Top Universities in Canada (2026)

Emily Carr University, Canada, founded in 1925, greatly encourages innovation and experimentation in fields like design, art, media, and technology while fusing studio research, practice, and critical theories in a highly collaborative and interdisciplinary environment. The institution has been ranked as one of the top universities in Canada for design and art and is highly recognized globally. It has more than 2,000 students in undergraduate and graduate courses and thousands of students enrolled in certificate programs, workshops, and other individual courses.

McGill University is one of Canada's oldest and most recognised institutions. It is located in Montreal, Quebec, and is widely known for its academic excellence, inclusive campus culture, and world-class research.

McGill attracts thousands of international students each year because of its academic reputation, research intensity, and vibrant student life. From top-ranked programs to multicultural support systems, McGill offers an enriching environment for students worldwide.

The University of British Columbia (UBC) was founded in 1908 and officially opened in 1915 in Vancouver. In 2005, UBC expanded with a second campus in Kelowna (Okanagan). Today, it stands among the top universities in the world, recognized for excellence in research, innovation, and international impact. 

OCAD University Canada was originally founded in 1876 by the Ontario Society of Arts. It was previously known as the Ontario School of Art. It was integrated as the Ontario College of Art in 1912, becoming the first Canadian school dedicated to educating professional artists in commercial and fine arts alike.

Recognized globally for academic excellence and research leadership, the University of Alberta (U of A) stands as one of Canada’s top public universities. Located in Edmonton, Alberta, it supports over 46,200 students from 150+ countries and offers more than 200 undergraduate and 500 graduate programs across 18 faculties.

Located on the northwest flank of Mount Royal, one of the best urban parks in North America, the University of Montreal honours the hospitable, cosmopolitan city after which it was named. 

At the University of Montreal, one in four students is international. Montreal is renowned for its cheap cost of living, safety, and vibrant culture. Although many graduate programs, including those in biochemistry, neurosciences, and pharmacology, welcome students who understand English, the predominant language of instruction is French. 

Some researchers from the University of Montreal work on projects with organisations throughout the globe, mostly in the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Italy.

The Latest About the University of Montreal

Université de Montréal (UdeM), a prestigious university in the world, is firmly based in Montreal and committed to its global purpose. Quacquarelli Symonds' (QS) Best Student Cities 2023 survey ranks Montreal as the second-best university city in North America. One of Canada's leading university research hubs, UdeM draws in over $500 million in research funding annually thanks to its associated institutions, Polytechnique Montréal and HEC Montréal.

Highlights of the University of Montreal

History of the University of Montreal

Located in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, the Université de Montréal is a public research institution that speaks French. In 1878, the institution was established as an outpost of the Université Laval. Less than a hundred students were accepted into the university's three faculties at the time of its founding, all of which were housed in Old Montreal. These were the Faculty of Law (housed by the Society of Saint-Sulpice), the Faculty of Theology (at the Grand Seminaire de Montréal), and the Faculty of Medicine (at the Château Ramezay). It received a provincial charter in 1920 and a papal charter in 1919, at which point it became an independent institution. In 1942, the University of Montreal relocated from Quartier Latin in Montreal to its current site at Mount Royal. In 1967, a new provincial charter was passed, turning it into a secular institution.

University of Montreal Courses

Of the 600+ programs that Montreal University offers, around 250 are undergraduate and 350 are graduate. Some of the most popular of these are humanities, global studies, communication, etc. The Université de Montréal's thirteen colleges and schools encompass every area of study, including the humanities, law, natural sciences, music, and health. Here is a quick look at the 2024 subject-wise ranking of the University of Montreal.  

Popular Courses

• Law
• Economics
• Business Administration and Management
• Psychology
• Communication
• Political Science and Government
• Humanities

University of Montreal Placements

The University of Montreal offers strong placement opportunities through its extensive network of 550 partners in 80 countries. The university’s dedicated career services provide students with internships and job placements in various industries. Collaboration with affiliated healthcare institutions ensures practical experience for students in medical and health-related programs. Graduates benefit from the university’s global reputation, gaining access to positions in top companies and research institutions worldwide, particularly in North America and Europe.

