University of British Columbia
An undergraduate could feel overwhelmed at a school as big as UBC, with its sprawling Point Grey campus and an international reputation for research and graduate programs. It’s a challenge that the university is addressing. In an ongoing effort to create more intimate learning, UBC is adding more student-centric learning spaces and engaging neighbouring municipalities as community partners. The smaller Okanagan campus, which has about 12,000 students, was founded in partnership with the Syilx Okanagan Nation and supports Okanagan Indigenous culture and knowledge, while continuing to be a strong research and learning hub. “From the ocean and mountains of Vancouver to the Okanagan’s outdoor adventures, UBC students benefit from inspiring environments that support their academic, career, and personal growth,” says Benoit-Antoine Bacon, UBC’s president and vice-chancellor. “Our students learn from world-renowned faculty, gain hands-on career experience in co-op placements and go on life-changing exchanges at partner universities around the world.” UBC boasts a strong record in the number of Rhodes Scholars it has produced and the number of faculty who have received 3M National Teaching Fellowships. A student-led team recently designed and managed the construction of Third Space Commons, a carbon-minimal teaching and learning space and one of the first buildings of its kind in Canada. Both campuses offer a range of cultural and recreational activities, as well as spectacular natural scenery. UBC operates Canada’s largest student housing program, including the 650-bed Exchange Residence that features 71 “nano” (140 square foot) suites.
Campus buzz: A new $60-million recreation centre at the Vancouver campus features an indoor run, walk and wheel track, tripling the indoor workout space.
Quick facts
Tuition (includes compulsory ancillary fees)
$7,063
Minimum Entering Grades
Arts, Science, Commerce, Engineering
UBC no longer captures entering grades as a single metric; grades are reviewed relevant to program
Student Body
Undergraduates: Full-time: 40,811 | Part-time: 17,920
Graduates: Full-time: 11,025 | Part-time: 1,557
International Students: First-year: 27% | Graduate: 43%
Housing Facts
Residence Spaces: 16,006 (6,399 reserved for first-year students)
Cost of double room with meals: $11,396 to $14,736
Cost of single room with meals: $13,011 to $16,706
Cost of apartment-style: $7,375 to $14,888
Standout programs
Bachelor and Master of Management: Students combine undergraduate study from a range of disciplines with a master of management, which includes opportunities to work on real-world business projects.
Indigenous Land Stewardship: Using culturally appropriate approaches, students gain a thorough understanding of land stewardship concepts, knowledge and skills.
Freshwater Science: To prepare for a career in inland aquatic ecosystems, students study water quality, hydrology, water resources, aquatic organisms and the health of aquatic ecosystems.
