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University of British Columbia

World-class research university on the Pacific coast

#34
QS Rank
1908
Founded
30%
Intl. students
~52%
Acceptance
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About University of British Columbia

The University of British Columbia is Canada's third-ranked university and one of the world's leading research institutions. Its main campus in Vancouver is set between mountains and ocean. UBC is particularly strong in forestry, earth sciences, computer science, medicine, and business (Sauder).

💰 Tuition Fees for International Students

Undergraduate
CAD 38,000–50,000/year
Postgraduate
CAD 9,000–30,000/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)
GPAMid-to-high 80s% equivalent

🌏 Life as an International Student

📍 Location
Vancouver, 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 University of British Columbia and the Canada immigration authority.

Popular Programmes

Bachelor of Computer ScienceBachelor of Commerce (Sauder)Master of Data ScienceJuris DoctorMaster of Engineering

🎓 Scholarships Available

  • UBC International Major Entrance Scholarship (CAD 80,000 over 4 years)
  • Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship
  • UBC Faculty Research Award

Also check: government and national scholarships →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Vancouver an expensive city for international students?

Vancouver is one of Canada's most expensive cities, similar to Toronto. Rent for a shared apartment typically costs CAD 1,000–1,600/month per person. However, UBC has substantial on-campus housing and bursary support for international students facing financial hardship.

Where is University of British Columbia located?

University of British Columbia is located in Vancouver, Canada.

Can international students work while studying at University of British Columbia?

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 University of British Columbia?

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 University of British Columbia?

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

Do I need health insurance to study at University of British Columbia?

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

When are the main intakes at University of British Columbia?

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

🎯

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