| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
| Course Level: | Master's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 2 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | 4 Year Bachelor’s Degree | |
Founded: 1853
Type: Public university
Location: Antigonish, Nova Scotia
Student Population: Approximately 5,000
Campus: Small-town setting with a close-knit community
StFX offers a range of undergraduate and select graduate programs through its faculties:
Arts
Science
Education
Business (Gerald Schwartz School of Business)
Applied Forensics (in partnership with other institutions)
Popular programs include:
Business Administration
Nursing
Human Kinetics
Education
Political Science
Engineering (first two years before transferring)
StFX welcomes students from around the world and offers:
International student advising
Language support programs
Culturally inclusive events
Scholarships for international students
One of the university’s most famous traditions is the X-Ring, awarded to graduating students each December 3rd. It’s a symbol of academic achievement and community spirit and is one of the most recognized rings in Canada.
Vibrant campus culture with strong traditions
Over 100 student-run societies and clubs
Modern residence and athletic facilities
Known for tight-knit student community and alumni network
Ranked highly for student satisfaction and undergraduate education in Canada
Known for leadership development and community-based learning
Strong alumni network, including notable leaders in politics, business, and sports
StFX’s Arts programs emphasize critical thinking, communication, and creativity.
Popular Programs:
Anthropology
Art History
Catholic Studies
Development Studies
Economics
English
History
Music
Philosophy
Political Science
Psychology
Religious Studies
Sociology
Women's and Gender Studies
Many Arts students combine majors or opt for interdisciplinary studies.
Strong in research and hands-on learning, especially in health and environmental fields.
Majors Include:
Biology
Chemistry
Computer Science
Earth Sciences
Engineering (first 2 years before transferring)
Mathematics & Statistics
Human Nutrition
Physics
Psychology (also offered as a Science)
Aquatic Resources
A well-regarded business program with small classes and leadership development.
Specializations:
Accounting
Finance
Management and Leadership
Marketing and Innovation
International Business
Entrepreneurship
Co-op programs and internships are available.
Offers teacher preparation programs focused on equity, inclusion, and leadership.
Programs Offered:
Bachelor of Education (Elementary, Secondary)
Integrated B.Ed for Music
Master of Education (part-time, online/in-person)
Known for a competitive and highly respected Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN).
Options include:
Four-year BScN
Accelerated 2-year BScN (for students with a prior degree)
LPN to BScN pathway
Human Kinetics (popular for students interested in health and physical education)
Climate and Environment
Forensic Psychology
Catholic Studies
Engineering (2-year program before transferring to complete a degree at Dalhousie)
While StFX is primarily an undergraduate-focused institution, it offers a few graduate-level options:
Master of Education (M.Ed)
Master of Science in Biology, Computer Science, Earth Sciences, and Chemistry
Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Artificial Intelligence
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Arts (BA) |
4 years |
$18,000 |
|
Bachelor of Science (BSc) |
4 years |
$18,500 |
|
Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) |
4 years |
$20,000 |
|
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) |
4 years |
$21,000 |
|
Bachelor of Education (BEd)* |
2 years (Post-degree) |
$18,000 |
|
Bachelor of Human Kinetics (BHK) |
4 years |
$18,500 |
|
Bachelor of Music (BMus) |
4 years |
$17,500 |
|
Bachelor of Arts and Science in Climate and Environment |
4 years |
$18,500 |
|
Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition |
4 years |
$18,500 |
|
Bachelor of Computer Science (BSc) |
4 years |
$18,500 |
|
Bachelor of Arts in Leadership in Business and Society |
4 years |
$18,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Education (M.Ed.) – Online/In-Person |
2 years (part-time) |
~$9,000 |
|
Master of Education in Educational Administration |
2 years (part-time) |
~$9,000 |
|
Master of Education in Curriculum & Instruction |
2 years (part-time) |
~$9,000 |
|
Master of Science in Biology |
2 years (full-time) |
~$10,000 |
|
Master of Science in Computer Science |
2 years (full-time) |
~$10,000 |
|
Master of Science in Chemistry |
2 years (full-time) |
~$10,000 |
|
Master of Science in Earth Sciences |
2 years (full-time) |
~$10,000 |
|
Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Artificial Intelligence |
1 year (full-time) |
~$15,000 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees per Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Education (M.Ed.) |
2 years (part-time/full-time) |
~$8,000 - $12,000 |
|
Master of Science in Biology/Chemistry/Earth Sciences |
2 years |
~$12,000 - $14,000 |
|
Master of Applied Computer Science (MACS) (Offered in collaboration) |
2 years |
~$15,000 - $18,000 |
StFX is one of Canada’s oldest and most respected universities, located in the small town of Antigonish, Nova Scotia. It has a strong reputation for academic excellence, personalized education, and community involvement. While it's primarily known for its undergraduate and Master’s level programs, it offers a welcoming environment for international students from over 40 countries.
