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McMaster University

Health sciences powerhouse near Toronto with pioneering problem-based learning

#176
QS Rank
1887
Founded
20%
Intl. students
~55%
Acceptance
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About McMaster University

McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario is internationally recognised for pioneering problem-based learning in medical education. Its DeGroote School of Business, Faculty of Engineering, and health science programmes are consistently ranked among Canada's best.

💰 Tuition Fees for International Students

Undergraduate
CAD 28,000–42,000/year
Postgraduate
CAD 10,000–26,000/year

Fees are indicative for international students. Verify current rates on the university's official website.

📋 Entry Requirements

IELTS6.5 overall (no band below 6.0)
PTE60 (no score below 54)
GPAHigh 80s% for health sciences; mid-80s for others

🌏 Life as an International Student

📍 Location
Hamilton, Canada
💼 Working while studying
Up to 24 hours per week off-campus during term (confirm the current rule)
🎓 After you graduate
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) — up to 3 years
🏥 Health cover
Provincial cover varies; some provinces require private insurance.
💰 Living costs
C$13,000–16,000 per year
🗓️ Main intakes
September (main), January and May

Country-level guidance for international students. Visa, work and cost figures change — confirm current details with McMaster University and the Canada immigration authority.

Popular Programmes

Bachelor of Health SciencesDoctor of Medicine (MD)BEng (Software)Master of Business AdministrationMaster of Engineering

🎓 Scholarships Available

  • McMaster University International Excellence Award (CAD 5,000)
  • Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship
  • Ontario Graduate Scholarship

Also check: government and national scholarships →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is McMaster good for medicine?

McMaster is famous for pioneering problem-based learning in medical education and its MD programme is one of Canada's most selective. Its health sciences undergraduate programme (BHSc) is also extremely competitive and sends a high proportion of graduates to medical school.

Where is McMaster University located?

McMaster University is located in Hamilton, Canada.

Can international students work while studying at McMaster University?

Canada generally allows students to work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during term (confirm the current rule). On-campus roles — library, admin or research-assistant work — are often available too. Always confirm the work conditions attached to your student visa.

Can I stay and work after graduating from McMaster University?

Yes — Canada offers a post-study work pathway: Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) — up to 3 years. Eligibility and length depend on your course and level, and immigration rules change, so confirm the current policy before relying on it.

How much should I budget for living costs at McMaster University?

Plan for roughly C$13,000–16,000 per year in living costs on top of tuition. Hamilton can run above or below that national range depending on rent and lifestyle.

Do I need health insurance to study at McMaster University?

Provincial cover varies; some provinces require private insurance. Build this into your budget before you arrive.

When are the main intakes at McMaster University?

Canada's main university intakes are September (main), January and May. Apply well ahead of your intended start — popular intakes and scholarships fill early.

🎯

Need help applying to McMaster?

A verified consultant in your country can guide you through the application, documents, and visa process.

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