University of Victoria
Victoria, Canada
University of Victoria
Victoria, Canada
Founded
1963
Institution Type
Public Research University
Total Students
22,000+
Acceptance Rate
~63%
Discover the University of Victoria: A Leading Canadian Research University
Discover the University of Victoria: A Leading Canadian Research University
The University of Victoria (UVic) is a publicly funded research university located in Greater Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. Widely recognized for leadership in research, hands-on learning, and a deep commitment to sustainability and community impact, UVic serves more than 22,000 students, including a large international population from over 100 countries.
UVic traces its origins to 1903 with the establishment of Victoria College, which was originally affiliated with McGill University. The institution received full degree-granting status and university autonomy in 1963 under the University Act of British Columbia, and soon afterwards moved to its present 385-acre campus at Gordon Head.
Today, UVic operates nine academic faculties and two schools, and is home to world-leading research centres including Ocean Networks Canada, the Pacific Institute for Climate Solutions, and TRIUMF, Canada's national laboratory for particle and nuclear physics. The university also runs one of Canada's largest co-operative education programs, integrating academic studies with paid work experience across more than 40 academic areas.
Key Milestones
- 1903: Victoria College established in affiliation with McGill University, offering first- and second-year arts and science courses.
- 1963: Gained full autonomy as the University of Victoria under the University Act, with degree-granting status.
- 2015: Opened the Centre for Athletics, Recreation and Special Abilities (CARSA), a state-of-the-art 190,000 sq. ft. facility.
- 2025: Ranked number 1 in Canada for international research collaboration in the Leiden Ranking and earned top marks for climate action from Times Higher Education.
Academic Faculties and Programs at UVic
Academic Faculties and Programs at UVic
UVic operates nine academic faculties and schools, offering over 200 undergraduate and graduate programs. The university is known for its interdisciplinary approach, strong co-op program, and research-intensive learning environment that prepares students for meaningful careers.
Peter B. Gustavson School of Business
Consistently ranked among the top business schools in Canada, the Gustavson School emphasizes international business, sustainability, and experiential learning through co-op placements and global exchanges.
- Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)
- Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- Master of Global Business (MGB)
Faculty of Engineering and Computer Science
Offering programs in biomedical, civil, computer, electrical, mechanical, and software engineering, this faculty emphasizes hands-on design projects and co-op work terms to produce career-ready graduates.
- Bachelor of Engineering (BEng)
- Bachelor of Software Engineering (BSEng)
- Master of Applied Science (MASc)
Faculty of Science
Home to departments spanning biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and earth and ocean sciences, the Faculty of Science is a hub for cutting-edge research in climate science, marine biology, and astrophysics.
- Bachelor of Science (BSc)
- MSc in Earth and Ocean Sciences
- PhD in Physics and Astronomy
Faculty of Law
UVic Law is home to Canada's first and only Indigenous Law degree program, along with dedicated research centres for Indigenous and environmental law. The faculty is nationally recognized for its progressive approach to legal education.
- Juris Doctor (JD)
- Joint Degree in Canadian Common Law and Indigenous Legal Orders (JD/JID)
- Master of Laws (LLM)
Faculty of Humanities
Comprising ten departments including English, History, Philosophy, Linguistics, and Pacific and Asian Studies, the Faculty of Humanities fosters critical thinking, analysis, and communication across a wide range of disciplines.
- Bachelor of Arts (BA) in English
- MA in History
- PhD in Philosophy
Faculty of Human and Social Development
This interdisciplinary faculty brings together programs in nursing, public health, social work, public administration, and health information science to address complex social and health challenges.
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- Master of Social Work (MSW)
- Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Admission Requirements for the University of Victoria
Admission Requirements for the University of Victoria
Undergraduate Admission
- High School DiplomaCompletion of secondary school with required academic courses; specific prerequisites vary by program
- Minimum AverageCompetitive admission average varies by program; contact the university for current thresholds
- English ProficiencyIELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0) or TOEFL iBT 90
- Application FeeCAD 87.75 (Canadian transcripts) or CAD 177.00 (international transcripts)
- Application PortalEducationPlannerBC online application system
Graduate Admission
- Undergraduate DegreeFour-year bachelor's degree or equivalent from a recognized institution
- Minimum GPAMinimum B average (approximately 5.0/9.0 on UVic scale) in the last two years of study
- English ProficiencyIELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0) or TOEFL iBT 90
- Supporting DocumentsLetters of recommendation, statement of intent, transcripts, and program-specific materials
- Application FeeCAD 172.00
Primary application deadline for most undergraduate programs starting in September. Some programs continue accepting applications until May 1.
Final deadline for many undergraduate programs still accepting applications for September entry. Housing guarantee requires application by April 15.
Graduate application deadlines vary widely by department and program. International applicants are encouraged to apply early to allow time for immigration processing.
Deadline for select programs offering a January (Winter) intake. Not all programs accept applications for this entry point.
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at UVic
Tuition Fees and Scholarships at UVic
UVic offers competitive tuition rates for both domestic and international students. International tuition fees are set annually with an inflationary increase capped at 4% per year, providing cost certainty throughout your degree. Contact the university directly for the most current fee schedules.
| Fee Category | Canadian Students (Annual) | International Students (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate Tuition (Arts/Science) | CAD 6,000 - 7,500 | CAD 30,800 - 34,800 |
| Graduate Tuition (per installment) | CAD 1,900 - 2,500 | CAD 3,500 - 5,500 |
| Student Fees & Health Insurance | CAD 900 - 1,100 | CAD 1,500 - 1,800 |
| On-Campus Housing & Meal Plan | CAD 9,000 - 15,000 | CAD 9,000 - 15,000 |
| Total | CAD 17,800 - 25,100 | CAD 44,800 - 67,100 |
Entrance Scholarships
UVic automatically assesses all admitted students for entrance scholarships based on admission average. No separate application is required for most merit-based awards.