As an international student, you’ll find a close-knit and supportive campus community. The university provides:
International Student Support Office – Assists with immigration, work permits, and cultural transition.
Orientation Programs – Helps new international students get settled.
English Language Support – For students who need help improving their academic English.
On-campus Housing – Guaranteed for first-year students with multiple residence options.
Health Insurance – International students are automatically enrolled in a comprehensive health plan.
Although StFX does not offer PhD or Doctorate programs, it does provide strong options at the undergraduate and master’s levels, especially in areas like:
Business Administration
Computer Science
Education
Engineering (2-year transfer program)
Nursing
Political Science
Human Kinetics
Psychology
Biology and other natural sciences
Graduate-level (Master’s) programs include:
Master of Education (M.Ed.)
Master of Science (Biology, Chemistry, Earth Sciences)
A Master of Applied Computer Science in collaboration with other institutions.
For international students, tuition ranges approximately:
Undergraduate programs: Around $17,000 – $20,000 USD per year
Graduate programs (Master’s): Around $12,000 – $18,000 USD per year, depending on the program
Living expenses: Estimated at $8,000 – $10,000 USD per year
Scholarships for international students are available based on academic performance, and some are automatically considered upon application.
Personalized education and small class sizes
Safe, peaceful environment for focused study
Strong alumni network
Culturally inclusive and student-focused
Opportunities to engage in research and community work even at the undergraduate level
First, decide which program you’re applying to:
Undergraduate Programs (e.g., Business, Science, Arts, Nursing, Computer Science)
Graduate Programs (Master of Education, Master of Science, etc.)
You can browse their official website for detailed program descriptions: N/A
Apply directly through the StFX online application portal:
https://www.stfx.ca/admissions/apply
Application Fee: Around $100 CAD (non-refundable)
You’ll need to create an account and upload required documents.
For Undergraduate Applicants:
Official high school transcripts
Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, etc.)
Passport bio page
Letter of Intent (some programs)
Resume/CV (if applicable)
For Graduate (Master’s) Applicants:
Official transcripts from previous degrees
Letters of Recommendation (usually 2)
Statement of Intent or Research Proposal (depending on program)
Resume/CV
Proof of English proficiency
Passport copy
If your first language is not English, you must provide one of the following:
IELTS: Minimum 6.5 overall
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 90
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 115
Completion of an English-language secondary school may also qualify
Undergraduate Programs:
Rolling admission (apply early for scholarship consideration)
Recommended by March 1 for September intake
Graduate Programs:
Varies by department (typically February–April for September intake)
Some programs admit only once per year (Fall)
If you're accepted:
You'll receive an official Offer Letter
You may need to pay a confirmation deposit (usually around $300–$500 CAD) to secure your spot
Once you have your Offer Letter:
Apply for a Canadian Study Permit through IRCC:
www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada
You’ll need:
StFX Offer Letter
Proof of funds
Valid passport
Immigration medical exam (if required)
Once your Study Permit is approved:
Book travel
Arrange housing (StFX offers on-campus residences)
Register for courses
Attend orientation for international students
Apply early for scholarships and housing
Connect with the International Student Office for pre-arrival help
Make sure all documents are in English or officially translated
StFX primarily offers one main intake per year, but here's how it works:
Fall (September) – Primary intake for all undergraduate and most graduate programs.
