| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Law & Legal Studies | |
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Founded: 1802
Location: Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada
Type: Public University
Campus: Urban
One of the oldest universities in Canada, with a strong tradition in liberal arts and sciences.
Known for its business, science, and international programs.
Offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs.
Sobey School of Business
One of the top business schools in Atlantic Canada.
Offers BComm, MBA, EMBA, and PhD programs.
Strong focus on entrepreneurship and international business.
Faculty of Science
Programs in biology, chemistry, environmental science, astrophysics, and more.
Active research and access to top-tier facilities.
Faculty of Arts
Wide range of programs like criminology, psychology, political science, sociology, etc.
Strong focus on social justice, global awareness, and critical thinking.
Graduate Studies & Research
Master’s and PhD programs in business, science, and the humanities.
Known for community-based and applied research.
SMU has students from over 100 countries.
Offers exchange programs and partnerships with institutions worldwide.
Welcoming and inclusive campus culture for international students.
Small class sizes = more personalized learning.
Strong academic support and career services.
Vibrant campus life with clubs, sports, and events.
Located in Halifax, a safe, student-friendly city with a scenic coastal vibe.
Tuition for international students ranges from CAD $17,000–$22,000/year depending on the program.
SMU offers entrance scholarships, bursaries, and research funding opportunities for eligible students.
SMU’s Faculty of Arts is known for its focus on social sciences, humanities, and global perspectives.
Criminology
Psychology
Sociology
Political Science
English
History
Philosophy
International Development Studies
Religious Studies
Anthropology
Linguistics
Asian Studies
Irish Studies
Master of Arts in Criminology
Master of Arts in International Development Studies
Master of Arts in Theology and Religious Studies
PhD in International Development Studies
One of the most respected business schools in Atlantic Canada. Strong international focus.
Bachelor of Commerce (BComm) with majors in:
Accounting
Finance
Marketing
Entrepreneurship
Global Business Management
Human Resource Management
Economics
Computing & Information Systems
Small Business & Entrepreneurship
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Executive MBA (EMBA)
Master of Finance
Master of Applied Economics
PhD in Business Administration
Cutting-edge research opportunities and strong undergraduate science education.
Biology
Chemistry
Computing Science
Environmental Science
Mathematics
Physics
Astrophysics
Geology
Forensic Science
Applied Science (Engineering transfer program)
Master of Science in Applied Science
Master of Science in Computing & Data Analytics (MCDA)
PhD in Applied Science
Engineering Transfer Program – 2 years at SMU, then transfer to Dalhousie University.
Certificate & Diploma Programs – Available in various areas like Human Resource Management, Arts & Science, and more.
Co-op Programs – Available in Commerce, Science, and some Arts majors.
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Arts (BA) |
4 years |
$12,500 – $13,500 |
|
BA in Psychology |
4 years |
$13,000 |
|
BA in Criminology |
4 years |
$13,000 |
|
BA in International Development Studies |
4 years |
$13,000 |
|
BA in Political Science |
4 years |
$13,000 |
|
BA in Sociology |
4 years |
$13,000 |
|
BA in English / History / Philosophy |
4 years |
$12,500 – $13,000 |
|
Bachelor of Commerce (BComm) |
4 years |
$14,000 – $15,000 |
|
BComm in Accounting / Finance / Marketing |
4 years |
$14,500 |
|
BComm in Global Business Management |
4 years |
$14,500 |
|
BComm in Computing & Information Systems |
4 years |
$14,500 |
|
Bachelor of Science (BSc) |
4 years |
$14,000 – $15,000 |
|
BSc in Biology / Chemistry / Physics |
4 years |
$14,500 |
|
BSc in Environmental Science |
4 years |
$14,500 |
|
BSc in Forensic Science |
4 years |
$14,500 |
|
BSc in Computing Science |
4 years |
$14,500 |
|
BSc in Astrophysics |
4 years |
$14,500 |
|
Bachelor of Science in Applied Science (Engineering Transfer) |
2 years at SMU + 2 at Dalhousie |
$14,500 (Years 1–2) |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
16 months (approx. 1.5 years) |
~$28,000 total (flat rate) |
|
Executive MBA (EMBA) |
2 years (weekend-based) |
~$24,000/year |
|
Master of Finance (MFin) |
12–16 months |
~$25,500 total (flat rate) |
|
Master of Applied Economics |
1–2 years |
~$13,000/year |
|
Master of Technology Entrepreneurship & Innovation |
1 year (12 months) |
~$18,000 total (flat rate) |
|
Master of Management – Co-operatives & Credit Unions |
2 years (online) |
~$9,500/year |
|
Master of Science in Computing & Data Analytics (MCDA) |
16 months |
~$25,500 total (flat rate) |
|
Master of Science in Applied Science |
2 years |
~$13,000/year |
|
Master of Arts in International Development Studies |
2 years |
~$11,500/year |
|
Master of Arts in Criminology |
2 years |
~$11,500/year |
|
Master of Arts in Theology & Religious Studies |
2 years |
~$11,000/year |
PhD Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
PhD in Applied Science |
4 years |
~$11,000/year |
|
PhD in Business Administration (Management) |
4 years |
~$11,500/year |
|
PhD in International Development Studies |
4 years |
~$10,500/year |
Saint Mary’s University is known for being one of the most inclusive and globally connected universities in Atlantic Canada. It welcomes students from over 100 countries, creating a vibrant, multicultural campus.
