CANADA · BURNABY
Simon Fraser University
public · Founded 1965 · Languages: en, fr
In short
Simon Fraser University (SFU) is a leading Canadian public research university with multiple campuses in Metro Vancouver. It is recognized globally for innovation and research excellence, offering a wide range of programs and a vibrant student life.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1965
- Students
- 19,347
- International students
- 7,500
- Acceptance rate
- 55%
- Tuition (intl)
- €16–22k/yr
- Languages
- EN, FR
- Location
- Burnaby, Canada
Simon Fraser University (SFU) is a major Canadian public research university founded in 1965, with campuses in Burnaby, Vancouver, and Surrey, British Columbia. Its main Burnaby campus, perched atop Burnaby Mountain, is an architectural landmark designed by Arthur Erickson. SFU consistently ranks as Canada's top comprehensive university and is internationally recognised for innovation and research excellence. The university serves over 35,000 students across a wide spectrum of undergraduate and graduate programmes.
Why study here
- Ranked #1 Canadian comprehensive university by Maclean's for multiple consecutive years.
- One of Canada's largest co-operative education programmes provides paid, career-relevant work terms.
- Three campuses embedded in Metro Vancouver's dynamic tech, film, and creative economy.
- Strong international research profile and extensive global exchange partnerships.
- Vibrant student life with clubs, athletics, and stunning mountain and city settings.
Student life
SFU's three campuses offer distinct student experiences. The Burnaby mountain campus features residence halls, a recreation centre, and sweeping views of the city. The Vancouver campus in the heart of downtown puts students steps from the city's cultural and business districts. Surrey campus connects students to one of Canada's fastest-growing urban centres. The Simon Fraser Student Society organises over 300 clubs and a full calendar of events throughout the year.
Fees
InternationalApproximately CAD 22,000–30,000 (EUR 16,000–22,000) per academic year for international undergraduates, varying by programme.
HomeDomestic students pay approximately CAD 6,000–8,000 per year in tuition.
LivingCost of living in Metro Vancouver averages CAD 1,500–2,200 per month including rent, food, and transport.
Numerous entrance scholarships are available for high-achieving international students. The co-op programme also allows students to offset tuition costs through paid work terms.
Admissions
Grade 12 (or equivalent)Strong academic record with specific subject prerequisites depending on programme
English proficiencyRequired for non-native English speakers
IELTS Academic6.5 overall, no band below 6.0
TOEFL iBT93 overall
Duolingo120
Rankings
Maclean's University Rankings#1 Canadian Comprehensive University 2026
QS World University Rankings301–350
Times Higher Education Impact Rankings#3 in Canada for Sustainable Cities & Communities 2025
Reuters World's Most Innovative UniversitiesTop 12 globally
University scholarships
SFU International Entrance ScholarshipCAD 3,500–10,000 (one-time, merit-based)
Uggla Family ScholarsCAD 16,000 (renewable, four-year award)
Dr. Henry Fong Entrance AwardCAD 3,500
Accreditation
SFU is a fully accredited Canadian university operating under the authority of the University Act of British Columbia. Individual programmes hold relevant professional accreditations (e.g., AACSB for business, CEAB for engineering).
