In short
McMaster University, located in Hamilton, Ontario, is a leading public research university offering a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs. It is known for its student-focused approach, robust research environment, and commitment to innovation.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1887
- Students
- 33,147
- International students
- 5,500
- Acceptance rate
- 58%
- Tuition (intl)
- €22–42k/yr
- Languages
- EN
- Location
- Canada
McMaster University, located in Hamilton, Ontario, is a public research university dedicated to creating a brighter world through its commitment to research and innovation. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various faculties including Business, Engineering, Health Sciences, Humanities, Science, and Social Sciences. McMaster is known for its student-focused approach, robust research environment, and comprehensive student support services. The university provides an engaging academic experience with opportunities for both traditional and continuing education.
Why study here
- Strong emphasis on research and innovation, contributing to a "Brighter World."
- Comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs across six faculties.
- Dedicated support for international students and a vibrant campus life.
- Focus on practical, real-world skills in programs like the Master of Finance.
- Opportunities for co-op terms in some graduate programs, such as the Master of Public Policy.
Student life
McMaster University offers a vibrant campus life with numerous resources and activities. Students have access to the Student Success Centre, Student Wellness Centre, and a wide array of athletic and recreational facilities. The university also provides extensive library services, housing and conference services, and various hospitality options. International students can connect with McMaster Global for dedicated support. Active alumni networks and research opportunities further enrich the student experience.
Fees
InternationalMaster of Finance: $4,223.13 per course; Master of Management in AI and Analytics (Full-time): $21,666.60 per term; Master of Health Management: $7,512.84 per half course; MSc eHealth (Full-time): $6,945.75 per term; MBA (Full-time): $25,556.04 per term; MBA (Part-time): $6,389.01 per academic course; Research Programs: $5,698.74 per term; Master of Public Policy: $18,500 per term (total $55,500 for 3 terms).
HomeMaster of Finance: $2,625.00 per course; Master of Management in AI and Analytics (Full-time): $15,000.00 per term; Master of Health Management: $2,506.08 per half course; MSc eHealth (Full-time): $2,165.47 per term; MBA (Full-time): $11,187.12 per term; MBA (Part-time): $2,851.05 per academic course; Research Programs: $2,102.40 per term; Master of Public Policy: $9,700 per term (total $29,100 for 3 terms).
Living—
Fees are subject to change and are assessed on a term-by-term basis. An additional co-op program fee of $1,750.00 per work term applies to MBA Co-op. Certain supplementary fees are compulsory, but for online programs like the MPP, students may be charged the same rate as part-time graduate students for these fees. For graduate students, enrolment in at least one course per term (or a placeholder SGS 700/711) is required for full enrolment and fee assessment.
Admissions
Master of Finance (MFin) EducationHonours (4-year) bachelor’s degree or equivalent in any discipline with a minimum B+ average (equivalent to a McMaster GPA of 8.5) from an accredited university. Must have completed a minimum of one university-level course in each of Finance or Economics, Mathematics, and Statistics, ideally within the last five years.
Master of Finance (MFin) Quantitative ProficiencyGMAT (10th edition) with a minimum total score of 600 and a quantitative percentile of at least 60%; OR GMAT (11th edition/Focus Edition) with a minimum total score of 555 and a quantitative percentile of at least 60%; OR GRE with a minimum score in the Quantitative Reasoning section at the 60th percentile or higher; OR successful completion of university courses in Mathematics, Statistics, Probability, Econometrics, or related disciplines.
Master of Public Policy (MPP) EducationHonours Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university with at least a B+ average (equivalent to a McMaster 8.5 GPA out of 12) in the final year of study.
General Graduate Application DocumentsCurriculum vitae or résumé, personal statement (approx. 500 words), two letters of reference (at least one academic, one professional if relevant work experience), transcripts from every degree-granting institution attended (unofficial for application, official required upon offer acceptance).
TOEFLMinimum overall score of 92 (IBT: Reading 22, Speaking 24, Listening 24, Writing 22; written score 600 or computer 250).
IELTS AcademicMinimum overall score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each of the four components (Reading, Writing, Speaking, Listening). Scores valid for 2 years.
