University of Victoria
Where edge and intellect meet on the Pacific coast.
📍 Victoria, Canada 🇨🇦
🏆 #2 in Canada · QS World #349 · THE World #301 · ARWU #301
Quick Facts about University of Victoria
- Type: Public
- Students: 22,000
- International: 17%
- Campus: Suburban
- Tuition: $19,650 – $21,700/year
- Language: English
- Intakes: January, May, September
About University of Victoria
Academics
UVic offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs across its nine academic faculties: Business, Education, Engineering and Computer Science, Fine Arts, Health, Humanities, Law, Science, and Social Sciences. The university emphasizes a hands-on learning approach, integrating research-enriched experiential programming such as co-operative education (co-op) work terms, practica, internships, and field schools. Notable for its research impact, UVic ranks highly in Canada for climate action and contributions to sustainable cities and communities, and is a leader in North America for international research partnerships.
International Students
The International Centre for Students (ICS) at UVic provides comprehensive support for international students, from pre-arrival assistance to help with immigration documents, housing, and financial planning. While specific diversity statistics beyond the number of international students are not provided, the university fosters a welcoming and diverse campus culture. Students can engage with various organizations, including departmental student groups and over 150 clubs covering environmental, cultural, political, religious, and recreational interests, promoting cultural integration and community building.
Campus & Location
Located in Victoria, British Columbia, UVic's expansive 163-hectare campus offers a dynamic environment. Victoria is known for its natural beauty and a vibrant city life, making it an appealing place to live and study. The campus is well-served by public transit, with buses connecting to the wider Victoria Regional transit network, and a U-Pass program provides students with unlimited access. UVic also promotes sustainable transportation options like cycling, walking, and carpooling.
Career Outcomes
UVic has a strong track record of employment outcomes, with an 82% placement rate for its graduates. The university's Career Services offers extensive support, including career planning, job searching, workshops, and one-on-one appointments with career educators. Co-operative education programs are a significant factor in student success, with 70% of co-op students receiving a job offer before graduation, often from former co-op employers. UVic graduates are recognized among the world's most employable, with many finding career-related positions in their chosen fields.
Information for International Students at University of Victoria
University of Victoria in Victoria, Canada welcomes international students, with 17% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 17% 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 University of Victoria
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to University of Victoria:
- IELTS minimum: 6.5
- TOEFL minimum: 88
- Duolingo minimum: 120
- GPA minimum: 3
- Application fee: $177
- Selectivity: Open (60%+)
- Application deadline: January 31
Programs at University of Victoria (21 programs)
University of Victoria offers 21 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (7)
- Bachelor of Science in Biology (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program explores the diversity of life, from molecular and cellular processes to ecosystems and evolution, providing a strong foundation for careers in science and health.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: Biologist, Environmental Scientist, Laboratory Technician - Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program provides a comprehensive foundation in computer science, covering areas like software development, algorithms, data structures, and artificial intelligence, preparing students for careers in technology.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Analyst, Cybersecurity Specialist - Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical Engineering (BEng) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program covers the design, development, and application of electrical systems, including electronics, power systems, control systems, and telecommunications.
Field: Electrical Engineering
Career outcomes: Electrical Engineer, Design Engineer, Systems Engineer - Bachelor of Arts in English (BA) — 48 months · English
This program explores literature, language, and critical theory, developing strong analytical, writing, and communication skills applicable to diverse careers.
Field: English Literature
Career outcomes: Writer, Editor, Journalist, Educator - Bachelor of Science in Chemistry (BSc) — 48 months · English · STEM
This program provides a fundamental understanding of chemical principles, including organic, inorganic, physical, and analytical chemistry, with hands-on laboratory experience.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: Chemist, Research Assistant, Quality Control Specialist - Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English
This program explores human behavior and mental processes through various psychological perspectives, including cognitive, developmental, social, and clinical psychology.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Social Worker, Human Resources Specialist, Counseling Assistant - Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) — 48 months · English
This program provides a broad understanding of business principles and practices, with opportunities to specialize in areas like accounting, finance, marketing, or entrepreneurship.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Accountant, Financial Analyst, Marketing Manager, Business Consultant
Master Programs (7)
- Master of Science in Chemistry (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This research-oriented program allows students to delve deeper into specialized areas of chemistry, conducting independent research and developing advanced laboratory skills.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: Research Chemist, Product Development Scientist, Forensic Scientist - Master of Arts in Psychology (MA) — 24 months · English
This program offers advanced study and research opportunities in specialized areas of psychology, preparing students for further doctoral studies or professional practice.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Psychological Researcher, Therapist (with further training), Consultant - Master of Arts in English (MA) — 24 months · English
This program offers advanced study in English literature, language, and cultural studies, fostering critical thinking and research skills for academic or professional pursuits.
