# 249QS World University Rankings
228Undergrad & Postgrad Programmes
24 % International students
About University of Calgary
The University of Calgary (UCalgary) is built by those bold enough to start something. As Canada’s entrepreneurial university, UCalgary is where ideas ignite, industries transform, and talent rises to meet global challenges; where bold ideas turn into real-world impact – right in the heart of one of Canada’s most exciting and welcoming cities. Founded in 1966 (with roots stretching back to the early 1900s), it has grown into a top-ranked Canadian research university with four campuses. Whatever the future holds for you, start it at UCalgary. Choose from more than 250 programs across 14 faculties, taught by experts who are leaders in their fields. You’ll be part of a community that’s curious, collaborative, and determined to make a difference – whether that’s solving global challenges or driving change close to home. More than 38,000 students call UCalgary home, and with classmates from over 140 countries, you’ll join a truly global network from day one. What makes it different? For students from across Canada and around the world, it’s the ideal setting to balance study, work, and adventure. UCalgary is known as Canada’s ‘entrepreneurial university’, consistently ranked among the world’s best for research and innovation. You won’t just learn theory – you’ll solve real problems, work on cutting-edge projects, and gain career-ready experience through co-op placements, internships, and industry partnerships.
Life on campus is lively and full of possibilities. From hundreds of student clubs and leadership opportunities to Dinos varsity sports and cultural festivals, there’s always something happening.
Calgary itself is one of Canada’s fastest-growing, safest, and sunniest cities, offering Blue Sky CIty energy, a thriving economy, and unbeatable access to breathtaking mountain scenery, with the Rocky Mountains just an hour away.Why choose the University of Calgary?
1. Consistently high rankings: Boost your career potential with a degree backed by top global recognition, including world rankings and top ten or better placement among Canada’s Top 50 Research Universities.
2. Entrepreneurial and research powerhouse: Shape the future by joining Canada’s entrepreneurial university, where $588.5M CAN in research fuels breakthroughs in health, quantum computing, and sustainability.
3. Outstanding graduate success: Launch your career fast with a 96.3% graduate employment rate, supported by co-ops, internships, and industry partnerships that get you working in your field.
4. A vibrant campus community: Make lifelong connections in a campus of 38,000+ students, 400+ clubs, elite athletics, and iconic facilities like the Olympic Oval and Taylor Institute.
5. World-class initiatives and facilities: Gain real-world skills through entrepreneurial hubs, leading microbiome research, hands-on ranch work, and one of North America’s largest LEED Platinum science labs – split across five campuses.
6. Tradition meets innovation: Benefit from a university with deep roots dating back to the early 1900s and the adaptability of a forward- thinking institution founded in 1966.
7. Study where city life meets the outdoors: Live and learn in Calgary, a top-five most liveable city globally (Economist Intelligence Unit 2024), with a vibrant culture, big-city opportunities, affordable living, and the Rocky Mountains at your doorstep.
8. Ranked among North America’s top schools for sport-science research through our Faculty of Kinesiology, which recently received a landmark philanthropic investment to further health and human performance research.
9. Home to the world’s first United Nations University Hub dedicated to water research, an honour that reflects our global leadership in sustainability and interdisciplinary science.
10. A growing epicentre for quantum science, anchored by our Quantum City hub, bringing together researchers, startups, and industry to advance Canada’s quantum economy.
11. Pushing boundaries in education, innovation and social transformation through top-ranked faculties such as the Werklund School of Education and School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape (SAPL)—now expanded into Calgary’s downtown core for even greater city-building impact.
Explore more about life at the University of Calgary via their Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube.