Recommended application deadline: March 1 (especially for scholarship consideration)
Final deadline: Varies by program (usually between May–June)
Some Graduate (Master's) programs may also offer Winter (January) intake, but this is rare and depends on the department.
Always confirm deadlines directly with the program you're applying to.
Academic Requirements:
High school graduation certificate or equivalent
Strong grades in relevant subjects (varies by program)
For example:
Science & Nursing: Must have strong grades in Math, Chemistry, Biology, and English
Business: Requires Math and English
English Language Proficiency (if English is not your first language):
IELTS: Minimum 6.5 overall (no band below 6.0)
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 90
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 115
CAEL: Minimum 60
OR proof of education in English (case-by-case basis)
General Academic Requirements:
A 4-year Bachelor's degree (or equivalent) from a recognized institution
Minimum B average (GPA 3.0/4.0 or equivalent) in last 2 years of study
Relevant background in the chosen field of study
Additional Requirements (may vary by program):
Statement of Intent / Research Proposal
Two or more academic references
Resume/CV
Interview (sometimes)
English Language Proficiency:
IELTS: Minimum 6.5 – 7.0
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 90 – 100
Duolingo: Minimum 115 – 120
Specific requirements vary by department
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Amount (USD Approx.) |
Application Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Entrance Scholarships |
Automatic consideration; high school average ≥85% |
$3,000 – $7,500 |
No separate application (auto-assessed) |
|
President’s Scholarship |
High school average ≥90%, leadership & community involvement |
Up to $12,000 ($3,000/year) |
Separate application required |
|
Dr. John T. Sears Scholarship |
Outstanding academic record and community involvement |
Up to $6,000 |
Application + references |
|
Sister Catherine Steele Scholarship |
High academic achievement & financial need |
$2,000 – $4,000 |
Needs-based application |
|
StFX International Student Scholarship |
For incoming international students with strong academics |
Up to $5,000 |
Application required |
|
Major Scholarships (Various Donor Awards) |
Based on academic merit, leadership, and specific criteria |
$1,000 – $5,000+ |
Some require separate application |
Accommodation Type |
Description |
Facilities Included |
Cost per Year (USD Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Traditional Single Room |
Private room in shared residence halls |
Meal plan, Wi-Fi, study spaces, laundry, shared washrooms |
$8,000 – $9,000 |
|
Traditional Double Room |
Shared room with one roommate |
Meal plan, shared washroom, Wi-Fi |
$7,000 – $8,000 |
|
Single Room (Premium/Deluxe) |
Larger single room, newer buildings |
Private or semi-private bath, upgraded furnishings |
$9,000 – $10,500 |
|
Suite-Style Residence |
2–4 bedroom suites with shared kitchen & living room |
Semi-private bathroom, Wi-Fi, common kitchen |
$10,000 – $11,500 |
|
Apartment-Style Housing |
Self-contained unit with kitchen (limited availability) |
No meal plan, includes utilities, ideal for upper-year students |
$8,000 – $10,000 |
|
Off-Campus Housing |
Rented apartments or shared housing nearby |
depending on apartment, not managed by university |
$5,000 – $8,000 |
StFX is known for its strong sense of community. With a smaller student population (around 5,000 students), you won’t feel like just a number here. Professors know your name, and students often describe the campus as friendly, welcoming, and tight-knit. It’s a place where it’s easy to make friends and feel at home, especially for international students.
StFX has students from over 40 countries, and they actively celebrate cultural diversity through events, clubs, and student-led initiatives. The International Student Office helps with immigration support, cultural adjustment, and social activities to make the transition smooth.
While the university is known for its undergraduate programs, it also offers strong academic support systems — tutoring centers, writing workshops, faculty office hours, and access to undergraduate research opportunities. The small class sizes mean more interaction with faculty and deeper learning experiences.
