Carleton University : Rankings, Fees & Courses Details | TopUniversities
Ranking

# 781-790QS World University Rankings

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216Undergrad & Postgrad Programmes

International

20 % International students

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About Carleton University

One of Canada’s top ranked comprehensive universities, Carleton University is a thriving hub of learning and research, built on more than 80 years of academic excellence.  

Globally renowned academics 
Carleton’s wide variety of high-quality programs are taught by internationally renowned researchers and industry experts who are shaping the future of our world in fields such as AI, quantum, business, engineering, technology, healthcare, psychology, sustainable development as well as politics and global affairs.  

A smart, diverse and caring community 
Carleton is known for its vibrant student life and supportive culture. The university’s 12 residence buildings offer a welcoming environment, providing over 4,000 on-campus housing spaces and all secondary school students entering first year in the fall semester will receive a guaranteed home in residence. Year-round residence is also an option; international students can choose to live on campus for up to 12 months each year for all four years of their degree.  

Financial, academic and health supports 
Generous scholarships and funding options are available to support students financially while extensive academic advising, career guidance, mental health and wellness services ensure students can thrive as they pursue their goals. International undergraduate tuition fees have been frozen from fall 2026 through 2028. 

Beautiful campus in Ottawa, Canada 
Located in Ottawa, Canada — one of the most diverse tech hubs in North America and a vibrant G7 capital city known for its safe, affordable and diverse quality of life — Carleton welcomes more than 30,700 students from over 160 countries each year.

Being in the national capital of Canada gives Carleton students unmatched opportunities to connect with national institutions and research laboratories, government departments, international embassies and multinational technology companies and organizations. 

Ottawa is also one of the most beautiful capitals in the world, with many neighbourhood parks and tranquil green spaces, waterways that wind through the city, and historical and architectural landmarks. 

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Programs


Tuition Fees


About Carleton University

One of Canada’s top ranked comprehensive universities, Carleton University is a thriving hub of learning and research, built on more than 80 years of academic excellence.  

Globally renowned academics 
Carleton’s wide variety of high-quality programs are taught by internationally renowned researchers and industry experts who are shaping the future of our world in fields such as AI, quantum, business, engineering, technology, healthcare, psychology, sustainable development as well as politics and global affairs.  

A smart, diverse and caring community 
Carleton is known for its vibrant student life and supportive culture. The university’s 12 residence buildings offer a welcoming environment, providing over 4,000 on-campus housing spaces and all secondary school students entering first year in the fall semester will receive a guaranteed home in residence. Year-round residence is also an option; international students can choose to live on campus for up to 12 months each year for all four years of their degree.  

Financial, academic and health supports 
Generous scholarships and funding options are available to support students financially while extensive academic advising, career guidance, mental health and wellness services ensure students can thrive as they pursue their goals. International undergraduate tuition fees have been frozen from fall 2026 through 2028. 

Beautiful campus in Ottawa, Canada 
Located in Ottawa, Canada — one of the most diverse tech hubs in North America and a vibrant G7 capital city known for its safe, affordable and diverse quality of life — Carleton welcomes more than 30,700 students from over 160 countries each year.

Being in the national capital of Canada gives Carleton students unmatched opportunities to connect with national institutions and research laboratories, government departments, international embassies and multinational technology companies and organizations. 

Ottawa is also one of the most beautiful capitals in the world, with many neighbourhood parks and tranquil green spaces, waterways that wind through the city, and historical and architectural landmarks. 

Take A Virtual Tour

Programs


Tuition Fees


Available programmes

University information

To apply to Carleton University, visit one of these links: 


Entry requirements depend on faculty and program -- some require specific prerequisites, while others accept a broader academic background.

International students are welcomed and supported through the application process, with access to entrance scholarships and support in housing, work permits and transition supports.

 

Bachelor

6.5+
86+
120+
60+

Master

550+
2.7+
6.5+
86+
125+
60+

Carleton University’s campus provides a modern, accessible and inspiring environment for learning, research and student life. State-of-the-art research labs and innovation hubs across engineering, science, health, AI and data analytics enable students and faculty to work on cutting-edge projects, often in partnership with multiple levels of government, multinational industry organizations and community organizations.  

