University of Alberta
University of Alberta
University of Alberta (Ranked 4th in Canada [QS World University Rankings 2025])
The University of Alberta, Canada, is a leading teaching and research institution with an exceptional reputation for academic excellence and outstanding opportunities for undergraduate students. Consistently ranked among the top five universities in Canada, it was placed 91st globally by the Academic Ranking of World Universities in 2023.
Offering flexible degree programmes, the University of Alberta enables students to customise their academic journey, equipping them with the knowledge and skills required to excel in their chosen careers.
In addition to world-class education and competitive tuition fees, the university is located in one of Canada’s most affordable urban centres. International students benefit from a tuition guarantee for the duration of their programme, ensuring that fees remain fixed throughout their studies.
The University of Alberta is also home to over 450 student clubs and societies, providing international students with a wealth of extracurricular opportunities and the chance to form lasting connections. NCUK students who apply for residence by 30 April are guaranteed a place in university accommodation.
Upon graduation, students are eligible to apply for the three-year Canadian Post-Graduation Work Permit. By completing the NCUK International Foundation Year (IFY) at UFC, students can progress seamlessly to the University of Alberta and gain access to world-class education and career opportunities.
Life at the University of Alberta
At the University of Alberta, Canada, international students will enjoy a well-rounded student experience, enriched by a wide range of extracurricular activities and a vibrant campus community. The university hosts numerous events throughout the year, including seasonal highlights such as the Anti-Freeze Winter Festival, as well as ongoing activities like comedy nights and pet therapy sessions—ensuring students have access to a dynamic and engaging social calendar.
With over 450 student clubs and societies, the University of Alberta offers extensive opportunities for both academic and personal development. This reflects the university’s strong commitment to delivering a high-quality higher education experience.
Located in the scenic city of Edmonton, the University of Alberta also provides students with easy access to outdoor adventures and Canada’s natural beauty—perfect for those looking to balance their studies with exploration and wellbeing.
The University of Alberta, Canada, is dedicated to equipping international students for successful careers through a strong focus on employability and enterprise. With a comprehensive co-op programme and a wide range of internship opportunities, students will gain valuable work experience during their studies, enhancing their CVs and expanding their professional networks.
Alberta boasts the highest average salaries in Canada, driven by a thriving energy industry and a rapidly growing tech sector. Its high wages and lower cost of living attract people from across Canada and around the world. A degree from the University of Alberta, paired with Canada’s three-year Post-Graduation Work Permit, places students in an excellent position for long-term success.
By studying with NCUK, students will gain access to this prestigious institution and benefit from tailored career support through the university’s dedicated Career Centre, which offers job search assistance, career planning, and professional development workshops.
The University of Alberta also fosters a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. Its Entrepreneurship Centre, eHUB, offers collaborative and interdisciplinary opportunities that empower students to enhance their skills, think creatively, and pursue their passions—ultimately improving their career prospects and overall satisfaction in their chosen fields.
The University of Alberta, Canada, located in Edmonton, offers international students the opportunity to experience life in a vibrant city filled with a diverse range of activities and attractions. Students can immerse themselves in Edmonton’s dynamic arts and culture scene, scenic parks, and world-renowned festivals.
The city is home to West Edmonton Mall, North America’s largest shopping centre, which features an indoor waterpark, theme park, zoo, a full-scale replica of the Santa Maria, and over 800 shops—all under one roof. As the capital of Alberta, Canada’s wealthiest province, Edmonton offers both opportunity and excitement.
Outdoor enthusiasts will benefit from the city’s proximity to the stunning Canadian Rockies, with endless options for adventure and exploration. The river valley—North America’s largest urban parkland—is located just around the campus and offers extensive trails for biking, hiking, and cross-country skiing.
Edmonton’s diverse neighbourhoods also provide a variety of unique shopping and dining experiences, allowing students to engage with the local culture while pursuing a world-class education.
The University of Alberta, Canada, provides a robust support system for international students, with a strong focus on student welfare, academic success, and overall wellbeing. Students will benefit from dedicated advisors, mental health resources, and academic support programmes designed to help them thrive.
The university’s commitment to fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment ensures that all students enjoy a positive and enriching study abroad experience. A wide range of resources—including language support services, cultural adjustment workshops, and international student clubs—helps students adapt to their new surroundings and build a strong sense of community on campus.
The University of Alberta, Canada, offers international students a variety of student accommodation options within its halls of residence. NCUK students who apply for accommodation by 30th April are guaranteed a place in university housing.
By choosing to study at Alberta, students will have access to comfortable, well-equipped residences that cater to a range of budgets and preferences. The university’s focus on providing a welcoming and inclusive living environment contributes to a positive and supportive study abroad experience.
Residences at the University of Alberta feature a range of amenities, including shared study spaces, communal kitchens, and social areas that encourage community building among residents. Conveniently located, these accommodations offer easy access to campus facilities, public transport, and local attractions.
The University of Alberta, Canada, offers outstanding facilities that enrich the learning experience for international students. By studying at Alberta, students will benefit from modern laboratories, media suites, and lecture halls designed to support academic excellence.
The university’s sports facilities cater to a wide range of interests, encouraging students to maintain a healthy and balanced lifestyle. Unique resources, such as the Canadian Ice Core Archive, reflect the University of Alberta’s commitment to innovation and academic leadership.
In addition, the university boasts an extensive library system, offering access to a vast collection of academic resources and dedicated study spaces. Its focus on research and development is evident in world-renowned institutes such as the National Institute for Nanotechnology and the Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology.
The University of Alberta, Canada, offers a wide range of sports teams, clubs, and societies for international students to get involved in during their studies.
The university’s Athletic Union supports a variety of sports clubs, including the renowned Golden Bears and Pandas teams, enriching the student athletic experience. Societies such as the International Students’ Association and the Engineering Students’ Society cater to diverse interests, helping students feel connected and engaged throughout their study abroad journey.
Taking part in these extracurricular activities allows students to develop leadership skills, form lasting friendships, and discover new passions—ensuring a well-rounded and rewarding experience at the University of Alberta.
The University of Alberta, Canada, is strongly committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. In 2023, it was ranked seventh globally for its impact on sustainability by the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings.
Actively aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the university prioritises energy conservation, waste reduction, and sustainable transport. Its dedication to environmental stewardship is reflected in initiatives such as the Green Spaces Certification Programme and the Eco Move Out scheme, highlighting a proactive approach to creating a greener future.
RANKING
Ranked 6th in the world for impact on sustainability (Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2024)
Ranked 4th in Canada (QS World University Rankings 2025)
Search Programmes at the University of Alberta
Discover a wide range of undergraduate degrees at the University of Alberta, an NCUK partner university. Use the NCUK University Course Finder to explore programmes by subject area and find the perfect course for your academic and career goals.
How to Apply
We have an experienced team of admissions staff waiting to talk you through your options at University Foundation College and beyond, helping you to make decisions today which will positively influence your education and career.
We will provide you with personal counselling and support as you make the transition from high school to University Foundation College and then to your university degree programme.