How to get into University of British Columbia as an international student?

The University welcomes applications from outstanding international students. Well-qualified applicants from recognized secondary schools, colleges, and universities will be considered, as well as students applying as transfer students from recognized universities and colleges. Applications from short-term visiting students from other recognized universities are also accepted. This article answers How to get into University of British Columbia as an international student?

To get into the University of British Columbia (UBC) as an international student in Canada, you must meet the following requirements:

  • Academic requirements: UBC requires international students to have completed their secondary school education and achieved a minimum average of 80% in their final two years of study. Specific academic requirements may vary depending on your country of origin and the program you are applying to. You can check the UBC website for more detailed information.
  • English language proficiency requirements: UBC requires international students to demonstrate their English language proficiency by submitting a score on one of the following tests:
    • TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 89
    • IELTS Academic: Minimum overall score of 6.5 with a minimum score of 6.0 in each section
    • PTE Academic: Minimum overall score of 65 with a minimum score of 60 in each section
    • CAEL Academic: Minimum overall score of 70 with a minimum score of 60 in the speaking section

Additional requirements:

  • Application fee: UBC charges a non-refundable application fee of CAD 125.
  • Transcripts: You must submit official transcripts from all secondary and post-secondary institutions you have attended.
  • Letters of recommendation: UBC recommends that you submit two letters of recommendation from teachers or other academic professionals who can speak to your academic abilities and potential.
  • Statement of purpose: You must write a personal statement of purpose explaining why you are interested in studying at UBC and what you hope to achieve.

Application process:

  1. Choose your program and campus. UBC offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs at two campuses in Vancouver and Kelowna. You can browse the UBC website to learn more about the different programs and choose the one that is right for you.
  2. Review the admission requirements. Once you have chosen a program, you should review the specific admission requirements to make sure that you meet them. You can find this information on the UBC website.
  3. Start the online application. You can start the UBC online application at any time. The application process is relatively straightforward, but it is important to be sure that you submit all of the required documentation.
  4. Pay the application fee. You must pay the CAD 125 application fee before your application can be processed.
  5. Submit your application and supporting documents. Once you have completed the online application and paid the application fee, you must submit all of the required supporting documents. This may include transcripts, letters of recommendation, and your statement of purpose.

Tips for getting into UBC as an international student:

  • Start planning early. The application process for UBC can take several months, so it is important to start planning early. This will give you enough time to gather all of the required documentation and submit a strong application.
  • Get good grades. UBC is a highly competitive university, so it is important to get good grades in your secondary school and post-secondary studies. This will make you a more competitive applicant.
  • Write a strong statement of purpose. Your statement of purpose is an important opportunity to tell the admissions committee who you are and why you want to study at UBC. Be sure to write a thoughtful and well-written statement that highlights your academic achievements, extracurricular activities, and personal goals.
  • Get help from a counselor or advisor. If you have any questions about the application process or need help preparing your application materials, you can contact a counselor or advisor at your school or college. They can provide you with guidance and support throughout the process.

Getting into UBC as an international student can be challenging, but it is definitely possible with careful planning and preparation. By following the tips above, you can increase your chances of being admitted to this world-renowned university.

Overview of Public Universities in South Africa

Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.

University of Pretoria

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
  • Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.

University of Cape Town

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
  • Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.

Stellenbosch University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.

University of the Witwatersrand

  • Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
  • Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.

University of Johannesburg

  • Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
  • Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.

University of the Free State

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.

University of Venda

  • Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
  • Application Period: Usually from May to September.

University of Fort Hare

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
  • Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.

University of the Western Cape

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Generally from May to September.

North-West University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.

Rhodes University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
  • Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.

Nelson Mandela University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
  • Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.

Cape Peninsula University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.

University of Limpopo

  • Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

University of Zululand

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
  • Application Period: Usually between April and November.

Central University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.

Vaal University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
  • Application Period: Typically from May to September.

Walter Sisulu University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.