Simon Fraser University
In addition to the original Burnaby campus—known for its stunning mountain views and Arthur Erickson–designed buildings—Simon Fraser University has well-established campuses in Vancouver’s downtown core and in the suburb of Surrey. All three campuses have created strong ties with their local communities. One example is UniverCity, a model sustainable community with a population of more than 5,000 residents on Burnaby Mountain. SFU is the only Canadian school with sports teams competing in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). A three-semester system provides flexibility, and the university has extensive co-op offerings. More than 9,200 students are enrolled in co-op and many are placed with companies such as Amazon, Apple, Boeing, Telus and Google. The university’s sponsored research income has grown by 35 per cent in the past decade.
“SFU is a leading research university, advancing an inclusive and sustainable future,” says president Joy Johnson. “SFU provides a world-class education and works with communities and partners to foster innovation that addresses global challenges and makes a difference for B.C., Canada and the world.” SFU’s future School of Medicine is currently securing accreditation. Based in Surrey, B.C., the school is scheduled to welcome its first students in 2026.
Campus buzz: Students who love all things anime can join the SFU Anime Club, which runs events and contests, and participates in art markets.
Quick facts
Tuition (includes compulsory ancillary fees)
$7,619
Minimum Entering Grades
Arts: 80% | Science: 84% | Commerce: 78% | Engineering: 85%
Student Body
Undergraduates: Full-time: 13,798 | Part-time: 11,916
Graduates: Full-time: 3,757 | Part-time: 668
International Students: First-year: 13% | Graduate: 43%
Housing Facts
Residence Spaces: 2,384 (approx. 1,100 reserved for first-year students)
Cost of single room: $6,992 to $8,800
Cost of single room with meals:$13,754 to $15,562
Cost of apartment-style: $11,640 to $16,280
Standout programs
Data Science: Designed to meet the skill sets commonly required in business and industry, this program covers mathematics, computer science and statistics and offers courses in business to help students build strengths in communication, business know-how and teamwork.
Archaeology: Founded in 1971, the department of archaeology provides a range of specialized programs focusing on archaeological and environmental science, First Nations heritage and biological anthropology. Students learn through lab work and on international field sites.
Sustainable Engineering: This program combines engineering, entrepreneurship and economics. Students receive advanced training and hands-on experience and can go into careers solving global sustainability challenges.