SMU offers a wide range of programs for international students at the undergraduate, master’s, and PhD levels. Popular fields include:
Business (through the Sobey School of Business)
Science (Biology, Computing, Environmental Science, etc.)
Arts (Psychology, Criminology, Political Science, Sociology)
Engineering transfer programs
Data Analytics, Economics, and Development Studies
Programs are taught by experienced faculty and often include co-op, research, and internship opportunities, giving international students real-world experience during their studies.
Tuition for international students typically ranges:
Undergraduate: Around $12,500 to $15,000 USD per year
Master’s: $11,000 to $25,000 USD per year (depending on program)
PhD: Around $10,500 to $11,500 USD per year
In addition to tuition, students should budget for living expenses, books, health insurance, and student fees. Living in Halifax is more affordable than larger cities like Toronto or Vancouver.
SMU offers entrance scholarships, research funding, and graduate assistantships to help international students manage costs. Some scholarships are automatic based on academic performance, while others require applications.
The university provides a welcoming, safe, and supportive environment with:
On-campus housing and meal plans
Student societies and clubs
Career and academic advising
International student support services
Mental health and wellness resources
Halifax is a friendly coastal city with a mix of history, nature, and modern life. It’s known for its safety, student-focused culture, and lively downtown.
After getting accepted, international students can apply for a Canadian study permit.
Students can work part-time during studies and full-time during scheduled breaks.
After graduation, they are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which can lead to permanent residency (PR).
Strong international reputation and partnerships
Small class sizes and personalized support
High-quality education at an affordable cost
Located in Halifax – a growing hub for education, business, and tech
First, decide whether you're applying for:
Undergraduate (Bachelor’s)
Graduate (Master’s or PhD)
Visit the official to review available programs, admission requirements, and application deadlines.
High school diploma or equivalent
Strong academic performance (especially in subjects related to your chosen program)
English language proficiency test (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)
Transcripts (translated if not in English)
Bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution
Minimum GPA (usually equivalent to B average or higher)
Program-specific requirements (e.g., GMAT/GRE for some business programs)
Statement of intent or research proposal (for research-based programs)
Letters of recommendation
English language proficiency
Visit the Saint Mary’s University application portal.
Create an account and fill out the application.
Pay the non-refundable application fee:
Undergraduate: ~CAD $40
Graduate: ~CAD $110 (varies by program)
Upload the following:
Academic transcripts and certificates
English proficiency scores (e.g., IELTS 6.5, TOEFL 80 iBT minimum)
Passport bio page
Letters of reference (graduate programs)
Resume/CV (for some graduate programs)
Statement of Purpose (if required)
All documents not in English must be officially translated.
Applications are processed in 4–8 weeks, depending on the program and time of year.
If accepted, you’ll receive a Letter of Acceptance (LOA), which you’ll use to apply for your Canadian study permit/visa.
Once accepted, you may be required to pay a tuition deposit (amount varies) to secure your seat.
This confirms your intention to study at SMU.
Use your Letter of Acceptance to apply for a Canadian Study Permit.
Apply online via the Government of Canada website.
You may need to provide proof of funds, medical exam, biometrics, etc.
