International Applicants
Welcome to the University of Guelph
At the University of Guelph, international graduate students join a globally recognized research community, gain hands-on experience, and build meaningful careers in Canada and beyond. Graduate study at Guelph is more than an advanced degree. It is an opportunity to work alongside leading scholars, solve real-world challenges, and develop the skills employers and academic institutions value most.
Whether your goal is research excellence or professional advancement, Guelph offers the depth, flexibility, and support to help you succeed.
Why Graduate Studies at U of G?
Global Reputation. Real-World Impact.
The University of Guelph is internationally recognized for academic excellence across multiple disciplines. According to the Shanghai Ranking Consultancy’s Global Ranking of Academic Subjects, Guelph ranks first in Canada for veterinary sciences and food science and technology, and places among the world’s top 50 universities in agricultural sciences.
Several additional areas including biotechnology, hospitality and tourism management, and economics also rank among the top in Canada and globally. These rankings reflect the strength of our world-class faculty, high-impact research, and commitment to translating knowledge into solutions that matter.
Programs Designed for Your Career Goals
Choose from more than 130 graduate programs across science, engineering, business, social sciences, and the humanities.
- Course-based programs sometimes referred to as graduate diplomas, course-based master’s programs or professional master’s programs involve coursework and opportunities for experiential learning such as applied research projects, fieldwork, industry partnerships, and community engagement. Most course-based programs can be completed in 12 to 16 months of full-time studies. These programs are ideal for students seeking advanced knowledge and credentials that translate quickly into the workforce.
- Thesis-based programs combine coursework with intensive research under the supervision of a faculty member. Most master’s thesis-based programs can be completed in two years and PhD programs can take five to seven years. These programs prepare for development of advanced research, analytical, and academic writing skills and are well suited for students who wish to contribute original research and pursue academic careers or research-focused roles in industry, government, and policy organizations.
Toochukwu Urama, 2024 Management MSc, Innovation, Commercialization and EntrepreneurshipThe work I was engaged in here was both challenging and rewarding, and was greatly supported by the abundant resources provided by the University. Having access to everything I needed allowed me to focus deeply on my research and the projects I was developing. The presence of globally recognized scholars at the University of Guelph was a continual source of inspiration, encouraging me to push the boundaries of my work.
A Supportive Home for International Graduate Students
Guelph is widely recognized as one of Canada’s most welcoming university cities. Many students find Guelph offers a smoother transition to Canadian academic and professional life than larger cities. International graduate students benefit from dedicated free immigration and study permit advising and graduate-focused orientation and transition programs. You can find more support and resources for international students at International Student Experience.
Study in a Safe, Connected City without the Cost of Big-City Living
Located in southwestern Ontario, Guelph offers the advantages of a major research university without the high cost of large metropolitan centres. Guelph combines the charm of a university town with easy access to Toronto, major employment hubs, and international airports.
Tuition and Fees
Tuition at the University of Guelph is among the most affordable in Ontario. Depending on the program, international graduate tuition fees typically range by semester from $5,775 to $19,106. For detailed information on tuition, compulsory fees, and estimated living costs, please visit the Financial Services website.
Funding and Scholarship
There are multiple ways to fund your graduate education, including scholarships, bursaries, teaching and research assistantships, and other funding opportunities. Learn about these options at International Student Support.
How to Apply
Step 1: Explore Programs
Review Graduate programs offered at the University of Guelph, the admission requirements and the application deadline for your program(s) of interest.
Step 2: Check Eligibility
Utilize our International Credentials Guidelines to assess your academic background in relation to admission requirements. If your first language is not English, you will be required to submit the results of a standardized academic English language test or complete the English Language Certificate Program at the University of Guelph. If you are required to submit English Language Proficiency test results, this requirement will appear on your application document checklist after submitting your application online. Applicants may upload unofficial digital copies of their scores during the application process or may arrange to have official scores sent to the University of Guelph Office of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies (Institution Code 0892).
If your first language is not English but you have completed prior post-secondary studies in which English was the language instruction, you may request to have your English Language Proficiency requirement waived. These decisions are made on a case-by-case basis by the department you are applying to. Department contacts can be located from our Programs page.
Step 3: Prepare Your Application
Gather required documents, such as transcripts and reference letters and any other documents required by your program(s) of interest.
Step 4: Apply Online
Apply online well in advance of your program's deadline to allow sufficient time for document submission, departmental reviews and study permit processing. Visit IRCC website for country-specific study permit processing times.
A non-refundable application fee of $125 ($150 for MBA, MA Leadership, MCLC, MPACC, and MRE programs) is required to submit each application.
Step 5: Upload Documents & Track Your Application
Submit all documents required to complete your application. Document requirements vary by program.
Within 5 business days of submitting your online application, you should receive login information to access your personalized application document checklist on WebAdvisor.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Have questions?
- Reach out to our admissions team at gradapps@uoguelph.ca
- Join a live webinar