University of Montreal Campus Life

Campus life at the University of Montreal is vibrant and diverse, enriched by its location in the multicultural city of Montreal. The university offers a wide range of extracurricular activities, including student clubs, cultural events, and sports facilities. The main campus is nestled on the north slope of Mount Royal, providing a scenic environment with easy access to the city’s amenities. The campus also features modern facilities, libraries, and study spaces, fostering a dynamic and engaging student community.

University of Montreal Alumni

The University of Montreal has a total of 450,000 living alumni from around the world. Among the distinguished alumni of the university are Pierre-Elliott Trudeau, Louise Arbour, Denys Arcand, Joanne Liu, Roger Guillemin, Hubert Reeves, Jean Coutu, Kim Thuy, Robert Bourassa, Jacques Parizeau, Antonine Maillet, Hubert Aquin, Pierre Péladeau, Pauline Marois, Lucille Teasdale, Morris Goodman, Paul Gérin-Lajoie and hundreds of others.

University of Montreal Faculty

The University of Montreal boasts a robust academic environment with 2,300 professors and researchers, 2,600 lecturers, 500 adjunct professors, and 2,000 clinical professors. It offers a wide range of opportunities through 13 faculties and schools, 2 affiliated schools, 27 healthcare institutions, and 600 programs. With 550 global partners in 80 countries, it provides extensive international collaboration and a comprehensive educational experience.

Western University, located in London, Ontario, Canada, is a distinguished institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and innovation. Established in 1878, it has a long-standing tradition of producing leaders in various fields. With a diverse and vibrant campus community, Western prides itself on fostering an inclusive environment for learning and personal development. The university is renowned for its strong programs in areas such as health sciences, business, engineering, and the arts. Faculty members, often leading experts in their disciplines, are dedicated to providing a world-class education and mentorship. Western's emphasis on research and critical thinking equips students to excel in a globally competitive world.

• Recently, the University of Calgary opened a new downtown campus for architecture. It elected an all-female student leadership team and was awarded $36.6 million in research funding. 
• Tuition fees will go up a little; the university will remain reasonably priced.The University of Calgary will host a conference on global entrepreneurship in October, and students took part in an international athletic event.

The University of Calgary (UCalgary) was established in 1966 in Alberta and has become one of Canada’s top universities, consistently recognized for academic excellence, research output, and innovation. Known for its emphasis on sustainability and experiential learning, UCalgary offers over 200 courses across diverse fields.  

Queen’s University, Ontario, Canada, is a public research university. There are ten undergraduate, graduate, and professional schools on campus. Computation science and engineering, globalization studies, mental health, clinical sciences, environment, sustainable energy, and social issues are some of the academic disciplines it is recognized for. Social sciences and engineering are two of their most popular programs at Queen’s University. In literal English translation, their Latin motto is “Wisdom and knowledge shall be the stability of the times.” 

The University of Ottawa (UOttawa) is Canada's largest bilingual (English-French) university, offering the first-ever undergraduate French immersion program. It is also ranked among the top 10 research universities in the nation and is conveniently located in Ottawa, the nation's capital, close to Parliament Hill. Finally, their co-operative education program is ranked among the best in the nation. The top 10 research universities in Canada include the University of Ottawa. Their research is carried out with a spirit of equity, diversity, and inclusion and is based on excellence, relevance, and effect.

Latest About University of Ottawa  

A group of five engineering students from the University of Ottawa have created a prototype that is revolutionizing the way people with mobility issues engage in exercise. The invention increases opportunities for physical activity and well-being by making a regular Concept2 rower wheelchair accessible. The project was started in response to a request by Brian Robitaille, a program coordinator with the City of Ottawa, and is a component of a second-year engineering design course. Robitaille, whose work on the project earned him the city's Creativity and Innovation Champion award, saw the need for more easily accessible workout options. At Centretown's Jack Purcell Community Centre, the prototype has been successfully deployed, and its effects are already being seen.

