List Of Top 10 Oldest Universities In Canada

The world’s first university was established in Timbuktu in the 12th century, and the oldest continually operating university is the University of Bologna, founded in 1088. Higher education has come a long way since then, but the pursuit of knowledge remains a fundamental human effort.

If you’re an international student or alumnus seeking the prestigious legacy of one of the oldest universities in Canada, you may find the university ranking process challenging. With over 100 universities and colleges across the USA and Canada, each with its own rich history and unique offerings to student life, how do you narrow down your choices?

The oldest universities in Canada often boast a storied past, with some dating back to the 18th century and even receiving royal charters. In this post, discover the oldest 10 universities in Canada for Indian students, getting into their origins, requirements, QS World University Rankings and much more.

Why Choose To Study In These Top 10 Oldest Universities In Canada?

You know what they say – with age comes wisdom. Canada’s oldest universities have had centuries to refine their academic programs and forge their reputations. But it’s not just about history and tradition. These venerable institutions stay relevant by constantly evolving.

Here are some reasons you should consider to make a mindful decision:

1. Living Legacy

These universities let you be part of a living legacy that’s shaped Canada for centuries. Walk the same halls as prime ministers, scientists and artists who changed the world. But it’s not just dusty history – these campuses blend tradition with modern amenities and forward-thinking academics. You’ll experience that special vibe of being at an institution steeped in prestige yet buzzing with youthful energy.

2. Philanthropic Powerhouses

The alumni networks and endowments backing Canada’s oldest universities are mind-blowing. We’re talking billions of dollars invested into making your student experience top-notch. From libraries filled with rare books and manuscripts to state-of-the-art labs, you’ll have access to resources most schools can’t match. Not to mention an overseas alumni community that can help with networking and opportunities after graduation.

3. Multidisciplinary Mammoths

With so many programs and departments under one roof, you can mix-and-match different fields of study however you want. Interested in combining computer science with environmental studies? Or chemistry with visual arts? These universities make it easy to create your own multidisciplinary path tailored to your unique interests and career goals. You’ll gain diverse expertise that makes you stand out.

4. Future-Focused

While honouring their storied pasts, these universities are laser-focused on the future. You’ll learn using the latest teaching technologies and methodologies. Get hands-on with cutting-edge research in fields like AI, renewable energy, gene therapy and more. Plus, entrepreneurship hubs and partnerships with major companies ensure you graduate with skills aligned with the modern workforce’s needs.

Top 10 Oldest Universities In Canada’s

Canada is home to 100s of famous universities and many of the universities in Canada were founded when the nation itself was just taking shape, yet they’ve evolved to remain global leaders in education and research. Their campuses blend century-old limestone buildings with modern facilities housing the latest advancements in fields like AI, clean energy, and biotechnology. 

Here are the 10 Oldest Universities in Canada:

1. Université Laval (1663)

Université Laval, located in Quebec City, Quebec, Canada, is a public research university with a history dating back to 1663. As the oldest higher education institution in Canada, it holds the distinction of being the first in North America to offer higher education in French. Founded by François de Montmorency-Laval, the university received a royal charter from Queen Victoria in 1852, allowing it to confer degrees. Today, it ranks among the top Canadian universities in research funding.

The university is governed by a board of governors and a faculty senate, following a bicameral system similar to the University of Toronto Act of 1906. The president, appointed by the board, serves as the bridge between the two governing bodies, ensuring the institution’s smooth operation

Université Laval offers a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate programs across disciplines such as arts, humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, and health sciences. It is renowned for its research initiatives and houses several prestigious research centers, including the Canada Excellence Research Chairs.

Admission Requirements

To apply to Université Laval, prospective students must meet the following requirements:

• TOEFL/IELTS Score: A minimum TOEFL score of 79 (iBT) or an IELTS score of 6.5. But try to achieve 100 in TOEFL to enhances your chances
• Required Documents:
  • Official transcripts
  • Proof of language proficiency (if applicable)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Personal statement or essay
  • Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
• GRE/GMAT: Not required for most programs, but specific graduate programs may have their own requirements.
• Acceptance Rate: Approximately 59%.

2. University of Toronto (1827)

The University is located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, and is a public research university founded in 1827 as King’s College. It is one of the oldest and largest universities in Canada. With a rich history, it began as a collegiate university and now includes 11 colleges, each with significant autonomy in financial and institutional affairs.

The University of Toronto follows a bicameral governance system established by the University of Toronto Act of 1906. This system includes a board of governors and a faculty senate. The president, appointed by the board, connects the two governing bodies, leading the university. The university’s programs often address indigenous studies and collaborate with institutions like the First Nations University of Canada.

