University of Ottawa
Ottawa, Canada
University of Ottawa
Ottawa, Canada
Founded
1848
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
46,000+
Acceptance Rate
~42%
Discover the University of Ottawa: Canada's Premier Bilingual University
Discover the University of Ottawa: Canada's Premier Bilingual University
Founded in 1848 as the College of Bytown by Bishop Joseph-Bruno Guigues and the Oblates of Mary Immaculate, the University of Ottawa is the largest bilingual English-French university in the world. Located in the heart of Canada's capital city, the university offers over 450 programs across ten faculties and is a proud member of the U15 group of Canadian research-intensive universities.
From its humble origins as a small Roman Catholic college with fewer than 100 students, uOttawa has grown into one of Canada's top research universities, enrolling over 40,000 undergraduate and 6,000 graduate students from more than 150 countries. The university's bilingual mandate, inherited from its founders, continues to shape its identity and attract a remarkably diverse student body.
Situated in the Sandy Hill neighbourhood just steps from Parliament Hill, the ByWard Market, and the Rideau Canal, uOttawa provides students with unparalleled access to government institutions, embassies, and national research laboratories. The university boasts a 97 percent employment rate for its graduates and has a global alumni network of more than 250,000 members.
Key Milestones
- 1848: Founded as the College of Bytown by Bishop Joseph-Bruno Guigues and the Oblates of Mary Immaculate as a bilingual Catholic institution.
- 1866: Elevated to university status by royal charter and renamed the College of Ottawa, with degree-granting powers conferred by civil charter.
- 1965: Reorganized as a publicly funded, secular institution under the University of Ottawa Act passed by the Ontario Legislature.
- 2025: Achieved its best-ever QS World University Rankings result, climbing to 189th globally and ranking second in Canada for research citations.
Academic Faculties and Programs at uOttawa
Academic Faculties and Programs at uOttawa
The University of Ottawa offers a wide variety of academic programs administered by ten faculties, providing over 450 programs at the undergraduate, graduate, and professional levels. Many programs are available in English, French, or both, and the university pioneered the world's first French immersion undergraduate program. uOttawa's co-operative education program is among the top five in Canada, with a placement success rate exceeding 98 percent.
Faculty of Engineering
The Faculty of Engineering is accredited by AACSB International and offers programs across multiple engineering disciplines with strong co-op and research opportunities in collaboration with government and industry partners in the National Capital Region.
- Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
Telfer School of Management
The Telfer School of Management holds AACSB International accreditation and offers undergraduate, MBA, Executive MBA, and doctoral programs with a focus on innovation, entrepreneurship, and leadership in both official languages.
- Bachelor of Commerce
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Executive MBA
Faculty of Law
Home to the largest law school in Canada, the Faculty of Law offers both Civil Law and Common Law sections, reflecting Canada's bijural legal tradition. Students can pursue combined JD programs and specialize in areas like technology law and human rights.
- Juris Doctor (Common Law)
- Licence en droit (Civil Law)
- National Program (Combined JD/LLL)
Faculty of Medicine
Established in 1945, the Faculty of Medicine partners with The Ottawa Hospital and the Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario to deliver clinical training. The faculty is renowned for groundbreaking medical research including the Ottawa Ankle Rule and Wells Criteria.
- Doctor of Medicine (MD)
- MSc in Cellular and Molecular Medicine
- PhD in Neuroscience
Faculty of Social Sciences
One of the largest faculties at uOttawa, the Faculty of Social Sciences offers programs in political science, economics, psychology, criminology, and more. Its location in the national capital provides unique access to government and policy institutions.
- Political Science
- Psychology
- Criminology
Faculty of Science
The Faculty of Science offers programs in biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and earth sciences. Researchers in the faculty are recognized leaders in photonics, environmental science, and data science, supported by state-of-the-art laboratories.
