- Applying to UBC
- Admission requirements
- English language competencyIndigenous admissionsHow to applyAfter you’ve applied
Applying to UBC
As one of the world’s top 40 universities, UBC has competitive admission requirements and attracts elite students from around the globe. Your journey to UBC begins with your online application, and we’re here to provide you with the information, deadlines, and tips to help you put your best foot forward.
Your admission requirements
Admission to UBC is competitive, and your requirements change depending on your degree and campus of choice. All applicants must meet UBC’s general admission requirements and English Language Admission Standard.
Canadian high school applicant requirements >>
International high school applicant requirements >>
International Baccalaureate applicant requirements >>
University or college student applicant requirements >>
Mature student applicant requirements >>English language competency
English is the primary language of instruction at UBC. Before you’re admitted, you must demonstrate a minimum level of English. There are nine different ways to meet this requirement, such as completing four or more consecutive years of full-time education in English in Canada. If you haven’t yet met the requirement, you may be interested in one of our academic English development programs.
UBC Admissions Blog
UBC’s dedicated admissions and financial advisors write about admission requirements, financial matters, the application, events and visits, and everything in between. Plus, they’re here to answer your specific admissions-related questions.
Planning for UBC and what we look for
UBC receives thousands of applications every year. Understanding how we evaluate applications can help you choose your high school courses and improve your chances of admission. Our admission process is competitive and comparative.
Important dates and deadlines
As a UBC applicant, you have a number of crucial deadlines to meet. Find out when to apply, how you can be considered for scholarships and awards, and learn about many other important dates along the way.
Indigenous admissions
Most Indigenous students are admitted based on a comprehensive review of their academic average and personal profile, within the curriculum they are studying. However, UBC offers a number of pathways to a post-secondary degree.
Visiting, unclassified, and Access Studies
Visiting, unclassified, and Access Studies students are part of Non-Degree Studies, which is for students taking UBC courses without pursuing a UBC degree. Non-Degree Studies is an option for you if:
- You have already completed a degree
- You are completing an undergraduate degree at another institution
- You want to take courses through distance education outside of a degree program
- You want to take a course for professional upgrading
- You want to take courses for general interest outside of a degree program
Non-Degree Studies on UBC’s Okanagan campus
Non-Degree Studies on UBC’s Vancouver campusSTEPS Forward initiative
STEPS Forward’s BC Initiative for Inclusive Post-Secondary Education (BC-IPSE) provides support for students with developmental disabilities to access post-secondary education.
If you are eligible, you may enrol in UBC courses for four years in a specific area of study. You’ll be part of the same classes as UBC students studying for their degrees, but complete modified exams and assignments. At the end of your studies, you’ll receive a Certificate of Completion at convocation alongside students earning their Bachelor’s degree in the same field.
During your time at UBC, you’ll enjoy student life in the same clubs and social spaces as other undergraduates, and be supported in individualized ways to make decisions about what you want to explore on campus.
Ready to be a UBC student?
Start your online application now.