How to Get into the University of British Columbia (UBC)

How to Get into the University of British Columbia?

The University of British Columbia offers 85 course-based master’s programs, providing students with access to 330 graduate specializations. International applicants are required to submit their degrees and documents in PDF format as part of the admissions process.

To gain admission to UBC as an international student, here are a few things you should be mindful of: 

• Applicants at UBC should typically exhibit exceptional performance in their previous bachelor's degree-level studies, often achieving at least 65% in academics.
• The minimum TOEFL score to gain admission to UBC is 90, while for IELTS it is 6.5, and for PTE it is 65.
• The GMAT exam is used as an alternative to the GRE for the graduate programs of the University of British Columbia, where the accepted score for the GMAT is 650+, and for the GRE it is 320+.
• Create persuasive essays, including a well-written personal statement and statement of purpose.
• UBC recommends submitting 2 letters of recommendation as part of your application. The most effective endorsements typically come from professors and tenured faculty members who are familiar with your academic achievements.

Tips to get into the University of British Columbia

Getting into UBC is a dream for many international students, and it's certainly no small feat. However, with careful planning, hard work, and guidance, you can increase your chances of joining the ranks of UBC's accomplished student body. 

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Tip 1: Achievements beyond academics

The personal profile holds significance within UBC's online application process, mandated for many applicants. It offers insight into your character, challenges overcome, and accomplishments attained.

Tip 2: Take your time while filling out and reviewing your application

Rushing through the application can lead to oversights or errors that could negatively impact your chances of admission. Take the time to carefully review each section of the application, ensuring that you provide accurate and detailed information.

Tip 3: Apply to multiple programs

It's beneficial to apply to multiple programs to increase your chances of acceptance. By diversifying your options, you not only enhance your likelihood of admission but also ensure that you have alternatives in case your top choice doesn't work out.   

Tip 4: Intellectual Curiosity and Passion

UBC values students who exhibit genuine enthusiasm for learning and a profound curiosity in their chosen field. Displaying a fervent dedication to academic achievements, involvement in extracurricular activities, and conveying your passion through personal statements can significantly bolster your application.

Tip 5: Strong Analytical and Critical Thinking Skills

UBC places considerable emphasis on fostering analytical and critical thinking prowess. They seek individuals capable of approaching intricate problems with ingenuity and logical reasoning. Your application should demonstrate your ability to dissect information, think critically, and propose innovative solutions.

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Top Colleges in British Columbia for International Students

Challenges of getting into the University of British Columbia

As an Indian student, you may face some challenges while applying to UBC. Read below to learn more about the challenges:

• The cost of tuition fees and cost of living could pose a considerable concern for Indian students, given that pursuing a graduate program at UBC may entail high expenses.
• UBC upholds a highly rigorous admissions procedure, with an acceptance rate of 54%, heightening the competition and rendering admission particularly challenging for aspiring Indian candidates.
• Adjusting to a different cultural environment can be overwhelming, impacting one's ability to communicate and integrate into the UBC community. Successfully bridging cultural gaps necessitates active involvement and engagement in cultural exchange initiatives.
• Given the competitiveness of these programs, gaining admission to UBC Master's courses is difficult. Successful applicants typically demonstrate outstanding performance in previous bachelor’s degree-level studies.

Costs of Studying at the University of British Columbia

The costs you can expect as an international student at UBC can be divided into two categories - tuition fees and living costs. Both of these expenses will vary depending on the program you select and your lifestyle.

Tuition Fees

Average tuition fees vary between CAD 61,743.57 (INR 37,84,110) for the 12-month full-time program or CAD 20,581.19 (INR 12,61,370) per installment for international students.

Payment of tuition fees occurs in three installments during the first week of January, May, and September. Upon receiving an offer of admission, a non-refundable deposit of CAD 5,000 (INR 3,06,440) is due within one month from the offer date to confirm your enrollment in the program. This deposit will be credited toward your initial tuition installment in January.

Additional fees

In addition to tuition fees, student fees encompass the following:

• UBC graduate student fees amount to CAD 565.58 (INR 34,660) annually for full-time students, payable in three installments alongside tuition in January, May, and September.
• Extended Health and Dental Plan coverage costs approximately CAD 560 (INR 34,320) spanning from January 2024 to August 2025. Opt-out options are available for students with comparable extended insurance.
• The U-Pass (universal transit pass) requires a payment of CAD 541.20 (INR 33,170) annually or CAD 180.40 (INR 11,060) per term, granting unlimited access to buses, Skytrain, and Seabus.
• New international students are subject to a one-time CAD 225 (INR 13,790) i-Med fee for basic health insurance during the three-month waiting period until eligibility for BC MSP, payable in full in January.

Living Costs

The cost of living varies significantly based on each student's circumstances. Nevertheless, these broad recommendations offer an idea of what to anticipate and prepare for financially.

Scholarships to study at the University of British Columbia

The University of British Columbia offers a generous financial aid program to admitted graduate students, meeting the full demonstrated financial needs of all admitted students. Below are some of the scholarships offered at UBC.

Suggested: MSc in Computer Science at UBC : Admissions

Application Deadlines the University of British Columbia

By the deadlines listed below, the application and all necessary supporting documents must be uploaded. Applications submitted earlier are welcomed, while those submitted later are not considered. The deadlines for graduate school programs vary widely. Check the table below to familiarize yourself with the deadlines relevant to your program of study.

Graduate admission deadlines at UBC differ depending on the program. Nonetheless, for the University of British Columbia MBA program, the deadline for round 3 falls on March 12, 2024.

The deadline to upload supporting documents for the UBC MBA program is 26 March 2024 and for official documents is 30 March 2024.

From the Desk of Yocket

Gaining admission to the University of British Columbia presents challenges, yet the rewards are substantial. With diligent preparation and dedication, aspiring students can navigate the competitive application process and secure their place at this esteemed institution. Remember, perseverance and a strong academic record are key to achieving success at UBC and beyond.

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