Field: English Literature
Career outcomes: Academic Researcher, Content Creator, Communications Specialist - Master of Science in Computer Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This research-intensive program allows students to specialize in advanced areas of computer science, conducting original research under faculty supervision and contributing to the field's knowledge base.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Research Scientist, Senior Software Engineer, Academic Researcher - Master of Engineering in Electrical Engineering (MEng) — 16 months · English · STEM
This professional master's program provides advanced knowledge and skills in specialized areas of electrical engineering, often with a focus on industry applications and project-based learning.
Field: Electrical Engineering
Career outcomes: Senior Electrical Engineer, Project Manager, Consulting Engineer - Master of Science in Biology (MSc) — 24 months · English · STEM
This research-focused program allows students to specialize in various biological disciplines, conducting original research and contributing to scientific knowledge.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: Research Biologist, Environmental Consultant, Science Educator - Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 16 months · English
The MBA program develops leadership and management skills, providing a strategic perspective on business operations and preparing graduates for senior roles in various industries.
Field: Business Administration
Career outcomes: Senior Manager, Director, Entrepreneur, Consultant
PhD Programs (7)
- PhD in Computer Science (PhD) — 48 months · English · STEM
The PhD program in Computer Science focuses on advanced research and original contributions to the field, preparing graduates for leadership roles in academia, industry research, and innovation.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: University Professor, Industrial Research Lead, Innovator - PhD in Psychology (PhD) — 48 months · English
The PhD in Psychology is a research-intensive program designed for students seeking to become leading scholars and practitioners in various subfields of psychology, contributing original research to the discipline.
Field: Psychology
Career outcomes: Licensed Psychologist, University Professor, Research Director - PhD in Business (PhD) — 48 months · English
This program prepares students for academic careers in business schools, focusing on rigorous research and theoretical contributions to various business disciplines.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: University Professor, Business Researcher, Policy Analyst - PhD in Chemistry (PhD) — 48 months · English · STEM
The PhD in Chemistry is a rigorous research program focused on original contributions to chemical science, preparing graduates for leadership roles in academia and industrial research.
Field: Chemistry
Career outcomes: University Professor, Senior Research Scientist, Pharmaceutical Chemist - PhD in Biology (PhD) — 48 months · English · STEM
The PhD in Biology is a highly specialized research program where students conduct independent, cutting-edge research to make significant contributions to biological science.
Field: Biology
Career outcomes: University Professor, Lead Research Scientist, Biotechnology Specialist - PhD in Electrical Engineering (PhD) — 48 months · English · STEM
The PhD in Electrical Engineering is a research-intensive program where students conduct cutting-edge research to advance the field, contributing to new technologies and theoretical understanding.
Field: Electrical Engineering
Career outcomes: Research and Development Scientist, University Professor, Innovation Lead - PhD in English (PhD) — 48 months · English
The PhD in English is a research-intensive program for aspiring scholars, focusing on original contributions to literary and cultural studies through extensive research and dissertation writing.
Field: English Literature
Career outcomes: University Professor, Literary Critic, Cultural Historian
Scholarships & Tuition at University of Victoria
Annual tuition for international students: $19,650 – $21,700/year
✅ University of Victoria offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of University of Victoria
- National Ranking: #2 in Canada
- QS World University Ranking: #349
- Times Higher Education (THE): #301
- Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #301
- Ranking tier: Research University
- Research output: Very High
Campus & Facilities at University of Victoria
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Suburban
Key Highlights
- Top-ranked comprehensive university in Canada
- Leader in climate and sustainability research
- Dynamic hands-on co-op learning programs
- Strong focus on Indigenous legal orders
- Beautiful campus near the Pacific Ocean
- Consistently high global research impact rankings
Accreditation
- EQUIS
- AACSB
Notable Alumni
- Diana Krall
- Andrew Weaver
- Pamela Rai
- Andrew Petter
- Sonia Furstenau
Frequently Asked Questions about University of Victoria
What is University of Victoria?
University of Victoria is a public university located in Victoria, Canada. It has approximately 22,000 students, with 17% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at University of Victoria?
Tuition fees at University of Victoria for international students range from $19,650 – $21,700/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for University of Victoria?
IELTS minimum: 6.5. TOEFL minimum: 88. Duolingo minimum: 120. GPA minimum: 3. Application fee: $177. Selectivity: Open (60%+). Application deadline: January 31.
What language are courses taught in at University of Victoria?
Courses at University of Victoria are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.
How many programs does University of Victoria offer?
University of Victoria offers 21 programs: 7 Bachelor's, 7 Master's, and 7 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is University of Victoria ranked?
#2 in Canada · QS World #349 · THE World #301 · ARWU #301.
Does University of Victoria offer scholarships?
Yes, University of Victoria offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does University of Victoria provide visa support?
Yes, University of Victoria provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
Apply to University of Victoria with Abroadly
Use Abroadly's AI-powered platform to manage your application to University of Victoria. Get matched to programs, track deadlines, and organize documents — all in one place.