Top Universities in Canada 2026
Times Higher Education World University Rankings
Discover the Times Higher Education Canada University Rankings 2026 and explore which institutions rank the highest in the country. This comprehensive guide highlights the best universities in Canada based on teaching quality, research excellence, industry partnerships, and international outlook.
Canada University Rankings 2026 – Complete List
Below is the complete list of the best universities in Canada according to the THE World University Rankings 2026. The table includes overall scores and performance metrics across key categories: Teaching, Research Environment, Research Quality, Industry, and International Outlook.
| Canada Rank | World Rank | University | Overall | Teaching | Research Env. | Research Quality | Industry | Int'l Outlook |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 21 | University of Toronto | 88.5 | 78.2 | 92.9 | 92.3 | 95.8 | 92.3 |
| 2 | =41 | McGill University | 77.1 | 71 | 70.8 | 86.2 | 77.5 | 89.2 |
| 3 | 45 | University of British Columbia | 77 | 64.1 | 73.9 | 88.6 | 77.4 | 93.5 |
| 4 | =116 | McMaster University | 65 | 42.2 | 49.3 | 93.1 | 100 | 84.6 |
| 5 | 119 | University of Alberta | 64.6 | 49.1 | 55.4 | 78.1 | 100 | 88.4 |
| 6 | 150 | Université de Montréal | 61.9 | 41.4 | 50.5 | 83.1 | 95.5 | 84.1 |
| 7 | =162 | University of Waterloo | 60.9 | 42.7 | 47.6 | 83.4 | 77 | 85.5 |
| 8 | =187 | University of Ottawa | 59.5 | 38.2 | 44.5 | 85.4 | 81.7 | 86.2 |
| 9 | 200 | University of Calgary | 58.7 | 37.8 | 43.1 | 83.6 | 91.4 | 83.3 |
| 10 | 201–250 | Western University | 56.4–58.6 | 39.9 | 42.6 | 77.5 | 99.8 | 68.9 |
| =11 | 301–350 | Queen's University | 51.6–54.2 | 37.9 | 37.6 | 77.4 | 84.8 | 72.9 |
| =11 | 301–350 | Simon Fraser University | 51.6–54.2 | 26.9 | 35.6 | 79.7 | 83.5 | 90.7 |
| =11 | 301–350 | University of Victoria | 51.6–54.2 | 30.2 | 37.1 | 82.9 | 66.8 | 83.6 |
| =14 | 351–400 | Dalhousie University | 49.9–51.5 | 33.1 | 33.2 | 75.4 | 74.3 | 86.6 |
| =14 | 351–400 | University of Saskatchewan | 49.9–51.5 | 39.5 | 34 | 63 | 96.1 | 76 |
| =16 | 401–500 | Université Laval | 46.2–49.8 | 31.8 | 34.6 | 69.4 | 91.7 | 72.3 |
| =16 | 401–500 | University of Guelph | 46.2–49.8 | 34.8 | 36.7 | 64.1 | 80 | 63.6 |
| =16 | 401–500 | York University | 46.2–49.8 | 29.3 | 33.2 | 71.5 | 72.3 | 86 |
| =19 | 501–600 | Carleton University | 43.6–46.1 | 23.4 | 31.5 | 64.9 | 79.2 | 75.4 |
| =19 | 501–600 | Memorial University of Newfoundland | 43.6–46.1 | 30.3 | 25.7 | 65.2 | 82.1 | 86.2 |
| =19 | 501–600 | Université du Québec | 43.6–46.1 | 33.4 | 33.5 | 57.1 | 73.2 | 76.7 |
| =19 | 501–600 | University of Manitoba | 43.6–46.1 | 29.5 | 25.1 | 72.9 | 61.4 | 60.4 |
| =19 | 501–600 | University of Windsor | 43.6–46.1 | 30.4 | 31.4 | 60.5 | 68.2 | 87.9 |
| =24 | 601–800 | Concordia University | 39.0–43.5 | 24.5 | 25.8 | 63.7 | 68 | 74.7 |
| =24 | 601–800 | Toronto Metropolitan University | 39.0–43.5 | 22.4 | 32 | 61.1 | 69 | 62 |
| =24 | 601–800 | University of New Brunswick | 39.0–43.5 | 23.8 | 19.5 | 67.1 | 63.5 | 81 |
| =27 | 801–1000 | Ontario Tech University | 35.5–38.9 | 17.6 | 25.3 | 56.4 | 60.3 | 60.6 |
| =27 | 801–1000 | University of Regina | 35.5–38.9 | 18.4 | 20.9 | 61.9 | 43.8 | 65.7 |
| 29 | 1001–1200 | Lakehead University | 32.1–35.4 | 18 | 25.6 | 52.8 | 41.6 | 58.5 |
| =30 | 1201–1500 | Brock University | 27.3–32.0 | 15 | 18.4 | 48 | 42.1 | 56.2 |
| =30 | 1201–1500 | St Francis Xavier University | 27.3–32.0 | 17.5 | 18.2 | 43.1 | 27.9 | 51.6 |
