The University of British Columbia: Rankings, Courses & Admissions

The University of British Columbia operates across two major campuses, i.e., Vancouver and Okanagan, each offering distinct academic strengths and campus experiences. These campuses are home to world-class facilities, globally recognized faculty, and a diverse student community.

1. Vancouver Campus

• Student Population: 59,150 total (47,856 UG + 11,294 PG)
• Specializations: Business, Engineering, Arts, Sciences, Law
• Campus Highlights:
  • Nestled on the scenic Point Grey peninsula with panoramic views of coastal mountains and the Pacific Ocean.
  • Home to the prestigious Sauder School of Business and world-class research facilities.
  • Emphasizes sustainability through green building initiatives and access to beaches, forests, and extensive bike trails.
  • A bustling hub for international students, with ~27.7% from outside Canada.

2. Okanagan Campus (Kelowna)

• Student Population: 11,748 total (10,406 UG + 1,342 PG)
• Specializations: Health, Applied Sciences, Management, Creative Arts
• Campus Highlights:
  • Research-focused with modern labs and collaborative learning spaces.
  • Ideal for personalized education with smaller class sizes and strong community connections.
  • Emphasizes innovation and entrepreneurship within a relaxed, outdoor-oriented campus lifestyle.
  • Represents a globally-minded community with students from over 110 countries.

The University of British Columbia (UBC) is globally renowned for its academic strength and research excellence. In the QS World University Rankings 2025, UBC is ranked #38 globally. It also holds the #41 position in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2025, and is placed at #39 in the U.S. News & World Report Best Global Universities 2024/25.

These rankings reflect UBC’s global reputation as a leading public research university with a diverse range of programs and a strong international presence. Below is a detailed table showing UBC’s rankings across major global ranking agencies.

Top Course-wise Rankings 2024/25

The University of British Columbia (UBC) leads globally across several key disciplines, reflecting its academic strength and research excellence. Its Education program ranks 11th worldwide in the QS World University Rankings 2025, showcasing UBC’s commitment to innovative teacher training and education research.

UBC’s Forestry program is recognized as the best in Canada and ranks among global leaders, highlighting the university’s expertise in sustainable forest management. The university also excels in Environmental Sciences, ranking 17th globally (QS 2025), and in Life Sciences, where it holds the 24th spot according to the U.S. News & World Report 2025.

Below is an overview of UBC’s top course rankings in 2024/25:

For more information, check out the UBC Ranking Page.

The University of British Columbia (UBC) is one of Canada’s top research universities, attracting thousands of international students each year. Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or postgraduate program, UBC expects a high standard of academic and English language preparation. Below is a detailed comparison of admission requirements for UG and PG applicants, including language proficiency.

English Language Proficiency Requirements

International students whose first language is not English must demonstrate English proficiency. UBC accepts several standardized tests. Here’s a table of the accepted tests and minimum score requirements for both UG and PG programs:

The University of British Columbia (UBC) offers a wide range of academic programs known globally for their research quality, faculty strength, and career outcomes. UBC consistently ranks among the top institutions for disciplines like Business, Computer Science, Engineering, and Environmental Sciences.

Below is a curated list of the top undergraduate and postgraduate programs at UBC along with their annual tuition fees for international students.

Top 5 Undergraduate Programs at UBC

Top 5 Postgraduate Programs at UBC

Note: Tuition fees vary by specialization and may change annually. Currency conversion is approximate and based on exchange rates as of June 2025.

For more details, visit the UBC Courses Page

The University of British Columbia (UBC) offers multiple intakes throughout the academic year to accommodate a wide range of program types and student needs. Understanding these intakes can help you plan your application and admission timeline effectively.

UBC primarily has two major intakes for international students:

1. Winter Intake (September)

• Most popular intake at UBC, with the widest range of undergraduate and graduate programs available.
• Ideal for students completing high school or bachelor’s degrees mid-year.
• Offers full-year courses, co-op options, and access to extracurricular activities from the beginning of the academic year.
• Deadlines: Applications usually open in October of the previous year and close around mid-January.

2. Summer Intake (May)

• Also known as the Summer Session, this intake includes limited course offerings.
• Typically used for short-term study, summer programs, or accelerated coursework.
• Fewer program options, mostly available to continuing students or those in specific programs such as Engineering or Education.

