Simon Fraser University (SFU) is one of Canada’s most prestigious institutions, established in 1965, SFU has grown into a leading university with three campuses in Burnaby, Vancouver, and Surrey. In 2025, SFU ranks 319th globally in the QS World University Rankings and is Canada’s #1 comprehensive university according to Maclean’s Rankings. With an estimated 62% acceptance rate, SFU remains moderately competitive, welcoming talented students worldwide. Whether it’s academic programs, tuition fees, scholarships, or accommodation, this blog provides all the essential details for prospective students looking to study at SFU.
Simon Fraser University Highlights 2025
| Feature | Details |
| Year of Establishment | 1965 |
| Campus Size | Burnaby campus: The main campus is 420 acres (170 hectares). Surrey campus: The Surrey campus is over 600,000 square feet. Vancouver campus: Over half a million square feet |
| QS World University Ranking (2025) | Ranked #319 globally |
| Campus Locations | Burnaby, Vancouver, and Surrey in British Columbia, Canada |
| Top Recruiters | Some top recruiters at Simon Fraser University (SFU) include: Amazon Deloitte Microsoft TELUS IBM SAP HSBC Bank Canada PWC Rogers Communications BC Hydro |
| Popular Courses for International Students | Business, Engineering, Computing, and Environmental science. |
| English Language Exam Required | IELTS, TOEFL, CAEL, PTE, DET |
| Annual Tuition Fees for International Students | 2,770 CAD, International tuition 12,125 CAD (2018 – 19) |
| Website | www.sfu.ca |
Simon Fraser University: Courses, Eligibility, and Fees 2025
Simon Fraser University (SFU) is a leading Canadian institution, established in 1965, SFU has grown to accommodate over 30,000 students across its three campuses in Burnaby, Surrey, and Vancouver. The university offers undergraduate and postgraduate programs designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge required in today’s competitive job market. For international students, undergraduate tuition fees are assessed based on the number of units enrolled.
As of the 2024-2025 academic year, the basic fee is $1,167.61 per unit, with premium fees applicable for certain programs. Graduate program fees also vary, with research-based programs charging a regular full-time fee of $2,107.43 per term. Below is a detailed breakdown of some of the popular programs at SFU, including their annual tuition fees, duration, eligibility criteria, and accepted English language proficiency exams:
| Program | Annual Tuition Fees (CAD) | Duration | Eligibility Criteria | Accepted English Language Exams |
| B.A. | $36,024 | 4 years | High school diploma with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 88+, PTE: 65+ |
| B.E./B.Tech | $38,000 – $40,000 | 4-5 years | High school diploma with strong performance in Mathematics and Science subjects; minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 88+, PTE: 65+ |
| M.S. | $30,000 – $35,000 | 2 years | Bachelor’s degree in a related field with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. | IELTS: 7.0+, TOEFL: 93+, PTE: 65+ |
| B.Sc. | $36,024 | 4 years | High school diploma with strong performance in Science subjects; minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 88+, PTE: 65+ |
| BBA | $38,000 – $40,000 | 4 years | High school diploma with strong performance in Mathematics and English; minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 88+, PTE: 65+ |
| MBA/PGDM | $35,000 – $40,000 | 1-2 years | Bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale; some programs may require relevant work experience. | IELTS: 7.0+, TOEFL: 93+, GMAT: 550+, GRE: 300+ |
| B.J.M.C. | $36,024 | 4 years | High school diploma with proficiency in English; minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 88+, PTE: 65+ |
| M.A. | $30,000 | 2 years | Bachelor’s degree in a related discipline with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. | IELTS: 7.0+, TOEFL: 93+, PTE: 65+ |
| B.Ed | $38,000 | 4 years | High school diploma with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale; completion of prerequisite courses in education may be required. | IELTS: 6.5+, TOEFL: 88+, PTE: 65+ |
| MEng | $32,000 | 2 years | Bachelor’s degree in Engineering or a related field with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. | IELTS: 7.0+, TOEFL: 93+, PTE: 65+ |
Simon Fraser University Rankings 2025
Simon Fraser University (SFU) continues to be one of Canada’s top-ranked institutions, known for its outstanding academic programs, research contributions, and global impact. In 2025, SFU is ranked 319th globally by QS World University Rankings, securing 13th place in Canada. The Times Higher Education (THE) World Rankings position SFU within the 301-350 bracket globally and 12th nationally. The U.S. News & World Report places SFU at 317th worldwide. In Canada, SFU is recognized as the #1 comprehensive university by Maclean’s University Rankings for the 15th consecutive year. The table below provides an in-depth overview of SFU’s latest rankings across various ranking organizations and disciplines:
| Ranking Organization | Category | Year | Global Rank | National Rank (Canada) |
| QS World University Rankings | Overall | 2025 | 319th | 13th |
| Times Higher Education (THE) World Rankings | Overall | 2025 | 301–350th | 12th |
| U.S. News & World Report Best Global Universities | Overall | 2022-23 | 317th | 12th |
| World’s Universities with Real Impact (WURI) | Global Innovation | 2022 | 18th | 1st in Canada |
| QS World University Rankings by Subject | Archaeology | 2024 | 51–100th | 3rd |
| Anthropology | 2024 | 51–100th | 4th | |
| Communication & Media Studies | 2024 | 101–150th | 5th | |
| Geography | 2024 | 101–150th | 4th | |
| Computer Science | 2025 | 126–150th | 7th | |
| Education | 2025 | 101–125th | 7th | |
| Psychology | 2025 | 151–175th | 4th |
Simon Fraser University Acceptance Rate 2025
