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CANADA · CALGARY

University of Calgary

public · Founded 1966 · Languages: en, fr

In short

The University of Calgary is a dynamic public research university in Alberta, Canada, offering over 475 programs across 14 faculties. It provides a strong focus on entrepreneurial thinking, innovation, and research, attracting a diverse international student body.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 1966
Students: 38,000
International students: 7,000
Acceptance rate: 50%
Tuition (intl): €14–26k/yr
Languages: EN, FR
Location: Calgary, Canada

The University of Calgary is a dynamic public research university located in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Since its founding in 1966, the university has grown to offer over 250 undergraduate and 225 graduate programs across 14 faculties, fostering an environment of entrepreneurial thinking and innovation. With a strong focus on research and community engagement, UCalgary provides students with hands-on learning experiences, state-of-the-art facilities, and mentorship opportunities. The university is committed to pushing boundaries, challenging conventional wisdom, and contributing to society through its global intellectual hub strategy. UCalgary's five campuses and various field stations offer diverse settings for study and research, attracting students and researchers from across Canada and around the world who are eager to advance knowledge and create new pathways for their careers.

Why study here

Access to over 250 undergraduate and 225 graduate programs.
Benefit from a strong focus on entrepreneurial thinking and hands-on learning.
Engage in groundbreaking research opportunities as one of Canada's top research universities.
Experience a diverse and international student community with a global outlook.
Take advantage of comprehensive career development and personal growth support services.

Student life

Life at the University of Calgary extends beyond academics, offering a wide range of opportunities for personal growth, recreation, and community involvement. Students can explore various volunteer opportunities, participate in student-led groups, and access international opportunities like Study Abroad programs. The campus provides facilities for bouldering and access to mountain shuttles for outdoor enthusiasts. Career and personal development services, including Life Design programs and career advising, are available to help students prepare for their future careers and make the most of their university experience.

Fees

InternationalInternational undergraduate tuition generally ranges from roughly CAD 20,000 to CAD 40,000 per year depending on the program, assessed per course or program per term. Graduate thesis-based PhD students are guaranteed a minimum funding package of $33,205 annually for the first four years, and MA or MSc thesis-based students a minimum of $25,455 annually for the first two years. General fees are based on academic load.

HomeDomestic Alberta and Canadian students pay significantly lower regulated tuition than international students.

LivingBudget approximately CAD 15,000-20,000 per year for accommodation, food, transport and personal expenses in Calgary.

UCalgary offers self-service payment plans to pay tuition and general fees in installments. Various payment options are available, including Flywire, Convera GlobalPay, and CIBC Student Pay.

Admissions

High School StudiesThree years of study in an ELP-exempt country or at an accredited high school (Canadian, American, British, or CIS) where English is the primary language of instruction.

Post-Secondary StudiesTwo years of study in an ELP-exempt country or recognized post-secondary institution in Canada.

Duolingo120

IELTS (Academic)6.5

TOEFL (internet-based)86 (before Jan 21, 2026) / 4.5 (on or after Jan 21, 2026)

Rankings

QS World University Rankings211

Times Higher Education World University Rankings201-250

Shanghai Ranking (ARWU)151-200

University scholarships

Minimum Funding Package (International PhD)33,205 CAD

Minimum Funding Package (International MA/MSc Thesis-Based)25,455 CAD

International Entrance ScholarshipsVaries

Accreditation

The Cumming School of Medicine's undergraduate medical education (UME) program is subject to accreditation requirements, divided into 12 Standards and 94 elements, as outlined by the CACMS (Committee on Accreditation of Canadian Medical Schools). The University of Calgary is a publicly recognised, degree-granting institution in Alberta and a member of the U15 group of Canadian research universities.

For international students

Canada

Student 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 selection

View top programs →

University of Calgary · Canada

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program prepares you to become a registered nurse, a critical member of healthcare teams who applies clinical skills and theoretical knowledge to patient care. You will engage in active learning through classroom instruction, small clinical group sessions, and simulated clinical laboratories. The program emphasizes understanding how individuals respond to illness, the impact of sickness on lives, and effective patient care strategies.

