Lana Oconnell
If you're an international student hoping to apply to UBC, there are a few key things to keep in mind. Firstly, admission to UBC is competitive, and requirements vary depending on your chosen degree and campus. All applicants must meet UBC's general admission requirements, including demonstrating a minimum level of English proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL. International students should also prepare required documents, such as transcripts, passports, and other academic records. UBC's application process typically begins in early October, with a final deadline in mid-January for fall admission. After submitting your application, you'll need to wait a few months for a decision, and if accepted, you'll need to apply for a study permit. Throughout the process, UBC offers resources and support for international students, including help with immigration documents and study permits.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Application window | Opens in early October each year for the next September intake |
| Application fee | Non-refundable |
| Application deadline | 15 January (11:59 pm PST) |
| Requirements | Strong overall academic average (typically B range or higher) with a minimum of 67-70% |
| Documents | Transcripts, proof of English proficiency, passport, and other academic records |
| English proficiency tests | TOEFL or IELTS |
| Personal profile | 5-7 short answer questions |
| Degree-specific requirements | Course prerequisites for the chosen program |
| Notification of application decision | A few months |
| Post-acceptance | Apply for a study permit, finalize housing, course registration, etc. |
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What You'll Learn
Required documents
As an international student, you will need to submit several documents as part of your application to UBC. These include:
High School Transcripts
You will need to submit your high school transcripts. If you are an Ontario high school student, you will provide your OUAC number so UBC can retrieve your grades electronically.
Post-Secondary Transcripts
If applicable, you will also need to submit any post-secondary transcripts.
Proof of English Proficiency
International students whose first language is not English must demonstrate proficiency via IELTS/TOEFL or other accepted means. Make sure your scores meet UBC's minimum requirements.
Passport
You should have your passport ready, along with any other academic records.
Personal Profile
UBC requires all applicants to submit a Personal Profile, which includes 5-7 short answer questions. This is your chance to showcase your unique interests, experiences, and goals beyond your academic grades.
It is important to note that UBC provides country-specific requirements, and you should refer to their website for the most up-to-date and comprehensive information on required documents. Additionally, there are specific deadlines for submitting these documents, so ensure you are aware of the timeline to avoid any delays in your application process.
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English proficiency
As an international student, you will need to prove your English language proficiency as part of your application to UBC. English is the primary language of instruction at UBC, so it is important that you have a minimum level of English to be admitted.
There are several ways to demonstrate your English proficiency. One way is to take a standardised test such as TOEFL or IELTS. The minimum TOEFL score required is 90 for the internet-based exam, with a minimum score of 22 in reading and listening, and 21 in writing and speaking. For the paper-based test, you need a score of 55 each for reading, listening, and writing, with a 4.0 on the Test of Written English. For the IELTS, you need a minimum overall band score of 6.5, with a minimum score of 6.0 in each component of the academic IELTS test.
If you are applying to a graduate program, you may be required to have higher English language proficiency scores, so be sure to check the specific requirements for your chosen program.
Another way to demonstrate English proficiency is by providing transcripts from your previous education. If you have attended four or more consecutive years of full-time education in English at an eligible international secondary school, you can submit these transcripts to UBC’s Undergraduate Admissions Office. Alternatively, you can achieve a UBC Certificate in English Language (CEL) by completing Levels 600 and 650 of the UBC English Language Institute’s English for Academic Purposes program on UBC’s Vancouver campus.
If you do not meet the English Language Admission Standard but believe that your English proficiency is close to or equal to that of a native speaker, you may request a waiver. Your waiver request must include your student number and full name, a letter explaining why you believe the requirement should be waived, and a letter of recommendation from a teacher or guidance counsellor.
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Personal profiles
The Personal Profile is a crucial part of your application to UBC. It is your opportunity to showcase your unique interests, experiences, and goals, and to demonstrate to the admissions committee who you are beyond your grades. The Personal Profile is mandatory for all high school students applying to any degree on UBC's Okanagan or Vancouver campuses (except for a few courses, such as the Bachelor of Design in Architecture and the Bachelor of Commerce).
The Personal Profile consists of 5-7 short answer questions or essay responses (50-500 words). These questions will vary depending on the degree program you are applying for, but they will generally ask you about challenges you have overcome, significant achievements in your life, your academic pursuits, and what you have learned from these experiences. For example, if you are applying for the Bachelor of Education, you may be asked to describe the kind of teacher you want to be, giving examples that demonstrate your commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and decolonization. If you are applying for the Bachelor of Commerce, you may be asked to explain how you responded to an unfamiliar situation and what you learned from it.
