Top Engineering Universities in Canada 2025: Rankings, Courses, Fees & Admissions Guide
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Dreaming of studying engineering in Canada? Whether you’re aiming for innovation, affordability, or world-class research, Canada has something for everyone. From the scenic campuses of UBC to the tech-forward labs at Concordia, this guide gives you a quick, easy look at some of the top engineering universities in Canada for 2025—with rankings, tuition, popular programs, and fun facts to help you decide where your future begins! Ready to explore? Let’s dive in!
Best Engineering Universities in Canada
University of Alberta
Looking for an engineering degree that combines affordability, top-tier research, and industry-ready training? Then the University of Alberta in Edmonton might just be your perfect match! Ranked among the top 100 engineering schools globally, UAlberta is home to one of the largest engineering faculties in Canada, with extensive research labs and hands-on learning.
Founded in 1908, the university welcomes over 46,000 students, and its engineering programs are highly regarded in fields like chemical engineering, civil and environmental engineering, biomedical innovation, and AI. With direct access to labs like the Oil Sands Research Facility and National Institute for Nanotechnology, UAlberta prepares students for real-world impact and career success. Below are the key details of University of Alberta:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Edmonton, Alberta |
| Founded | 1908 |
| Total Enrollment | ~46,200 students |
| Acceptance Rate | ~51% (varies by program) |
| Popular Engineering Fields | Chemical, Civil & Environmental, Mechanical, Electrical & Computer, Biomedical |
| Tuition Fees (2025) | CAD 32,000–47,000/year (for international students) |
| Global Ranking | Top 100 worldwide in Engineering (QS & U.S. News) |
| Research Facilities | National Institute for Nanotech, Oil Sands Research, Biomedical Engineering Labs |
| Campuses | Main Campus + Calgary, Augustana, St. Jean satellite campuses |
| Fun Fact | UAlberta’s Engineering Faculty is one of the largest in the country, with over 6,000 students enrolled in engineering alone! |
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University of British Columbia
Looking for an engineering school that combines world-class research, gorgeous mountain-ocean views, and a diverse, inclusive community? Then University of British Columbia (UBC) is the one for you. Ranked 46th globally in engineering, UBC has two campuses—Vancouver and Okanagan—and attracts some of the brightest engineering minds from around the world.
With a strong focus on sustainability, innovation, and entrepreneurship, UBC Engineering is more than a degree—it’s a launchpad for your future career. In addition to this, over 96% of UBC engineering grads land full-time jobs within months of graduation, with median salaries over CAD 100,000. Below are the key details of University of British Columbia:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Vancouver, British Columbia (main campus); Okanagan campus in Kelowna |
| Founded | 1908 |
| Total Enrollment | ~71,000 students (across all faculties) |
| International Students | ~23% of the total student population |
| Acceptance Rate | ~52% (varies slightly by department) |
| Popular Engineering Fields | Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, Computer, Environmental Engineering |
| Tuition Fees (2025) | CAD 48,000–60,000/year (for international students) |
| Global Ranking | Ranked 46th globally for Engineering (QS, U.S. News) |
| Campuses | Vancouver (main), Okanagan (satellite campus in Kelowna) |
| Fun Fact | UBC is the birthplace of the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge movement! |
McGill University
McGill University, located in downtown Montreal, is one of Canada’s “Ivy-like” public universities. It is celebrated for its academic rigor, research innovation, and diverse student body. The university is ranked consistently among the top 100 universities worldwide for engineering. McGill’s Faculty of Engineering includes powerhouse departments like Bioengineering, Mechanical, Electrical, and Software Engineering.
The university is also home to the prestigious Peter Guo-hua Fu School of Architecture and School of Urban Planning—making it a great place for future builders of the world. It has produced 12 Nobel Laureates and 145+ Rhodes Scholars—many of whom started right here in Engineering! Below are the key details of McGill University:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Montreal, Quebec |
| Founded | 1821 |
| Total Enrollment | ~40,000 students (undergraduate + graduate combined) |
| International Students | ~30% of the total student body from over 150 countries |
| Popular Engineering Fields | Bioengineering, Civil, Software, Electrical, Mechanical, Materials |
| Tuition Fees (2025) | CAD 30,000–50,000/year (international; varies by program) |
| Global Ranking | Top 100 worldwide for Engineering (QS, THE rankings) |
| Campuses | Downtown Montreal (main); Macdonald Campus (Agri/Env sciences) |
| Fun Fact | McGill is part of the Global University Leaders Forum (GULF) with Yale & Oxford! |
Concordia University Canada
If you’re looking for an engineering school that blends hands-on experience with high-impact research, Concordia University is a top contender! Located in the lively city of Montreal, Concordia is home to the Gina Cody School of Engineering and Computer Science—one of the most forward-thinking engineering faculties in Canada.