Admission Requirements

To get into the University of Toronto, you will need to meet the following requirements:

• TOEFL/IELTS Score: A minimum TOEFL score of 100 (iBT) or an IELTS score of 6.5.
• Required Documents:
  • Official transcripts
  • Proof of language proficiency (if applicable)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Strong Personal statement
  • Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
• GRE/GMAT: Not required for most programs, but specific graduate programs may have their own requirements.
• Acceptance Rate: Approximately 43%.

3. University of Kings College (1789)

The University of King’s College, located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, is a public liberal arts university established in 1789. It holds the distinction of being the oldest chartered university in Canada and the oldest English-speaking university in the Commonwealth outside the United Kingdom. The university is renowned for its Foundation Year Program (FYP), an undergraduate curriculum focused on the comprehensive study of intellectual developments through great books and ideas.

Additionally, King’s College offers notable upper-year interdisciplinary programs in contemporary studies, early modern studies, and the history of science and technology. Its journalism school is also well-regarded, attracting students globally for its rigorous graduate programs in journalism, writing, and publishing. Full-time study in Canada at the University of King’s College means enrolling in a minimum of 12 credits per semester for undergraduate programs.

Admission Requirements

To apply to the University of King’s College, prospective students must meet the following requirements:

• TOEFL/IELTS Score: A minimum TOEFL score of 90 (iBT) or an IELTS score of 6.5.
• Required Documents:
  • Official transcripts
  • Proof of language proficiency (if applicable)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Personal statement or essay
  • Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
• GRE/GMAT: Not required for most programs, but specific graduate programs may have their own requirements.
• Acceptance Rate: Approximately 70%.

4. McGill University (1821)

McGill University, located in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, is a prestigious public research university founded in 1821 by royal charter. Named after James McGill, a Scottish merchant whose bequest established the university, McGill is renowned for its programs in medicine, biology, and chemistry. The university has a rich history of academic excellence and innovation.

McGill offers degrees and diplomas in over 300 fields of study across various disciplines, including arts, humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, and health sciences. The university has a strong focus on research and houses several prominent research centers and institutes, including the Canada Excellence Research Chairs.

Admission Requirements

To apply to McGill University, prospective students must meet the following requirements:

• TOEFL/IELTS Score: A minimum TOEFL score of 100-110 (iBT) or an IELTS score of 7.0-8.0.
• Required Documents:
  • Official transcripts
  • Proof of language proficiency (if applicable)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Personal statement or essay
  • Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
• GRE/GMAT: Not required for most programs, but specific graduate programs may have their own requirements.
• Acceptance Rate: Approximately 46%.

5. University of New Brunswick (1785)

The University of New Brunswick (UNB), located in Fredericton and Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada, is a public research university founded in 1785. As the oldest English-language university in Canada and one of the oldest public universities in North America, The University Of New Brunswick offers a rich history. 

It was established by seven Loyalists who left the United States after the American Revolution and founded the university on December 13, 1785, as the Academy of Liberal Arts and Sciences, following a petition to the Governor-in-Council. Initially modelled on the Anglican ideals of older European institutions, UNB has grown into a leading research university.

Admission Requirements

To apply to the University of New Brunswick, prospective students must meet the following requirements:

• TOEFL/IELTS Score: A minimum TOEFL score of 85 (iBT) or an IELTS score of 6.5.
• Required Documents:
  • Official transcripts
  • Proof of language proficiency (if applicable)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Personal statement or essay
  • Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
• GRE/GMAT: Required for some graduate programs. Check specific program requirements, especially if you’re considering a program that may require the GMAT in Canada.
• Acceptance Rate: Approximately 75%.

6. Dalhousie University (1818)

Dalhousie University was founded in 1818, located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada, and is a public research university introduced by Lieutenant Governor George Ramsay, 9th Earl of Dalhousie. Originally known as Dalhousie College, the institution has a storied history. Despite early challenges, Dalhousie has grown into one of Canada’s leading research-intensive universities.

Dalhousie university also offers a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including arts, humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, and health sciences.

Admission Requirements

To apply to Dalhousie University, prospective students must meet the following requirements:

• TOEFL/IELTS Score: A minimum TOEFL score of 90 (iBT) or an IELTS score of 6.5.
• Required Documents:
  • Official transcripts
  • Proof of language proficiency (if applicable)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Personal statement or essay
  • Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
• GRE/GMAT: Required for some graduate programs.
• Acceptance Rate: Approximately 60%

7. University of Western Ontario (1878)

The University of Western Ontario (UWO), located in London, Ontario, Canada, is a public research university founded in 1878 by Bishop Isaac Hellmuth of the Anglican Diocese of Huron. Initially known as the Western University of London, Ontario, UWO has a rich history marked by early challenges and significant growth, eventually becoming one of Canada’s leading research-intensive universities.