Classrooms, seminar rooms and collaborative spaces are equipped with the latest technology, while computer labs, makerspaces, creative studios and specialized facilities support hands-on learning and innovation. 

26,785
86%
14%
5,371
78%
22%
2,419
94%
6%

Student life

Carleton University is consistently recognized for excellence in student experience, ranking among the top five comprehensive universities in Canada for student satisfaction (Maclean’s Magazine). 

Centrally located and surrounded by natural beauty, Carleton's campus is just minutes from downtown Ottawa. With easy access by public transit, students can move effortlessly between classes, co-ops, part-time jobs and city life. 

The university offers a vibrant, inclusive student community with 170+ clubs and societies as well as extensive athletic facilities. Students have access to comprehensive support services to help them thrive academically, personally and professionally. This includes academic advising, career guidance, co-op and internship support, wellness and counselling services and accessibility resources for students with disabilities.  

For international students, Carleton’s Global Opportunities & International Student Services Office (GO-ISSO) offers services and programs dedicated to supporting international and exchange students. 

Ottawa itself offers a unique mix of cultural, natural and professional opportunities, creating an ideal environment for learning and personal growth. It is the only Canadian city in the global top 5 for work-life balance. (Global Work-Life Balance City Index 2025)

Cost of Living

Accommodation
$10,220
Food
$4,280
Transport
$1,220
Utilities
$3,800

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:

Employability

Carleton University undergraduates enjoy strong career outcomes, with 87.7% employed within their field shortly after graduation. The university’s reputation for producing skilled, career-ready professionals is strengthened by partnerships with government, industry, research institutions and nonprofits, giving students direct access to co-ops, internships, practicums and field placements that often lead to full-time employment. Carleton places an emphasis on employability by ensuring that students can articulate the skills that are being learned in the classroom and transferring them into the labour force. 

Students benefit from hands-on learning and career preparation built into their programs, including career counselling, workshops, portfolio and resume development, interview coaching and networking opportunities. Regular career fairs and employer events connect students with multinational organizations, while alumni networks provide guidance and mentorship, helping graduates launch successful careers across business, technology, government, research and the nonprofit sector. 

By combining experiential learning, strong partnerships, alumni support and dedicated career services, Carleton ensures students are not only prepared academically but ready to thrive in competitive, impactful careers worldwide. 

Carleton University offers one of the most extensive and fastest growing co-op programs in Canada, with over 200 co-op programs, internships, research placements and community-based projects. 

Paid work terms are available across government, industry, technology, nonprofits and research institutions, allowing students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings while building professional networks. Co-op work terms alternate with academic terms, providing career-relevant experience and, in some cases, hours toward professional designations.  

For programs without a formal co-op option, internships, practicums and field placements offer valuable experience, skill development and networking opportunities, all while earning academic credit. These opportunities equip students with practical skills and connections that support career readiness and success upon graduation.  

With the support from the Career Services office, students will be able to articulate the employability skills gained in the classroom.

     

Rankings & Ratings

Carleton University is one of the top Public universities in Ottawa, Canada. It is ranked #781-790 in QS World University Rankings 2026.

QS World University Rankings

  • 2015
    #501-550
  • 2016
    #501-550
  • 2017
    #551-600
  • 2018
    #651-700
  • 2019
    #651-700
  • 2020
    #651-700
  • 2021
    #601-650
  • 2022
    #601-650
  • 2023
    #601-650
  • 2024
    #671-680
  • 2025
    #741-750
  • 2026
    #781-790

QS World University Rankings

  • 2015
    #501-550
  • 2016
    #501-550
  • 2017
    #551-600
  • 2018
    #651-700
  • 2019
    #651-700
  • 2020
    #651-700
  • 2021
    #601-650
  • 2022
    #601-650
  • 2023
    #601-650
  • 2024
    #671-680
  • 2025
    #741-750
  • 2026
    #781-790

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Frequently Asked Questions

High school studies including prerequisite subjects: 
  • The minimum requirement for admission to the first year of a bachelor’s degree program is secondary school (high school) graduation. Carleton University recognizes and accepts national qualifications from most countries. 
  • Secondary education should normally include at least 12 years of study. In countries where the secondary system is fewer than 12 years, applicants may need to complete one year of university study before qualifying. 
  • Specific prerequisite courses with minimum grades may be required depending on the chosen program.