With a strong emphasis on experiential learning, innovation hubs like the District 3 Innovation Center, and standout programs in aerospace and computer engineering, Concordia is a great choice for students. In addition to this, Concordia became the first university in Canada to name its engineering school after a woman—Dr. Gina Cody, a pioneering alumna and philanthropist! Below are the key details of Concordia University:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Montreal, Quebec |
| Founded | 1974 (through a merger of Loyola College and Sir George Williams University) |
| Total Enrollment | ~40,000 students (undergraduate + graduate combined) |
| International Students | Diverse community from over 150 countries |
| Acceptance Rate | Varies by program (moderately selective and accessible) |
| Popular Engineering Fields | Aerospace, Computer, Civil, Mechanical, Software Engineering |
| Tuition Fees (2025) | CAD 20,000–30,000/year (for international students; program dependent) |
| Campuses | Sir George Williams (downtown), Loyola Campus (west-end Montreal) |
| Fun Fact | Home to District 3 Innovation Center, one of Canada’s top startup incubators! |
Universite de Montreal
If you’re aiming for a top-tier engineering education in a vibrant, multicultural city, Université de Montréal (UdeM) stands out as an exceptional choice! Located in Montreal, UdeM is a leading research institution known for its innovative programs and strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration.
While UdeM offers various engineering-related programs, its affiliated school, Polytechnique Montréal, specializes exclusively in engineering education and research. UdeM, along with its affiliated schools HEC Montréal (business) and Polytechnique Montréal (engineering), forms one of the largest university complexes in North America. Below are the key details of Université de Montréal (UdeM):
| Category | Details |
| Location | Montreal, Quebec |
| Founded | 1878 |
| Total Enrollment | Approximately 66,972 students (including affiliated schools) |
| International Students | Significant proportion from over 150 countries |
| Popular Engineering Fields | Biomedical Engineering, Computer Science, Bioinformatics, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering |
| Tuition Fees (2025) | Approximately CAD 20,000–30,000 per year for international students; varies by program |
| Global Ranking | Ranked #125 globally |
| Research Highlights | Focus on artificial intelligence, biomedical engineering, sustainable development, and data science |
| Campuses | Main campus on Mount Royal in Montreal |
| Fun Fact | UdeM is recognized as a major North American research university, attracting over $680 million in research funding annually. |
University of Calgary
The University of Calgary, located in Alberta’s energy capital, is one of the most research-intensive universities in Canada—perfect for students who want to link their master’s degree with real-world industry challenges. Known for its focus on innovation and entrepreneurship, Calgary’s Schulich School of Engineering has strong ties to the energy sector, technology firms, and government initiatives. The University of Calgary is ranked among the top 10 research universities in Canada, and its engineering school alone secures $70M+ in research funding each year! Following are the key details of University of Calgary:
| Category | Details |
| Location | Calgary, Alberta |
| Founded | 1966 |
| Total Enrollment | ~35,000 students (undergrad + graduate) |
| International Students | ~10% of total enrollment |
| Acceptance Rate | ~60% (varies by department) |
| Popular Engineering Fields | Software Engineering, Petroleum Engineering, Civil, Mechanical, Geomatics |
| Tuition Fees (2025) | CAD 20,000–33,000 per year (program-dependent) |
| Global Ranking | ~133rd globally for Engineering (QS Rankings) |
| Campus Location | Main campus in Northwest Calgary |
| Fun Fact | One of the youngest universities in Canada to rise rapidly in global rankings |
Conclusion
Choosing the right university can shape your future—and now you’ve got a solid head start! Whether it’s the innovation of UAlberta, the prestige of McGill, or the startup vibes at Concordia, Canada’s engineering schools offer something unique for every kind of learner. Remember to consider location, costs, and your dream field of study when making your pick. Good luck on your journey to becoming an engineer!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top engineering universities in Canada for 2025?
Canada is home to several prestigious institutions for engineering studies. According to recent rankings, some of the top engineering universities in Canada include:
- University of Toronto: Renowned for its comprehensive engineering programs and research excellence.
- University of British Columbia (UBC): Offers diverse engineering disciplines with a strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation.
- University of Waterloo: Known for its co-op programs and strong industry connections.
- McGill University: Recognized for its rigorous academic environment and cutting-edge research.
- University of Alberta: Offers a wide range of engineering programs with state-of-the-art facilities.
What engineering specializations are available in Canadian universities?
Canadian universities offer a broad spectrum of engineering specializations, including but not limited to:
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical and Computer Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Biomedical Engineering
- Software Engineering
- Environmental Engineering
- Aerospace Engineering
What are the tuition fees for international students pursuing engineering in Canada?
Tuition fees vary depending on the institution and program. On average, international students can expect to pay between CAD 20,000 to CAD 60,000 per year. For example:
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- University of Toronto: Approximately CAD 63,500 per year.
-
- University of British Columbia: Around CAD 21,890 per year.
-
- University of Waterloo: About CAD 46,190 per year.
It's advisable to check the specific university's official website for the most accurate and up-to-date tuition information.
What are the admission requirements for engineering programs in Canada?
Admission criteria can vary by university and program level (undergraduate vs. graduate). Generally, requirements include:
For Undergraduate Programs:
- Completion of secondary education with strong grades in mathematics and science courses.
- Proof of English language proficiency (e.g., IELTS or TOEFL scores).
- Additional standardized tests may be required by some universities.
For Postgraduate Programs:
- A relevant bachelor's degree in engineering or a related field.
- Competitive GPA (often a minimum of B average).
- GRE scores may be required by certain institutions.
- Letters of recommendation and a statement of purpose.
Prospective students should review the specific admission requirements on the university's official admissions page.
Are there scholarships available for international engineering students in Canada?
Yes, many Canadian universities offer scholarships and financial aid to international students based on academic merit, leadership qualities, and other criteria. Additionally, external organizations and the Canadian government provide various scholarships and grants. It's recommended to explore the financial aid sections of university websites and consult with educational advisors for available opportunities.
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