Upcoming Events
17th September, 2026
Philadelphia, United States
19th September, 2026
New York, United States
22nd September, 2026
Boston, United States
About University of Calgary
The University of Calgary (UCalgary) is built by those bold enough to start something. As Canada’s entrepreneurial university, UCalgary is where ideas ignite, industries transform, and talent rises to meet global challenges; where bold ideas turn into real-world impact – right in the heart of one of Canada’s most exciting and welcoming cities. Founded in 1966 (with roots stretching back to the early 1900s), it has grown into a top-ranked Canadian research university with four campuses. Whatever the future holds for you, start it at UCalgary. Choose from more than 250 programs across 14 faculties, taught by experts who are leaders in their fields. You’ll be part of a community that’s curious, collaborative, and determined to make a difference – whether that’s solving global challenges or driving change close to home. More than 38,000 students call UCalgary home, and with classmates from over 140 countries, you’ll join a truly global network from day one. What makes it different? For students from across Canada and around the world, it’s the ideal setting to balance study, work, and adventure. UCalgary is known as Canada’s ‘entrepreneurial university’, consistently ranked among the world’s best for research and innovation. You won’t just learn theory – you’ll solve real problems, work on cutting-edge projects, and gain career-ready experience through co-op placements, internships, and industry partnerships.
Life on campus is lively and full of possibilities. From hundreds of student clubs and leadership opportunities to Dinos varsity sports and cultural festivals, there’s always something happening.
Calgary itself is one of Canada’s fastest-growing, safest, and sunniest cities, offering Blue Sky CIty energy, a thriving economy, and unbeatable access to breathtaking mountain scenery, with the Rocky Mountains just an hour away.Why choose the University of Calgary?
1. Consistently high rankings: Boost your career potential with a degree backed by top global recognition, including world rankings and top ten or better placement among Canada’s Top 50 Research Universities.
2. Entrepreneurial and research powerhouse: Shape the future by joining Canada’s entrepreneurial university, where $588.5M CAN in research fuels breakthroughs in health, quantum computing, and sustainability.
3. Outstanding graduate success: Launch your career fast with a 96.3% graduate employment rate, supported by co-ops, internships, and industry partnerships that get you working in your field.
4. A vibrant campus community: Make lifelong connections in a campus of 38,000+ students, 400+ clubs, elite athletics, and iconic facilities like the Olympic Oval and Taylor Institute.
5. World-class initiatives and facilities: Gain real-world skills through entrepreneurial hubs, leading microbiome research, hands-on ranch work, and one of North America’s largest LEED Platinum science labs – split across five campuses.
6. Tradition meets innovation: Benefit from a university with deep roots dating back to the early 1900s and the adaptability of a forward- thinking institution founded in 1966.
7. Study where city life meets the outdoors: Live and learn in Calgary, a top-five most liveable city globally (Economist Intelligence Unit 2024), with a vibrant culture, big-city opportunities, affordable living, and the Rocky Mountains at your doorstep.
8. Ranked among North America’s top schools for sport-science research through our Faculty of Kinesiology, which recently received a landmark philanthropic investment to further health and human performance research.
9. Home to the world’s first United Nations University Hub dedicated to water research, an honour that reflects our global leadership in sustainability and interdisciplinary science.
10. A growing epicentre for quantum science, anchored by our Quantum City hub, bringing together researchers, startups, and industry to advance Canada’s quantum economy.
11. Pushing boundaries in education, innovation and social transformation through top-ranked faculties such as the Werklund School of Education and School of Architecture, Planning and Landscape (SAPL)—now expanded into Calgary’s downtown core for even greater city-building impact.
Explore more about life at the University of Calgary via their Facebook, X, Instagram, YouTube.
Upcoming events near you
Visit Event Directory
17th September, 2026
Philadelphia, United States
In Person
Available programmes
University information
Looking to start something with the University of Calgary? Here’s what to expect when you apply – whether you’re beginning an undergraduate degree, advancing to postgraduate study, or arriving from overseas.
Admissions requirements
Entry requirements vary by program and faculty, so it’s essential to check the official course page for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Undergraduate entry requirements
- For undergraduate study, the university looks at your academic results and, for some programs, other factors or alternative pathways.
- To apply for an undergraduate degree at the University of Calgary, you’ll need to have completed a recognized high school program (or equivalent) with strong grades in the required subjects for your chosen degree.
- Some programs ask for specific prerequisites such as maths, sciences, or languages.
- Minimum grade averages vary, and alternative routes – like the Equitable and Inclusive Admission pathway, Indigenous Pathways, and the University Entrance Program – offer other ways to gain entry.