Arrange accommodation (on-campus or off-campus housing)
Book your flight to Halifax, Nova Scotia
Attend SMU’s International Student Orientation
SMU offers three main intakes for international students:
Most popular intake
Available for nearly all undergraduate, master’s, and PhD programs
Recommended for new international students
Application Deadline: Typically by May–June (may vary by program)
Limited programs available
Mostly for undergraduate and a few graduate programs
Application Deadline: Usually by September–October
Very limited course offerings (mostly individual or online courses)
Not all programs admit students in this term
Best suited for course upgrades or continuing studies
It’s always best to apply early—6 to 8 months in advance—to allow time for visa processing and preparations.
Eligibility criteria differ slightly between undergraduate, master’s, and PhD levels:
High school diploma or equivalent (Grade 12 or senior secondary school completion)
Strong academic record, especially in subjects related to the program
Minimum GPA: Varies by country, generally equivalent to 70% or above
IELTS: 6.5 overall, no band less than 6.0
TOEFL iBT: 80 overall, minimum 20 in each section
PTE Academic: 58
Duolingo: 115
Students who don’t meet language requirements can apply for conditional admission with an ESL pathway.
A 4-year bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a recognized university
Minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 or equivalent (approx. 75% or B average)
Some programs (e.g., MBA, MFin, MCDA) may require:
Work experience
GMAT/GRE scores
Resume/CV and Statement of Purpose
IELTS: 6.5–7.0, depending on program
TOEFL iBT: 80–100
Duolingo: 115–120
A master’s degree in a related field with strong academic standing
GPA of 3.3/4.0 or higher (approx. 80%+)
Research proposal aligned with faculty expertise
Letters of recommendation (usually 2–3)
Interview may be required
IELTS: 7.0
TOEFL iBT: 100
Ranking Platform |
Ranking/Category |
Rating/Notes |
|---|---|---|
|
QS World University Rankings |
Not ranked in global top 1000 |
SMU is not featured in QS global rankings |
|
U.S. News & World Report |
#70–80 in Canada (National Universities category) |
Regional recognition in undergraduate teaching |
|
Webometrics |
~#70 in Canada, ~#3000 globally |
Based on web presence and academic output |
|
Times Higher Education (THE) |
Not ranked globally |
SMU is not currently included in THE global rankings |
|
Maclean’s (Canada) |
Top 10 – Primarily Undergraduate Universities in Canada |
Strong performance in student satisfaction & teaching |
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Value (USD Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
|
Entrance Scholarships |
Automatically awarded to high-achieving international students entering undergraduate programs |
$1,000 – $5,000 (one-time) |
|
Presidential International Baccalaureate Scholarship |
For students with outstanding IB results |
Up to $5,000/year (renewable) |
|
Named Entrance Awards |
Based on academic excellence + extracurriculars |
$1,000 – $3,500 |
|
Renewable Entrance Scholarships |
GPA of 85%+ and full-time enrollment |
$3,500/year (renewable up to 4 years) |
|
Graduate Research Scholarships (GRA) |
For master’s and PhD students involved in research |
– up to full tuition & stipend |
|
Teaching Assistantships (TA) |
Graduate students assisting in labs/classes |
$5,000 – $10,000/year |
|
International Student Bursaries |
Need-based financial support |
$500 – $2,000 |
|
Sobey Scholars Award (Business Students) |
Exceptional incoming BComm students |
Up to $14,000 total over 4 years |
|
External Scholarships (e.g., Vanier, NSERC) |
Competitive national awards for graduate students |
$15,000 – $50,000/year |
Residence Name / Type |
Accommodation Type |
Features |
Approx. Cost per Academic Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Loyola Residence |
Apartment-style (Upper-Year & Grad) |
Private bedrooms, shared kitchen & living area |
$6,800 – $8,000 |
|
Rice Residence |
Suite-style (Undergrad & International) |
2-bedroom suites with private rooms, shared bathroom |
$6,300 – $7,500 |
|
Vanier Residence |
Traditional dorm (First-Year Students) |
Shared room or single, common washroom & lounge |
$5,700 – $6,500 |
|
Meal Plan (optional but common) |
Available for all residences |
Multiple plans (5-day, 7-day, Flex), all-you-care-to-eat cafeteria |
$3,500 – $4,500 |
Student life at Saint Mary’s University is all about balance—strong academics, a welcoming multicultural environment, and plenty of ways to get involved beyond the classroom. SMU has a diverse student body, with more than 30% international students from over 100 countries, creating a truly global campus.
