The University of British Columbia
The University of British Columbia
The University of British Columbia overview
The University of British Columbia, founded in 1906 as McGill University College of British Columbia and later separated from McGill University in 1915, holds the distinction of being the oldest university in the Canadian province of British Columbia. Established in 1915, the University of British Columbia relocated to its permanent campus in Vancouver in 1925. Throughout its history, UBC has experienced remarkable growth in student enrollment, teaching staff, and campus infrastructure. In addition, the institution has experienced significant academic growth and has established itself as a prominent figure among international universities, placing a great emphasis on research. The University of British Columbia is well-known for its impressive rankings in the world university rankings. It is highly regarded for its dedication to sustainability and is renowned for having one of the most environmentally friendly campuses in North America. The University of British Columbia has a rich history of producing notable individuals. Three Canadian prime ministers have risen from its ranks, it has nurtured the talents of 65 Olympic medalist athletes, and its alumni and faculty have earned eight Nobel Prizes. Did you know that UBC has its main campus in Point Grey, which is a beautiful peninsula just 10 kilometers away from downtown Vancouver? Not only that, but UBC also boasts a second campus, UBC Okanagan, located in the picturesque city of Kelowna in the interior of British Columbia.
About The University of British Columbia
The University of British Columbia, founded in 1906 as McGill University College of British Columbia and later separated from McGill University in 1915, holds the distinction of being the oldest university in the Canadian province of British Columbia. Established in 1915, the University of British Columbia relocated to its permanent campus in Vancouver in 1925. Throughout its history, UBC has experienced remarkable growth in student enrollment, teaching staff, and campus infrastructure. In addition, the institution has experienced significant academic growth and has established itself as a prominent figure among international universities, placing a great emphasis on research. The University of British Columbia is well-known for its impressive rankings in the world university rankings. It is highly regarded for its dedication to sustainability and is renowned for having one of the most environmentally friendly campuses in North America. The University of British Columbia has a rich history of producing notable individuals. Three Canadian prime ministers have risen from its ranks, it has nurtured the talents of 65 Olympic medalist athletes, and its alumni and faculty have earned eight Nobel Prizes. Did you know that UBC has its main campus in Point Grey, which is a beautiful peninsula just 10 kilometers away from downtown Vancouver? Not only that, but UBC also boasts a second campus, UBC Okanagan, located in the picturesque city of Kelowna in the interior of British Columbia.
The University of British Columbia faculties and programs
The University of British Columbia scholarships and financial aid
UBC is committed to supporting exceptional students from all over the globe by providing over $30 million each year in awards, scholarships, and other financial assistance for international undergraduate students. Once you receive an offer of admission to UBC, you will be automatically considered for these merit-based awards. We take into account your academic achievements and extracurricular involvement when considering your application. You can find detailed information about the scholarship programs at the links below.
The University of British Columbia Exam Requirements
Submitting at least one of the exams below with the required score is a prerequisite for application. The score threshold may vary by program.
How to get into The University of British Columbia
Admission Requirements For International Students
Undergraduate
British-Patterned Education
- All prospective students must demonstrate English-language competency prior to admission.
- Standing in at least six academic subject areas (GCSE, AS Levels, A Levels), including English, with at least three academic A Levels or six AS Levels. A subject may not be counted at both A Level and GCSE.
- A Level and AS Level courses that are not sufficiently academic in content cannot be used.
- Applied Business
- Applied Information and Communication Technology (Applied ICT)
- Applied Performing Arts
- Applied Science
- Critical Thinking
- Dance
- Divinity
- Electronics
- Food Studies
- General Paper
- General Studies
- Global Perspectives and Research
- Health and Social Care
- Home Economics
- Information Technology
- Leisure Studies
- Media Communication and Production
- Moving Image Arts
- Music Technology
- Performance Studies
- Performing Arts
- Project Work
- Thinking Skills
- Travel and Tourism
- A minimum grade of C in English Literature or English Language at the GCSE, AS, or A Level.
French Baccalaureate
- All prospective students must demonstrate English-language competency prior to admission.
- Completion of the baccalauréat général or the baccalauréat général (option internationale).
- The baccalauréat technologique may be considered for admission on a case-by-case basis. The baccalauréat professionnel does not comprise a basis of admission to UBC.
- Math Informatique does not satisfy the math requirement for admission to UBC’s science-based programs, the Faculty of Management, the UBC Sauder School of Business, or the Vancouver School of Economics.
International Baccalaureate
- Completed IB Diploma, including at least three Higher Level courses.
or - IB Certificate courses (Standard and Higher Level) may be used in an admissions average if you are graduating from a recognized high school curriculum that can be used as your basis of admission.