Rankings
QS World University Rankings 2025189
Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2025201
Maclean's University Rankings 2024 – Medical Doctoral7
University scholarships
Chemical Biology Financial Support—
Accreditation
McMaster University is accredited by Ontario's Ministry of Colleges and Universities and is a member of Universities Canada and the U15 group of Canada's leading research universities. Professional programmes hold accreditation from AACSB (business), ABET, CEAB (engineering), LCME (medicine), and CACMS.
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 selectionMcMaster University · Canada
Chemical Engineering
McMaster University's Chemical Engineering program offers a dynamic and evolving discipline for students seeking excellence in teaching and research. This program provides rigorous training in chemical engineering principles, preparing graduates for diverse career paths in an ever-changing field. The department is known for its award-winning faculty and commitment to student success, fostering an environment where innovation and practical application are key.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
McMaster University · Canada
Civil Engineering
McMaster University's Civil Engineering program attracts forward-thinking students who are passionate about using fundamental engineering principles to solve real-world challenges. The program focuses on preparing students to address complex issues in infrastructure, environmental sustainability, and urban development. Graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills to make significant contributions to the field.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
McMaster University · Canada
Computing and Software
The Computing and Software department at McMaster University focuses on advancing the fields of computer science and software engineering through education and research. The department explores the intersection of scientific theory and practical engineering applications. Students engage with a curriculum designed to provide a strong foundation in computing methodologies, human-centred design, information systems, and the theory of computation. The department offers opportunities for students to specialize in areas such as software engineering, human-centred computing, privacy and security, and networked systems. Research and learning emphasize both theoretical underpinnings and real-world problem-solving, preparing graduates for diverse roles in the technology sector.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
McMaster University · Canada
Electrical and Computer Engineering at McMaster University
The Electrical and Computer Engineering program at McMaster University focuses on equipping students with the skills to solve technological challenges through a combination of theoretical knowledge and hands-on application. The department encourages innovation and problem-solving in various aspects of electrical and computer engineering. Students are encouraged to explore their interests within this dynamic field, preparing them for diverse career paths in technology and beyond.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
McMaster University · Canada
Engineering & Management
The Engineering & Management program at McMaster University is a unique five-year undergraduate degree that combines a rigorous engineering education with a strong foundation in business principles. This interdisciplinary approach equips students with a comprehensive skill set, enabling them to lead, innovate, and make strategic decisions within technical fields. Graduates will possess the technical expertise of an engineer alongside the business acumen necessary for effective management and leadership.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
60 mo
Duration
McMaster University · Canada
Engineering & Society
The Engineering & Society program is a unique undergraduate degree offered in North America that integrates a traditional engineering education with specialized courses focusing on human-centered design, communication, and a multidisciplinary approach. This program aims to equip engineering students with a deeper understanding of societal impacts, fostering strong problem-solving skills and a broader perspective necessary for a rapidly evolving world. Students can personalize their studies through complementary electives, cultivating curiosity and a commitment to sustainable engineering practices.
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 international tuition fees at McMaster University for graduate programs?
+
International tuition fees vary by program. For example, the Master of Management in AI and Analytics costs $21,666.60 per term, while the MBA (Full-time) is $25,556.04 per term. The Master of Public Policy is $18,500 per term, totaling $55,500 for three terms.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students at McMaster University?
+
International applicants typically need a minimum TOEFL score of 92 (IBT) or an IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall, with at least 6.0 in each component. Applicants who completed their undergraduate degree at an accredited English-speaking university may be exempt.
What academic qualifications are needed for the Master of Finance (MFin) program at McMaster?
+
An Honours (4-year) bachelor’s degree or equivalent with a minimum B+ average is required. Applicants must have completed university-level courses in Finance or Economics, Mathematics, and Statistics. GMAT, GRE, or relevant university courses are needed to demonstrate quantitative proficiency.
Does McMaster University offer support for international students?
+
Yes, McMaster University provides dedicated support for international students through services like McMaster Global. The university also offers a vibrant campus life with resources such as the Student Success Centre and Student Wellness Centre.
What makes McMaster University stand out for research and innovation?
+
McMaster University is committed to creating a 'Brighter World' through its strong emphasis on research and innovation. It is recognized as one of Canada's leading research universities and is a member of the U15 group.
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