There are over 70 student-run clubs and societies at SMU, covering everything from academic interests to cultural groups, sports, music, politics, and volunteering. Whether you're into debate, drama, or dance, there's a space for you to connect and get involved.
The Saint Mary’s University Students’ Association (SMUSA) organizes social events, cultural celebrations, and leadership opportunities throughout the year. Big campus events like Welcome Week, Multicultural Festival, and Winter Carnival help bring students together.
SMU offers a ton of support specifically for international students, including:
International Student Centre (ISC) – for visa help, settlement support, and cultural transition
Orientation programs – tailored to help international students settle in
Peer mentorship and academic advising
English language support and writing services
You’ll find modern, quiet study spaces across campus, especially in the Patrick Power Library and dedicated lounges. There’s also free academic tutoring, career counseling, and help with job search skills (like resumé writing and interviews).
SMU has a strong focus on health and wellness. Students have free access to:
The Homburg Centre for Health & Wellness (gym, fitness classes, indoor track, weight rooms)
Intramural and varsity sports teams (including Huskies basketball, football, and hockey)
Counselling and health services on campus
The Dockside Dining Hall is the main cafeteria, offering a variety of options (including vegetarian, halal, and international cuisines). There are also coffee shops and small food spots around campus.
Halifax is a beautiful, coastal city that’s safe, student-friendly, and full of things to do. From exploring the waterfront and trying seafood, to weekend hikes or live music downtown, you’ll find a great mix of city life and nature.
Student life at SMU is personal, inclusive, and engaging. You’ll feel part of a close-knit community where professors know your name, and students from all over the world learn and grow together.
Saint Mary’s University offers strong career development services and job placement support to help students transition smoothly from academics to the workforce. While Canadian universities, including SMU, don’t guarantee “placements” in the same way some countries do, they provide career readiness programs, co-op options, and industry connections that lead to strong post-graduation outcomes.
Career & Employment Services Office – helps students with:
Resume and cover letter writing
Interview prep
Job search strategies
Networking and career fairs
On-campus recruitment events and employer sessions
Job portal (SMUworks) – listing internships, part-time, and full-time jobs for students and graduates
Many programs, especially in Business, Computer Science, and Science, offer co-op programs and work-integrated learning opportunities. These allow students to earn academic credit while gaining real-world experience.
Bachelor of Commerce (BComm) – has one of Atlantic Canada’s largest co-op programs
MCDA (Master of Computing & Data Analytics) – includes a mandatory paid internship
Science and Arts students – access to community-based research placements and internships
Over 90% of graduates from SMU are employed or in further education within 6 months of graduation.
Graduates work in top sectors including:
Finance and accounting
Data analytics and IT
Business and consulting
Environmental science
Public policy and international development
International students can work up to 20 hours/week during studies and full-time during breaks.
After graduating, students can apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) valid up to 3 years.
Many SMU grads use this time to gain Canadian work experience and eventually apply for Permanent Residency (PR).
IBM
Scotiabank
RBC
Deloitte
TD Bank
Irving Group
Nova Scotia Power
Government of Canada and NGOs
While SMU may not use the term “placement,” the combination of co-op, internships, career coaching, and employer connections gives students a solid foundation for success in Canada’s job market.
The acceptance rate of Saint Mary’s University (SMU), Canada is estimated to be around 65% to 75%, making it a moderately selective institution.
SMU has a welcoming and inclusive admissions policy, especially for international students.
As long as you meet the academic and language requirements, and submit all required documents on time, your chances of getting admitted are very good.
Competitive programs like MBA, MCDA (Data Analytics), and PhD programs may have lower acceptance rates, depending on available seats and the strength of applicants.
Academic performance (GPA or grades in core subjects)
English language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, etc.)
For graduate programs: Statement of purpose, recommendation letters, and relevant experience
Saint Mary's University
923 Robie Street
Halifax, Nova Scotia
B3H 3C3, Canada
Capital city of Nova Scotia and one of Canada’s fastest-growing urban centers
A safe, student-friendly city with a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty
Known for its harborfront, vibrant downtown, and ocean views
Home to several universities, giving it a lively and youthful atmosphere
Located in the south end of Halifax, just a few minutes from downtown and the waterfront
Compact and walkable campus with modern academic buildings, residences, libraries, and sports facilities
Close to restaurants, shops, public transport, and parks
About 30 minutes from Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ)
