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CANADA · SASKATOON

University of Saskatchewan

public · Founded 1908 · Languages: en

In short

The University of Saskatchewan is a research-intensive university in Saskatoon, Canada, offering over 200 undergraduate and graduate programs. It provides state-of-the-art research facilities, a supportive international student environment, and affordable living costs in Saskatchewan.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 1908
Students: 26,155
International students: 3,100
Acceptance rate: 75%
Tuition (intl): €2–4k/yr
Languages: EN
Location: Saskatoon, Canada

The University of Saskatchewan (USask) is a leading research-intensive university located in Saskatoon, Canada. With a vibrant community of over 26,000 students from 130 countries, USask is dedicated to addressing global challenges, particularly in areas like water and food security, vaccine development, and human, animal, and environmental health. As a member of the U15 group of Canadian research universities, USask is committed to fostering a collaborative and interdisciplinary environment. USask offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs across more than 200 fields of study. The university prides itself on academic excellence, world-class facilities, and a supportive learning environment. Students benefit from state-of-the-art research infrastructure, including the Canadian Light Source synchrotron and the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO). Beyond academics, USask provides a rich student experience with diverse athletic teams, intercultural learning opportunities, and strong support services for international students. The university's mission emphasizes discovery, teaching, sharing knowledge, and fostering a rich cultural community, preparing students for impactful careers and engaged global citizenship.

Why study here

Access to highly respected academic programs and faculty.
Opportunity to engage with world-class, state-of-the-art research facilities like the Canadian Light Source synchrotron and VIDO.
Benefit from affordable tuition and various scholarship opportunities.
Experience a supportive environment with intercultural learning and one-on-one assistance for international students.
Live in Saskatchewan, which offers affordable housing, potential for work during and after studies, and free provincial health insurance.
Contribute to world-leading research in areas such as water and food security, vaccine development, and health sciences.

Student life

USask offers a dynamic student life with opportunities for academic, athletic, and social engagement. With 15 athletic teams, students can support the Huskies in premier facilities like the PAC and Griffiths Stadium. The International Student and Study Abroad Centre (ISSAC) provides comprehensive support for international students, including assistance with immigration, arrival, transition, and cultural adaptation. ISSAC also hosts intercultural programs and events, fostering a welcoming and inclusive campus community. The Gordon Oakes Red Bear Student Centre serves as an intercultural gathering place, integrating Indigenous culture on campus. Students can also participate in various student associations, career readiness workshops, and take advantage of the Global Connections Network to meet new friends and engage in social activities.

Fees

InternationalUndergraduate tuition for international students ranges from CAD $1,003.80 to CAD $2,370.06 per credit unit, or CAD $3,011.40 to CAD $7,110.18 per 3-credit unit class for most programs, depending on the tuition category. Flat yearly tuition for specific programs like Dental Therapy is CAD $60,000. For thesis and project-based Master's programs, international students pay CAD $4,077.00 per term, totaling CAD $12,231.00 per academic year. Course-based Master's and Postgraduate Diploma programs for international students cost CAD $659.20 per graduate credit unit, or CAD $1,977.60 for a 3-credit unit graduate class. Doctoral students (both international and domestic) pay CAD $1,812.00 per term, totaling CAD $5,436.00 per academic year. Additional student fees are charged per term for services like health insurance and bus passes.

HomeDomestic (Canadian) undergraduate tuition is also assessed per credit unit by tuition category, at substantially lower rates than the international rate, typically a few thousand CAD per term depending on the program.

LivingInternational students should budget roughly CAD $15,000-18,000 per year for accommodation, food, transport, books, and personal expenses; Saskatoon offers relatively affordable housing compared with larger Canadian cities.

Tuition for most undergraduate programs is calculated per credit unit based on the course's tuition category. Programs like Dentistry, Medicine, Pharmacy, and Veterinary Medicine have annual flat tuition fees. Graduate students in course-based programs who register for undergraduate classes will be assessed at the international undergraduate tuition rate for those classes. All tuition amounts are in Canadian Dollars (CAD) and are based on the 2023-2024 academic year rates.

Admissions

Master's DegreeA four-year undergraduate degree (or Bologna-compliant three-year degree) in a relevant discipline, with a cumulative weighted average of at least 70% (USask equivalent) in the last two years of full-time study. Demonstrated ability for independent thought, advanced study, and research is also required.

PhD DegreeA Master's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline, with a cumulative weighted average of at least 70% (USask equivalent) in the Master's degree. Demonstrated ability for independent thought, advanced study, and research is also required.

Postgraduate DiplomaA four-year undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline, with a cumulative weighted average of at least 65% (USask equivalent) in the final two years of full-time study.

Application FeeCAD $145 for international students (non-refundable).

IELTS (Academic)Overall Band Score: 6.5, with minimum individual scores of 6 in Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing.

TOEFL iBT (including Special Home Edition)Overall: 4.5, with minimum individual scores of 4 in Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing. (Institution code: 0980)

Rankings

QS World 2024USask rises and expands success in international subject rankings

QS World University RankingsAround 345 globally

U15 Group of Canadian Research UniversitiesMember

University scholarships

China Scholarship Council - University of Saskatchewan Joint Funding ProgramUp to 48 months for full-degree PhD students; up to 24 months for joint/sandwich PhD students (specific monetary amount not provided, but it is a scholarship opportunity).

