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The University of British Columbia (UBC)

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The University of British Columbia (UBC) Overview

Vancouver - Canada

Latest Updates

  • Jan 31, 2024, is the UBC application deadline for undergraduate admission in the Winter Session (Sep 2024 to Apr 2025) and Summer Session (May to Aug 2024)
  • The Round 3 MBA application deadline for UBC is Mar 12, 2024 (Final application deadline)

 

 

 

The University of British Columbia (UBC) is a prestigious institution in Vancouver, Canada, with a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1915, with a vision to inspire people, ideas and actions for a better world.
 

The university has consistently maintained its reputation for
 

  • Academic excellence,
  • Research contributions,
  • Commitment to innovation.
     

More than 400 hectares in size, the stellar campus is surrounded by forest on three sides and ocean on the fourth. It is just a 30-minute bus ride to Vancouver's downtown core.

 

Since its inception, UBC has grown to become one of Canada's leading universities, known for its outstanding faculty, rigorous academic programs, and contributions to various fields of research.
 

Did you know that about 30% of master’s and 44% of doctoral students at UBC Vancouver are international students?

 

UBC is often among the top 20 public universities worldwide. As per QS World University Ranking, the University of British Columbia ranks #34 in 2024.
 

UBC typically offers two main intakes for undergraduate students: 
 

  • September/Fall Intake
  • January/Winter Intake
     

Apart from the above intakes, another interesting program is the UBC Vancouver Summer Program in the Faculty of Education, a four-week program for international undergraduate students.
 

Here are some details about the summer program:

 

Parameter

Details

AudienceInternational Undergraduate Students. Graduate students interested in broadening their study focus are also welcome to join the program.
Duration2 Courses (39 hours of classes per course)
FormatIn-person
LocationUBC Vancouver Campus
Deadline
  • June Session:
    • March 1, 2024 
  • July Session:
    • April 5, 2024

 

UBC has two main campuses:

 

  • The Point Grey Campus in Vancouver
  • The Okanagan Campus in Kelowna

 

The Point Grey Campus, situated on the western tip of the Point Grey Peninsula, is the larger and more established of the two, offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. 


The Okanagan Campus, located in the interior of British Columbia, has seen significant growth since its establishment in 2005 and is known for its focus on interdisciplinary research.

The university values inclusivity and actively promotes a multicultural environment. Students from various backgrounds and cultures contribute to the rich tapestry of the UBC community.  
 

Did you know there are about 500+ clubs, course unions, and student services?


UBC’s two regional bases in Hong Kong and India make local connections and elevate research, learning, and capacity development partnerships.

 

Presented below is a table providing foundational details about the University of British Columbia:

 

ParameterDetails
Founded1915
University TypePublic
Total Students70,757
Total International Students19,442 (50.4%)
Student-faculty Ratio9:1
Websitehttps://www.ubc.ca/
Contact

Okanagan Campus

3333 University Way

Kelowna, BC Canada V1V 1V7

Tel 250 807 8000

 

Vancouver Campus

2329 West Mall

Vancouver, BC Canada V6T 1Z4

Tel (Directory Assistance) 604 822 2211

 

What makes UBC different for Indian students?

 

Here are some other rolling facts you should know:
 

  • UBC is the #1 international University in North America.
  • It is among the top 40 research universities in the world.
  • UBC's community includes students, faculty, and staff from across Canada and over 150 countries.
  • UBC's UTSAV - UBC Indian Students Association organises events representing South Asian culture, Diwali and Holi, with a footfall of 500 to 4000 people. 
  • "The Ubyssey, "UBC's student paper since 1918, caters to diverse palates; maybe you can even contribute your writing!
  • You can hike through lush rainforests on campus or head to the nearby Whistler Blackcomb resort for snowboarding adventures.
  • You can explore Punjabi Market, Vancouver's "Little India," with spices, sweets, and traditional clothing.
  • UBC offers courses in Indian classical music and dance, allowing you to delve deeper into your cultural heritage at university.
  • UBC has a dedicated cricket club where you can bond with fellow Indian students over your passion for the sport.

 

UBC has high graduate employment rates across various programs, with some exceeding 90%.

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Scholarships

Deadline

2023-02-26

Awarded

Varies

Amount

₹8.92L

Deadline

2023-04-01

Awarded

1

Amount

₹89.46K

Deadline

2023-03-31

Awarded

Varies

Amount

₹8.97L

Deadline

2023-06-01

Awarded

22

Amount

₹2.98L

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Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know about The University of British Columbia (UBC)
Q. What is UBC's acceptance rate?

A. UBC's acceptance rate varies depending on the program and year but generally falls between 54%. This makes it a highly selective university, so aiming for a strong academic record and relevant extracurricular activities is crucial.

