Quick Read
- QS 2027: #298 globally, #12 in Canada
- THE 2026: 351–400 globally, 14th in Canada
- Best subjects: Law, Oceanography, Petroleum Engineering
- CS and Engineering: 401–500 band (THE 2026)
Dalhousie University Ranking at a Glance
Dalhousie University is ranked #298 in the world and 12th in Canada in the QS World University Rankings 2027, and 351–400 globally (14th in Canada) in THE 2026. Its Dalhousie University global ranking sits between #298 and #410 across the four major systems, using the latest official edition of each.
| Ranking system (latest edition) | Global rank | Canada rank |
| QS World University Rankings 2027 | #298 of 1,504 | 12th of 30 |
| THE World University Rankings 2026 | 351–400 | 14th |
| ARWU (ShanghaiRanking) 2026 | 301–400 | Not published by ARWU |
| U.S. News Best Global Universities 2026–27 | #410 (tie) | 11th |
| QS Sustainability Rankings 2026 | #107 | Top 10 of 41 |
| THE Sustainability Impact Ratings 2026 | 90th of 1,603 | 9th of 30 |
| Maclean’s 2026 (Medical Doctoral category) | Not applicable | 9th of 15 |
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Note on THE 2027: Times Higher Education publishes its World University Rankings 2027 on 30 September 2026. Until then, THE 2026 is the latest official THE result, and this page will carry the 2027 figure once it is released.
Source: Dalhousie University, Facts, figures and rankings; U.S. News, Dalhousie University
Dalhousie University QS Ranking 2027 vs 2026 and 2025
The Dalhousie University QS ranking 2027 is #298, placing it in the top 20% of the 1,504 institutions assessed. That is a slip from #283 in the Dalhousie University QS ranking 2026 (its Dalhousie University world ranking 2026 in QS) and from #=275 in the Dalhousie University QS ranking 2025. Dal has held a narrow band between #272 and #308 since 2021.
| QS edition | Dalhousie QS world ranking |
| 2027 | #298 |
| 2026 | #283 |
| 2025 | #275 |
| 2024 | #298 |
| 2023 | #308 |
| 2022 | #272 |
Source: QS TopUniversities, Dalhousie University profile
Dalhousie University QS World Ranking 2027: Indicator Breakdown
The indicator breakdown tells an Indian student far more than the headline Dalhousie University QS world ranking.
| QS 2027 indicator | Global rank | Canada rank (of 30) |
| International Faculty | 89 (perfect score of 100) | 1st |
| Citations per Faculty | 306 | 5th |
| Sustainability | 107 | 10th |
| Academic Reputation | 432 | 14th |
| Employment Outcomes | 471 | 16th |
| Employer Reputation | 557 | 13th |
Academic Reputation rose 7% year over year, and Employer Reputation rose 4.6%. The overall drop came mainly from a 5.6% fall in Citations per Faculty and a 3.5% fall in Employment Outcomes.
Source: Dal News, QS World University Rankings 2027
Counselor Insight: Parents often read #298 as "average." The indicator table says something more precise. Dal is a strong research university (5th in Canada for citations) with weaker brand recognition among global employers. For a student planning to work in Canada on a PGWP, Canadian employer familiarity often matters more than a global survey score, and Dal offers over 2,800 co-op and work terms a year.
Dalhousie University Times Higher Education Ranking 2026
The Dalhousie University Times Higher Education ranking for 2026 is the 351–400 band, 14th in Canada.
THE scores universities on five pillars: teaching, research environment, research quality, international outlook, and industry. That different mix is why the Dalhousie University ranking in THE differs from its QS position.
Dal performs better on THE's sustainability table. In the 2026 Sustainability Impact Ratings, Dal placed 90th out of 1,603 institutions and in the top 100 for the fourth consecutive year.
Dalhousie University Ranking in Canada: Where Does Dal Stand?
Within Canada, the Dalhousie University ranking is consistent across systems:
- 12th in QS 2027
- 14th in THE 2026
- 11th in U.S. News
- 9th among Maclean's Medical Doctoral universities
Dal is also a member of the U15 group of Canada's research-intensive universities. See its programs and intakes on our Dalhousie University page.
Here is how the Dalhousie University Canada QS ranking compares with universities Indian students usually shortlist alongside it.
| University | QS 2027 world rank |
| McGill University | 30 |
| University of Toronto | 32 |
| University of British Columbia | 45 |
| University of Waterloo | 113 |
| Queen's University at Kingston | 179 |
| University of Ottawa | 228 |
| Dalhousie University | 298 |
Source: QS TopUniversities, Top universities in Canada
Counselor Insight: The Dalhousie University Halifax QS ranking reflects Dal's position as Atlantic Canada's leading research-intensive university, which matters for co-op and local hiring. If your shortlist is UofT, UBC and Waterloo, Dal is a sensible fourth option that still gives you a U15 degree.