| =30 | 1201–1500 | University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) | 27.3–32.0 | 21 | 22.5 | 44.4 | 19.9 | 57 |
| =30 | 1201–1500 | Wilfrid Laurier University | 27.3–32.0 | 15.8 | 16.1 | 49.3 | 58.4 | 61.2 |
| 34 | 1501+ | University of Lethbridge | 10.3–27.2 | 20.8 | 14.7 | 29.6 | 41.6 | 59.4 |
How are Canadian Universities Ranked?
The Times Higher Education World University Rankings evaluate universities across five key performance indicators. Understanding these metrics helps students and parents choose the best universities in Canada for their academic and career goals.
Teaching
Learning environment, student-to-staff ratio, and teaching reputation
Research Environment
Volume, income, and reputation of research output
Research Quality
Citation impact and research excellence
Industry
Knowledge transfer and innovation partnerships
International Outlook
International staff, students, and research collaboration
Top 10 Universities in Canada for International Students
Canada is one of the most popular destinations for international students seeking world-class education. The top 10 universities in Canada offer excellent support services, diverse campuses, and strong post-graduation work opportunities:
- University of Toronto – Canada's #1, ranked 21st globally
- McGill University – Known for medicine and law programs
- University of British Columbia – Highest international outlook score (93.5)
- McMaster University – Perfect industry score (100)
- University of Alberta – Leading research institution
- Université de Montréal – Top French-language university
- University of Waterloo – Best for co-op and tech programs
- University of Ottawa – Bilingual education hub
- University of Calgary – Strong industry connections
- Western University – Renowned business programs
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top universities in Canada for 2026?
According to the Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2026, the top universities in Canada are:
- University of Toronto (World Rank: 21)
- McGill University (World Rank: =41)
- University of British Columbia (World Rank: 45)
- McMaster University (World Rank: =116)
- University of Alberta (World Rank: 119)
Which are the best universities in Canada for international students?
The best universities for international students are those with high international outlook scores. University of British Columbia leads with 93.5, followed by University of Toronto (92.3), Simon Fraser University (90.7), and McGill University (89.2). These institutions offer excellent support services, diverse student bodies, and strong post-graduation work permit opportunities.
What are the best universities in Canada for MBA programs?
The top MBA programs in Canada are offered by:
- University of Toronto (Rotman School of Management)
- McGill University (Desautels Faculty of Management)
- University of British Columbia (Sauder School of Business)
- Western University (Ivey Business School)
- Queen's University (Smith School of Business)
- York University (Schulich School of Business)
What are the top business schools in Canada?
Canada's top business schools include Rotman (Toronto), Ivey (Western), Schulich (York), Sauder (UBC), Desautels (McGill), and Smith (Queen's). These schools are internationally accredited and offer programs ranging from undergraduate commerce to executive MBA. Many feature strong industry connections and co-op opportunities.