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 selectionSimon Fraser University · Canada
Art, Performance & Cinema Studies (APCS)
The Art, Performance & Cinema Studies (APCS) program is a Bachelor of Arts degree focused on the historical, theoretical, and critical study of contemporary arts, with a specialization in visual art, performance, and cinema. It uniquely integrates these fields within a vibrant art school environment, offering opportunities to engage with studio-based courses alongside your critical studies. The program exposes you to current developments in the arts and encourages an interdisciplinary approach, viewing artmaking and analysis as interconnected. In the first two years, you will build a foundation in the histories and theories of visual art, performance, and cinema. In your third and fourth years, you can specialize in either art and performance studies or cinema studies. The curriculum includes a wide array of courses covering visual culture, cinema, sound studies, critical theory, research methods, arts writing, and curating, often drawing on the specific expertise of faculty members. APCS offers excellent opportunities for professional development, including an internship course providing hands-on experience with local arts organizations and optional Field Schools in major European art capitals like Berlin and London. The program prepares you for diverse careers in the arts sector or for graduate studies in related fields, while also developing essential transferable skills such as critical thinking, research, and effective communication.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Simon Fraser University · Canada
Dance Major (Bachelor of Fine Arts)
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Dance at Simon Fraser University treats dance as a dynamic art form, blending theoretical study with practical creative and technical studio work. The program places a strong emphasis on contemporary dance techniques, choreography, and experimental approaches. Students will also engage with body conditioning, ballet, dance history, criticism, and movement analysis. The curriculum encourages interdisciplinary exploration with other artistic fields and offers numerous opportunities to participate in various productions. This program is ideal for students who wish to explore dance within the context of other contemporary arts and academic disciplines. It is recommended that students consult with the school's advisor to plan their course of study.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Simon Fraser University · Canada
Doctoral Programs in Education
Simon Fraser University's Faculty of Education offers doctoral programs designed for individuals who want to pursue advanced research and contribute to the field of education. These programs provide rigorous academic training, focusing on developing critical thinking, research methodologies, and theoretical knowledge. Students engage in in-depth study across various specializations within education, preparing them for careers in academia, research, policy, and leadership positions. The faculty is committed to fostering a vibrant research community, encouraging collaboration and innovation. The doctoral programs emphasize a strong foundation in educational theory and practice, enabling students to become experts and leaders in their chosen areas of specialization.
PhD
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Simon Fraser University · Canada
Film Major (Bachelor of Fine Arts)
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) with a major in Film at Simon Fraser University offers a comprehensive program combining creative, technical, and analytical studies within an interdisciplinary arts environment. The curriculum focuses on developing original film and video work alongside essential technical skills. Complementary film studies courses explore the aesthetic, social, and critical issues relevant to contemporary film and video practices. Students are encouraged to broaden their experience through interdisciplinary studies and projects, with opportunities for independent directed study available for advanced students. This program is distinct from the Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Art, Performance and Cinema Studies (APSC), which focuses more on the historical, critical, or theoretical aspects of cinema. Entry into the Film major is competitive and may require an audition, interview, or application, in addition to university admission. Students typically begin their studies in the Fall term.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
Simon Fraser University · Canada
Graduate Studies at Simon Fraser University
Simon Fraser University (SFU) offers a comprehensive range of graduate programs across various faculties, fostering a vibrant research and academic community. The Faculty of Graduate Studies supports students and faculty in their academic pursuits, from application through to graduation. SFU is dedicated to providing a high-quality graduate education experience, with opportunities for professional development, community engagement, and career advancement.
Master's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
Simon Fraser University · Canada
Music and Sound Major (Bachelor of Fine Arts)
The Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Music and Sound at Simon Fraser University offers an innovative and experimental approach to music creation and contemporary composition. Situated within an interdisciplinary School for the Contemporary Arts, this program provides unique opportunities to collaborate with students and faculty from film, dance, theatre, and visual arts, enriching your core training. The curriculum emphasizes creative music-making and sound exploration, preparing you for diverse artistic practices. Students interested primarily in the historical, critical, or theoretical aspects of music should consider the Art, Performance and Cinema Studies major, which leads to a Bachelor of Arts degree. Admission to the Music and Sound program, like many courses within the School for the Contemporary Arts, is often contingent upon an audition, interview, or specific application, in addition to general university admission requirements.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
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 estimated tuition fees for international students at Simon Fraser University?
+
International undergraduate students can expect to pay approximately CAD 22,000–30,000 per academic year for tuition. These costs can vary depending on the specific program of study.
Does SFU offer financial assistance or scholarships for international students?
+
Yes, Simon Fraser University offers numerous entrance scholarships for high-achieving international students. Additionally, the co-op program allows students to earn money through paid work terms, which can help offset tuition costs.
What are the English proficiency requirements for international applicants?
+
International students who are non-native English speakers must demonstrate English proficiency. Accepted tests include IELTS Academic with a score of 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0), TOEFL iBT with an overall score of 93, or Duolingo with a score of 120.
What is the cost of living for students in Burnaby, BC?
+
The estimated cost of living in Metro Vancouver averages CAD 1,500–2,200 per month. This estimate includes expenses such as rent, food, and transportation.
What academic rankings does Simon Fraser University hold?
+
Simon Fraser University is consistently ranked as Canada's top comprehensive university. It also holds international recognition, including being ranked 301–350 in the QS World University Rankings and among the top 12 globally for Reuters World's Most Innovative Universities.
Last updated