The University of British Columbia (UBC), incorporated in 1908, is a public research university with two main campuses in Vancouver and Kelowna. UBC was British Columbia’s sole public university until 1963. The university enrolled 72,100 undergraduate and graduate students. UBC attracts applicants from Canada and around the world, and prospective international students should compare the separate admit rates reported by campus and applicant group rather than rely on a single university-wide estimate. An admit rate shows the proportion of completed applications that receive an offer of admission. Read on for the details.
University of British Columbia Acceptance Rate
- Undergraduate Admit Rates: 60% at the Vancouver campus and 76% at the Okanagan campus
UBC’s Annual Enrolment Report lists total undergraduate admit rates of 60% for Vancouver and 76% for Okanagan. For international undergraduate applicants, the rates were 71% and 82%, respectively. Graduate admit rates were lower—31% at Vancouver and 38% at Okanagan. Admit rates may change from year to year and vary by campus and applicant group.
Preparing for the University of British Columbia
In addition to reviewing UBC’s admit rates, prospective students should carefully consider the university’s admission requirements, scholarship programs, tuition costs, and application process. Let’s discuss a few of these elements:
Admission Requirements
The University of British Columbia offers undergraduate and graduate programs across a wide range of fields. Admission requirements vary by degree, campus, level of study, and educational background. Undergraduate applicants must meet UBC’s general and degree-specific requirements and demonstrate English-language competency. Most high school applicants must also complete a personal profile. Graduate applications generally require academic transcripts, at least two references, and, for most programs, a statement of interest. Some graduate programs require additional tests or supporting materials, so applicants should review the requirements for their chosen program.
Tuition Fees
International students should check the current tuition schedule for their selected program because fees vary by program, level of study, campus, and academic year. UBC’s Board of Governors reviews tuition annually. The university’s 2026/27 Academic Calendar states that, in recent years, tuition increases have been 2% for continuing domestic students and 3% for continuing international students. Tuition is only one part of the cost of attendance, so international students should also prepare a realistic financial plan for living and other study expenses.
Scholarships
Because attending university is an investment in your future, UBC offers undergraduate students merit- and need-based scholarships, awards, and bursaries. Graduate funding opportunities may include scholarships, fellowships, and research or teaching assistantships. Eligibility, coverage, application procedures, and deadlines vary by award and program.
UBC is one of Canada’s highly ranked research universities. It placed 45th globally and third in Canada in the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026. In addition, alumni UBC provides graduates with career-development programs, job boards, coaching, events, and networking opportunities.
We hope this article was informative. For additional details about UBC, check out the step-by-step guide on how to apply to UBC. If you are interested, check out the available courses for international students!