Postgraduate entry requirements
- For master’s programs, you usually need a four-year bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) from a recognised institution, with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- For doctoral study, you’ll typically need a completed master’s degree in a related field (some programs may admit exceptional candidates directly from a bachelor’s).
- Admission requirements and prerequisites can vary widely between faculties, so always check your chosen program’s page for the most accurate details.
International students
UCalgary welcomes students from around the world.
What to provide
- A completed online application form
- Official transcripts from your previous study
- Proof of English language proficiency (if applicable)
- Any program-specific extras, such as references, a portfolio, a CV, or a statement of intent
For full details, program-specific requirements, and important deadlines, head to the university’s website.
Bachelor
Master
With everything from wellness spots to global research stations, UCalgary’s campuses help you study better, recharge deeper, and explore further.
- Study smarter with world-class library resources: Discover UCalgary’s seven libraries, including the Taylor Family Digital Library, with 7.8+ million resources, study spaces, and 24/7 online access to books, journals, and research support.
- Train like a pro and stay active year-round: Whether you’re skating at the Olympic Oval’s Fastest Ice in the World™, swimming in the campus pool, or climbing at the indoor wall, you’ll have elite sports and recreation facilities right on your doorstep – with discounts at the Outdoor Centre for your adventures beyond campus.
- Learn where innovation comes alive: From the flexible, tech-rich classrooms of the Taylor Institute for Teaching and Learning to the LEED Platinum-certified Energy Environment Experiential Learning Building, you’ll study in environments designed to spark collaboration and big ideas.
- Fuel discovery in groundbreaking research spaces: Work on real-world projects at the International Microbiome Centre or get entrepreneurial inspiration at the Hunter Hub. Plus explore ecological research stations in the Rockies and a global marine science centre to bring bold ideas to life.
- Find your campus community: Connect with friends and student groups at the MacEwan Student Centre, catch performances at the theatre, and enjoy free events with the Claim Your Seat program.
- Live where you learn: Choose from a range of fully furnished on-campus residences with utilities, internet, and activities included – whether you’re a first-year student, in postgrad study, or moving with your family.
Student life
From adrenaline-pumping sports to inspiring clubs, Calgary’s campus culture makes it easy to feel part of something bigger. Here’s how you can make the most of your time at UCalgary – on campus and in the city beyond.
- Find your people and your passion: Whether you’re into building robots or baking cupcakes, with over 400 student clubs, you can dive into academic societies, cultural groups, creative collectives, or special interests like the Solar Car Team or the Debate Society.
- Be part of the campus energy: Experience a packed calendar of events, from Orientation Week and Clubs Week to theatre shows, concerts, cultural celebrations, signature weeks like StressLess, and career fairs that connect you with employers.
- Stay active your way: Join one of 50+ intramural leagues, sign up for a rec club, try a fitness class, play for (or cheer on) the Dinos, or hit the Olympic Oval for world-class skating. When you’re ready for adventure, the Outdoor Centre has the gear and guidance to make it happen.
- Lead, volunteer, and make a difference: Take on leadership roles in clubs, volunteer for causes you care about, and build the skills that will set you apart long after graduation.
- Live in one of the world’s most liveable cities: Enjoy Calgary’s sunny climate, diverse culture, and endless activities, from exploring the city’s extensive pathway system to catching the Calgary Stampede or escaping to the Rockies for skiing, hiking, and breathtaking views.
- Explore undergraduate student life.
- Find out about the graduate student experience.
- Discover life as an international student.
- First-year student housing guarantee: If you’re coming straight from high school and are 21 or younger, you can secure guaranteed on-campus housing, if applying before the deadline.
- On-campus accommodation options for every lifestyle: Whether you prefer the community vibe of shared living or the independence of a suite, there’s an option to suit your needs.
- Student residences for second-year, upper-year, and graduate students: Residences for second-year, upper-year, and graduate students offer a mix of privacy and community, giving you a comfortable space to focus while still being part of campus life.
- Family housing for students with children or partners: Dedicated accommodation for students with partners or children means you can balance university life with family life in a supportive environment.
