Universities in Vancouver - QS Best Student Cities Ranking | Top Universities
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Study in Vancouver

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Holly Hemmings

Updated Jul 14, 2025
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Vancouver is home to the University of British Columbia and Simon Fraser University.

The latter offers a particularly unique study setting, thanks to the location of its main campus in the middle of the Burnaby Mountain Conservation Area, just outside the city.

Whether you’re based in the city centre or in the suburbs, there’s always something to see, do or explore. The nearby Grouse, Seymour and Cypress mountains provide more than just a beautiful backdrop to the city – they’re also an incredibly popular destination for snow sports, offering some of the world’s best ski resorts.

Even in the centre of Vancouver the great outdoors is never far away – beaches, forests and stunning mountains are all within easy reach. For those who prefer cultural pursuits, Vancouver also offers an array of brilliant nightlife, theatres and music – everything you’d expect from one of Canada’s most loved cities.

Top universities in Vancouver

Rank
University
40

QS World University Rank

=308

QS World University Rank

384

QS World University Rank

Vancouver's QS Best Student Cities performance

Affordability rank 116
Desirability rank 10
Employer Activity rank 28
Student Mix rank 13
Student View rank 34

Why study in Vancouver?

Enjoy the outdoors – whatever the weather

Vancouver offers students a great climate with mild (albeit rainy winters) and very warm summers, ideal for getting out and exploring the great outdoors.

From skiing in the Grouse, Seymour and Cypress mountains in the winter, to spending the day at one of the city’s golden beaches or hiking in one of the surrounding parks and natural reserves in the summer, Vancouver has a lot to offer to those with a love of the outdoors.

Good employment prospects

Vancouver is one of the top student cities in the world for employer activity – an indication that the city’s graduates are highly respected amongst employers.

Brilliant nightlife, theatres and music

Vancouver is a real culture hub, and its brilliant nightlife, theatres and music scene means there is plenty to keep students entertained after lectures and at weekends.

Cost of studying in Vancouver

Although tuition fees are a lower in Vancouver than in Toronto, average fees for international students are US$29,800 per year. This high cost of tuition causes Vancouver to rank unimpressively for affordability.

Life and culture in Vancouver

From the snow-capped mountains to the idyllic waterfront, the dazzling Downtown district to the national historic site of Gastown, Vancouver seems to have it all – and more.

Vancouver ranks highly in the desirability indicator, reflecting its popularity among prospective students and all-round high quality of life.

It is a sophisticated, yet hardworking city that oozes opportunity and excitement for locals and tourists alike. Vancouver’s excellent transportation system allows locals to move around with city with ease which is great as there are so many things to see and do.

Its vibrant nightlife along with its theatres and fun music scene sees a range of events marked on the city’s calendar. For those who love the outdoors, you’ll be spoilt for choice; from skiing to hiking, swimming to kayaking (but don’t feel like you need to do it all at once)! And for a bit of rest and relaxation, then the very popular urban green space Stanley Park is the place to go.

Careers in Vancouver

Vancouver has a range of opportunities open to graduates, particularly within its major economic sectors which includes international trade, film and television, construction, and tourism.

The city is also home to Port Metro Vancouver, Canada’s largest and most diversified port.

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