In 2025, Canada remains one of the most sought-after study destinations for Indian and international students. With its world-class universities, diverse culture, and post-study work opportunities, competition for top colleges has grown significantly. But not all Canadian universities are equally easy to get into. Some have low acceptance rates, high GPA cutoffs, and receive thousands of applications each year.
If you’re wondering which are the hardest universities to get into in Canada, this guide will walk you through the top 10 most competitive institutions, their acceptance rates, GPA requirements, top programs, and admission tips.
What Makes a University Hard to Get Into?
Some universities are harder to get into because of:
- Low Acceptance Rates: Fewer seats available compared to the number of applicants.
- High GPA Requirements: Competitive programs often need grades above 85% or GPA 3.7/4.0.
- Popular Programs: Programs like engineering, business, and computer science get more applicants.
- Limited Seats for International Students: Some universities reserve a small number of seats for non-Canadian students.
Top 10 Hardest Universities to Get Into in Canada (2025)
1. University of Toronto (U of T)
- Acceptance Rate: ~43% overall; <25% for competitive programs
- Average GPA Requirement: 3.8+ (out of 4.0)
- Top Competitive Programs: Computer Science, Rotman Commerce, Engineering Science
- Why It’s Hard: High volume of global applicants, especially for STEM and business courses
- Admission Tip: Focus on your academic rigor, take advanced courses (like IB or AP), and submit a strong personal profile for select programs.
2. University of British Columbia (UBC)
- Acceptance Rate: ~52% overall; <35% for selective faculties
- Average GPA Requirement: 85%+ or 3.7 GPA
- Top Competitive Programs: Sauder School of Business, Computer Science, Engineering
- Why It’s Hard: Strong global brand, limited seats in elite programs
- Admission Tip: UBC places a strong emphasis on your personal profile and leadership activities — highlight achievements outside academics.
3. McGill University
- Acceptance Rate: ~45% overall; <30% for Science and Management
- Average GPA Requirement: 90%+ (or 3.9 GPA) for top programs
- Top Competitive Programs: Management (Desautels), Biological Sciences, Arts & Science
- Why It’s Hard: Ivy League equivalent in Canada, especially competitive for international students
- Admission Tip: Keep your grades exceptionally high and apply early; French proficiency not mandatory but helpful for local engagement.
4. Queen’s University
- Acceptance Rate: ~42% overall; <30% for Commerce
- Average GPA Requirement: 87–90%
- Top Competitive Programs: Smith School of Business (Commerce), Engineering, Health Sciences
- Why It’s Hard: Limited intake and high applicant numbers for commerce and engineering
- Admission Tip: The PSE (Personal Statement of Experience) is crucial — make it personal, reflective, and unique.
5. University of Waterloo
- Acceptance Rate: ~53% overall; <25% for Computer Science and Engineering
- Average GPA Requirement: 90%+ for CS/Engineering
- Top Competitive Programs: Computer Science, Software Engineering, Math, Co-op
- Why It’s Hard: Tech hub, top co-op programs, very competitive CS admissions
- Admission Tip: The Admission Information Form (AIF) matters greatly — include projects, math contests, and coding experience.
6. Western University
- Acceptance Rate: ~58% overall; <30% for Ivey HBA (Business)
- Average GPA Requirement: 85%+
- Top Competitive Programs: Ivey Business School (AEO), Health Sciences, Law
- Why It’s Hard: High standards for business and law tracks; strong alumni network
- Admission Tip: Ivey AEO applicants must show strong leadership and extracurriculars alongside grades.
7. University of Alberta
- Acceptance Rate: ~58% overall; ~40% for Engineering and Health Sciences
- Average GPA Requirement: 82–85% or 3.5 GPA
- Top Competitive Programs: Engineering, Nursing, Pharmacy
- Why It’s Hard: Limited seats in high-demand healthcare and STEM fields
- Admission Tip: Apply early and explore faculty-specific scholarships and research opportunities.
8. Simon Fraser University (SFU)
- Acceptance Rate: ~59% overall; <35% for Computing Science and Business
- Average GPA Requirement: 80–85%
- Top Competitive Programs: Beedie School of Business, Computing Science, Interactive Arts
- Why It’s Hard: Competitive programs see much lower acceptance than overall rate
- Admission Tip: Include relevant extracurriculars and work experience in business and tech fields.
9. McMaster University
- Acceptance Rate: ~44% overall; <15% for Health Sciences
- Average GPA Requirement: 85%+ (95%+ for Health Sci)
- Top Competitive Programs: Health Sciences, Engineering, Life Sciences
- Why It’s Hard: One of Canada’s most competitive pre-med schools
- Admission Tip: The Health Sci program requires a written supplement — focus on critical thinking and originality.