- Biology
- Computer Science
- Mathematics and Statistics
Admission Requirements for International Students
Admission Requirements for International Students
Undergraduate Admission
- Secondary School DiplomaCompletion of secondary school with competitive grades (minimum varies by program and country of origin)
- English ProficiencyIELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0) or TOEFL iBT 79 minimum
- French ProficiencyRequired for French-language programs; proof of French-medium secondary education or equivalent test
- PrerequisitesSpecific prerequisite courses required depending on program (e.g., math and science for engineering)
- Application PortalApply through the Ontario Universities Application Centre (OUAC) or directly via uOttawa for international applicants
Graduate Admission
- Bachelor's DegreeFour-year bachelor's degree or equivalent from a recognized institution with a minimum B average (70%)
- English ProficiencyIELTS 6.5 (minimum) or TOEFL iBT 79 (minimum); some programs require higher scores
- Letters of RecommendationTypically two to three academic or professional references required
- Statement of IntentA research proposal or statement of purpose outlining academic goals and research interests
- Standardized TestsGRE or GMAT may be required depending on the program; check specific faculty requirements
Deadline for international undergraduate applicants seeking admission to the Fall semester starting in September.
Deadline for international undergraduate applicants seeking admission to the Winter semester starting in January.
Graduate deadlines vary by faculty and program. Most programs have deadlines between January and April for Fall admission.
Early application is recommended for maximum scholarship and financial aid consideration. Some merit-based awards have earlier deadlines.
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
Tuition Fees and Scholarship Opportunities
Tuition fees at the University of Ottawa vary by program, level of study, and residency status. Canadian students' fees are regulated by the Ontario government, while international student fees are unregulated. The figures below are approximate annual estimates for full-time study; please visit the official uOttawa website for current fee schedules.
| Fee Category | Canadian Students (Annual) | International Students (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition (Arts/Social Sciences) | CAD 7,600 – CAD 8,500 | CAD 40,000 – CAD 45,000 |
| Undergraduate Tuition (Engineering/Science) | CAD 9,500 – CAD 12,000 | CAD 52,000 – CAD 58,000 |
| Graduate Tuition (Master's Programs) | CAD 7,000 – CAD 10,000 | CAD 16,000 – CAD 28,000 |
| Ancillary and Student Fees | CAD 1,200 – CAD 1,800 | CAD 1,200 – CAD 1,800 |
| Total | CAD 8,800 – CAD 13,800 | CAD 17,200 – CAD 59,800 |
Differential Tuition Fee Exemption Scholarship
A major scholarship for international Francophone and Francophile students enrolled in French-language or French Immersion programs, significantly reducing tuition to near-domestic levels.
- Eligibility: International students in French-language or French Immersion bachelor's or master's programs
- Value: Up to CAD 12,500 per term (undergraduate); up to CAD 5,500 per term (master's)
- Renewable: Yes, renewable for the duration of the program provided eligibility conditions are met
International Doctoral Scholarship
A prestigious scholarship for international PhD students that reduces tuition fees to the level paid by Canadian students from outside Ontario for up to five years.
- Value: CAD 45,000 over five years
- Eligibility: International students admitted to a doctoral program at uOttawa
- Duration: Up to 5 years of doctoral study
Campus and Facilities at the University of Ottawa
Campus and Facilities at the University of Ottawa
The University of Ottawa's main campus is located in the Sandy Hill neighbourhood in the heart of downtown Ottawa, covering approximately 42.5 hectares across multiple sites. The campus blends historic buildings like the iconic Tabaret Hall with modern research facilities, and is conveniently situated near the Rideau Canal, ByWard Market, and Parliament Hill.
Built in 1905, Tabaret Hall is the iconic symbol of the University of Ottawa and houses administrative offices and the Department of Music's main performance hall.
A state-of-the-art facility supporting science, technology, engineering, and mathematics programs with advanced laboratories and collaborative learning spaces.
The main library features over 5.9 million titles across 12 branches, plus cutting-edge technologies including an 8K video wall, virtual reality equipment, and multimedia studios.