See what our counselors say about choosing between Canadian universities.
Dalhousie University Subject Rankings
The overall Dalhousie University ranking understates several subjects. In the Dalhousie University subject rankings in QS 2026, Dal was recognized in 24 subjects, with 8 in the global top 200 and 2 in the top 100.
| Subject | Ranking system | Global rank | Canada rank |
| Oceanography | ARWU GRAS 2025 | 37 | Not published |
| Law | THE 2026 | 85 | 6th |
| Library & Information Management | QS 2026 | 51–100 | 5th (tied) |
| Petroleum Engineering | QS 2026 | 51–100 | 3rd |
| Development Studies | QS 2026 | 101–150 | 4th (tied) |
| Geology | QS 2026 | 101–150 | 5th (tied) |
| Psychology | THE 2026 | 176–200 | 12th |
| Medical and Health | THE 2026 | 201–250 | 11th |
Source: Dal News, QS subject rankings 2026; ShanghaiRanking, Dalhousie University
Dalhousie University Ranking for Computer Science
The Dalhousie University ranking for computer science is 401–500 globally in THE 2026. The Dalhousie University QS ranking for computer science falls outside Dal's top 10 QS subjects for 2026, so THE is the clearest official signal. Here is how each ranking system places Dalhousie University in computer science:
| Ranking system | Edition | Global rank | Canada rank |
| THE Subject Rankings: Computer Science | 2026 | 401–500 | 25th |
| U.S. News Best Global Universities: Computer Science | 2026–27 | #429 (tie) | Not published |
| QS Subject Rankings: Computer Science | 2026 | Outside Dal's top 10 QS subjects | Not published |
For Indian applicants, the program matters more than the subject band. Dal's two CS master's routes suit different goals:
| Feature | MCSc | MACSc |
| Format | Thesis-based | Course-based, with a co-op route |
| Best for | Research or PhD plans | Industry and software roles |
| Duration | 16 months or longer | 16 months or longer |
| Minimum GPA | A- for consideration | 3.0 |
| International deadlines | 1 April (September), 1 August (January) | 1 April (September), 1 August (January) |
Dal reports average CS graduate starting salaries of CAD 70,000+ (₹47.61 lakh+), with 10% earning CAD 95,000+ (₹64.61 lakh+).
Source: Dalhousie University, Computer Science (MCSc)
Compare options in our guide to Masters in Computer Science in Canada.
Dalhousie University Ranking for Engineering
The Dalhousie University ranking for engineering is uneven across branches. Petroleum Engineering ranks in the world's top 100, but the Dalhousie University mechanical engineering ranking and Dalhousie University civil engineering ranking are not among Dal's top 10 QS subjects for 2026. For those branches, use the broad bands below:
| Engineering area | Ranking system | Global rank | Canada rank |
| Petroleum Engineering | QS 2026 | 51–100 | 3rd |
| Environmental Science & Engineering | ARWU GRAS 2025 | 101–150 | Not published |
| Electrical & Electronic Engineering | ARWU GRAS 2025 | 201–300 | Not published |
| Engineering (broad, covers mechanical and civil) | THE 2026 | 401–500 | 23rd |
| Engineering (broad) | U.S. News 2026–27 | #607 (tie) | Not published |
See how Dal compares in our list of the best engineering universities in Canada.
Counselor Insight: Do not reject Dal for mechanical or civil engineering over a missing subject rank. Check the MEng co-op option and Halifax's ocean technology and defense industries. For marine, offshore, or petroleum-linked roles, Dal is one of Canada's strongest choices.
Dalhousie University World Ranking: Why QS, THE and U.S. News Differ
Families often ask why the Dalhousie University world ranking ranges from #298 to #410. Each system measures different things.
| System | What drives the score | Effect on Dal |
| QS | Academic reputation (30%), citations (20%), employer reputation (15%), international mix | Boosted by its perfect International Faculty score |
| THE | Teaching, research environment, research quality, international outlook, industry | Places Dal in the 351–400 band |
| U.S. News | Research reputation, publications, citations | Places Dal at #410 (tie) |
| ARWU | Nobel laureates, highly cited researchers, top-journal papers | Places Dal in the 301–400 band |
The key takeaway: every Dalhousie University international ranking places Dal between #298 and #410 worldwide and inside the top 15 in Canada.
Is Dalhousie a Good University for Indian Students?