- Fully furnished student housing with utilities included: On-campus housing typically comes furnished, with utilities, internet, and residence activities built in – so you can focus on your studies and student life rather than the logistics of setting up a home.
- Off-campus housing resources for UCalgary students: UCalgary also provides resources for budgeting, planning, and exploring off-campus housing through trusted partners if you prefer to live elsewhere.
If you’re looking to join UCalgary as an international student, you might find the housing information on the International Student Services webpage helpful too.
Student support
UCalgary surrounds you with a network of services designed to help you succeed academically, stay healthy, and feel supported in every aspect of university life.
Academic support
- Get tailored academic guidance: Get one-to-one advising, writing support, and skills workshops at the Student Success Centre, plus peer-led programs like PASS, First-Generation Student initiatives, and the NICE program for neurodiverse learners.
- Push your potential further: Scholars Academy offers mentorship, leadership training, and community engagement to help you go beyond the standard degree.
- Access learning without barriers: Student Accessibility Services provides tailored accommodations, while Writing Symbols Lodge supports Indigenous students with academic, spiritual, and wellness services.
International Student support
- Settle in as an international student: International Student Services offers immigration advice, cultural transition support, and events to help you feel at home in Canada.
- Improve your academic English: The Academic Communication Certificate can help you meet English language requirements and may give you conditional entry to your degree.
Health and wellbeing support
- Look after your health on campus: Access medical services, mental health support, nutrition advice, chiropractic and massage treatments, and workshops at the Student Wellness Centre.
- Find confidential support and education: Join safe, welcoming spaces that offer guidance, awareness programs, and peer-led support to help you thrive.
Pastoral support
- Settle in from day one: The Welcome Centre is your first stop for orientation, information, and getting comfortable on campus.
- Access inclusive spiritual services: The Faith and Spirituality Centre provides interfaith dialogue, faith-based support, and space for reflection.
- Get impartial advice when you need it: The Student Conduct Office helps you understand university policies and maintain a respectful campus, while the Student Ombuds Office offers confidential, impartial advice to resolve academic or personal issues.
Cost of Living
Calgary ranks as the most affordable among the five Canadian cities – Ottawa, Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver (Mercer’s Cost of Living Index 2024)
Calgary offers some of the highest wages in Canada alongside Alberta’s lowest provincial tax rate, allowing you to keep more of what you earn to enjoy life and build your future.
Accommodation
Food
Transport
Utilities
Tuition fees
Domestic
International
Tuition fees and scholarships Fees Knowing what university will cost helps you plan with confidence. At UCalgary, tuition fees vary by program, course load, and whether you’re a Canadian or international student.
Key things to know:
- Rates vary by faculty: Business, Law, and Engineering programs have different tuition levels.
- Extra costs: Some courses, labs, or co-op/internships may have additional fees.
- Graduate fees: Thesis-based programs are usually charged per term, while course-based programs are charged per course.
- General student fees: Cover services like Campus Recreation, Athletics, and Student Services; some, like health and dental coverage, may be optional.
- Deposits and deadlines: You’ll pay a deposit after accepting your offer, and tuition is typically due a few weeks before term starts.
Scholarships
UCalgary offers over $17 million CAD each year in scholarships, bursaries, and awards – many open to international students. You can apply for awards as soon as you’ve submitted your admission application, even before receiving an offer.
- Undergraduate scholarships and bursaries: From entrance awards to continuing scholarships and athletic bursaries, there’s something for every kind of talent and achievement.
- Automatic and nominated awards: Some bursaries and athletic scholarships don’t require an application – you’ll be nominated.
- External scholarships and funding: Explore extra support from EduCanada, Universities Canada, MPOWER Financing, and Scholarships Canada.
Check your eligibility on the UCalgary Awards, Scholarships and Bursaries page, where you’ll find more details on the kinds of financial support available, deadlines and how to apply.
Scholarships
Selecting the right scholarship can be a daunting process. With countless options available, students often find themselves overwhelmed and confused. The decision can be especially stressful for those facing financial constraints or pursuing specific academic or career goals.
To help students navigate this challenging process, we recommend the following articles:
How to get a full scholarship
Looking for a fully-funded scholarship to see you into university? Find out how to boost your chances of getting one.
