University of Calgary
A prestigious research-intensive university with strong international recognition. Known for quality education, innovative research, and producing graduates who excel in their fields worldwide.
- Acceptance Rate
- 29.8%
- SAT Range
- 1330–1480
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.85
- Size
- Large (37,491 students)
- Type
- N/A
- Student:Faculty
- 1:18
- Setting
- urban
- Graduation Rate
- 80.0%
- Retention Rate
- 93.0%
- Tuition (In-State)
- $8,000
- Tuition (Int'l)
- $35,000
Academic Programs
STEM
Business
Social Sciences
Humanities
Health
Arts
English Proficiency Requirements
Student Life & Environment
Student life at University of Calgary reflects the institution's growth and the city's character. The campus has developed student life programming and facilities that create community, though the commuter nature of Calgary means not everyone engages equally with campus activities. Residence halls house students, primarily in first year, creating initial social connections. The MacEwan Student Centre and other facilities provide gathering spaces, services, and organization headquarters. Student clubs and organizations cover academic interests, cultural groups, recreational activities, and causes. The Students' Union represents student interests and operates services. Greek life exists but is smaller than at American universities. Athletics are significant. The Dinos compete in Canadian university sports with football, hockey, and basketball drawing crowds. Intramural and recreational sports provide participation opportunities. The fitness facilities serve the campus community. Calgary itself offers substantial urban amenities. The downtown core has restaurants, entertainment, and nightlife. The mountains are about an hour west, providing winter skiing and summer hiking that many students take advantage of. The city's prosperity, driven by energy, creates a modern environment with good infrastructure. The campus can feel spread out and less intimate than some universities, reflecting its size and the car-oriented nature of Calgary. Students who engage actively find community.
Location & Surroundings
Calgary sits at the transition from prairie to mountains in southern Alberta. With over 1.5 million residents, it ranks among Canada's largest cities and is by far Alberta's largest urban center. The economy has historically centered on oil and gas, which brings prosperity when prices are high and anxiety when they fall. This economic base shapes the city: modern downtown towers, suburban sprawl, and a business-oriented culture. The university campus occupies a northwest location that requires driving or transit to reach most city destinations. Calgary's C-Train light rail connects the campus to downtown and other neighborhoods. The Rocky Mountains are visible from the city on clear days and accessible in about an hour by car. Banff and other mountain destinations provide world-class skiing, hiking, and outdoor recreation that many students incorporate into their lives. The climate is distinctive. Winters are cold but punctuated by chinook winds that bring sudden warming. Summers are pleasant with low humidity. The region gets significant sunshine even in winter months. Calgary has developed cultural amenities including the Glenbow Museum, concert venues, and a growing restaurant scene. The Stampede each July is a major event celebrating western heritage. Cost of living is moderate by Canadian standards, lower than Vancouver or Toronto, making student budgets manageable.
Costs & Career Outcomes
University of Calgary tuition varies by program and student status. Alberta residents pay around 5,500 to 7,000 CAD annually for most undergraduate programs. Out-of-province Canadian students pay slightly higher rates. International students pay substantially more, typically 20,000 to 35,000 CAD depending on the program. Engineering, nursing, and some other programs have higher fees. Living costs in Calgary are moderate by Canadian standards. Budget around 12,000 to 16,000 CAD annually for housing, food, and personal expenses. On-campus residence provides a predictable cost option; off-campus housing varies widely. Scholarships include entrance awards based on high school achievement, continuing awards for university performance, and need-based grants. Alberta student loans help Canadian students. Part-time employment is available, particularly when the energy sector is performing well. Career outcomes connect to Calgary's economy. Engineering graduates, especially in petroleum and software, find opportunities in the energy industry and technology sector. Business graduates enter Calgary's corporate environment. Health sciences graduates work throughout the healthcare system. The alumni network extends across Alberta and beyond, with particular strength in energy. Career services provide job search support, employer connections through career fairs, and professional development. Co-op programs build experience and relationships with employers. Economic fluctuations in the energy sector affect job markets more than in more diversified cities.
Campus Location
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