Is Dalhousie a good university? For most Indian applicants, the answer is yes, as long as the program fits their needs. Use these scenarios, then compare them with other options to study in Canada.
| Your situation | Is Dal a strong fit? | Why |
| B.Tech CS graduate, wants a software job in Canada | Yes, via MACSc | Course-based, co-op stream, 3-year PGWP eligible |
| Research-focused student with a high GPA | Yes, via MCSc | Thesis-based; A- minimum GPA for consideration |
| Class 12 student choosing BEng or BCS | Yes, if the budget fits | Fixed tuition under the International Tuition Guarantee |
| Student targeting ocean sciences, law or health | Very strong | Top-100 global subjects in Oceanography and Law |
| Student who wants a top-50 global brand | No | Consider McGill, UofT or UBC instead |
Read expert answers on placement rates at top Canadian universities.
Dalhousie University Fees, Eligibility, and Deadlines 2027–28
Dal publishes new tuition rates each April, so the figures below are the latest official 2026–27 rates. Undergraduate students are locked into the rate for their starting cohort under the International Tuition Guarantee.
Dalhousie Undergraduate Tuition (International, per year)
| Faculty | Guaranteed tuition 2026–27 |
| Engineering | CAD 48,594 (₹33.05 lakh) |
| Management (includes Commerce) | CAD 42,042 (₹28.59 lakh) |
| Computer Science | CAD 41,688 (₹28.35 lakh) |
| Science / Arts & Social Sciences | CAD 37,992 (₹25.84 lakh) |
Note: Currency conversions are approximate and based on CAD 1 = ₹68.01 as of September 2026. Exchange rates fluctuate, so the INR equivalent may change.
The guarantee covers the standard program length plus one year, so a 4-year degree gets 5 years of fixed tuition. Incidental and co-op fees are charged separately.
Source: Dalhousie University, International Tuition Guarantee
Dalhousie Master's Tuition (International, per year)
| Component | Amount (2026–27) |
| Program fee (Computer Science, Engineering) | CAD 11,303 (₹7.69 lakh) |
| International tuition, thesis, or thesis-option rate | CAD 8,079 (₹5.49 lakh) |
| International tuition, non-thesis rate | CAD 24,685 (₹16.79 lakh) |
For the MCSc and MACSc, the program fee covers the first 12 months of full-time study. International tuition is charged at the thesis-option rate for up to 2 years. In the first year, that adds up to about CAD 19,382 (₹13.18 lakh) before incidental fees. For an MEng, your offer letter confirms which international rate applies.
Note: All amounts use CAD 1 = ₹68.01 as of september 2026
Source: Dalhousie, 2026–2027 Graduate Studies Fee Schedule (Masters)
For total budgeting, see these guides:
- Cost of masters in Canada
- Average cost of living in Canada for Indian students
- The current Canada GIC amount
Get expert answers to common questions about a master's budget in Canada.
Dalhousie Admission Requirements for Indian Students
| Level | Academic minimum | English | Application fee |
| Undergraduate (CS, Engineering, Management degrees) | 70% overall in five Class 12 academic subjects (BComm and BSc: 75%) | IELTS 6.5 (6.0 per band), TOEFL 4.5 on the new 1–6 scale, or Duolingo 120 | CAD 70 (₹4,761) |
| Master's (MACSc) | GPA 3.0 | IELTS 7.0, PTE 65, or TOEFL 4.5 (1–6 scale) | CAD 115 (₹7,821) |
| Master's (MCSc) | A- GPA for consideration | IELTS 7.0, PTE 65, or TOEFL 4.5 (1–6 scale) | CAD 115 (₹7,821) |
Note: All amounts use CAD 1 = ₹68.01 as of September 2026
Dal accepts CBSE, CISCE, and state board Class 12 certificates. TOEFL tests taken on or after 21 January 2026 are assessed only on the new 1–6 scale. Meeting the minimum does not guarantee admission, because many programs use competitive averages.
Source: Dalhousie, Undergraduate admission requirements; Dalhousie, English language requirements; Dalhousie, Applied Computer Science (MACSc); Dalhousie Graduate Studies, English requirements
Dalhousie Scholarships for International Students
Dal offers 2,000+ entrance awards each year, worth roughly CAD 1,000 (₹68,010) to CAD 80,000 (₹54.41 lakh) over 4 years. International students are eligible, and applicants typically need an 80% average. Awards consider academics, leadership, community service, and financial need.
Source: Dalhousie, Future undergraduate student awards
See what our counselors say about scholarship amounts for a master's in Canada, and browse scholarships for masters in Canada.
