In short
MacEwan University is a public undergraduate institution in downtown Edmonton, Alberta, offering degrees, diplomas, and certificates with a focus on student success. It provides a student-centred learning environment with small class sizes and direct access to city opportunities.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1971
- Students
- 19,976
- International students
- 3,000
- Acceptance rate
- 60%
- Tuition (intl)
- €12–18k/yr
- Languages
- EN
- Location
- Edmonton, Canada
MacEwan University is a public undergraduate institution in downtown Edmonton, Alberta, offering degrees, diplomas, and certificates to approximately 20,000 students. Founded in 1971 and granted university status in 2008, MacEwan is known for its student-centred approach with an average class size of just 38 and a faculty-to-student ratio of 1:17. The university's modern downtown campus sits at the heart of Edmonton's vibrant arts and business district.
Why study here
- Small class sizes (average 38) and a 1:17 faculty-to-student ratio ensure personalised attention and strong academic support.
- Downtown Edmonton location provides direct access to internship opportunities, professional networks, and the city's cultural and sports scene.
- Flexible study options including full-time, part-time, in-person, and online modes to fit diverse schedules.
- Affordable tuition for a Canadian university, with entrance scholarships automatically considered for academically strong students.
- Named after a pioneering environmentalist and community leader, MacEwan embeds sustainability and civic values into campus culture.
Student life
MacEwan's downtown campus features modern residences, a bookstore, catering services, and recreation facilities. The Wellness Animals Giving Support (WAGS) programme offers stress-relief animal therapy during exam periods. The university supports over 60 student clubs covering academics, culture, wellness, and professional development. Edmonton itself offers a thriving arts scene, major sports franchises (Oilers, Elks), the North Saskatchewan River valley trail network, and a welcoming multicultural community. On-campus residence provides students with a safe, connected living environment steps from class.
Fees
InternationalInternational undergraduate students pay approximately CAD 18,000–25,000 per year in tuition, depending on programme (approx. EUR 12,000–17,000).
HomeDomestic (Canadian) students pay approximately CAD 6,000–8,000 per year in tuition.
LivingMonthly living expenses in Edmonton are estimated at CAD 1,200–1,600 covering accommodation, food, transit, and personal costs. On-campus residence fees range from CAD 8,000–12,000/year.
Use MacEwan's online tuition estimator for programme-specific fee breakdowns. Financial aid advisors assist with bursaries and loans. A non-refundable application fee is required.
Admissions
High School DiplomaAlberta Education Grade 12 or equivalent; specific subject prerequisites vary by programme.
Academic TranscriptsOfficial transcripts from all secondary and post-secondary institutions attended.
Application via ApplyAlbertaOnline application with non-refundable application fee submitted through ApplyAlberta portal.
Supplementary DocumentsSome competitive programmes require a résumé, references, portfolio, or interview.
IELTS AcademicMinimum 6.5 overall (6.0 per band) for most degree programmes
TOEFL iBTMinimum 88 overall
Duolingo English TestMinimum 120 for most programmes
MacEwan EAPCompletion of MacEwan's English for Academic Purposes programme accepted
Rankings
Maclean's University Rankings (Primarily Undergraduate category)Top 15 in Canada
Student satisfaction (National Survey of Student Engagement)Consistently high scores
University scholarships
MacEwan University Entrance ScholarshipCAD 1,000–4,000; automatically considered for high school graduates with strong academic records
MacEwan University BursariesNeed-based; various amounts available through Financial Aid Office
International Student AwardsVarious awards available specifically for international applicants
Accreditation
MacEwan University operates under the authority of the Post-Secondary Learning Act (PSLA) of Alberta and is designated as an Undergraduate University by the Government of Alberta. Programmes in specific professional fields hold accreditation from relevant bodies (e.g., nursing programmes accredited by the Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing).
For international students
CanadaStudent visa & funds
International students must obtain a study permit from IRCC before arriving. Most college and undergraduate applicants must also include a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) confirming a space under the annual cap; from January 2026, master’s and doctoral students at public institutions are exempt from this requirement. Applicants must show living funds of CAD 22,895 (effective September 2025, for a single student, excluding tuition and travel), and Student Direct Stream applicants hold this amount as a GIC.
Working while you study
Full-time students at designated learning institutions whose permits include work authorization may work up to 24 hours per week off campus during academic terms — a cap in effect since November 2024 that replaced the former 20-hour rule and a temporary 40-hour exception. Students may work unlimited hours during scheduled breaks such as summer and winter holidays. From April 2026, eligible students no longer need a separate co-op work permit for mandatory placements.
After you graduate
Graduates of eligible programs may apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) within 180 days of confirmed completion. The PGWP matches program length up to a maximum of three years, and master’s graduates receive a three-year permit regardless of program length. Since November 2024 most applicants must show a recent language test at CLB 7 (university graduates) or CLB 5 (college graduates); degree graduates are exempt from the field-of-study alignment rule that applies to other applicants.
English tests
- IELTS Academic6.0–6.5 with no band below 6.0; research-intensive universities 6.5–7.0
- TOEFL iBT80–100; top universities (e.g. University of Toronto) 100+
Main intakes
SeptemberJanuaryMay
Typical living cost
€1,250/month
Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.