- IB Math Applications and Interpretations SL, or IB Math Studies, do not satisfy the math requirement for admission to UBC’s science-based programs, the Faculty of Management, the UBC Sauder School of Business, or the Vancouver School of Economics.
Advanced Placement Students
- All AP courses are eligible for admission consideration and can be combined with an approved Canadian high school or international high school curriculum to meet the University’s admission requirements.
Graduate
Prospective international students who wish to apply for graduate programs offered by University of British Columbia must meet the admission requirements outlined below.
- Bachelor's Degree Diploma
- High Grade Point Average
- Official transcripts of the courses taken by the applicant during college/university education
- Work experience may be required for certain programs
- Certificate in English Proficiency (for students whose first language is not English)
- Certificate in English proficiency received through internationally recognized proficiency tests such as IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, PTE Academic, CAE, CPE.
- GRE/GMAT exam score may be required in accordance with the specific admission requirements of certain programs.
Application Deadlines
* These dates are subject to change. Get in touch with our Dream Uni advisors to learn the up-to-date deadlines and all the details about the The University of British Columbia application process.
Take a closer look at The University of British Columbia
The University of British Columbia has two campuses in British Columbia.
The Vancouver campus is located at Point Grey, on the western tip of the Vancouver peninsula. Situated between the Pacific Ocean and the Coast Mountains, it offers scenic views and a lush environment. It covers over 400 hectares (990 acres), making it the larger of the two campuses. This campus has a great variety of facilities, such as well-stocked libraries, state-of-the-art laboratories, and a wide range of arts and athletic facilities. The UBC Museum of Anthropology is well-known for its impressive exhibits showcasing world arts and cultures, with a special emphasis on First Nations peoples. There are numerous on-campus housing options available for students, ranging from traditional dormitories to more modern apartment-style residences. There is a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs available. The campus is well-known for its faculties of science, arts, medicine, and the Sauder School of Business.
The Okanagan campus is in Kelowna, 5 hours northeast of Vancouver. It's significantly smaller than its Vancouver counterpart, covering about 209 hectares (516 acres). Even though it's smaller, the Okanagan campus offers a wide range of facilities, such as state-of-the-art research labs, a library, and athletic facilities. In addition, campus life is lively, with a strong emphasis on fostering a sense of community and promoting sustainability. Student housing is available on campus, offering both dormitory and apartment-style living options. The Okanagan campus offers a range of programs but is particularly known for its School of Engineering, Faculty of Health and Social Development, and strong focus on interdisciplinary and experiential learning.
UBC offers a wide variety of activities, ensuring that students have ample opportunities to pursue their passions or explore new interests. Life on campus is full of opportunities to engage in a variety of activities, from athletics to the arts and culture. It's a vibrant environment that stimulates the mind, body, and spirit. The University of British Columbia hosts a wide range of events on both the Vancouver and Okanagan campuses. These events allow students to actively participate in campus life. There are more than 350 clubs for students to choose from. They can also meet people who share their interests through intramural sports, lunchtime yoga, or campus-wide events. There are plenty of places for students to check out on the Vancouver campus, such as the Museum of Anthropology and Nitobe Memorial Garden. UBC offers a variety of resources to help students foster friendships, establish connections, engage in social activities, and stay informed about exciting events happening on campus. Additionally, there are resources available for commuter students, chaplains, and religious groups, as well as equity, diversity, and inclusion. UBC's campus is brimming with beautiful gardens, fascinating museums, vibrant music, and captivating theaters. There are a number of attractions that you can visit for free if you have a UBC card. We also have a variety of recreation facilities, programs, and intramural sports available. UBC offers a range of resources to help students living in residence navigate their roommate relationships. UBC offers a wide range of dining options on campus, including numerous restaurants and eateries. Additionally, students have the convenience of UBC meal plans to choose from. UBC provides various transportation options to assist students in navigating the beautiful campus. Specifically designed to assist students with disabilities, we also offer an accessibility shuttle. Additionally, we provide bike routes and maintenance services for those who prefer cycling as a means of transportation.
- Yael Cohen
- Rick Hansen
- Belinda Wong
- Justin Trudeau
- Bjarni Tryggvason
- Bing Thom
The University of British Columbia cost of living
The University of British Columbia awards and achievements
- 8 Nobel Laureates
- 74 Rhodes Scholars
- 65 Olympians
The University of British Columbia Frequently Asked Questions
The University of British Columbia Location
Vancouver
The University of British Columbia Contact
The University of British Columbia
Take a Closer Look
How to Get Into The University of British Columbia
In your first meeting with a Dream Uni advisor, your academic background, goals, and expectations are analyzed in detail.
By assessing your English level and academic grades, your eligibility for the universities and colleges Dream Uni partners with is determined.
The application process is managed meticulously by our professional team, and your acceptance letter is delivered to you.
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