (INR 25L), with an MBA average salary of CAD 98,165 (INR 58L) but lacks detailed placement data.

Once you’ve seen how Alberta compares with other top choices, it’s time to look at what campus life is like beyond academics.