GPA & conditional offers: 

  • Carleton focuses on academic performance in the final year(s) of secondary school rather than an overall school GPA. Requirements vary by program and higher grades improve your chances of acceptance. 
  • If you are applying while still completing your studies, you can submit your most recent grades to be reviewed for a conditional offer.  

Carleton University accepts IELTS, TOEFL iBT and Duolingo English Test (DET) scores and more for undergraduate admission. The minimum requirements for entry into a degree without any English language requirements are IELTS 6.5 IELTS (minimum 6.0 each band), TOEFL iBT 86 (22 in writing and speaking, 20 reading and listening), and Duolingo 120 (minimum 110 in writing, 110 in reading, 110 in speaking and 105 in listening). 


Applicants who studied for the past three years full-time in English in Canada or a country where English is the primary language may qualify for an exemption. 


Students who do not meet the minimum scores may be admitted with an English as a Second Language Requirement (ESLR). In the first terms of study, students will be required to take Academic ESL along with a limited number of courses from their degree program.  

Carleton University’s undergraduate programs usually begin in early September, and applicants must submit their applications by the deadline.  Carleton accepts applications on a rolling basis, which means applications are evaluated as they come in. You are encouraged to apply as early as possible to meet the residence acceptance deadline. 


March 1 Deadline (specialized programs): 

  • Architectural Studies 
  • Industrial Design 
  • Music 
  • Humanities 
  • Information Technology (Interactive Multimedia and Design) 
  • Nursing 
  • Social Work 


April 1 Deadline: 

  • International applicants applying from outside Canada and the United States for programs not listed above.  
  • If you missed the April 1 deadline, please email [email protected] as some programs might be still accepting applications. 


June 1 Deadline: 

  • Applicants whose high school transcript originates from Canada or the United States for programs not listed above. 


International students are eligible for several types of entrance scholarships designed to recognize academic excellence and leadership:  


Undergraduate Entrance Scholarship  

  • Automatically awarded to all high school applicants who meet Carleton’s academic and language requirements. 
  • Scholarship value is based on previous academic performance ($1,000 to $4,000 CAD per year, renewable each year upon meeting academic requirements).  


Prestige Scholarships  

  • Competitive awards based on both academic excellence and community involvement (leadership, service, extracurricular activities) with values in the range of $5,000 to $14,178 CAD per year. 
  • Application required (deadline March 1). 


President’s Welcome Award for International Students  

  • Automatically awarded to international undergraduate applicants. 
  • Valued at $2,000 to $5,000 CAD, depending on admission average.  
  • Awarded in addition to other entrance scholarships, increasing overall financial support. 

Investing in a university education is one of the most important decisions for your future, and planning for both tuition and living costs is key.  


Average costs: living on campus 
Note: recent high school leavers get a guaranteed spot in one of Carleton’s 12 spacious residence buildings.

  • Tuition & student fees (2025–2026): $39,000 to $55,000 CAD 
  • Residence & meal plan (double room, All Access meal plan, internet): $13,442 CAD 
  • Books & supplies: $1,400 CAD 
  • Personal expenses (entertainment, clothing, extras): $3,000 CAD 


Total annual cost: $56,842 to $72,842 CAD (approx. $41,000 to $52,000 USD) 


Average costs: living off campus 

  • Tuition & student fees (2025–2026): $39,000 to $55,000 CAD  
  • Off campus housing (shared accommodation, utilities, food, internet): $15,000 to $20,000 CAD 
  • Books & supplies: $1,400 CAD 
  • Personal expenses (entertainment, clothing, extras): $3,000 CAD 


Total annual cost: $58,400 to $79,400 CAD (approx. $42,000 to $57,000 USD) 

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