 

Here's a quick look at acceptance rates for some popular programs:

  • Commerce: 7-10%
  • Engineering: 5-8%
  • Computer Science: 5-8%
  • Nursing: 10-15%
Q. What are the GPA requirements for UBC?

A. Admission requirements also vary by program, but you'll typically need a strong GPA (around 3.5-4.0) to be considered for competitive programs. Some programs may even require a higher GPA, so researching specific requirements is essential.

Q. What are the most popular programs at UBC?

A. There are many exciting programs at UBC! Some of the most popular ones include:

  • Commerce
  • Engineering
  • Computer Science
  • Nursing
  • Forestry
  • Psychology
  • Film Production
  • International Relations
Q. Does UBC offer scholarships and financial aid?

A. Absolutely! UBC recognises that financial constraints can hinder educational opportunities. Therefore, it offers a wide range of scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid programs for both domestic and international students. Some are merit-based, while others consider financial need. Two popular scholarships for Indian students are the International Major Entrance Scholarship (IMES)  and the Outstanding International Student Award (OIS).

Q. What is student life like at UBC?

A.UBC boasts a vibrant and diverse student life with something for everyone. Here's a taste of what awaits you:

  • Over 500 student clubs and activities
  • Packed calendar of events
  • Stunning campuses
  • Strong sense of community
Q. Is UBC located in a good city?

A. You get to choose between two incredible locations!

  • Vancouver: Canada's third-largest city, Vancouver, has stunning natural beauty, multicultural diversity, and a thriving arts and culture scene, making it a truly special place to live and learn.
  • Okanagan: Nestled in the heart of the Okanagan Valley, Kelowna offers a sunny climate, stunning lakes, and access to outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and skiing.
Q. What are the housing options at UBC?

A. Finding the right place to live is important to your UBC experience. The university offers various options to suit your needs and preferences:

  • On-campus residences: UBC features several on-campus residences ranging from traditional dorms to apartment-style suites. Living on campus provides convenience, a built-in social network, access to amenities and dining halls, and the opportunity to participate in a lively residential community. There are 15 residences available on the Vancouver campus.
  • Off-campus housing: If you prefer more independence, UBC's surrounding neighbourhoods offer a wide range of apartments, houses, and shared accommodations. This option can be more affordable than living on campus, but it requires finding roommates and arranging transportation.
Q. What is the cost of living in Vancouver?

A. Living in either Vancouver or Kelowna can be expensive compared to other parts of Canada. However, the costs vary depending on your lifestyle and housing choices. Here's a rough breakdown: 

 

  • Total Cost: Expect to spend around CAD 30,000-50,000 or INR 18.5 L - 30.9 L per year on living expenses, excluding tuition.
  • Tuition: Tuition fees vary by program, but expect to pay around CAD 20,000-40,000 or INR 12.3 L- 24.7 L per year.
  • Housing: On-campus housing costs around CAD 8,000-15,000 or INR 4.9 L- 9.2 L per year. Off-campus housing can be cheaper but depends on location and type of accommodation.
  • Food: Groceries and dining out can cost around CAD 600-800 or INR 37K- 49.5K per month.
  • Transportation: A monthly bus pass is around CAD 90 or INR 5.5K. Owning a car can be expensive due to parking costs.
Q. Does UBC have a good career centre?

A. Absolutely! UBC's Career Services provides comprehensive support to students, helping them navigate the career journey from exploration to landing their dream job. They offer resources and programs such as:

  • Resume writing workshops: Polish your resume and learn best practices for crafting a compelling document highlighting your skills and experiences.
  • Interview preparation: Gain confidence and develop effective answers to common interview questions.
  • Job fairs: Connect with potential industry employers and explore career opportunities.
  • Career counselling: Get personalised advice and guidance from experienced career counsellors to identify your strengths and interests, explore career options, and develop a strategic career plan.
Q. What is the average salary for UBC graduates?

A. UBC graduates are highly sought-after by employers due to their strong academic foundation, diverse skills, and industry preparation. As a result, they command competitive starting salaries, depending on the chosen field. Overall, graduates earn an average of CAD 30,492 18.8 L or INR  annually, reaching CAD 1,16,916 or 72.3 L for some fields.

Q. Which companies recruit UBC graduates?

A. Major companies like Microsoft, Google, Salesforce, Amazon, Tesla, McKinsey & Company, Goldman Sachs, KPMG, PwC, and many more actively recruit UBC graduates across various industries. The university's strong industry partnerships and focus on providing practical skills ensure that graduates are well-equipped to succeed in their chosen careers.

Q. What are the post-graduation options for UBC graduates?

A. UBC graduates are well-positioned for diverse and successful careers after graduation. Some common paths include:

  • Employment
  • Further studies
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Volunteering or travel
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