Quick Summary
Based in Victoria, Canada, University of Victoria is a public research university with roots dating back to 1963. Ranked #349 globally by QS World University Rankings 2026, it enrolls 22020 students including 18% from outside Canada. Known for strengths in Oceanography, Earth and Marine Sciences, Computer Science, it maintains an acceptance rate of 64%.
01
Institutional Profile
Who they are
Leader in sustainability and climate research, world-class co-op education, and a stunning campus located on Vancouver Island.
Subject Strengths
OceanographyEarth and Marine SciencesComputer ScienceEngineeringPsychologyLawEnglish Language and Literature
Founded1963
TypePublic Research University
Total Students22020
Intl Students18%
Faculty Ratio18
CampusSuburban
Campus Size402 acres
Affiliated HospitalsIsland Health (Royal Jubilee Hospital, Victoria General Hospital)
AccreditationMinistry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills (BC), AACSB, EQUIS, CEAB
02
Global Standing
Three independent ranking systems
QS World 2026
#349
Quacquarelli Symonds
Times Higher Ed
#351-400
THE World University
ARWU Shanghai
#301-400
Academic Ranking
03
Academics & Research
What you can study
Undergraduate, Masters, PhD, Professional Certificates, Diplomas
Programs
40+
PhD Programs
Available through Continuing Studies and specific Distance Education degree paths
Online Programs
Ocean Networks Canada, Institute for Integrated Energy Systems (IESVic), Centre for Addictions Research of BC
Research Centers
Very High
Research Output
Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills (BC), AACSB, EQUIS, CEAB
Accreditation
04
Admissions Brief
What it takes to get in
Entry Requirements
Acceptance Rate64%
IELTS6.5
TOEFL90
Min GPA3.0 on a 4.0 scale (varies by program)
GRENot required for most programs; required for some Graduate Business and Economics programs
GMATRequired for MBA and some Graduate Business programs
SATNot required for Canadian residents; optional/required for some US applicants
ACTNot required for Canadian residents; optional/required for some US applicants
Key Dates
FALLApplication Deadline · January 31
SPRINGApplication Deadline · September 30
MAR-APRDecisions Released
Required Documents
TranscriptsSOPEnglish ScoresLORsPassport
Insider Tip
Submit transcripts early; ensure the supplemental application for Business and Fine Arts is comprehensive; UVic looks for well-rounded profiles for its Co-op programs.
05
Cost Ledger
Amounts in Canadian Dollar
UG Tuition
CA$30,450/yr
per year · CAD
Living Cost
CA$19,500/yr
per year · CAD
PG Tuition
CA$16,200/yr
per year · CAD
Application Fee
$110
one time · USD
Total Estimated Annual Cost
CA$49,950/yr
tuition + living + essentials · CAD
Scholarships AvailableEntrance Scholarships, President's Scholarships, International Student Scholarships
Avg Scholarship$3,700
Financial AidProvincial and Federal loans (StudentAidBC), Work-Study, Bursaries
Work-StudyAvailable
06
Featured & Popular Programs
A sample from Undergraduate, Masters, PhD, Professional Certificates, Diplomas programs total
| Program | Level | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Science | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Software Engineering | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
| Business Administration (Gustavson) | PHD | 3-5 YRS |
| Ocean Science | MBA | 12-24 MO |
| Environmental Studies | BACHELOR | 3-4 YRS |
| Law | MASTER | 1-2 YRS |
07
Career Outcomes
Where graduates land
$52,000
Average Salary After Graduation
92%
Employment Rate
Internship PlacementOne of Canada's largest Co-operative Education programs with over 4,000 annual placements
Industry Connections
Strong links with BC TechOcean Technology sectorsand Government of British Columbia
Notable Alumni
Stewart Butterfield (Slack founder), Andrew Weaver (Climate Scientist), Nathan Fillion (Actor), Kim Campbell (Former PM)
08
Campus & Student Life
Life beyond lectures
Housing
On-campus available
Sports Facilities
CARSA (Centre for Athletics, Recreation and Special Abilities), McKinnon Gym, Centennial Stadium
Student Clubs
200+ student-run clubs through the UVic Students' Society (UVSS)
Library Resources
McPherson Library, Mearns Centre for Learning, Diana M. Priestly Law Library
Exchange Programs
Partnerships with 100+ universities in 25 countries
Summer Programs
Available