Dalhousie Application Deadlines for September 2027 and January 2028
| Date | Undergraduate (September 2027) | Master's (CS programs) |
| 1 October 2026 | General Entrance Award application opens | Start shortlisting and IELTS prep |
| 15 February 2027 | Entrance scholarship deadline | Finalise SOP, references and transcripts |
| March 2027 | Scholarship offers sent | Complete IELTS or TOEFL if pending |
| 1 April 2027 | Keep documents ready | International deadline, September 2027 start |
| 1 May 2027 | Accept offer, pay deposit, submit English proof | Apply for study permit after acceptance |
| 15 May 2027 | Guaranteed residence deadline | Arrange housing |
| 1 August 2027 | Not applicable | International deadline, January 2028 start |
Source: Dalhousie, Admission dates and deadlines; Dalhousie, Graduate admission process
Plan your intake with our guides to Canada intakes and the fall intake in Canada. Also check whether you need a Provincial Attestation Letter.
Counselor Insight: Indian applicants lose most Dal scholarships by applying late, not by having low marks. Award decisions for the 15 February 2027 deadline use first-term Class 12 grades, so apply by January 2027 with your school's mid-year marksheet ready.
What If Dalhousie's Ranking or Deadlines Don't Fit Your Plan?
- Your target employer or loan provider uses a "top 250" cut-off. Show the subject ranking instead. Law (85th), Oceanography (37th), and Petroleum Engineering (51–100) clearly have the most cut-offs even though the overall Dalhousie University ranking does not.
- You miss the 1 April 2027 master's deadline. CS master's programs also admit students in January. The international deadline for a January 2028 start is 1 August 2027.
- You are rejected from the MCSc. The MACSc has a lower GPA threshold (3.0) and suits students aiming for industry roles.
- You are worried about work rights after graduating. Master's graduates from programs of 8 months or longer may be eligible for a 3-year PGWP. Bachelor's, master's and PhD graduates are exempt from the PGWP field-of-study requirement. However, university graduates must show language skills at CLB 7 in all four areas. Rankings do not affect PGWP eligibility.
Learn more in our PGWP in Canada guide, and read expert answers on post-study work in Canada.
3 Key Takeaways on Dalhousie University Ranking
- The Dalhousie University ranking is #298 in QS 2027 and 351–400 in THE 2026, consistently inside Canada's top 15.
- Dal's real strength is subject-specific: Oceanography, Law, and Petroleum Engineering rank far above its overall position.
- For Indian CS and engineering applicants, program type, co-op access, and 3-year PGWP eligibility matter more than the Dalhousie University ranking's 401–500 subject band.
Verified by: LeapScholar's Canada counselling team, with hands-on experience guiding Indian students through Canadian university shortlisting, rankings-based comparisons, study permits, and PGWP planning.
Have questions about Dalhousie University ranking? Book a free session with a LeapScholar counselor.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dalhousie University Ranking
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What is the Dalhousie University ranking 2026-27?
Dalhousie is #298 in the QS World University Rankings 2027, and the Dalhousie University Times Higher Education's ranking for 2026 is 351–400. It ranks 12th in Canada in QS and 14th in THE.
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What is the Dalhousie University QS ranking 2027?
Dal ranks #298 out of 1,504 universities in QS 2027, down from the Dalhousie University QS ranking of 2026 of #283. Its Dalhousie University Canada QS ranking is 12th among 30 universities.
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What is the Dalhousie University ranking in Canada?
Nationally, Dal is 12th in QS 2027, 14th in THE 2026, and 11th in U.S. News. Maclean's ranks it 9th of 15 in its Medical Doctoral category.
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What is the Dalhousie University ranking in the world?
The Dalhousie University international ranking range is #298 (QS) to #410 (U.S. News). THE places are at 351–400 and ARWU at 301–400.
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Is Dalhousie a good university for Indian students?
Yes, especially for applied CS, ocean sciences, law, and health programs. It is a U15 research university with fixed undergraduate tuition and 3-year PGWP eligibility for master's graduates.
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What is the Dalhousie University ranking for computer science?
Dal is ranked 401–500 globally and 25th in Canada for computer science in THE's 2026 subject rankings. Computer science is not among its top 10 QS subjects for 2026.
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What is the Dalhousie University ranking for engineering?
Dal ranks 401–500 globally and 23rd in Canada for engineering in THE 2026. Petroleum Engineering ranks 51–100 in QS 2026.
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Why did the Dalhousie University QS ranking drop in 2027?
Dal fell from #283 to #298 mainly because Citations per Faculty dropped 5.6% and Employment Outcomes dropped 3.5%. Academic Reputation rose 7% over the same period.
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What is the Dalhousie University mechanical engineering ranking and civil engineering ranking?
Neither is among Dal's top 10 QS subjects for 2026. Use THE's broad Engineering band (401–500, 23rd in Canada) as the closest official signal for both.
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Is Dalhousie better than the University of Ottawa or Queen's?
Not on overall rank. In QS 2027, Queen's is =179 and Ottawa is =228, against Dal's 298. Dal's case rests on its standout subjects (Oceanography, Law, Petroleum Engineering) and its position as Atlantic Canada's leading research-intensive university.



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