PhD Guaranteed Funding PackageCAD $20,000 per year for four years

Herzberg Memorial ScholarshipNot specified

Teacher Scholar Doctoral FellowshipNot specified

Accreditation

The University of Saskatchewan is a public institution and a member of the U15 Group of Canadian research-intensive 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 Saskatchewan · Canada

Bachelor of Arts Honours (B.A. Honours) - Art History

The Bachelor of Arts Honours (B.A. Honours) in Art History is designed for students who wish to delve deeply into the study of art and its historical contexts. This program offers a comprehensive exploration of visual culture across various periods and regions. Students will develop critical thinking, research, and analytical skills through engaging with diverse art historical methodologies and theories. The Honours program provides a rigorous academic experience, preparing students for advanced studies or careers in fields related to art, culture, and heritage.

University of Saskatchewan · Canada

Bachelor of Arts Honours in International Studies

The Bachelor of Arts Honours in International Studies is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to provide students with a deep understanding of global affairs, international relations, and diverse cultures. This honours program emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and analytical abilities to engage with complex international issues. Students will explore various facets of the global landscape, preparing them for careers in diplomacy, international organizations, non-profits, or further academic pursuits. The curriculum requires a broad base of study, including core requirements in English language and writing, Indigenous learning, quantitative reasoning, and breadth subjects within the Arts and Science faculty. A significant component involves a cognate requirement, which includes foundational courses in social sciences and a substantial focus on mastering a modern language other than English. This ensures graduates possess both a strong theoretical framework and practical communication skills in a global context. This program is ideal for students passionate about understanding global interconnectedness, cultural nuances, and the forces shaping international politics and societies. The honours designation signifies a higher level of academic achievement and independent study, preparing students for advanced roles and postgraduate education.

University of Saskatchewan · Canada

Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) - Early/Middle Years Program

The Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) program at the University of Saskatchewan, specifically the Early/Middle Years Program, prepares students to become certified teachers for children in elementary schools. This 120 credit unit program spans four years and focuses on developing the knowledge and skills necessary for effective teaching in diverse educational settings. The curriculum includes foundational education courses, learning community experiences designed to immerse students in educational environments both within the university and the wider community, and the completion of required credit units in English, Indigenous Studies, Mathematics/Statistics, and Science. Students will choose specific courses within these areas based on their academic interests and teaching area specializations, with some exceptions if these subjects are already designated as a teaching area. This program provides a comprehensive pathway to a career in teaching, equipping graduates with the practical and theoretical understanding needed to inspire and educate young learners. The program emphasizes a strong connection to educational practice through integrated learning communities and diverse course requirements.

University of Saskatchewan · Canada

Bachelor of Science Honours (B.Sc. Honours) in Geology

The Bachelor of Science Honours in Geology is an undergraduate program designed for students passionate about the Earth's processes, history, and resources. This program provides a comprehensive understanding of geological principles through a combination of coursework and research. Students will gain expertise in areas such as mineralogy, petrology, structural geology, and Earth's history, with opportunities to specialize in areas of interest. The Honours designation signifies a rigorous academic path that includes advanced study and often a research project or thesis, preparing graduates for advanced studies or professional careers in the geosciences.

University of Saskatchewan · Canada

Bachelor of Science Honours (B.Sc. Honours) in Geophysics

The Bachelor of Science Honours in Geophysics program provides a comprehensive understanding of Earth sciences, focusing on the physical principles governing our planet. This program is designed for students interested in careers related to resource exploration (petroleum, minerals), environmental assessment, and other fields requiring a deep understanding of geological processes. The Honours degree requires a minimum of 120 credit units, with at least 66 credit units at the senior level (typically third and fourth year courses). Admission to the Honours program typically occurs in the second year, requiring students to have completed at least 60 credit units with a cumulative weighted average of 70% overall and 70% in the geophysics subject area. Students are encouraged to consult with departmental advisors before registering for their second year to plan their coursework effectively. The curriculum emphasizes a strong foundation in physics, mathematics, and earth sciences, preparing graduates for professional registration and advanced studies.

University of Saskatchewan · Canada

Bachelor of Science Honours in Mathematical Physics

The Bachelor of Science Honours in Mathematical Physics is a rigorous undergraduate program designed for students with a strong interest in the intersection of mathematics and physics. This program requires a total of 120 credit units, with at least 66 credit units at the senior level (typically third and fourth year courses). Students are encouraged to consult with departmental advisors before their second year to plan their progression in the Honours program. Admission to the Honours program is competitive and typically requires a minimum cumulative weighted average of 70% overall and 70% in the subject of Mathematical Physics upon completion of at least 60 credit units. This program provides a deep understanding of the mathematical frameworks underpinning physical theories, preparing graduates for advanced studies or careers in fields that require strong analytical and quantitative skills. The curriculum emphasizes problem-solving, theoretical development, and the application of mathematical techniques to complex physical phenomena.

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 annual living costs for international students at the University of Saskatchewan?

International students should budget approximately CAD $15,000 to $18,000 per year for living expenses, which include accommodation, food, transportation, books, and personal costs. Saskatoon provides relatively affordable housing options compared to larger Canadian cities.

What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?

For IELTS (Academic), applicants need an overall band score of 6.5, with a minimum of 6.0 in each individual skill (Reading, Listening, Speaking, and Writing). For TOEFL iBT (including Special Home Edition), the requirement is an overall score of 86, with minimums of 20 in each section.

Can international students work in Canada while studying at the University of Saskatchewan?

Yes, Saskatchewan offers opportunities for students to work in Canada both during and after their studies. Additionally, the province provides free government health insurance.

What are the tuition fees for international graduate students at the University of Saskatchewan?

For thesis and project-based Master's programs, international students pay CAD $4,077.00 per term, totaling CAD $12,231.00 per academic year. Course-based Master's and Postgraduate Diploma programs cost CAD $659.20 per graduate credit unit.

What is the overall global ranking of the University of Saskatchewan?

The University of Saskatchewan is ranked around 345 globally according to the QS World University Rankings.

Last updated 3 July 2026