Top 10 primarily Undergraduate Universities in Canada

There are various and effective ways to rank Canada’s esteemed universities. While selecting one of Canada’s major universities that consistently ranks in the top 100 worldwide, it is important to note that there are additional ranking systems and factors that are equally worth considering during your decision-making process. When seeking a top-notch undergraduate experience, international students should also take the time to explore Canada’s top 10 primarily undergraduate universities which offer excellent academic programs and vibrant campus life.

According to the Canadian ranking guru, MacLean’s Magazine, these are the top 10 universities that are highly regarded for their outstanding educational programs and will provide you with a quality education that can shape your future.

• Mount Allison University

• University of Northern British Columbia

• St Mary’s University

• Bishop’s University

• Acadia University

• Bishop’s University

• Trent University

• Ontario Tech University

• St Francis Xavier University

• University of Prince Edward Island

All these universities are excellent options for international students to do their undergraduate programs. They come with an excellent education, superb teaching, affordable tuition and some of them have excellent international student scholarships. So international students should consider these universities too when looking at Canadian institutions.

Rather than go through each of the above 10 individually, I will highlight 3 of these universities so you, as an international student can see what benefits studying at one of these universities can offer you.

University of Northern British Columbia

For the past 20 years, the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) has consistently ranked in the top 5 leading undergraduate universities and also sits in the top 5% worldwide. Studying at the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) offers numerous benefits, particularly for international students seeking a personalized education in a supportive environment. Known for its low student-to-faculty ratio, UNBC allows students to build meaningful relationships with professors and receive tailored guidance throughout their academic journey. The university is situated in a stunning natural setting, providing students with access to breathtaking landscapes and countless outdoor activities, which enhance both mental well-being and personal growth. Additionally, UNBC emphasizes research, offering both national and international students the chance to engage in innovative projects and gain hands-on experience in their fields of interest. With its commitment to sustainability and community engagement, UNBC prepares students to become responsible leaders in an ever-evolving global landscape.

UNBC is ranked among some of the most affordable universities in Canada, making it a great choice for students seeking quality education without breaking the bank. Additionally, the university offers a variety of excellent scholarships specifically designed for international students. Prospective students can explore a diverse range of options, choosing from over 71 undergraduate programs and 28 master's programs tailored to meet their academic and career aspirations.

Trent University

Studying at Trent University offers numerous benefits, making it an excellent choice for international students seeking a well-rounded education. Renowned for its innovative programs and strong emphasis on experiential learning, Trent provides students with hands-on opportunities that enhance academic understanding and employability. The university boasts a close-knit community, with small class sizes that foster personalized attention and meaningful interactions with professors. Additionally, Trent's picturesque campus along the banks of the Otonabee River promotes a serene learning environment, complemented by a commitment to sustainability. With diverse extracurricular activities and robust support services, international students at Trent University can thrive academically and socially, preparing them for successful futures.

Trent is also known as the #1 university in Canada for scholarships and they offer several prestigious ones to internatioanl students. One notable one is the Trent International Global Citizen Scholarship at $136,000 CAD.

St Francis Xavier University

Studying at St. Francis Xavier University, ranks high in student satisifaction and reputation, and offers numerous benefits that enhance the educational experience for international students. Renowned for its strong academic programs, particularly in business, arts, and science, St. FX fosters a close-knit community that promotes personalized learning and mentorship. The student-to-professor ratio is small, small enough that professors will know you by name. You are not just a number in the crowd. The university's picturesque campus, combined with its commitment to student success, creates an engaging environment where students can thrive academically and socially. Additionally, the opportunities for extracurricular involvement, such as clubs and sports, allow students to develop leadership skills and build lasting friendships. With a focus on holistic education, St. FX prepares graduates to excel in their careers and contribute positively to society.

St Francis Xavier is a very affordable university with some excellent international student scholarships, especially in Business and Policy and Governance.

Other Ways to Rank Canadian Universities

There are many other ways to rank universities such as which are the top universities for international students. In the list put out by Pearson PTE, you will also find the University of Manitoba alongside universities like the University of British Columbia, Alberta, Ottawa and McGill University. Then you can rank universities according to student satisfaction and Wilfrid Laurier University ranks alongside the University of Waterloo. Even with globally ranked universities, there is THE (Times Higher Education), QS, Shanghai, and ARWU (Academic Ranking of World Universities), all using different criteria by which to rank universities.

It is evident from the different ranking systems that rank isn’t necessarily a reliable criteria and should not be your only deciding factor when choosing a university in Canada. And if all of this ranking left you confused, that is okay, it is confusing. So why don’t you contact Go 2 Canada Education Services to sort it out for you? They have over 35 years of experience in Canada’s post-secondary education sector so they can help you understand where rank should be placed in your decision-making.

Ultimately, the "best" university for an individual depends on their academic interests, career goals, and personal preferences. It's essential for prospective students to research and consider factors such as program offerings, faculty reputation, campus environment, and extracurricular activities when evaluating different universities.