History of University of Ottawa

The Oblates of Mary Immaculate established the College of Bytown in 1848 as a multilingual Catholic institution, with instruction offered in both French and English from the first.

The newly renamed College of Ottawa was granted a pontifical charter in 1889, and in 1866 it was granted a royal charter, making it a university. The University was sponsored by the province when the Oblates gave up control of it in 1965. It is now a secular university.

Mission: Ottawa University prepares its professional and liberal arts graduates for lives of personal importance, professional fulfillment, and service to God and humanity by building on its foundation as a Christ-inspired community of grace and open inquiry.

Vision: Ottawa University will embrace innovation, cultivate a sense of community and belonging, and improve student learning while producing outstanding graduates.

Core values: Following are the Ottawa University’s core values:

• Innovate boldly and sustainably
• Build trust and connections
• Collaborate with transparency

Popular Courses

Many well-liked courses are available at the University of Ottawa, including:

Nursing: 2024 QS ranking, ranked #51

Politics: 2024 QS ranking, ranked #51

Law and Legal Studies: 2024 QS ranking, ranked #99

Medicine: 2024 QS ranking, ranked #123.

Numerous programs rank in the top ten in Canada. UOttawa will assist you in finding the right mix, whether you're a computer wiz with an interest in starting your own business or an aspiring sports therapist looking to sharpen your business acumen:

• Arts
• Engineering
• Social Sciences
• Health Sciences
• Common Law
• Education
• Science
• Management 
• Droit Civil (French Program)
• Common Law
• Medicine

University of Ottawa Placements

The University of Ottawa schedules interviews on campus and posts employment offers. The University's program coordinators will do everything within their power to place you in your area of study.

University of Ottawa Campus Life

Classes at uOttawa can range from lectures in big halls to small discussion groups to labs, depending on your course, year of study, and learning needs. The majority of our classrooms, regardless of size, have LCD screens and wireless internet access. Take a look at our faculty buildings and try to visualize yourself in our labs, residential halls, libraries, sports and recreation centers, and classrooms.

University of Ottawa Alumni

The notable alumni of UOttawa are Alex Munter, Alex Trebec, Peggy Tseng, and many more. 

University of Ottawa Faculty

The Faculties at the University of Ottawa are listed below:

• Faculty of Arts
• Faculty of Education
• Faculty of Engineering
• Faculty of Health Sciences
• Faculty of Law- Common Law
• Faculty of Science 
• Faculty of Medicine
• Faculty of Social Sciences

Simon Fraser University is known for its emphasis on equipping students with the necessary skills and knowledge for fulfilling future careers and research possibilities. Simon Fraser University, Canada, holds a global leadership position in knowledge creation, research, and innovation. It also emphasizes the development of long-lasting partnerships for benefiting communities culturally, economically, and socially. The institution is globally recognized for innovation, excellence, and sustainability, consistently ranking amongst the world’s top-250 universities. The institution has 8 faculties and vibrant campuses in Surrey, Burnaby, and Vancouver. 

Simon Fraser University was founded in 1965 at Burnaby Mountain, achieving fame as an inherently radical destination for the activities of students. The campus in Vancouver opened its doors in the year 1989. The Surrey campus opened in 2002, offering various innovative research and academic initiatives alike. It provides one of the country’s biggest co-op programs, having placed more than 8,500 students in leading global corporations. Students also gain experience from volunteer stewardship initiatives, student research awards, leadership training, and more. The business incubator for students is named Coast Capital Savings Venture Connection while flexible schedules are also offered to students. The Simon Fraser University acceptance rate is 59% as of 2019. 