University of Calgary · Canada

Bridge to Teaching Certificate

The Bridge to Teaching program is designed for experienced, internationally trained teachers who wish to gain the necessary qualifications to teach in Alberta's K-12 school system. This intensive, full-time program focuses on adapting your existing skills to the Alberta Program of Studies, teaching methods that engage students, and assessment strategies. You will also explore the differences in teaching expectations between Alberta and other global contexts. The program includes crucial school-based practicums to provide hands-on experience. Upon successful completion, graduates are eligible for Alberta Teacher certification, allowing them to practice as K-12 teachers in the province. The program is structured around six courses and a 10-week practicum, with a maximum completion time of two years, though it is typically completed in eight months of full-time study.

University of Calgary · Canada

Certificate in Fundamental Data Science and Analytics

This certificate program introduces you to the essential tools, techniques, and approaches needed for a successful career in data science and analytics. Designed for working professionals, the curriculum focuses on collaborative problem-solving for data-driven challenges. You will gain skills in data collection and examination, data visualization, statistical and computational analytics, and presentation.

University of Calgary · Canada

Clinical Psychology PhD Thesis

The Clinical Psychology (PhD Thesis) program at the University of Calgary is designed to train expert psychologists and competent clinicians. The program emphasizes a clinical science approach, preparing students for research, academic, and clinical roles in psychology and healthcare settings. The curriculum focuses on empirical methods to advance knowledge in the field. The program is accredited by the Canadian Psychological Association.

University of Calgary · Canada

Computer Science PhD

The PhD in Computer Science program equips students with advanced skills for careers in cutting-edge technology, research, academia, and IT. It focuses on developing novel ideas for software design and implementation, exploring new uses for computers, creating effective algorithms, and managing technological infrastructure. The program emphasizes original research, culminating in a thesis defense.

University of Calgary · Canada

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Counselling Psychology

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Counselling Psychology program at the University of Calgary prepares individuals to become leading researchers, educators, and practitioners in the field. With a commitment to social justice and a generalist approach, the program equips students with the philosophical, theoretical, and research expertise needed to provide effective psychological education and counseling. Graduates are prepared for diverse roles in educational institutions, government, social services, healthcare, community agencies, business, and private practice. The program adheres to a scientist-practitioner model, emphasizing the integration of science and practice, critical evaluation of knowledge, and the generation of new insights, all while fostering advocacy for well-being and justice.

Scholarships

for Canada

Browse all scholarships →

full funding

University 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.

University 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.

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.

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.

Canadian 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.

CIHR / 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.

Frequently asked questions

What are the estimated living costs for international students at the University of Calgary?

International students should budget approximately CAD 15,000 to CAD 20,000 per year for accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses in Calgary. This estimate helps in planning for your overall expenses during your studies.

What is the tuition range for international undergraduate students at the University of Calgary?

International undergraduate tuition at the University of Calgary generally ranges from roughly CAD 20,000 to CAD 40,000 per year, depending on the specific program of study. Tuition is assessed per course or program per term.

Does the University of Calgary offer funding or scholarships for international graduate students?

Yes, the University of Calgary provides guaranteed minimum funding packages for thesis-based PhD students (CAD 33,205 annually for the first four years) and MA or MSc students (CAD 25,455 annually for the first two years), provided they meet program and progress requirements. International Entrance Scholarships are also available and vary in amount.

What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through tests like Duolingo (score of 120), IELTS Academic (score of 6.5), or TOEFL iBT (score of 86 before Jan 21, 2026, or 4.5 on or after). Some programs, like Nursing and Education, may require higher scores.

What is the University of Calgary known for?

The University of Calgary is recognized as Canada's Entrepreneurial University, with a strong focus on research and innovation. It offers a wide array of programs and provides hands-on learning experiences within a vibrant, international student community.

Last updated 3 July 2026