University of British Columbia (UBC) for international students

At a glance

UBC is one of Canada’s largest research universities, with two campuses: UBC Vancouver on the city’s west side and UBC Okanagan in Kelowna. It offers undergraduate, master’s and doctoral degrees across arts, science, engineering, business and many professional fields.

International tuition for 2026/27

UBC publishes tuition for a full course load. For international undergraduates starting in 2026/27:

For students starting in 2026/27, UBC caps increases at 3% a year for up to four years, or until you graduate. Student fees, health and dental plans, and the U-Pass are extra.

English language requirements

UBC’s undergraduate minimums include:

• IELTS Academic: 6.5 overall, no band below 6.0
• TOEFL iBT: 90 overall (reading 22, listening 22, writing 21, speaking 21)
• Duolingo English Test: 125 overall, with section minimums

Tests must be no more than two years old. Students who are strong academically but just below the English standard may be offered a pathway such as Vantage College.

PAL and study permits

• Undergraduate students need a Provincial Attestation Letter. UBC issues it after you accept your offer.
• Master’s and doctoral students at UBC — a public university — don’t need a PAL for applications received from January 1, 2026.

Scholarships

UBC runs entrance awards for international students, including the International Major Entrance Scholarship and the Karen McKellin International Leader of Tomorrow Award (need-based). Graduate students are often funded through their department or supervisor — ask before you accept an offer.

Living costs near campus

• Vancouver campus: Metro Vancouver is BC’s most expensive rental market — see our Vancouver guide. Students pay for the U-Pass BC transit pass ($47.85 a month from September 2026).
• Okanagan campus: rent in Kelowna is noticeably lower — see our Kelowna guide.

Estimate your budget with the cost calculator.