What are the best universities in Canada for computer science?
For computer science, the best Canadian universities are:
- University of Toronto – Leading AI and machine learning research
- University of Waterloo – Famous for co-op programs and tech industry connections
- University of British Columbia – Strong quantum computing research
- McGill University – Excellent theoretical CS programs
- University of Alberta – Pioneer in reinforcement learning
Which are the top 10 colleges in Canada for commerce students?
The best colleges and universities for commerce students include University of Toronto, McGill, UBC, Western, Queen's, York (Schulich), McMaster (DeGroote), University of Alberta, Concordia (John Molson), and Wilfrid Laurier. These institutions offer specialized commerce degrees with co-op options, CPA pathways, and strong alumni networks.
What are the best data science programs in Canada?
Top data science programs are offered at University of Toronto, University of Waterloo, UBC, McGill, and University of Alberta. These programs combine statistics, computer science, and domain expertise. Many offer specialized tracks in machine learning, big data analytics, and artificial intelligence with industry partnerships.
What are the best cybersecurity programs in Canada?
Leading cybersecurity programs include those at University of Waterloo, Carleton University, University of New Brunswick, Toronto Metropolitan University, and Concordia University. These programs cover network security, cryptography, ethical hacking, and digital forensics with industry-recognized certifications.
Which are the top law schools in Canada?
The best law schools in Canada are University of Toronto (Faculty of Law), McGill (Faculty of Law), University of British Columbia (Allard School of Law), Osgoode Hall at York University, and University of Ottawa (bilingual program). These schools are known for producing top legal professionals and judges.
What are the best online MBA programs in Canada?
The best online MBA programs in Canada are offered by Athabasca University (fully online), University of New Brunswick, Royal Roads University, Jack Cowin School of Business (Western), and University of Ottawa's Telfer School. These programs offer flexibility for working professionals with AACSB or AMBA accreditation.
What are the top universities in Canada for masters programs?
For graduate studies, University of Toronto, McGill, UBC, University of Alberta, and McMaster are the top choices. These universities have the highest research output, funding opportunities, and supervisor expertise. Popular master's programs include engineering, business, health sciences, and data science.
What are the best animation schools in Canada?
Canada is a global hub for animation. Top schools include Sheridan College (often called "the Harvard of Animation"), Emily Carr University, Vancouver Film School, OCAD University, and Concordia University. Graduates have worked at Pixar, Disney, and major Canadian studios like Nelvana.
What are the best fashion schools in Canada?
Leading fashion schools include Ryerson (now Toronto Metropolitan University), LaSalle College Montreal, Fanshawe College, OCAD University, and Kwantlen Polytechnic University. These programs cover fashion design, merchandising, marketing, and sustainable fashion with industry internships.
How much does it cost to study at top Canadian universities?
Tuition for international students at top Canadian universities ranges from CAD $20,000 to $60,000 per year depending on the program. Engineering and business programs tend to be higher. Domestic students pay significantly less (CAD $6,000–$15,000). Additional costs include housing ($8,000–$15,000/year), books, and living expenses.
What is the acceptance rate for top universities in Canada?
Acceptance rates vary by program. University of Toronto and McGill have competitive admission (40–50% overall, but some programs are below 10%). UBC averages 50%, while McMaster and Queen's are around 40–60%. Engineering, medicine, and law programs are the most competitive across all institutions.
Can international students work while studying in Canada?
Yes, international students with a valid study permit can work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks. After graduation, students may be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for up to 3 years, depending on their program length.
What scholarships are available for international students in Canada?
Major scholarships include the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships, Lester B. Pearson Scholarships (UofT), Schulich Leader Scholarships, and university-specific entrance awards. Many universities offer automatic merit-based scholarships ranging from CAD $2,000 to full tuition based on academic performance.
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