The University of Victoria is a leading research university in Canada. It is well-known for the impact of its research and the variety of learning opportunities it provides. UVic is located in Victoria, British Columbia, on Canada's magnificent west coast, which serves as a gateway to the Pacific Rim.

Based on worldwide collaboration, it is consistently regarded as North America's top university for published research. Ocean Networks Canada, the Pacific Institute for Climate Solutions, the Institute for Integrated Energy Systems, and the world's only combined Indigenous law program are all located here.

UVic is connected to communities both at home and around the world through strong collaborations. It is well-known for its vast educational offerings. It is also considered the most comprehensive college in Canada for educating students for global jobs.

UVic is dedicated to international collaboration. Over 300 institutions in 70 countries collaborate with their teachers, staff, and students.

The University of Sherbrooke Canada was founded on 4th May 1954. It emanated from the Seminaire Saint-Charles-Borromee at Sherbrooke and was wholly separated in 1960. The University of Sherbrooke was initially formed with three core faculties, namely Law, Sciences, and Arts while evolving rapidly towards becoming one of the pioneers in teaching and research in Quebec.

York University, in Toronto, Ontario, is one of Canada's largest and most diverse universities. With over 53,000 students enrolled in more than 200 undergraduate and graduate programs, it offers a comprehensive range of academic opportunities across 11 faculties, including the renowned Schulich School of Business and Osgoode Hall Law School. 

The York University admission rate is moderately selective, along with a vast international community with students from over 170 countries. This diverse university environment gives Indian students a global perspective and a supportive community to thrive academically and professionally.

The University of Saskatchewan (USask) is leading the way in tackling pressing problems like water and food security. Research, teaching and learning at USask is enhanced by our array of world-class facilities, including the Canadian Light Source synchrotron, VIDO-InterVac, the Global Institute for Food Security, the Global Institute for Water Security and the Sylvia Fedoruk Centre for Nuclear Innovation.

A range of excellent programs, from business, law and public policy to engineering, medicine and veterinary medicine, positions us to cross traditional discipline boundaries and work together to bring a unique perspective to key global challenges. With more than 25,000 students from around the globe, including nearly 3,000 self-declared Indigenous students and more than 3,000 international students, our strong community and well-recognized experts will continue to drive USask to be the university the world needs.

Saint Mary’s University in Canada is known for its impressive academic credentials and chequered history. Twenty-nine percent of its student population comes from 118 countries, and it also has 106 partnerships with global institutions. It ranks second in students awards and fourth among undergraduate universities in Canada (Maclean’s ranking).

Centennial College was established in 1966 in Toronto and has grown into one of Canada’s most internationally connected institutions. It welcomes students from over 142 countries. Spread across five campuses in the Greater Toronto Area. The college offers a wide range of full-time and part-time programs designed in collaboration with industry leaders, ensuring graduates gain the practical skills needed to succeed in today’s job market.

Centennial consistently ranks #1 in the GTA for graduate satisfaction and boasts strong employer approval, with over 94% of employers expressing satisfaction with graduates’ performance. The college has been recognized multiple times at the Skills Ontario College of Distinction awards and ranks #1 in Canada for paid research internships, reflecting its commitment to experiential learning and workforce readiness.

With extensive global partnerships and opportunities for international exposure, Centennial College provides students with both a world-class education and strong pathways to careers in Canada and abroad.

The University of Windsor (UWindsor), established in 1963, is a public institution located in Windsor, Ontario, Canada. With over 17,900 students, including 30% international students from nearly 100 countries. If you are planning to study in Canada, the University of Windsor is a good option for international students. 

UWindsor offers many courses in which there are 120+ undergraduate programs, 70 graduate degrees, and six professional programs. Recognized as one of the best universities in Canada, the University of Windsor’s ranking continues to rise, making it a top choice for international learners. 

Concordia University, Montreal, Canada, a next-generation university, is one of the top-ranked universities in North America. Having 51,000 students, this University is placed among the largest urban universities in Canada, and Concordia.