The University of British Columbia (UBC) follows a structured admissions timeline for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs. Below are the important intake sessions and application deadlines for the 2025–2026 academic year.

Undergraduate (UG) Admissions: Winter 2026 Intake

UBC’s primary undergraduate intake starts in September 2026 (Winter Session). Key dates are:

Postgraduate (PG) Admissions: Graduate Programs

Graduate application deadlines vary widely by program and intake term. The major intakes for 2025–2026 include January, May, and September sessions.

The University of British Columbia (UBC) is globally recognized for its world-class education, cutting-edge research, and strong international community. While tuition at UBC reflects its high academic standards, it remains a competitive option among top global universities. Below is an overview of the estimated annual tuition fees for key undergraduate and graduate programs for international students in 2025–2026.

Estimated Annual Tuition Fees for International Students:

Note: Tuition fees are approximate and may vary by program and year. INR values are calculated at an exchange rate of 1 CAD = 66 INR (subject to change).

In addition to tuition, international students must also consider the cost of living in Vancouver. UBC recommends budgeting for the following monthly expenses:

Estimated Monthly Living Expenses in Vancouver (2025):

Note: These figures are estimates. Actual expenses may vary depending on lifestyle and accommodation choices.

Also check out: Cost of Living in Canada: How Expensive Is Canada for Indians?

The University of British Columbia (UBC) offers a wide range of scholarships and financial aid options to support international students in achieving academic success. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, leadership potential, and financial need. Whether you are applying for an undergraduate or graduate program, UBC provides competitive funding opportunities to make world-class education more accessible.

Scholarships for Undergraduate International Students at UBC

Scholarships for Graduate International Students at UBC

Read more: Scholarships in Canada for Indian Students

UBC supports students through a robust career ecosystem, featuring co‑op and internship programs, career advising, and employer engagement events. These services are provided via the Centre for Student Involvement & Careers, faculty-specific career centres, and co‑op offices, helping students land meaningful jobs both during and after their studies.

Key Placement & Salary Metrics

Note: INR conversions are approximate based on an exchange rate of 1 CAD = 66.5 INR (as of June 2025).

Career Support & Services at UBC

UBC offers comprehensive career support to empower students in securing valuable work experiences and full-time roles:

• 4,000+ annual co-op placements spanning various faculties and disciplines.
• Extensive career resources: Job fairs, employer networking panels, resume clinics, and interview preparation workshops.
• Personalized guidance: One-on-one career coaching, mentorship programs, and tailored job search strategies.
• Strong industry connections: Access to an extensive alumni network and exclusive job boards with opportunities worldwide.

Top Recruiters

Below are leading employers who hire UBC graduates regularly, across various industries:

The University of British Columbia (UBC) offers a vibrant and inclusive campus life that extends beyond academics. With two stunning campuses, Vancouver and Okanagan, students experience a diverse array of cultural, social, and recreational activities designed to foster community, personal growth, and well-being.

Campus Culture

• Diverse Community: UBC welcomes students from over 160 countries, creating a rich multicultural environment.
• Inclusive & Supportive: Numerous cultural clubs, identity-based groups, and support services promote inclusivity and belonging.
• Sustainability Focus: Both campuses prioritize sustainability with green buildings, zero-waste initiatives, and student-led environmental groups.

Activities & Events

• Clubs & Societies: Over 350 student-run clubs covering interests like arts, sports, technology, social causes, and entrepreneurship.
• Recreational Facilities: Access to state-of-the-art gyms, swimming pools, climbing walls, and outdoor adventure programs.
• Arts & Culture: Regular concerts, theatre productions, art exhibitions, and film screenings celebrate creativity on campus.
• Leadership & Volunteering: Opportunities through student government, mentorship programs, and community outreach projects.
• Festivals & Traditions: Annual events such as Welcome Week, Homecoming, and cultural festivals build campus spirit and connection.

The University of British Columbia (UBC) boasts a rich legacy of graduates who have gone on to make significant contributions across diverse fields such as politics, business, science, arts, and public service. These alumni not only exemplify the university’s commitment to excellence but also serve as inspirations for current and prospective students worldwide.

Distinguished UBC Alumni:

The University of British Columbia fees for UG and PG courses for international students range between $41,156 to $53,254 (INR 30,75,073 – INR 39,75,005). Here is the list of top courses offered along with the fees.