St. Francis Xavier University
Antigonish, 🇨🇦 Canada Public
#4 National #1201 THE
#4 National #1201 THE
5,021 students 7% international Rural $4.4k - $23.5k/yr
About St. Francis Xavier University
St. Francis Xavier University (StFX) is a public undergraduate liberal arts university located in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, Canada. Established in 1853, it is one of Canada's oldest and most prestigious universities, known for its intimate learning environment and focus on academic and personal development. StFX is a member of the Maple League, a group of top-ranked universities dedicated to undergraduate education.
StFX offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across four faculties: Arts, Science, Business, and Education. The university emphasizes an immersive and engaging approach to education, with opportunities for hands-on research for undergraduate students mentored by faculty. Notable programs include Aquatic Resources, Computer Information Systems, and various Business Administration specializations like Entrepreneurship and International Business. StFX is also home to the world-renowned Coady Institute, a center of excellence in community-based development and leadership education.
StFX welcomes international students from around the globe and provides comprehensive support services to help them thrive. The Office of Internationalization offers assistance with Canadian immigration documents, arrival services, student orientation, academic and social advising, and housing support. In a past International Student Barometer survey, StFX's Office of Internationalization ranked first in Canada and sixth globally for student satisfaction. The university fosters cultural integration through various social and cultural opportunities and engagement initiatives.
St. Francis Xavier University is situated in the picturesque town of Antigonish, Nova Scotia. The campus offers a close-knit community feel, with many study spaces and a welcoming atmosphere. While Antigonish is a smaller town, it provides essential amenities, including malls and hospitals. The town and university are actively working on student engagement and fostering a sense of belonging for students within the community.
StFX is committed to preparing its graduates for successful careers, with a strong emphasis on experiential learning. The university's Career Services offers support with developing cover letters, resumes, interview skills, and job search strategies. StFX itself is a significant employer of its students, with a substantial portion of the student population working on campus in various departments. The Gerald Schwartz School of Business has an Entrepreneur-in-Residence program providing mentorship and guidance for student entrepreneurial endeavors, and there's a growing entrepreneurial ecosystem on campus supported by initiatives like the DiscoverBox innovation center.
Academics
StFX offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across four faculties: Arts, Science, Business, and Education. The university emphasizes an immersive and engaging approach to education, with opportunities for hands-on research for undergraduate students mentored by faculty. Notable programs include Aquatic Resources, Computer Information Systems, and various Business Administration specializations like Entrepreneurship and International Business. StFX is also home to the world-renowned Coady Institute, a center of excellence in community-based development and leadership education.
International Students
StFX welcomes international students from around the globe and provides comprehensive support services to help them thrive. The Office of Internationalization offers assistance with Canadian immigration documents, arrival services, student orientation, academic and social advising, and housing support. In a past International Student Barometer survey, StFX's Office of Internationalization ranked first in Canada and sixth globally for student satisfaction. The university fosters cultural integration through various social and cultural opportunities and engagement initiatives.
Campus & Location
St. Francis Xavier University is situated in the picturesque town of Antigonish, Nova Scotia. The campus offers a close-knit community feel, with many study spaces and a welcoming atmosphere. While Antigonish is a smaller town, it provides essential amenities, including malls and hospitals. The town and university are actively working on student engagement and fostering a sense of belonging for students within the community.
Career Outcomes
StFX is committed to preparing its graduates for successful careers, with a strong emphasis on experiential learning. The university's Career Services offers support with developing cover letters, resumes, interview skills, and job search strategies. StFX itself is a significant employer of its students, with a substantial portion of the student population working on campus in various departments. The Gerald Schwartz School of Business has an Entrepreneur-in-Residence program providing mentorship and guidance for student entrepreneurial endeavors, and there's a growing entrepreneurial ecosystem on campus supported by initiatives like the DiscoverBox innovation center.