The university offers over 60 degree and diploma programs across various disciplines, including arts, business administration, dentistry, education, engineering, graduate studies, journalism, law, library science, medicine, music, nursing, science, and social science. 

Admission Requirements

To apply to the University of Western Ontario, prospective students must meet the following requirements:

• TOEFL/IELTS Score: A minimum TOEFL score of 100-110 (iBT) or an IELTS score of 7.0-8.0.
• Required Documents:
  • Official transcripts
  • Proof of language proficiency (if applicable)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Personal statement or essay
  • Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
• GRE/GMAT: Required for some graduate programs. Specific programs, especially those in business and management, may require to beat GMAT for admission.
• Acceptance Rate: Approximately 58%.

8. University of Manitoba (1877)

The University of Manitoba is a public research university located in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Founded in 1877, it is the first university in Western Canada. The university is known for its strong research programs and has a long history of academic excellence. 

The university offers its students a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including arts, humanities, social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, and health sciences. It has a strong focus on research and has established several research centres and institutes, including the Canada Excellence Research Chairs.

Admission Requirements

To gain admission to the University of Manitoba, prospective students must meet the following requirements:

• TOEFL/IELTS Score: A minimum TOEFL score of 86 (iBT) or an IELTS score of 6.5.
• Required Documents:
  • Official transcripts
  • Proof of language proficiency (if applicable)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Personal statement or essay
  • Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
• GRE/GMAT: Required for some graduate programs. Specific programs, particularly those in business and management, may require to crack GMAT for admission.
• Acceptance Rate: Approximately 52%.

9. Saint Mary’s University (1802)

Saint Mary’s University is a public research university located in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada. Founded in 1802 by Rev. Edmund Burke, Vicar-General of Nova Scotia, it is the oldest English-speaking, Roman-Catholic university in Canada. The university was initially established to provide higher learning to young Catholic men and has a rich history dating back to its early struggles and eventual growth into one of Canada’s leading research-intensive universities.

The university is governed by a board of governors and a faculty senate. This structure is modeled after the provincial University of Toronto Act of 1906, which established a bicameral system of university government consisting of a senate (faculty) and a board of governors (citizens). 

Admission Requirements

To gain admission to Saint Mary’s University, prospective students must meet the following requirements:

• TOEFL/IELTS Score: A minimum TOEFL score of 80 (iBT) or an IELTS score of 6.5.
• Required Documents:
  • Official transcripts
  • Proof of language proficiency (if applicable)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Personal statement or essay
  • Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
• GRE/GMAT: Required for some graduate programs. Specific programs, especially those in business and management, may require the GMAT for admission. A high GMAT score can also be crucial for securing scholarships in Canada.
• Acceptance Rate: Approximately 70%.

10. University of St. Boniface (1818)

The University of St. Boniface, also known as Université de Saint-Boniface (USB), is a French-language public university located in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada. Founded in 1818 by Father Norbert Provencher, it is the oldest post-secondary educational institution in Western Canada. The university has a rich history dating back to its early struggles and eventual growth into one of Canada’s leading research-intensive universities.

The university is governed by a board of governors and a faculty senate. This structure is modeled after the provincial University of Toronto Act of 1906, which established a bicameral system of university government consisting of a senate (faculty) and a board of governors (citizens).

Admission Requirements

To gain admission to the University of St. Boniface, prospective students must meet the following requirements:

• TOEFL/IELTS Score: A minimum TOEFL score of 86 (iBT) or an IELTS score of 6.5.
• Required Documents:
  • Official transcripts
  • Proof of language proficiency (if applicable)
  • Letters of recommendation
  • Personal statement or essay
  • Proof of English proficiency (if applicable)
• GRE/GMAT: Not typically required, but specific graduate programs may have their own requirements.

Conclusion

At last, we want to advise you not to rely solely on rankings or surface-level stats. Interact with current students, faculty and alumni to get an authentic feel for the academic culture. Identify the university that challenges you to push boundaries while providing supportive resources and diverse perspectives.

Canada’s oldest universities are time-honoured institutions, but their true strength lies in constantly reinventing themselves. By blending rich traditions with modern vision, they offer an educational experience that is both grounded in heritage and geared for the future.

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