Canada is one of the world’s most popular study destinations for international students, and its universities reflect that reputation. From globally diverse student bodies and internationally recruited faculty to research partnerships spanning more than 100 countries, Canadian universities are built to serve students from every corner of the world.
Each year, Times Higher Education (THE) assesses universities on their International Outlook, one of the five pillars used to produce its World University Rankings. This pillar measures four equally weighted factors: the proportion of international staff, the proportion of international students, international academic reputation, and international co-authorship in published research. Together, these indicators reveal which universities are truly global in character, not just in ambition.
The ten universities below represent Canada’s highest-scoring institutions for International Outlook in the THE World University Rankings 2026, listed in order of their International Outlook score. Whether you are searching for the most international university in Canada, exploring Canadian universities with the highest international student population, or simply comparing your options, this guide covers everything you need to know.
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Most International Universities in Canada: At a Glance
Top 10 Most International Universities in Canada 2026
The University of British Columbia (UBC) ranks as the most international university in Canada according to the THE World University Rankings 2026, earning an International Outlook score of 93.5. Ranked 45th in the world overall, UBC attracts students from across the globe, with approximately 30% of master’s students and 44% of doctoral students coming from outside Canada.
UBC offers programmes across 85 academic units, spanning undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral levels, and provides guaranteed tuition awards of up to $3,200 for international students enrolled in research-based programmes. The university’s extensive international research partnerships and co-authorship networks contribute significantly to its top International Outlook score.
Support services for international students include visa and immigration assistance, English language support, and cultural adjustment programmes. UBC’s global exchange network gives students the opportunity to study abroad and develop a genuinely international academic perspective.
- THE International Outlook Score: 93.5
- International students: ~34%
- Acceptance rate: 53%
The University of Toronto is Canada’s highest-ranked university overall (21st in the world), and its THE International Outlook score of 92.3 reflects a genuinely global institution. International students make up approximately 27% of the total student population, drawn from countries across every region of the world.
U of T is also ranked among the world’s top universities for graduate employability, making it a strong choice for international students with long-term career ambitions. Support for students throughout their studies includes Health and Wellness services, Career Learning Networks, experiential learning opportunities, study abroad programmes, community-engaged learning, and international development internships.
The university maintains partnerships with more than 140 international institutions in over 40 countries. For international students looking to combine academic excellence with a strong global network, the University of Toronto represents one of Canada’s most compelling options.
- THE International Outlook Score: 92.3
- International students: ~27%
- Acceptance rate: 43%
Simon Fraser University (SFU) high International Outlook score is driven in part by its strong international research co-authorship record, a direct reflection of its reputation as a globally engaged research university. Students can pursue full degrees or attend as exchange students from partner institutions around the world.
The International Services for Students Office provides comprehensive guidance on studying and working in Canada, and the Global Student Centre creates opportunities for students to build intercultural connections across the university community.
- THE International Outlook Score: 90.7
- International students: ~31%
- Acceptance rate: 59%
McGill University is consistently recognised as one of Canada’s most internationally diverse universities. McGill is particularly notable as Canada’s most internationally diverse institution for medical-doctoral research programmes. It offers diplomas and degrees across more than 300 fields of study, supported by world-class faculty and state-of-the-art research infrastructure.
International Student Services at McGill provides a broad range of non-academic support, including an International Student Buddy Programme that connects new arrivals with returning students. McGill also maintains partnerships with over 150 universities in 39 countries, giving students opportunities to study abroad and pursue international internships as part of their degree.
- THE International Outlook Score: 89.2
- International students: ~29%
- Acceptance rate: 47%
The University of Alberta offers one of the most extensive programme portfolios of any Canadian university, with international students able to choose from more than 200 undergraduate programmes, 500 graduate programmes with 250 specialisations, and 300 research areas.
International students are supported through International Student and Visitor Services and the International Service Centre. The university’s Go Abroad programmes enable students to pursue study placements, internships, and collaborative projects with partner institutions worldwide.
- THE International Outlook Score: 88.4
- International students: ~27%
- Acceptance rate: 58%
At the University of Windsor, students can choose from a broad range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in areas including Law, Business, Education, Nursing, and Social Work. The university is known for strong student-faculty relationships, supported by award-winning teaching staff.
Dedicated career officers help international students identify and secure employment opportunities on and off campus, and English language improvement courses are available for students looking to strengthen their language skills ahead of or during their studies.
- THE International Outlook Score: 87.9
- International students: ~35%
- Acceptance rate: 65%
7. Western University
Western University, based in London, Ontario, is one of Canada’s leading research-intensive universities. Western offers programmes across a wide range of disciplines, including Business at the Ivey Business School, one of Canada’s most respected business schools, as well as strong programmes in Engineering, Health Sciences, Law, and the Arts and Humanities. The Western International office provides support to international students throughout their studies, offering immigration advising, transition programmes, and cultural integration events.