Simon Fraser University (SFU) has an estimated acceptance rate of 62% in 2025, SFU is considered moderately competitive, meaning that while admission is accessible to many students, meeting specific requirements is essential for a successful application. The university’s holistic admission process evaluates multiple factors, including academic performance, standardized test scores, extracurricular involvement, and supplemental application materials. The table below provides a detailed overview of SFU’s acceptance rate, key admission factors and deadlines:
| Category | Details |
| Estimated Acceptance Rate (2025) | 62% (Moderately Competitive) |
| Minimum GPA Requirement | 2.00 (60%) on a 4.0 scale (varies by program) |
| Standardized Test Scores | SAT and ACT scores considered but not mandatory |
| English Language Proficiency | Required for non-native speakers; accepted exams: TOEFL, IELTS, CAEL, Cambridge English Qualifications, PTE |
| Extracurricular Activities | Leadership roles, volunteer work, internships, and club participation can strengthen an application |
| Supplemental Application | Some programs (e.g., Business, Communication, Fine Arts) require an essay, portfolio, or interview |
| Mathematics Requirement | Minimum 50% required in Standard XII level Mathematics for international students |
| International Application Fee | CAD 130 (Non-refundable) |
SFU Admission Timeline for Fall 2025
Admission requirements at Simon Fraser University may vary for high school, college, and university transfer students. Applicants should check SFU’s official website for specific program details. Below is the overview of SFU Admission Timeline for Fall 2025:
| Application Stage | Important Dates |
| Application Period Opens | March 1, 2025 |
| Application Deadline | April 15, 2025 |
| Self-Reported Grades Submission (Canadian Students) | Grade 11 final grades must be submitted |
| Planned Grade 12 Course Submission | Must be listed in Student Centre “To Do List” |
| Conditional Offers Issued | January – April 2025 |
| Final Document Submission Deadline | June 30, 2025 |
Simon Fraser University Scholarships 2025
Simon Fraser University (SFU) is committed to supporting students through scholarships and awards that recognize academic excellence, financial need, leadership, and perseverance. In Spring 2025, SFU offers a wide range of scholarships and financial aid options for undergraduate students across various faculties. These awards help reduce the financial burden and encourage students to excel in their studies.
The scholarships are merit-based, need-based, and category-specific, supporting students from different backgrounds, including first-generation learners, students overcoming adversity, and high-achieving applicants in business, arts, sciences, and engineering. Below is a detailed breakdown of SFU’s scholarships and awards for undergraduate students in 2025:
| Scholarship Name | Award Value (CAD) | Eligibility Criteria | Additional Requirements |
| Joseph Lee Family Award for First-Generation Learners | $5,000 | Full-time undergraduate student; first in family to attend university; min CGPA 2.00 | Community involvement & personal statement required |
| Yvonne & Ian Reddy Award for First-Generation Learners | $1,300 | Full-time undergraduate student; completed 30 units; min CGPA 2.00 | Community involvement & reference letter required |
| SFU Retirees Association 50th Anniversary Scholarship | $3,300 | Full-time undergraduate student; min CGPA 3.50; completed 60 academic units | Preference for Canadian citizens or permanent residents |
| Frances Mary Beattie Undergraduate Scholarship | $2,000 | Full-time undergraduate student; min CGPA 3.50 | No additional requirements |
| SFU Alumni Scholarship | $1,000 | Full-time undergraduate student; min CGPA 3.50 | No additional requirements |
Simon Fraser University Accommodation 2025
Finding the right accommodation is a crucial part of the university experience, and Simon Fraser University (SFU) ensures that students have multiple options to suit their lifestyle and budget. On-campus housing at SFU is designed to enhance student life, with modern facilities, study-friendly environments, and social spaces. The university is also expanding its housing options, with a new 445-bed residence set to open by fall 2027, making on-campus living even more accessible. Off-campus accommodation is available in Burnaby, Vancouver, and Surrey, offering a range of private and shared rentals at various price points.
The cost of housing varies based on location, amenities, and type of accommodation. On-campus housing costs range from CAD 6,500 to CAD 12,000 per academic year, while off-campus rentals can range from CAD 800 to CAD 2,500 per month, depending on location and housing type. The table below provides a detailed breakdown of SFU’s on-campus and off-campus accommodation options, features, and important application details:
| Accommodation Type | Features | Estimated Cost (CAD) | Application Period |
| On-Campus Housing | Single rooms or shared units, fully furnished, study lounges, Wi-Fi, communal areas, meal plan required for specific residences. | CAD 6,500 – CAD 12,000 per academic year | Fall 2025 applications open October 1, 2024 |
| Off-Campus Housing | Private apartments, shared rentals, and homestays in Burnaby, Vancouver, and Surrey. Various listings available with detailed property descriptions, photos, and maps. | CAD 800 – CAD 2,500 per month, depending on location and amenities | Continuous availability; students should start their search 3-6 months in advance |
Conclusion
Simon Fraser University (SFU) continues to be a top choice for students seeking quality education, global recognition, and strong career opportunities. With its high rankings, diverse course offerings, and strong support services, SFU provides an enriching university experience. The university’s competitive tuition fees, scholarship opportunities, and flexible accommodation options make it an attractive destination for international students. Whether you are looking for a well-ranked program, financial aid, or a vibrant campus environment, SFU has something to offer.
