St. Francis Xavier University
Tradition of excellence, leadership for life.
📍 Antigonish, Canada 🇨🇦
🏆 #4 in Canada · THE World #1201
Quick Facts about St. Francis Xavier University
- Type: Public
- Students: 5,021
- International: 7%
- Campus: Rural
- Tuition: $4,438 – $23,500/year
- Language: English
- Intakes: September, January
About St. Francis Xavier University
Academics
StFX offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across four faculties: Arts, Science, Business, and Education. The university emphasizes an immersive and engaging approach to education, with opportunities for hands-on research for undergraduate students mentored by faculty. Notable programs include Aquatic Resources, Computer Information Systems, and various Business Administration specializations like Entrepreneurship and International Business. StFX is also home to the world-renowned Coady Institute, a center of excellence in community-based development and leadership education.
International Students
StFX welcomes international students from around the globe and provides comprehensive support services to help them thrive. The Office of Internationalization offers assistance with Canadian immigration documents, arrival services, student orientation, academic and social advising, and housing support. In a past International Student Barometer survey, StFX's Office of Internationalization ranked first in Canada and sixth globally for student satisfaction. The university fosters cultural integration through various social and cultural opportunities and engagement initiatives.
Campus & Location
St. Francis Xavier University is situated in the picturesque town of Antigonish, Nova Scotia. The campus offers a close-knit community feel, with many study spaces and a welcoming atmosphere. While Antigonish is a smaller town, it provides essential amenities, including malls and hospitals. The town and university are actively working on student engagement and fostering a sense of belonging for students within the community.
Career Outcomes
StFX is committed to preparing its graduates for successful careers, with a strong emphasis on experiential learning. The university's Career Services offers support with developing cover letters, resumes, interview skills, and job search strategies. StFX itself is a significant employer of its students, with a substantial portion of the student population working on campus in various departments. The Gerald Schwartz School of Business has an Entrepreneur-in-Residence program providing mentorship and guidance for student entrepreneurial endeavors, and there's a growing entrepreneurial ecosystem on campus supported by initiatives like the DiscoverBox innovation center.
Information for International Students at St. Francis Xavier University
St. Francis Xavier University in Antigonish, Canada welcomes international students, with 7% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 7% of students are international
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for St. Francis Xavier University
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to St. Francis Xavier University:
- IELTS minimum: 6.5
- TOEFL minimum: 90
- Duolingo minimum: 115
- GPA minimum: 2.7
- Application fee: $100
- Selectivity: Open (60%+)
- Application deadline: May 30
Programs at St. Francis Xavier University (25 programs)
St. Francis Xavier University offers 25 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (16)
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) — 48 months · English · STEM
Students develop the knowledge and skills required for professional nursing practice, focusing on patient care, health promotion, and disease prevention in various healthcare settings.
Field: Nursing
Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Public Health Nurse, Nurse Educator - Bachelor of Science in Mathematics (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
Students develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills through the study of pure and applied mathematics, preparing them for diverse quantitative fields.
Field: Natural Sciences
Career outcomes: Actuary, Data Scientist, Financial Analyst, Mathematician - Bachelor of Arts in English (BA) — 48 months · English
This program explores literature from various periods and cultures, developing critical thinking, analytical, and communication skills through textual analysis and writing.
Field: English Literature
Career outcomes: Journalist, Editor, Teacher, Communications Specialist - Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
Students learn fundamental concepts of computing, including programming, algorithms, data structures, and software development, preparing them for careers in technology.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Analyst, Network Administrator, IT Consultant - Bachelor of Science in Chemistry (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
Students study the composition, structure, properties, and reactions of matter, gaining hands-on experience in laboratory techniques and chemical analysis.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: Chemist, Forensic Scientist, Pharmacist, Materials Scientist - Bachelor of Science in Human Kinetics (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
Students explore the science of human movement, exercise, and health, covering areas like biomechanics, physiology, and sports psychology, with practical applications.
Field: Human Kinetics
Career outcomes: Kinesiologist, Physiotherapist, Athletic Trainer, Fitness Professional - Bachelor of Science in Biology (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
Students gain a comprehensive understanding of living organisms, from molecular to ecosystem levels, through laboratory work, field studies, and theoretical courses.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Assistant, Environmental Consultant, Healthcare Professional - Bachelor of Arts in Economics (BA) — 48 months · English
Students learn about the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services, analyzing economic systems, markets, and policy implications.
Field: Economics
Career outcomes: Economist, Financial Analyst, Data Scientist, Consultant - Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) — 48 months · English
This program provides a strong foundation in business principles, including accounting, marketing, finance, and management, preparing students for diverse roles in the corporate world.
Field: Business Administration
Career outcomes: Business Analyst, Marketing Manager, Financial Advisor, Entrepreneur - Bachelor of Arts in Political Science (BA) — 48 months · English
This program examines political systems, theories, and behaviors, both domestically and internationally, fostering an understanding of governance, public policy, and global affairs.
Field: Political Science
Career outcomes: Policy Analyst, Lobbyist, Journalist, Diplomat - Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies (BA) — 48 months · English
Students explore the diverse expressions of religious belief and practice across cultures and historical periods, fostering critical understanding of their impact on society.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Educator, Social Worker, Non-profit Manager, Journalist - Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English
This program explores human behavior and mental processes, covering areas such as cognitive psychology, social psychology, and developmental psychology, through research and theoretical study.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Counselor, Social Worker, Human Resources Specialist, Researcher - Bachelor of Arts in History (BA) — 48 months · English
Students explore past societies, cultures, and events, developing critical analytical skills and understanding historical contexts through diverse methodologies and primary sources.
