Simon Fraser University

Simon Fraser University is a public research university in British Columbia, carrying stronger academic reputation than most universities on this list, particularly through its Beedie School of Business and Computing Science programmes, while still applying a holistic graduate review process.

Institution size

Large

Min. CGPA floor

No fixed floor; holistic review

Tuition / yr

C$20k–C$30k

Type

Public research university

Key Facts

Admission Requirements for Low CGPA and Backlog Applicants

• No single fixed minimum GPA published; graduate applications reviewed holistically
• Statement of purpose, references, and relevant experience weighed alongside academic transcript
• Competitive programmes, particularly business and computing science, draw a stronger applicant pool than the university’s general holistic policy might suggest

Tuition and Fees

Figures are indicative and reviewed annually by the institution. Confirm current rates directly with the university before budgeting.

Programmes Offered

• MBA (Beedie School of Business)
• Computing Science
• Environmental Science
• Communication
• Public Policy
• Criminology
• Linguistics
• Economics

This list covers the primary subject areas available; it is not the full course catalogue. Confirm the complete, current list of programmes directly on the university’s official course finder.

Degree Levels Offered

• Diploma / Certificate: Offered
• Undergraduate (Bachelor’s): Offered
• Postgraduate (Master’s / MSc / MA): Offered
• Doctorate (PhD): Offered
• Post-Doctoral Fellowship: Offered
• Short Courses: Offered

Availability of Short Courses and Post-Doctoral Fellowship positions can vary by department and is not always centrally advertised; confirm current openings directly with the relevant faculty.

Scholarships and Funding

• Graduate entrance scholarships and assistantships available, particularly in research-based programmes
• Competitive; confirm department-specific funding opportunities directly with the graduate programme

Application Process

1. Confirm the specific CGPA, GPA, or classification requirement for the target programme directly with the admissions office
2. Complete required English proficiency testing (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent) if applicable
3. Prepare transcripts, statement of purpose, recommendation letters or references, and a resume or CV
4. Submit the application through the university’s official admissions portal and pay the application fee
5. Await the admission decision and, once accepted, pay any required deposit
6. Apply for the relevant student visa or study permit using the offer letter and financial documentation

Admission Outlook

Simon Fraser offers genuinely stronger academic standing than most accessible-admission universities, but its most popular programmes are correspondingly more competitive; applicants with a borderline profile should target less oversubscribed departments.

Campus Life

Located in the Vancouver metropolitan area, Simon Fraser offers access to one of Canada’s strongest job markets, offset by some of the country’s highest living costs.

International students generally have access to a dedicated international student office, orientation programming, and student clubs and societies. Housing options typically include on-campus or university-affiliated accommodation alongside private rental options; applicants should apply for housing as early as possible after accepting an offer, since availability varies by intake and city.

Other Essential Information

Official Resources

• University homepage: sfu.ca

Compare Simon Fraser University against other accessible universities on our Find a Course page, or contact us for help confirming eligibility.