Scholarships to study abroad
Find scholarships to study abroad with our lists of international scholarships – categorized by country, by subject, and by type of student.
Scholarship Applications: Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to all your questions about scholarship applications, including tips on how to find scholarships and chances of success.
Employability
Career support while you study
- Design your future: UCalgary’s Life Design program helps you connect your passion to your purpose, building a career path that’s personally fulfilling and future-proof.
- Receive tailored guidance for your journey: Dedicated career specialists work specifically with undergrads, master’s, PhD, and international students, ensuring advice that fits your goals, industry, and background.
- Get hands-on industry experience: Through co-ops, internships, and practicums, you can apply what you learn in the classroom to real workplace settings, gaining skills and contacts that set you apart. Over 25% of UCalgary students take part in work-integrated learning opportunities during their degree.
- Try a career before you commit: Micro-placements let you explore careers through job shadows or short projects, giving you a taste of different roles in no time.
- Plan your path with expert guidance: Book one-to-one appointments, join workshops, or get CV feedback from the Centre for Career and Personal Development to refine your career goals and application skills.
- Meet employers face-to-face: Career fairs, information sessions, and networking events connect you with organisations looking for talent, while students or alumni can access Elevate job board gives you access to exclusive opportunities.
- Step into work quickly: 96% of UCalgary graduates find employment within months, with four out of five working in their chosen field, showing how effectively the university prepares you for the job market.
- Enter competitive industries with confidence: Graduates have gone on to work at major employers including Microsoft, Deloitte, Amazon, Suncor, Enbridge, BMW, and more.
- Graduate with real workplace credibility: Paid, long-term placements and industry projects mean employers know you can deliver from day one.
Alumni connections
- International advantage: Eligible international graduates can apply for a 1–3 year post-graduate work permit, opening doors to Canadian work experience.
- Join a global professional network: With over 230,000 graduates in more than 150 countries (two-thirds based in Calgary), you’ll have a ready-made network for mentoring, advice, and opportunities.
- Stay connected for life: As a lifetime member of the UCalgary Alumni Association, you’ll have access to events, development programs, and professional discounts long after graduation.
- Be inspired by success stories: Notable alumni include Olympic champions, award-winning entrepreneurs, international designers, and leaders across industries – all of whom began their journey on campus.
Rankings & Ratings
University of Calgary is one of the top Public universities in Calgary, Canada. It is ranked #249 in QS World University Rankings 2027.
QS World University Rankings
- 2015#=171
- 2016#=204
- 2017#=196
- 2018#217
- 2019#229
- 2020#233
- 2021#246
- 2022#235
- 2023#242
- 2024#182
- 2025#=198
- 2026#211
- 2027#249
QS World University Rankings
- 2015#=171
- 2016#=204
- 2017#=196
- 2018#217
- 2019#229
- 2020#233
- 2021#246
- 2022#235
- 2023#242
- 2024#182
- 2025#=198
- 2026#211
- 2027#249
Campus locations
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Create a UCalgary eID
- Complete the online application form
- Pay the $145 international application fee
- Submit required documents, such as transcripts and proof of English language proficiency
- TOEFL iBT – Minimum 86 overall, no section less than 20
- IELTS Academic – Minimum 6.5 overall, no band less than 6.0
- Duolingo English Test – Minimum 125 overall, no sub-score less than 105
Head to the Admissions webpages to find out more and English language requirements.
You can also personalise your degree with:
- Minors (secondary areas of study)
- Embedded certificates in topics like leadership or sustainability
- Combined degrees across different faculties
- One-to-one academic advising, writing help, and peer mentoring
- Accessibility services to remove barriers to learning
- Dedicated resources for Indigenous and international students
- On-campus health and wellness centre with medical care, mental health support, and workshops
- Career planning, job search guidance, and networking opportunities
- Cultural and spiritual spaces such as the Faith and Spirituality Centre and Women’s Resource Centre
You can apply for awards as soon as you submit your admission application – no need to wait for an offer. Application deadlines vary, so check the official UCalgary scholarships page for details.
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