When writing your Personal Profile, it is important to be genuine and specific in your responses. Reflect on your experiences and provide details and context to elaborate on your answers. Demonstrate a clear sense of self and strong life experience, and showcase your communication skills. Be authentic and focus on what you want to say about yourself, rather than what you think the admissions committee wants to hear.
Remember that UBC receives thousands of applications each year, so your Personal Profile is your chance to stand out and show why you would be a great fit for the university.
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Application fee
There is a non-refundable application fee that you must pay before your application can be submitted. The amount of the fee is not specified, but it is described as non-refundable. You will also need to pay a deposit by May 1 to secure your seat if you are offered admission.
International students may also need to budget for other expenses, such as the cost of obtaining the required documents, such as transcripts and proof of English proficiency. These documents may include high school transcripts, post-secondary transcripts, and English language proficiency test results (such as TOEFL or IELTS).
Additionally, as an international student, you will need to consider the cost of a study permit, which is a required step after receiving an offer of admission. There may also be costs associated with obtaining other necessary immigration documents, such as a Temporary Resident Visa or a work permit.
It is important to plan and allow ample time to gather the required documents and funds to ensure a smooth application process. Starting the application process early will help you identify and address any potential issues or unexpected expenses.
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Immigration documents
As an international student, you will need to prepare several immigration documents before applying to UBC. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:
Step 1: Understand the Requirements
Before initiating the application process, familiarize yourself with the immigration requirements for international students at UBC. Visit the UBC website and refer to their international student guide, which provides comprehensive information on the necessary immigration documents. Understanding the requirements beforehand will help you navigate the process more efficiently.
Step 2: Gather Essential Documents
Ensure that you have all the necessary documents ready. As an international student, you will likely need to provide the following:
- Passport: Keep your passport up to date and valid for the duration of your studies.
- Transcripts and Academic Records: Collect your high school transcripts and any post-secondary transcripts if applicable. These documents verify your academic performance and qualifications.
- Proof of English Proficiency: As English is the primary language of instruction at UBC, international students must demonstrate proficiency through IELTS/TOEFL or other accepted means. Ensure your test scores meet UBC's minimum requirements.
- Personal Profile: UBC may require you to submit a personal profile, which includes short answer questions about your interests, experiences, and goals. This helps the university learn more about you beyond your academic records.
Step 3: Start the Application Process
Begin the online application process through UBC's application portal. Create an account, fill in your personal information, academic history, and program choices. You will also need to submit your transcripts and other required documents through this portal. The application process usually opens in early October for the following September intake.
Step 4: Apply for a Study Permit
If you receive an offer of acceptance from UBC, congratulations! The next step is to apply for a study permit, which is required for international students planning to study in Canada. You may also need to apply for a Temporary Resident Visa, depending on your country of origin. UBC offers resources and support through International Student Advisors, who can guide you through the process of preparing your immigration applications.
Step 5: Stay Organized and Up-to-Date
Keep track of your application status by regularly checking your UBC account. Note that UBC reviews applications on a rolling basis, so the notification of the application decision can take a few months. Additionally, utilize tools like the UBC Reminder System to add your document expiry dates and receive notifications for timely document extensions.
Navigating the immigration process as an international student can be complex, but with careful preparation and adherence to the outlined steps, you can successfully complete your UBC application journey. Remember to refer to UBC's official website and resources for the most up-to-date and comprehensive information.
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Frequently asked questions
The requirements vary depending on your degree and campus of choice. However, all applicants must meet UBC's general admission requirements and English Language Admission Standard. International students must demonstrate English proficiency with a test like the TOEFL or IELTS. You'll also need to submit your high school transcripts and any post-secondary transcripts.
UBC's application opens in early October each year for the next September intake. You'll need to create an account on UBC's application portal and fill in your personal information, academic history, and program choices. You can select a first and second-choice program. After submitting your application, you'll need to wait a few months for the application decision.
In addition to transcripts and proof of English proficiency, international students should have their passports and other academic records ready. After applying, you may also be asked to submit additional supporting documents, such as English language proficiency test results.
Yes, you can submit scholarship applications while waiting for your UBC application decision. UBC also offers resources to support international students with their immigration documents, including study permits and work permits.