Field: History
Career outcomes: Archivist, Museum Curator, Teacher, Policy Advisor - Bachelor of Arts in Sociology (BA) — 48 months · English
This program investigates social structures, interactions, and institutions, providing tools to analyze societal issues, inequalities, and cultural dynamics.
Field: Sociology
Career outcomes: Social Worker, Community Organizer, Market Researcher, Policy Analyst - Bachelor of Arts in Music (BA) — 48 months · English
This program combines theoretical study of music history, theory, and composition with practical performance opportunities, fostering musical artistry and critical understanding.
Field: Music
Career outcomes: Musician, Music Educator, Composer, Arts Administrator - Bachelor of Arts in Development Studies (BA) — 48 months · English
This interdisciplinary program examines global development challenges, including poverty, inequality, and sustainability, from social, economic, and political perspectives.
Field: Development Studies
Career outcomes: NGO Worker, International Aid Worker, Policy Analyst, Community Development Officer
Master Programs (6)
- Master of Arts in Celtic Studies (MA) — 24 months · English
This program provides an in-depth exploration of Celtic languages, literature, history, and culture, with a focus on interdisciplinary research.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Academic Researcher, Archivist, Cultural Heritage Specialist - Master of Science in Applied Health Sciences (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program focuses on advanced research and application in various health-related fields, preparing students for leadership and research roles in healthcare.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Health Researcher, Public Health Specialist, Healthcare Administrator - Master of Science in Computer Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This program offers advanced study and research opportunities in various areas of computer science, including artificial intelligence, software engineering, and data science.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Senior Software Engineer, AI Researcher, Data Scientist, IT Architect - Master of Education (MEd) — 24 months · English
Designed for educators, this program enhances pedagogical skills, leadership abilities, and understanding of educational theory and practice, with various specialization options.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: School Administrator, Curriculum Developer, Educational Consultant, Teacher - Master of Science in Biology (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This research-intensive program allows students to specialize in various biological fields, conducting original research under faculty supervision and contributing to scientific knowledge.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: Researcher, University Lecturer, Biotechnology Specialist, Environmental Scientist - Master of Arts in Catholic Studies (MA) — 24 months · English
This program offers advanced study in Catholic theology, philosophy, history, and culture, fostering critical engagement with the Catholic intellectual tradition.
Field: Catholic Studies
Career outcomes: Educator, Church Administrator, Writer, Non-profit Leader
PhD Programs (3)
- PhD in Education (PhD) — 48 months · English
This doctoral program prepares scholars and researchers to contribute original knowledge to the field of education through rigorous research, theoretical inquiry, and dissertation writing.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: University Professor, Educational Researcher, Policy Analyst, Senior Administrator - PhD in Biology (PhD) — 48 months · English · STEM
This doctoral program involves advanced research in various biological disciplines, contributing new knowledge through independent study and experimentation.
Field: Natural Sciences
Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Biotechnology Specialist - PhD in Applied Science (PhD) — 48 months · English · STEM
This interdisciplinary doctoral program focuses on research that addresses real-world problems, integrating scientific principles with practical applications across various fields.
Field: Applied Science
Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, R&D Manager, Consultant
Scholarships & Tuition at St. Francis Xavier University
Annual tuition for international students: $4,438 – $23,500/year
✅ St. Francis Xavier University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of St. Francis Xavier University
- National Ranking: #4 in Canada
- Times Higher Education (THE): #1201
- Ranking tier: Comprehensive University
- Research output: High
Campus & Facilities at St. Francis Xavier University
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Rural
Key Highlights
- Top-ranked undergraduate university in Canada
- Distinguished Coady International Institute
- Renowned alumni X-Ring tradition
- Small classes with personalized learning
- Historic residential campus in Antigonish
- Strong focus on social leadership
Accreditation
- Universities Canada (UC)
- Canadian University Society for Intercollegiate Debate (CUSID)
- Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE)
- Canadian University Press (CUP)
- Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities (ACCU)
- Maple League of Universities
- IAU
Notable Alumni
- Brian Mulroney
- Frank McKenna
- Gerry Dee
- Amanda Lindhout
- Alistair MacLeod
Frequently Asked Questions about St. Francis Xavier University
What is St. Francis Xavier University?
St. Francis Xavier University is a public university located in Antigonish, Canada. It has approximately 5,021 students, with 7% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at St. Francis Xavier University?
Tuition fees at St. Francis Xavier University for international students range from $4,438 – $23,500/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for St. Francis Xavier University?
IELTS minimum: 6.5. TOEFL minimum: 90. Duolingo minimum: 115. GPA minimum: 2.7. Application fee: $100. Selectivity: Open (60%+). Application deadline: May 30.
What language are courses taught in at St. Francis Xavier University?
Courses at St. Francis Xavier University are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.
How many programs does St. Francis Xavier University offer?
St. Francis Xavier University offers 25 programs: 16 Bachelor's, 6 Master's, and 3 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is St. Francis Xavier University ranked?
#4 in Canada · THE World #1201.
Does St. Francis Xavier University offer scholarships?
Yes, St. Francis Xavier University offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does St. Francis Xavier University provide visa support?
Yes, St. Francis Xavier University provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
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