10. University of Ottawa
- Acceptance Rate: ~50% overall; <30% for Law, Health Sciences, Telfer BCom
- Average GPA Requirement: 80–85%
- Top Competitive Programs: Common Law, Nursing, Business (Telfer)
- Why It’s Hard: Competitive for professional programs and bilingual applicants
- Admission Tip: Being bilingual (English/French) is a plus. For business and law, highlight leadership and community involvement.
Comparison Table: Acceptance Rates & GPA (2025)
| University | Approx. Acceptance Rate | Competitive GPA Required | Notable Competitive Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Toronto | 43% | 90%+ | CS, Commerce, Engineering |
| UBC | 52% | 85%+ | Business, Engineering, Sciences |
| McGill University | 45% | 85–95% | Law, Medicine, Management |
| Queen’s University | 42% | 87%+ | Commerce, Health Sciences |
| University of Waterloo | 53% | 90%+ | CS, Engineering, Co-op programs |
| Western University | 58% | 85–90% | Business, Medical Sciences |
| University of Alberta | 58% | 85%+ | Engineering, Science, Nursing |
| Simon Fraser University | 59% | 80–85%+ | Business, Computing Science |
| McMaster University | 58% | 88%+ | Health Sci, Engineering, Business |
| University of Ottawa | 60% | 80–85%+ | Law, International Development |
Why Students Apply to These Competitive Universities
Students from around the world apply to these top Canadian universities because:
- They rank in the Top 150 globally.
- They offer cutting-edge research and facilities.
- Their degrees are globally recognized.
- High graduate employability and internship opportunities.
- Strong scholarship options for international students.
Tips to Get Into a Competitive Canadian University
Here’s how you can increase your chances:
- Maintain High Grades: Aim for 85–95%+ depending on the program.
- Take Strong Subjects: Math, science, and English are often required.
- Write a Stellar SOP or Profile: Some programs require personal statements or profile forms.
- Participate in Extracurriculars: Leadership, volunteering, and awards can strengthen your profile.
- Apply Early: Some programs are filled on a rolling basis.
- Meet English Proficiency Requirements: Take IELTS/TOEFL if you’re an international student.
- Consider Alternate Campuses or Programs: They may have slightly lower admission thresholds.
Conclusion
Canada’s top universities are highly sought after—and rightly so. Their global reputation, academic strength, and career outcomes make them worth the effort. While the admission process can be competitive, planning early and submitting a strong, complete application will give you an edge.
Remember: “Hard to get into” doesn’t mean impossible. With the right strategy, you can secure admission to even the most selective schools in Canada.
Need help with your application or profile evaluation? Drop us a comment or explore our admissions services!
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Canadian university is hardest to get into?
The hardest Canadian university to get into is McMaster University’s Health Sciences program and the University of Toronto, especially for competitive courses like Engineering and Medicine. These programs have very low acceptance rates and high academic requirements.
What is the #1 hardest school to get into?
In Canada, the University of Toronto is often considered the hardest school to get into overall, due to its global reputation, competitive programs, and strict admission standards, especially for international students.
Which university has the highest acceptance rate in Canada?
University of Lethbridge, University of Manitoba, and University of Brunswick are known for having high acceptance rates, sometimes over 80% to 90%, making them accessible for many students, including internationals.
What is the number 1 university in Canada?
The University of Toronto is ranked as the number 1 university in Canada. It consistently leads national and global rankings for research, academic excellence, and international reputation.
Which is the toughest university to get into?
Programs at McGill University, Queen’s University, and University of British Columbia (UBC) are considered among the toughest to get into due to limited seats, high GPA cutoffs, and strong competition.
What is the toughest degree in Canada?
Some of the toughest degrees in Canada include:
1. Engineering (especially Electrical, Mechanical, and Software)
2. Medicine and Health Sciences
3. Law
4. Architecture
These programs demand high academic performance and intense study schedules.What is the most difficult university course to get into?
In Canada, courses like Health Sciences at McMaster, Engineering at U of T, and Medical Sciences at UBC are among the most difficult to get into because of low acceptance rates and strict entrance criteria.
Which Canadian university accepts most international students?
University of Toronto, University of British Columbia, and McGill University accept a large number of international students each year. They have strong global recruitment programs and international student support.
Which Canadian university has the lowest acceptance rate?
McMaster University’s Health Sciences and University of Toronto Engineering are among the programs with the lowest acceptance rates, sometimes below 10% for certain disciplines.
What is the easiest university degree to get in Canada?
Generally, degrees in general arts, humanities, and social sciences have higher acceptance rates and less competitive entry compared to professional degrees. However, every program still requires consistent academic effort.