York University

Located in the vibrant, multicultural city of Toronto, York University is a world-renowned university. With over 200 academic degree programs offered at both undergraduate and graduate level, it is home to over 53,000 students.

York University ranks in the top five comprehensive universities in Canada (Maclean University Rankings, 2025). Across its 11 faculties, students benefit from engaging programs, innovative course design and practical experiential education. Recognized for program excellence, York ranks in the top 5 in Canada across 13 subject areas (QS World University Rankings by Subject, 2026). York University prides itself on preparing students for long-term career and personal success while benefitting from a global perspective. Students gain practical experience in their field and in the workplace through paid co-op opportunities, internships, placements and more. Over 70 percent of all programs offer co-op opportunities, preparing graduates to work with globally recognized employers like Amazon, Google, KPMG and TikTok.

York's diverse and welcoming student body comes from over 160 countries worldwide, with more than 8,700 international students in 2026. With more than 300 student clubs and societies available on campus, there are plenty of opportunities to find a community, make lifelong friends and discover new interests.

York is located in Toronto – Canada's largest financial and economic hub with access to global employers, diverse neighbourhoods and a thriving restaurant and entertainment scene. The possibilities are endless, and so is the support international students receive from day one, with a welcoming pre-arrival program, international student advising and orientation activities to feel right at home.

York University offers an extensive choice of over 200 academic degree programs at both undergraduate and graduate level. It is renowned globally for its quality teaching and research across a number of fields.

The university prioritises innovation, entrepreneurship and experiential education alongside critical learning and research. Students graduate with a global perspective, innovative thinking and a practical work experience – all highly valued in today's global workforce.

Teaching staff at York University are experts in their fields and provide unique insights into their specialisms. Curricula are research fed and courses are developed in line with the latest developments in industry, technology and research.

Research

York University prides itself in the quality and impact of its research. With collaborative research projects spanning disciplines and sectors, the university's impact provides value to communities and industry worldwide. Alongside its 30 Organized Research Units, York is also the only university in Canda with four major UN Centers of Excellence.

York University is spread across three campuses, all located in the greater Toronto area, in addition to a selection of satellite locations across Ontario and overseas. Each campus offers its own distinct community experience, programs and facilities:

• Glendon Campus
• Keele Campus
• Markham Campus

Within these campuses are York University's eleven specialized faculties, through which teaching, resources and funding are streamlined. Faculties offer flexible cross-discipline program options, innovative curricula, and a multitude of experiential learning opportunities. Faculties include:

• School of the Arts, Media, Performance and Design
• Faculty of Education
• Faculty of Environmental and Urban Change
• Glendon College
• Faculty of Graduate Studies
• Faculty of Health
• Lassonde School of Engineering
• Faculty of Liberal Arts and Professional Studies
• Osgoode Hall Law School
• Schulich School of Business
• Faculty of Science

Academic

Students must meet the academic entry requirements for their chosen program according to their high school curriculum. The university offers a range of flexible entry pathways, but requirements vary between programs. As such, students are advised to check the course pages on York University's website to ensure they meet the eligibility criteria for admission. International students are also advised to see which qualifications are accepted from their home country.

English language

For international students for whom English is not a first language, the results of an approved English language test are usually required in order to evidence language proficiency. A range of tests are accepted by the university.

At undergraduate level, the standard requirement for most programs is an overall IELTS score of 6.5 (or an equivalent English language test score). For graduate programs, the requirement may vary.

Students are advised to check the course pages on the university website for program-specific requirements.

Study

Students at York University enjoy access to state-of-the-art teaching spaces, equipment and resources. Collaborative learning spaces have been designed with the future in mind, allowing for the seamless integration of evolving technologies across teaching. Specialized laboratories, creative spaces and learning apparatus allow students to obtain meaningful practical experience throughout their degree.

The university libraries are well-stocked and provide thousands of print and digital resources, alongside group and individual study spaces, and computer areas.

Recreation

There are over 350 student-run clubs and societies available at York University, providing opportunities to socialize and become part of the community while engaging with an interest or skill. Varsity athletics teams exist for nine different sports, with over 450 different athletic teams.

York University boasts a full range of sporting facilities including stadiums, an ice rink, a track and field center, swimming pools, fitness studios, gyms and more.

Residences

Accommodation is available across 10 on-campus residences, close to classes, amenities and campus supports. Students can choose from a variety of residence styles, all with single- and double-room options, and opportunities for dining plans, kitchenettes and more.

Student can also explore alternative housing options through listings, roommate boards and renter resources on the university website.

With over CAD 12 million available in international entry scholarships, York University offers a generous selection of financial awards, attracting the brightest minds.

Over 40 scholarships, awards and bursaries are available to international students in 2026. York recognizes student accomplishments in all forms and is committed to supporting student success. From celebrating academic excellence to recognizing leadership and contributions to society, York dedicates millions of dollars each year to support international students in their pursuit of excellence.

Whilst some financial awards are automatic, in many cases students must apply to the university directly in order to be considered. In these instances, students are advised to carefully check the eligibility criteria prior to application.

Competitive scholarships for international students at York University include:

• President's International Scholarship of Excellence (up to CAD 45,000): open to international students enrolling on a four-year degree program, who can demonstrate academic excellence.
• York International Scholarship of Distinction (CAD 15,000 first year, then CAD 7,500 per year for up to three further years): an automatic scholarship open to international students entering year one of a degree program who are admitted with a final grade average of 85 percent or higher.
• York International Merit Award (CAD 10,000 first year, then CAD 5,000 per year for up to three years) an automatic scholarship open to international students entering year one of a degree program who are admitted with a final grade average of 80 to 84.9 percent.
• York International Entrance Award (up to CAD 5,000): an automatic scholarship open to international students entering year one of a degree program who are admitted with a final grade average of 75 to 79.9 percent.

Campus developments

York University's School of Medicine

York University is re-imagining medical education to strengthen community health, transform patient care and train the next generation of physicians in Ontario's fastest-growing region. The school is set to open in 2028, subject to accreditation.

Markham Campus

In 2024, the University opened its Markham Campus in the City of Markham. Challenging the notion of a traditional university, programs are centered on technology and entrepreneurship – driving innovation and shaping the future.

Rankings and accolades

York University continues to achieve highly in national and international rankings alike, including:

• #1 in Canada for Quality Education (Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, 2026)
• Top 5 in Canada (Maclean's University Rankings – comprehensive, 2025)
• Top 5 in Canada across 13 subject areas (QS Subject Rankings, 2026)
• Top 4 per cent in the world (QS World University Rankings, 2027)
• Top 5% globally (Times Higher Education Sustainability Impact Ratings, 2026)