Quick Summary
Situated in Burnaby, Canada, Simon Fraser University is a public research university established in 1965. Ranked #316 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026, it enrolls 37400 students including 30% from outside Canada. Known for strengths in Archaeology, Geography, Communication and Media Studies, it maintains an acceptance rate of 59%.
01
Institutional Profile
Who they are
SFU consistently ranks as Canada's top comprehensive university, offering a world-class Co-op program and a commitment to community engagement.
Subject Strengths
ArchaeologyGeographyCommunication and Media StudiesAnthropologyPsychologyComputing Science
Founded1965
TypePublic Research University
Total Students37400
Intl Students30%
Faculty Ratio25
CampusSuburban/Urban
Campus Size430 acres
Affiliated HospitalsNot Available
AccreditationNorthwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), AACSB, EQUIS
02
Global Standing
Three independent ranking systems
QS World 2026
#316
Quacquarelli Symonds
Times Higher Ed
#251-300
THE World University
ARWU Shanghai
#301-400
Academic Ranking
03
Academics & Research
What you can study
Over 100 undergraduate majors and 45+ graduate programs
Programs
40
PhD Programs
Available
Online Programs
Big Data Hub, 4D LABS, Pacific Water Research Centre, Centre for Forensic Research
Research Centers
Very High
Research Output
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU), AACSB, EQUIS
Accreditation
04
Admissions Brief
What it takes to get in
Entry Requirements
Acceptance Rate59%
IELTS6.5
TOEFL93
Min GPA3
GRERequired for specific graduate programs
GMATRequired for MBA programs
SATRecommended for US applicants
ACTRecommended for US applicants
Key Dates
FALLApplication Deadline · January 31
SPRINGApplication Deadline · September 15
MAR-APRDecisions Released
Required Documents
TranscriptsSOPEnglish ScoresLORsPassport
Insider Tip
Focus on the Broad-Based Application for the Beedie School of Business. Ensure high grades in quantitative subjects for Computing Science. International students should apply at least 6 months in advance.
05
Cost Ledger
Amounts in Canadian Dollar
UG Tuition
C$33,000/yr
per year · CAD
Living Cost
C$21,000/yr
per year · CAD
PG Tuition
C$20,000/yr
per year · CAD
Application Fee
$96
one time · USD
Total Estimated Annual Cost
C$54,000/yr
tuition + living + essentials · CAD
Scholarships AvailableAvailable
Avg Scholarship$3,700
Financial AidAvailable
Work-StudyAvailable
06
Featured & Popular Programs
A sample from Over 100 undergraduate majors and 45+ graduate programs programs total
| Program | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Business Administration | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Computing Science | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
| Interactive Arts and Technology | PHD | 3-5 YRS |
| Criminology | MBA | 12-24 MO |
| Engineering Science | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
07
Career Outcomes
Where graduates land
$52,000
Average Salary After Graduation
85%
Employment Rate
Internship PlacementHigh via one of Canada's largest Co-op programs
Industry Connections
Strong partnerships with Vancouver’s tech sectorMicrosoftAmazonand regional health authorities
Notable Alumni
Terry Fox, Margaret Trudeau, Christy Clark, Ed Hill, Mahamudu Bawumia
08
Campus & Student Life
Life beyond lectures
Housing
On-campus available
Sports Facilities
Terry Fox Field, Lorne Davies Complex, SFU Aquatic Centre
Student Clubs
200
Library Resources
W.A.C. Bennett Library, Belzberg Library, Fraser Library
Exchange Programs
Available
Summer Programs
Available