London, Ontario is a mid-sized Canadian city with a lower cost of living than Toronto or Vancouver, making it a practical and affordable choice for international students studying in Canada without compromising on academic quality. Western also received a perfect score of 99.8 for Research Industry in the THE 2026 rankings, reflecting outstanding engagement with industry partners.
- THE International Outlook Score: 86.9
- International students: ~20%
- Acceptance rate: 58%
One of Canada’s oldest universities, founded in 1818, Dalhousie is Atlantic Canada’s primary research institution. Dalhousie’s Office of International Relations maintains over 300 partnerships with institutions in 67 countries, and its researchers collaborate with colleagues across more than 100 countries. This breadth of international academic engagement underpins the university’s strong International Outlook score.
International students can apply for entrance awards, scholarships, and bursaries to help fund their studies. Halifax, the city where Dalhousie is located, is one of Canada’s most affordable and student-friendly cities, offering a high quality of life alongside a vibrant cultural scene.
- THE International Outlook Score: 86.6
- International students: ~27%
- Acceptance rate: 78%
9. Memorial University of Newfoundland
Located in St. John’s, Newfoundland, Memorial is the province’s only university and serves a significant proportion of international students, around 30% of its student body. Tuition fees at Memorial are among the lowest of any Canadian university, making it one of the most affordable study options in Canada for international students without compromising on research quality or global connectivity.
The International Student Advising and Services (ISAS) office supports international students with immigration, health insurance, and transition to life in Canada. St. John’s is a distinctive and welcoming city, known for its cultural richness and close-knit community atmosphere, offering international students a very different, and often highly valued, Canadian experience compared to larger urban centres.
- THE International Outlook Score: 86.2
- International students: ~30%
- Acceptance rate: 73%
The University of Ottawa, located in Canada’s capital city, is one of the world’s largest bilingual universities, offering programmes in both English and French. Ottawa’s bilingual environment is a distinctive asset for international students studying in Canada, particularly those who wish to develop French-language skills alongside their academic qualification. Through uOInternational, students receive immigration support, health insurance guidance, and mentorship to help them settle into life in Canada.
The university maintains partnerships with over 100 international institutions, giving students access to study abroad opportunities and exchange programmes throughout their degree. Tuition fees at the University of Ottawa are comparatively affordable for a university of its global standing, adding to its appeal among cost-conscious international students.
- THE International Outlook Score: 86.2
- International students: ~26%
- Acceptance rate: 42%
Study at an International University in Canada
Canada’s universities are among the most globally engaged in the world, offering international students a welcoming environment, world-class research opportunities, and strong post-study career prospects. Whether you are drawn to UBC’s research excellence, McGill’s diverse doctoral community, or Memorial’s affordable fees and unique Atlantic Canada experience, there is a Canadian university to suit every ambition and budget.
Arrange a free consultation today to begin your application to study in Canada.
FAQs
Which is the most international university in Canada?
According to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, the University of British Columbia (UBC) is the most international university in Canada, earning an International Outlook score of 93.5. This score reflects UBC’s high proportion of international students and staff, its global academic reputation, and its extensive international research co-authorship network.
What does the THE International Outlook score measure?
The Times Higher Education International Outlook score is based on four equally weighted factors: the proportion of international staff, the proportion of international students, international academic reputation (derived from the THE Academic Reputation Survey), and international co-authorship, which measures how frequently a university’s researchers publish collaboratively with partners at overseas institutions.
Are internationally diverse universities better for international students?
Research consistently shows that studying in a diverse academic environment improves the teaching and learning experience for both domestic and international students. Universities with high international student and staff populations tend to offer stronger, dedicated support services, more globally relevant curricula, and better opportunities for cross-cultural exchange, all of which benefit international students as they adjust to life in a new country.
Which Canadian university is the most affordable for international students?
Memorial University of Newfoundland consistently offers some of the lowest tuition fees for international students of any university in Canada, while still maintaining a strong global research profile. Dalhousie University and the University of Windsor also offer comparatively affordable options relative to universities in Toronto or Vancouver.
Can international students work while studying at these universities?
Yes. International students holding a valid Canadian study permit are generally permitted to work up to 24 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks, subject to the conditions of their permit. All ten universities on this list have dedicated international student offices that can provide up-to-date guidance on working in Canada as a student. For full details on post-study work rights, visit our guide to the Post-Graduation Work Permit in Canada.
How do I apply to Canada universities?
Each university has its own admissions process and entry requirements, which vary by programme and level of study. SI-Canada’s advisors specialise in Canadian university applications and can guide you through the process from initial shortlisting through to visa. Book a free consultation to get started.
