Simon Fraser University
Canada's top primarily-undergrad university - world-leading co-op and a striking mountain campus.
Simon Fraser University sits atop Burnaby Mountain with a striking brutalist campus and breathtaking views. SFU is consistently ranked Canada's top comprehensive university by Maclean's. It is particularly well known for its co-op program and for strong programs in computing science, business (Beedie), criminology, and communications.
What average do you need to get into SFU?
There is no single SFU acceptance rate - admission is program-by-program. Top competitive programs like Communications require mid-to-high 80s, while programs at the more accessible end admit students with averages around mid 70s. A competitive overall average for most SFU programs is roughly the mid-80s and up. Check the per-program admission averages below to find your target.
Key Facts
- Location: Burnaby, BC
- Founded: 1965
- Students: 35,000
- Maclean's ranking: #1
- QS World ranking: #308
- Approximate domestic tuition: $8000/year
- Co-op available: Yes
Top Strengths
- Computing Science
- Business (Beedie)
- Criminology
- Engineering
- Communications
- Sciences
- Education
Admission Averages by Program
Real admission average ranges for SFU programs, from most accessible to most competitive:
- Computing Science — admission average: high 80s (Strong program, excellent co-op at Vancouver and BC tech companies.)
- Software Systems — admission average: high 80s (Engineering-flavoured CS - strong for software development careers.)
- Engineering Science — admission average: high 80s (Interdisciplinary engineering with strong co-op placements.)
- Mechatronic Systems Eng. — admission average: high 80s (Unique interdisciplinary program, excellent for robotics and automation.)
- Business (Beedie - BBA) — admission average: high 80s (Strong co-op, good Vancouver finance and tech connections.)
- Accounting — admission average: high 80s (CPA pathway, strong accounting program.)
- Criminology — admission average: high 80s (One of Canada's best-known and most respected criminology programs.)
- Psychology — admission average: high 80s (Large program, strong clinical and research tracks.)
- Communications — admission average: mid-to-high 80s (Strong media, journalism, and digital communications track.)
- Economics — admission average: high 80s (Strong quantitative program, good finance and policy pathway.)
- Political Science — admission average: mid-to-high 80s (Good for law school and public service careers.)
- Actuarial Science — admission average: high 80s (Well-respected program, strong industry connections.)
- Biology — admission average: high 80s (Strong ecology and marine biology focus.)
- Chemistry — admission average: high 80s (Good research opportunities.)
- Health Sciences — admission average: high 80s (Interdisciplinary health program, good pre-health pathway.)
- Education (BEd) — admission average: mid 70s (Well-regarded teacher certification.)
Things to Know
- SFU's co-op program is one of Canada's oldest and most respected - many students cite it as the main reason they chose SFU.
- The Burnaby Mountain location is stunning but isolated - most students have cars or rely on transit.
- SFU's semester system means a different academic calendar than most schools.
- The Beedie School of Business is often overlooked nationally but is genuinely strong.
Notable Alumni
- Gilles Duceppe
- Evander Kane
- Conrad Black (honorary)