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How To Get Into The University Of British Columbia (UBC)

  • April 21, 2025
  • 6 minutes
Admitix Editorial Team

Planning to attend the University of British Columbia? Great decision! 

How to get into the University Of British Columbia

University of British Columbia (UBC) is one of the top public research universities in Canada, globally recognized for academic excellence, innovation, and sustainability. With stunning campuses in Vancouver and Kelowna, UBC attracts high-achieving students from over 160 countries.

UBC offers a world-class education, strong industry connections, and a vibrant international student community.

Why Choose The University Of British Columbia?

Here’s why students across the world choose UBC for their higher education:

FeatureDetails
Global Ranking#34 worldwide (QS 2025)
Student PopulationOver 73,000 (across both campuses)
CampusesVancouver and Okanagan (Kelowna), British Columbia, Canada
International Students20,000+ from over 160 countries
Graduate EmployabilityTop-tier in Canada; strong tech, research, and business placement
Notable AlumniJustin Trudeau (PM of Canada), Kim Campbell, Nardwuar, Evangeline Lilly

Entry Requirements for International Students

UBC evaluates students based on academic achievement, English proficiency, and a personal profile for UG courses.

Undergraduate Programs at UBC

RequirementDetails
Academic QualificationMinimum 85–90% in Class XII (varies by program)
English ProficiencyIELTS 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0) / TOEFL iBT 90+
Standardized TestsNot required (SAT/ACT optional for US applicants only)
Personal ProfileRequired – essays about achievements, interests, and leadership
ExtracurricularsLeadership, community work, competitions, and creative work are valued

Postgraduate Programs at UBC

RequirementDetails
Academic Qualification4-year bachelor’s degree with 75–80%+ (First Class or Upper Second)
English ProficiencyIELTS 6.5+ / TOEFL iBT 90+
GRE/GMATRequired for some programs (e.g., MBA, MSc – check specific program)
Work ExperienceRequired for some programs (e.g., MBA requires 2+ years)
Statement of PurposeRequired for most PG applications

Application Process to the University Of British Columbia

StepDetails
Research ProgramsChoose from 250+ UG and 300+ PG programs across two campuses
Prepare DocumentsTranscripts, English test scores, personal profile, resume, SOP, LORs
Apply OnlineVia UBC’s online application portal
Application FeeCAD $138.25 for international applicants
InterviewsNot required for most programs
DecisionUG: January–April / PG: Rolling, depending on department
Visa ProcessApply for Canadian Study Permit after receiving offer and acceptance letter

Required Documents Checklist

DocumentUndergraduatePostgraduate
Academic TranscriptsYesYes
English Test ScoresYesYes
Personal Profile / SOPYesYes
Letters of RecommendationNot required2–3
Resume/CVOptionalOften Required
Passport CopyYesYes
PortfolioFor specific programs (e.g., architecture, fine arts)

Key Deadlines at UBC

IntakeApplication OpensDeadline
Fall Intake (UG & PG)October (previous year)January 15 (UG) / Varies for PG
Summer Intake (PG only)VariesVaries by program

Important Dates for 2025 Entry

EventDate
UG Application DeadlineJanuary 15, 2025
Submit Documents (UG)February 15, 2025
Offers ReleasedMarch–April 2025
PG DeadlinesDec 2024–Feb 2025 (varies)
Course StartSeptember 2025 (main intake)

Popular Courses at the University Of British Columbia

ProgramDurationAnnual Tuition Fee (CAD)
Bachelor of Arts / Science4 yearsCAD $45,000–$53,000
BCom (Sauder School of Business)4 yearsCAD $56,000
BEng (Engineering)4 yearsCAD $58,000
MSc in Computer Science2 yearsCAD $9,500–$14,000
Master of Data Science10–12 monthsCAD $55,000
MBA (UBC Sauder)16 monthsCAD $65,000

Scholarships for International Students

Scholarship NameAmount (CAD)Eligibility
International Scholars Program (UG)Up to full tuitionAcademic excellence + financial need
Outstanding International Student AwardVariesAutomatically considered upon admission
UBC Graduate Scholarships (PG)VariesBased on department recommendations and academic excellence
Vanier CGS (PhD)$50,000/yearHigh academic performance + research potential
Mitacs Globalink, SSHRC, NSERCVariesProgram-specific research or fellowship grants

Student Life & Support at UBC

FeatureDetails
AccommodationOn-campus housing guaranteed for first-year UG; available for PG as well
Work While Studying20 hrs/week part-time during term; full-time during breaks
Career SupportUBC CareersOnline, co-op options, resume & interview workshops
Student Societies350+ clubs and societies across arts, sports, and activism
Health ServicesMedical, counseling, and wellness support
International Student HelpVisa, arrival, work permits, and cultural integration support

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Ready to Study at UBC?

UBC blends academic excellence with real-world impact, offering you a truly global education in one of the most beautiful places on Earth.

Start your UBC journey today with the right preparation and expert guidance from Admitix.

FAQs – University of British Columbia (UBC)

Is it harder to get into UBC?
Yes. UBC is highly selective, especially for international applicants.

Are UBC programs only for research students?
No. UBC offers world-class undergraduate and taught master’s degrees across various disciplines.

Is UBC the same as the Ivy League or Russell Group?
No. UBC is Canada’s leading university, known for academic excellence and research innovation.

Does UBC offer scholarships for Indian students?
Yes. Scholarships like the International Major Entrance Scholarship and Outstanding International Student Award are available.

Can I transfer to UBC mid-degree?
It’s possible, depending on course compatibility and available seats. Early planning is key.

Let’s make your UBC dream a reality!