Housing and Dining
On-Campus Residences
uOttawa offers several on-campus residence options for undergraduate and graduate students, equipped with modern amenities including Wi-Fi, study lounges, and meal plan options.
- Traditional single and double rooms in residence halls
- Suite-style and apartment-style housing for upper-year students
- Guaranteed first-year residence for eligible students who apply by the deadline
Dining Options
The campus features over 35 dining outlets including cafeterias, cafés, and popular restaurant chains, catering to diverse dietary preferences and cultural tastes.
- Multiple meal plan options available for residence students
- Diverse food outlets including halal, vegetarian, and vegan options
- Proximity to ByWard Market offers hundreds of additional restaurants and food vendors
Student Life at the University of Ottawa
Student Life at the University of Ottawa
Student life at uOttawa is vibrant and diverse, reflecting the university's bilingual and multicultural character. With hundreds of student clubs, a thriving arts scene, and a downtown campus location, students enjoy a rich mix of academic, social, and cultural experiences throughout the year.
Ottawa: Canada's Capital City
Ottawa: Canada's Capital City
Life in Ottawa
Ottawa is Canada's capital city and the fourth-largest city in the country, offering a unique blend of political significance, cultural richness, and natural beauty. As a bilingual city at the confluence of the Ottawa, Gatineau, and Rideau rivers, it provides an exceptional environment for students to experience both English and French Canadian culture while enjoying world-class museums, festivals, and outdoor recreation.
Government and Policy Hub
As the seat of Canada's federal government, Ottawa offers students unparalleled access to Parliament Hill, embassies, federal agencies, and policy think tanks for internships and co-op placements.
Cultural Attractions
Home to the National Gallery of Canada, the Canadian Museum of History, the National Arts Centre, and the ByWard Market, Ottawa is one of Canada's most culturally rich cities.
Outdoor Recreation
The Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, becomes the world's largest skating rink in winter. Gatineau Park and extensive cycling and hiking trails are minutes from campus.
Safe and Livable City
Ottawa consistently ranks among the most livable and safest cities in Canada, with excellent public transit, green spaces, and a high quality of life for students.
Career Outcomes and Notable Alumni
Career Outcomes and Notable Alumni
Where uOttawa Graduates Work
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
The International Office provides comprehensive support including pre-arrival orientation, immigration advising, study permit assistance, and cultural adjustment programs to help international students thrive at uOttawa.
All international students are automatically enrolled in the University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP), which covers essential medical services during their studies in Ontario.
uOttawa offers English and French language support services, including the world's first French Immersion program for undergraduates, academic writing centres, and conversation groups in both official languages.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University of Ottawa: World Rankings
University of Ottawa: World Rankings
The University of Ottawa has achieved growing global recognition, climbing steadily in major world university rankings. The university's strengths in research intensity, sustainability, and employment outcomes have powered it to its best-ever results in recent years.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Law | QS World University Rankings by Subject | Top 100 Globally |
| Education | QS World University Rankings by Subject | Top 150 Globally |
| Medicine | Times Higher Education | Top 200 Globally |
| Engineering | QS World University Rankings by Subject | Top 250 Globally |
Features
Established in 1848, the University of Ottawa operates as a premier research institution in the Canadian capital. The university currently enrolls approximately 48,000 students in a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. A dedicated academic staff of 1,400 members supports high-level research and teaching across multiple faculties. The institution continues to lead in bilingual education, maintaining a significant impact on both national and global stages.
Accommodation
Off-Campus Accommodations Students wishing to live off-campus need to research availability on their own, and should arrive well before the start of term to do so.
Work While Studying
See guidelines on working while studying here.
Co-op/Internship Participation
Even if you do NOT meet our minimum English requirement (IELTS or TOEFL), you still can get conditionally accepted in the program of your choice with the condition of completing our English program prior to starting your chosen program.
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
September - January
4 week
January - September
4 week
Location
75 Laurier Ave E, Ottawa, ON K1N 6N5, Canada
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