Highlights
- Top-ranked undergraduate university in Canada
- Distinguished Coady International Institute
- Renowned alumni X-Ring tradition
- Small classes with personalized learning
- Historic residential campus in Antigonish
- Strong focus on social leadership
Student Life & Support
Visa Support Campus Housing Work on Campus Work Placements Sports Facilities Disability Support Scholarships Available
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Programs Offered at St. Francis Xavier University (25)
Offers programs in:
Arts & Design Business & Management Computer Science Education Humanities Linguistics & Literature Medicine & Health Natural Sciences Physics & Chemistry Social Sciences
Bachelor Programs (16)
Bachelor of Science in Biology
STEM
Biology
Biology
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48 months English Full-time
Bachelor of Business Administration
Business Administration
Business Administration
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48 months English Full-time
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry
STEM
Chemistry
Chemistry
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48 months English Full-time
Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
STEM
Computer Science
Computer Science
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48 months English Full-time
Bachelor of Arts in Development Studies
Development Studies
Development Studies
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48 months English Full-time
Bachelor of Arts in Economics
Economics
Economics
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48 months English Full-time
Bachelor of Arts in English
English Literature
English Literature
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48 months English Full-time
Bachelor of Arts in History
History
History
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48 months English Full-time
Bachelor of Science in Human Kinetics
STEM
Human Kinetics
Human Kinetics
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48 months English Full-time
Bachelor of Arts in Religious Studies
Humanities
Humanities
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48 months English Full-time
Bachelor of Arts in Music
Music
Music
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48 months English Full-time
Bachelor of Science in Mathematics
STEM
Natural Sciences
Natural Sciences
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48 months English Full-time
Bachelor of Science in Nursing
STEM
Nursing
Nursing
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48 months English Full-time
Bachelor of Arts in Political Science
Political Science
Political Science
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48 months English Full-time
Bachelor of Arts in Psychology
Psychology
Psychology
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48 months English Full-time
Bachelor of Arts in Sociology
Sociology
Sociology
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48 months English Full-time
Master Programs (6)
Master of Science in Biology
STEM
Biology
Biology
MSc Biologygraduate biologybiology in Antigonishstudy abroad biologystudy biology in Canada
24 months English Full-time
Master of Arts in Catholic Studies
Catholic Studies
Catholic Studies
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24 months English Full-time
Master of Science in Computer Science
STEM
Computer Science
Computer Science
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24 months English Full-time
Master of Education
Education
Education
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24 months English Full-time
Master of Science in Applied Health Sciences
STEM
Health Sciences
Health Sciences
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24 months English Full-time
Master of Arts in Celtic Studies
Humanities
Humanities
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24 months English Full-time
PhD Programs (3)
PhD in Applied Science
STEM
Applied Science
Applied Sciences
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48 months English Full-time
PhD in PhD in Education
PhD in Education
Education
Education
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48 months English Full-time
PhD in Biology
STEM
Natural Sciences
Natural Sciences
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48 months English Full-time
St. Francis Xavier University Admissions Requirements & Acceptance Rate
6.5+ IELTS
90+ TOEFL
115+ Duolingo
2.7+ GPA
Acceptance Rate Open (60%+)
Intakes September, January
Application Deadline May 30
Tuition (per year) $4.4k - $23.5k/yr
Application Fee $100
Teaching Language English
Accreditation
Universities Canada (UC)Canadian University Society for Intercollegiate Debate (CUSID)Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE)Canadian University Press (CUP)Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities (ACCU)Maple League of UniversitiesIAU
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Frequently Asked Questions About St. Francis Xavier University
Common questions from international students considering St. Francis Xavier University.
What is the acceptance rate at St. Francis Xavier University?
St. Francis Xavier University is classified as "Open (60%+)" by admissions selectivity. Acceptance rates vary by program — competitive programs and graduate degrees typically have lower acceptance rates than undergraduate programs.
How much does St. Francis Xavier University cost for international students?
Tuition at St. Francis Xavier University ranges from $4.4k - $23.5k/yr per year. Costs vary by degree level and program. International students may also need to budget for housing, books, and living expenses.
What is St. Francis Xavier University ranked globally?
St. Francis Xavier University holds the following rankings: Times Higher Education #1201, #4 in Canada. Rankings vary by methodology and subject area — for the most accurate picture, check the specific subject rankings for your intended field of study.
What English language requirements does St. Francis Xavier University have?
St. Francis Xavier University typically requires IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 90+ for international students. Specific programs may set higher minimums — verify requirements for your target program directly. Some applicants may qualify for an English requirement waiver if their previous education was English-medium.
Are scholarships available at St. Francis Xavier University?
Yes, St. Francis Xavier University offers scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students. Available aid varies by program, nationality, and academic merit. We recommend checking each program's funding page and applying early — many scholarships have separate deadlines from the main admission application.
When does St. Francis Xavier University start its semesters?
St. Francis Xavier University has intakes starting in September, January. Application deadlines typically fall 3-6 months before the semester start date. International students should apply earlier due to visa processing times — we recommend submitting applications 6-9 months ahead of the intended start date.
How many English-taught programs does St. Francis Xavier University offer?
St. Francis Xavier University offers 25+ programs taught in English, accessible to international students without local language proficiency. These span Bachelor's, Master's, and PhD levels across multiple disciplines.
Where is St. Francis Xavier University located?
St. Francis Xavier University is located in Antigonish, Canada 🇨🇦. The city offers an international student-friendly environment with access to academic facilities, accommodation, and cultural amenities.
What are the admission requirements for St. Francis Xavier University?
For specific details about St. Francis Xavier University, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.
What programs does St. Francis Xavier University offer?
For specific details about St. Francis Xavier University, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.
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