SourcesIRCC — Study permit: get the right documents · CIC News — Increased fund requirements for study permits (Sept 2025) · CIC News — Off-campus work rules update (May 2026) · IRCC — Post-graduation work permit: who can apply · ETS — Minimum TOEFL score requirements for the USA, UK and Canada · Mastersportal — Living costs & tuition in Canada
Programs
a selectionMacEwan University · Canada
Bachelor of Arts
The Bachelor of Arts (BA) program at MacEwan University is designed to provide a broad liberal arts education. It encourages students to explore a variety of academic disciplines within the humanities, sciences, social sciences, analytical studies, language, and literature. This program aims to foster critical thinking, strong communication skills, and the ability to adapt, learn, analyze, problem-solve, and innovate – skills highly valued across many professional sectors.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
MacEwan University · Canada
Bachelor of Commerce
The Bachelor of Commerce program at MacEwan University is designed to prepare you for leadership roles in the business world. This four-year degree focuses on developing essential commerce and management skills while also emphasizing an understanding of globalization. You will engage with the business community through case studies, networking opportunities, independent studies, and the option of a co-operative education experience or international study tours. Graduates are equipped with real-world experience and confidence to enter the global workforce.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
MacEwan University · Canada
Bachelor of Music
The Bachelor of Music program at MacEwan University is designed for aspiring musicians who want to pursue a career in contemporary popular music. The program covers various genres including jazz, rock, pop, metal, blues, soul, country, electronica, and hip hop, focusing on singing, instrumental performance, songwriting, and recording. Students gain essential skills, insights, and industry connections to succeed as professional musicians, performers, creators, and leaders. The program emphasizes hands-on experience, including the unique opportunity to work with Bent River Records, the university's own record label.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
MacEwan University · Canada
Bachelor of Music, MacEwan University
The Bachelor of Music program at MacEwan University offers a comprehensive education for aspiring musicians, singers, performers, composers, arrangers, engineers, and producers. With a history spanning over 40 years, this program is distinctive in North America for integrating studies in jazz and popular music. Students can choose to specialize in one of four majors or opt for a Music Diploma after completing the first two years of the degree program. The curriculum is designed to develop both artistic skills and knowledge of the business aspects of the music industry.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for Canada
full fundingUniversity of Toronto
Lester B. Pearson International Student Scholarship
For international students beginning undergraduate study at the University of Toronto who are first-time entrants from outside Canada. Students must be nominated by their school, then complete the U of T application and scholarship process. Selection recognises exceptional academic achievement and creativity, with a record of leadership and impact at school.
full
Funding
€200k
Max
Nov 30, 2026
Deadline
full fundingUniversity of British Columbia
International Leader of Tomorrow (ILOT) Award
For international students entering their first undergraduate degree at the University of British Columbia (UBC) who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and financial need. Students must be nominated by their school and require financial support to study at UBC; the award is need-based, covering costs the student and family cannot meet.
full
Funding
€70k
Max
Nov 15, 2026
Deadline
full fundingWestern University
Western University National Scholarship Program (Canada)
Open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents entering full-time undergraduate study at Western University's main campus, with a minimum academic average of 90% in Grade 12 U/M courses (or equivalent), a school nomination, a reference letter, a transcript and an essay.
full
Funding
€47k
Max
Feb 14, 2027
Deadline
partial fundingUniversity of Ottawa
University of Ottawa International English Scholarships
Open to international undergraduate students who hold a valid Canadian study permit and are newly admitted to an English-language undergraduate programme in Arts, Engineering, Health Sciences, Science, Social Sciences, or the Telfer School of Management. A minimum admission average of 80 percent is needed for the Admission Scholarship and 90 percent for the Academic Excellence Scholarship. Students in the French immersion or French-language streams are not eligible.
partial
Funding
€46k
Max
Apr 1, 2027
Deadline
full fundingCanadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC), Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC)
Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships
Open to Canadian and international students pursuing a doctoral (PhD) degree at a Canadian university. Candidates must be nominated by the Canadian institution, not yet have started the doctoral program beyond defined limits, and demonstrate academic excellence, research potential, and leadership.
full
Funding
€34k
Max
Nov 4, 2026
Deadline
full fundingCIHR / NSERC / SSHRC (Tri-Agency), Government of Canada
Canada Graduate Research Scholarship – Doctoral (CGRS-D)
For doctoral students undertaking a PhD at a Canadian institution, with an outstanding academic record. Awards are made by Canada's tri-agency (CIHR, NSERC, SSHRC); applicants apply through their university, and eligibility (including for international students) follows the current Canada Graduate Scholarships rules.
full
Funding
€27k
Max
Nov 1, 2026
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What are the approximate tuition fees for international students at MacEwan University?
+
International undergraduate students can expect tuition fees ranging from approximately CAD 18,000 to CAD 25,000 per year. The exact cost depends on the specific programme of study. It is recommended to use MacEwan's online tuition estimator for precise fee breakdowns.
What are the estimated living expenses for students in Edmonton?
+
Monthly living expenses in Edmonton are estimated to be between CAD 1,200 and CAD 1,600. This estimate covers accommodation, food, public transit, and personal expenses. On-campus residence fees are separate and typically range from CAD 8,000 to CAD 12,000 annually.
What academic qualifications are needed for admission?
+
Applicants typically need a High School Diploma equivalent to Alberta Education Grade 12, with specific subject prerequisites varying by programme. Official academic transcripts from all previously attended secondary and post-secondary institutions are also required.
Does MacEwan University have small class sizes?
+
Yes, MacEwan University is known for its student-centred approach with an average class size of just 38 students. This is complemented by a faculty-to-student ratio of 1:17, ensuring personalised attention.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
+
Most degree programmes require a minimum IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0, or a TOEFL iBT score of at least 88. Alternatively, a Duolingo English Test score of 120 or completion of MacEwan's English for Academic Purposes (EAP) programme may be accepted.
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