- Value: CAD 3,000 - 10,000+
- Eligibility: Based on admission average; automatically assessed
- Application: No separate application required for most awards
International Student Awards
UVic offers dedicated scholarships for international students, including IB student awards of up to 10% of first-year tuition and continuing student scholarships after the first year.
- Value: Up to 10% of tuition and higher for top scholars
- Eligibility: International undergraduate and graduate students
- Deadline: Varies; check UVic Student Awards & Financial Aid
Campus and Facilities at UVic
Campus and Facilities at UVic
UVic's 385-acre campus at Gordon Head is situated on the border of Oak Bay and Saanich, surrounded by natural forests, gardens, and close to beautiful Pacific coastline. The campus blends modern academic buildings with preserved natural areas including Finnerty Gardens and Mystic Vale, a 4.4-hectare forested park.
A 190,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art facility featuring a performance gym, climbing centre, fitness areas, and home of the Vikes varsity programs.
UVic's main library provides extensive research collections, digital resources, study spaces, and specialized archives including a historic BC textbook collection.
A stunning botanical garden and forested ravine preserved within campus, offering peaceful walking trails and a connection to the natural West Coast environment.
Housing & Dining
On-Campus Housing
UVic offers on-campus housing for over 3,200 students in a variety of options. First-year students who apply by the deadline are guaranteed a room in residence.
- Single and double dormitory rooms
- Cluster-style apartment housing (four per unit)
- Bachelor, one-bedroom, and family apartments
Dining Options
Students living in residence receive a standard meal plan that can be used at university dining facilities across campus. Additional dining options are available nearby.
- Residence meal plan included with dormitory housing
- Multiple campus restaurants and cafés
- Grad House Restaurant and Student Union Building food court
Student Life at the University of Victoria
Student Life at the University of Victoria
UVic offers a vibrant campus experience shaped by its close-knit community, stunning natural setting, and diverse student body. With over 200 clubs and organizations, extensive recreation programs, and a strong tradition of school spirit through Vikes Nation, there is something for everyone at UVic.
Victoria, British Columbia: Canada's Garden City
Victoria, British Columbia: Canada's Garden City
Life in Victoria, BC
Victoria is the capital city of British Columbia, located on the southern tip of Vancouver Island. Named the best small city in the world by Condé Nast Traveler in 2024, Victoria offers a mild year-round climate, stunning coastal scenery, a vibrant arts and culinary scene, and easy access to outdoor recreation including hiking, kayaking, and whale watching.
Mild West Coast Climate
Victoria enjoys Canada's mildest climate with warm, dry summers and mild, rainy winters. Average temperatures range from 4°C in winter to 22°C in summer.
Outdoor Recreation Paradise
Surrounded by ocean, forests, and mountains, Victoria offers world-class hiking, cycling, surfing, skiing on nearby Mount Washington, and whale watching excursions.
Cultural Hub
The city features a thriving arts scene with galleries, theatres, international film festivals, live music venues, and a celebrated local food and craft beverage culture.
Accessible & Connected
Victoria is connected to Vancouver by ferry and float plane, with Victoria International Airport offering domestic and select international flights. UVic students receive a U-Pass for unlimited public transit.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Where UVic Graduates Work
Practical Information for International Students
Practical Information for International Students
For International Students
UVic provides comprehensive support for international students including orientation programs, immigration advising, cultural transition support, and academic integration assistance.
Nearly all international UVic students can participate in paid co-op work terms as part of their studies. Co-op placements are available across more than 40 academic areas, providing valuable Canadian work experience.
All international students are enrolled in a mandatory temporary medical insurance plan (MTMI) in their first term, costing CAD 265, plus extended health and dental plans totalling approximately CAD 681.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- [email protected]
- [email protected]
University of Victoria: Worldwide Rankings
University of Victoria: Worldwide Rankings
The University of Victoria consistently ranks among Canada's top comprehensive universities and is recognized globally for research impact, sustainability leadership, and graduate employability. UVic is ranked number 1 in Canada for international research collaboration and among the top 5 for research impact according to the 2025 Leiden Ranking.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Earth and Marine Sciences | Shanghai Global Ranking of Academic Subjects | Top 100 globally |
| Law | QS World University Rankings by Subject | #301-350 |
| Sport Science | Shanghai Global Ranking of Academic Subjects | #28 globally |
| Sustainability | QS World University Rankings: Sustainability | #171 |
Features
The University of Victoria (UVic) is a leading public research university located in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. Known for its strong academic programs, co-operative education, and innovative research, UVic offers over 120 undergraduate and 160 graduate programs across diverse fields. The university stands out for its sustainability initiatives, ocean and climate research, and hands-on learning opportunities. With a scenic, green campus just minutes from downtown Victoria, students enjoy a balanced lifestyle combining academics, nature, and community. UVic welcomes thousands of international students, fostering a vibrant, inclusive, and research-driven environment.
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.
Featured Programmes
Location
3800 Finnerty Rd, Victoria, BC V8P 5C2, Canada
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