Living on campus is a big part of the StFX experience, especially in your first year. Residences are social hubs — whether you’re in a traditional dorm, suite-style, or apartment-style living. There are themed residence events, movie nights, talent shows, and more. Plus, there’s strong support through resident assistants and peer leaders.
There are over 100 student-run clubs and societies ranging from academic and professional interests to cultural, recreational, and charitable causes. Whether it’s a Model UN, African Students Association, robotics club, or dance group — you’ll find something that fits your interests.
StFX has a proud athletic tradition. Their varsity teams, known as the X-Men and X-Women, compete in the Atlantic University Sport (AUS) conference. Even if you’re not a varsity athlete, there are plenty of options:
Intramural sports (soccer, volleyball, basketball, etc.)
Gym and fitness classes
Outdoor activities like hiking, skating, and skiing nearby
The university has several traditions that make student life exciting:
X-Ring Ceremony: One of the most iconic traditions in Canadian universities — students receive their “X-Ring” in their final year, symbolizing achievement and belonging.
Welcome Week & Orientation: A week-long celebration to kick off the academic year with music, games, and bonding.
Winter Carnival and other annual campus-wide events keep the spirit alive throughout the year.
The Student Success Centre offers support in:
Resume building
Internships and co-op programs
Career fairs and networking
Leadership training and volunteer opportunities
Many students also take on-campus jobs or participate in community outreach programs.
StFX doesn’t offer a centralized “placement cell” like some universities in other countries (such as India), but it provides strong career development support and job-readiness programs through its Student Career Services and Student Success Centre.
Here’s how they help students build successful career paths:
Resume & Cover Letter Workshops
Mock Interviews & Interview Coaching
Career Fairs & Employer Networking Events
On-Campus Recruitment Events
One-on-One Career Counseling
Internship and Co-op Assistance (for select programs)
While not all programs include formal co-op placements, some departments do offer work-integrated learning, especially in:
Business Administration
Computer Science (applied programs)
Health Sciences & Human Kinetics
Education (teaching practicums)
These help students gain relevant work experience and build professional networks before graduation.
High employability: Around 90%+ of StFX graduates are employed or pursuing further education within 6–12 months of graduation.
Strong reputation in Canada: StFX alumni are known for leadership, especially in education, business, health, and community sectors.
Many students go on to work in:
Public and private sector jobs
Teaching roles
Healthcare and social services
Research and lab work
Startups and tech companies
Graduate school or professional degrees (e.g., MBA, Law, Medicine)
International students can work:
Up to 20 hours/week during studies (on or off campus)
Full-time during scheduled breaks
Eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) up to 3 years after completing their program
StFX has a very active and loyal alumni community, which plays a major role in helping recent graduates with mentorship and networking. The “Xaverian” connection is strong across Canada and beyond.
BBA graduates often land jobs in marketing, finance, HR, or consulting within months of graduation.
Science grads frequently continue to medical, dental, or graduate schools.
Education grads are highly employable in schools across Canada and internationally.
The estimated acceptance rate at StFX is between 70% to 80%.
This makes StFX a moderately selective university, meaning they are open to a wide range of applicants, especially if you meet the academic and language requirements. However, some programs are more competitive than others.
General Arts, Business, and Science programs:
Acceptance rate is relatively high if you meet the academic and language criteria.
Bachelor of Science in Nursing:
Much more competitive due to limited seats; requires high grades in Biology, Chemistry, and Math.
Education (B.Ed. and M.Ed.):
Also selective, particularly at the graduate level. Teaching experience or a solid academic background is essential.
Academic average (high school GPA or undergraduate GPA)
Strength in prerequisite subjects (e.g., Math, English, Sciences)
English language proficiency (IELTS/TOEFL scores)
Supporting documents like personal statements or references (for grad programs)
Availability of space in the chosen program
St. Francis Xavier University
PO Box 5000
Antigonish, Nova Scotia
B2G 2W5, Canad
