How a university ranks from an academic perspective is not the only important thing which is considered when ranking Canada universities and colleges; it is also the voice of the student via student satisfaction rankings.

In order to gauge the prevailing sentiment among students, a different kind of ranking system has been devised by Maclean’s. This comprehensive ranking system takes into account the parameters that are important to students while studying at a Canadian university, factoring in the quality of parameters such as:

  • Course instructors
  • Student life staff
  • Academic advisors
  • Mental health services
  • Extracurricular activities
  • Experiential learning
  • Residence living

All of the above factors into how a university performs in the student satisfaction rankings for Canadian institutions. Over 19,000 students recently gave their opinions on Canada’s best universities by student satisfaction, with the following universities ranking in the top five.

If you wish to study at any of these universities or need guidance on the application process to study in Canada, arrange a free consultation with StudyIn’s education experts today.


Best Canadian Universities for Student Satisfaction

1. University of Quebec in Montreal

The University of Quebec in Montreal (UQAM) is a French-language public university that ranked first in three of the ten parameters set by Maclean’s: course instructors, academic advisors, and sexual assault prevention.

The University offers more than 300 programmes, providing high-quality educational support with teachers who place strong emphasis on practical training. The vibrant campus atmosphere, with a mix of local and international students, is also one of the factors that make UQAM the top-ranked Canadian university for student satisfaction.

2. University of Victoria

Located in the municipalities of Oak Bay and Saanich, British Columbia, the University of Victoria is a public research university. UVic was founded in 1963, but its origins can be traced back to 1903 with the establishment of its predecessor institution, Victoria College. Ranking first overall for administrative staff and promoting Indigenous visibility, UVic also enjoys a strong reputation as a leading academic institution that prepares career-ready graduates.

3. Brock University

Brock University is one of Canada’s top-ranking post-secondary institutions in Ontario, situated in the historic and scenic Niagara region. Brock achieved the highest ranking in the country for mental health services, as voted by students.

The University has more than 19,000 students on campus who can take part in a wide range of clubs and extracurricular activities alongside their academic studies. Its beautiful and community-focused location also gives Brock a distinct appeal, making it a popular choice among students.

4. Wilfrid Laurier University

Wilfrid Laurier University (WLU) is a public university with campuses in Waterloo, Brantford, Milton, and Ontario. It is named after Sir Wilfrid Laurier, the seventh Prime Minister of Canada.

The University ranked first for student life staff and extracurricular activities in Maclean’s survey. According to the University’s mission statement, education at Laurier develops the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. The University believes that a university education should lead to more than just employment; it should foster engaged and socially aware citizens within a diverse culture that inspires purpose and leadership.

5. University of Waterloo

Also located in Ontario, the University of Waterloo was founded in 1957 with 74 engineering students and co-operative education as its cornerstone. Today, it welcomes more than 42,000 students each year.

The University is a national leader in experiential learning, with over 7,100 active co-op employers. This commitment to hands-on education is the reason Waterloo was ranked as the top university in the ‘Experiential Learning’ category of the survey.


Study in Canada

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