Top Universities in Canada for 2025 Intakes: Top Courses & Fees

For aspiring international students, Canada consistently ranks as a premier destination for higher education. Its world-renowned universities, diverse campuses, and commitment to research excellence attract ambitious individuals worldwide. If you're targeting the 2025 intake, this strategic guide provides a foundational understanding of Canada's leading universities.

This comprehensive resource delves into critical factors that shape your university selection. We'll analyze its rankings, explore the breadth of academic programs, and offer insights into campus life. This multi-faceted approach ensures you understand each university's unique offerings holistically.

Therefore, whether you are looking to pursue a high-quality bachelors or masters in Canada, or a scholar drawn to a vibrant intellectual community, this article will help to identify the ideal Canadian university that aligns with your academic aspirations.

Best Canadian Universities to Study in 2025

This section unveils a curated selection of a few of the nation's most prestigious universities for the 2025 intake. We'll focus on universities consistently recognized for their top-notch faculty, rigorous programs, and groundbreaking research.

Get ready to explore each university's unique strengths and areas of specialization to discover the perfect fit for your academic journey and ambitions in Canada.

1. McGill University

A bastion of academic excellence in Montreal, McGill University consistently ranks among the world's top universities. In 2025, QS World University Rankings placed McGill at an impressive #29, while Times Higher Education positioned them at #49 globally in 2024.

Although securing admission can be competitive, with a 41% acceptance rate in 2023, McGill offers a vast array of postgraduate programs to qualified students. The university attracts many applicants for both Masters and Bachelors studies.

This influx reflects McGill's global reputation and commitment to fostering a diverse and intellectually stimulating learning environment.

Top Courses to Study

Here are some of the top courses to study at McGill University:

For Masters

• Master of Science in Computer Science

• Master of Engineering (various specializations)

• Master of Business Administration (MBA)

• Master of Management in International Business

• Master of Science in Finance

• Master of Science in Anatomy & Cell Biology

• Master of Science in Biochemistry

• Master of Science in Pharmacology

For Bachelors

• Bachelor of Engineering (multiple specializations)

• Bachelor of Science (multiple specializations)

• Bachelor of Arts (multiple specializations)

• Bachelor of Commerce

Cost of Study

Find below the cost to pursue Masters and Bachelors at McGill University:

• For Masters, the tuition fee can be calculated by the Fee Calculator Tool available on the university website.

• For Bachelors, it may vary between CAD 49,357.45 and CAD 66,424 per annum.

2. Dalhousie University

Dalhousie University is one of the top universities in Canada that stands out as a leader in both national and international academic spheres. They boast a #12 ranking in Canada's Best Universities by Reputation, according to Maclean's 2024 rankings. This strong reputation is echoed in global rankings, with QS World University Rankings placing them 275th globally and 12th in Canada for 2025.

Furthermore, Times Higher Education bolsters this impressive record with a position between #301-360 globally and #14 in Canada, with the added distinction of ranking among the Top 65 in Impact Rankings for 2024.

With such a distinguished reputation for academic excellence, Dalhousie University offers a compelling option for students seeking a world-class education.

Top Courses to Study

Here are some top courses to study at Dalhousie University on Masters and Bachelors level:

For Masters

• Master of Engineering (MEng) in various specializations

• Master of Applied Computer Science

• Master of Business Administration (MBA) - Corporate Residency Pathway

• Master of Resource & Environmental Management

• Master of Health Administration

• Master of Development Economics

For Bachelors

• Bachelor of Engineering (Co-op)

• Bachelor of Computer Science (Co-op)

• Bachelor of Management

• Bachelor of Science in Agriculture

• Bachelor of Technology in Landscape Architecture

• Bachelor of Community Design

• Bachelor of Commerce (Co-op)

• Bachelor of Arts

Cost of Study

Find below the cost of education in Canada's Dalhousie University:

• For Masters, the cost of study is between CAD 16,261 and CAD 46,467 per annum

• For Bachelors, the cost of study is between CAD 25,950 and CAD 43,248 per annum.

3. Simon Fraser University

Simon Fraser University (SFU) is a public research university in Burnaby, Canada, with additional campuses in Surrey and online. Established in 1965, SFU offers over 43 Masters and 90 Bachelors programs across eight faculties.

According to the SFU website, recent rankings show it holds the #319 spot in the QS World University Rankings 2025. While its world ranking has fluctuated slightly, SFU maintains a strong position in specific subject areas. For instance, in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024, SFU ranked within the top 125 for Computer Science and Education.

Top Courses to Study

Here are some of the top courses to study at Simon Fraser University:

For Masters:

• Master of Applied Science (MASc) in Engineering Science

• Master of Applied Science (MASc) in Computer Science

• Master of Engineering (Meng) in various disciplines

• Master of Science in Management (MSc) offered in specific specializations

• Master of Business Administration (MBA) with various specializations

For Bachelors:

• Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.Sc.) in Engineering Science

• Bachelor of Applied Science (B.A.Sc.) in Computer Science

• Bachelor of Kinesiology (B. Kin)

• Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Chemistry

• Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Mathematics

• Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry

• Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) in Physics

• Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)

Cost of Study

Given below is a breakdown of the cost to pursue Masters or Bachelors at Simon Fraser University as an international student:

• For Masters, the tuition fee is between CAD 34,012 to CAD 36,761 per annum

• For Bachelors, the tuition fee is between CAD 34,012 and CAD 36,761 per annum.

Remember, the ideal university for you lies at the intersection of your academic aspirations, budget, and personal preferences. So, delve deeper into the universities that resonate with you, attend virtual information sessions, connect with current students, and explore scholarship opportunities. If this overwhelms you, you can also connect with a study abroad consultant nearby.

By investing the time in consulting with the right overseas education experts, you'll be well-equipped to make an informed decision that propels you towards a successful and enriching academic journey in Canada. Remember, this article is just the beginning. You still need to know much more if considering studying in this destination.

So, whether you have questions about Canada student visa or require accommodation assistance, you can connect with a study abroad consultant near you to get things started!