Carleton University
Ottawa, 🇨🇦 Canada Public
#4 National #781 QS World
#4 National #781 QS World #501 THE #501 ARWU
Founded 1942 30,713 students Urban $25k - $39k/yr
About Carleton University
Carleton University, located in Ottawa, Canada, is a comprehensive public research institution established in 1942. It is recognized for its top-ranked programs, cutting-edge research, and vibrant campus life, preparing career-ready graduates. Carleton is situated between the Rideau River and Canal and is known for its strengths in international affairs, journalism, engineering, and public policy.
Carleton University offers a wide array of academic programs across five faculties: Arts and Social Sciences, Engineering and Design, Public Affairs, Science, and the Sprott School of Business. The university provides 26 bachelor's degree programs with over 150 majors, allowing students to customize their education. Carleton emphasizes experiential learning, combining theory with practical application through co-op programs, internships, and research opportunities. Notable programs include journalism, engineering, public affairs, and international affairs.
Carleton University is dedicated to fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for international students through its Global Opportunities & International Student Services Office (GO-ISSO). This office provides various services, including transition support, immigration advising for study permits, and assistance with the University Health Insurance Plan. Carleton's student body is diverse, with 15% international students from over 150 different countries. The university offers English-taught programs and provides resources for English language proficiency. International students can also engage in numerous cultural organizations and events, promoting cultural integration and a vibrant campus life.
Carleton University boasts a beautiful riverside campus bordered by the Rideau River and Canal, offering ample green space. Located in Ottawa, Canada's capital city, students have access to a wealth of resources including federal government institutions, national galleries, museums, and a thriving high-tech sector often referred to as "Silicon Valley North." Ottawa is recognized as a student-friendly, safe, and welcoming city with a high quality of life, numerous festivals, and affordable living options. On-campus housing is guaranteed for eligible first-year international students, with 12 residence buildings offering various living styles and amenities.
Carleton University is highly committed to preparing students for successful careers, ranking #10 for employment outcomes among Canadian universities. The university offers extensive career services, including resume help, interview practice, and job search strategies. Carleton's co-op programs provide valuable paid work experience with leading organizations such as Microsoft, IBM, Amazon, and Deloitte. The International Student Employment Program (ISEP) specifically assists international students in navigating the Canadian labor market and securing paid experiential learning opportunities. Graduates benefit from strong industry connections, particularly in Ottawa's high-tech and public sectors.
Academics
Carleton University offers a wide array of academic programs across five faculties: Arts and Social Sciences, Engineering and Design, Public Affairs, Science, and the Sprott School of Business. The university provides 26 bachelor's degree programs with over 150 majors, allowing students to customize their education. Carleton emphasizes experiential learning, combining theory with practical application through co-op programs, internships, and research opportunities. Notable programs include journalism, engineering, public affairs, and international affairs.
International Students
Carleton University is dedicated to fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for international students through its Global Opportunities & International Student Services Office (GO-ISSO). This office provides various services, including transition support, immigration advising for study permits, and assistance with the University Health Insurance Plan. Carleton's student body is diverse, with 15% international students from over 150 different countries. The university offers English-taught programs and provides resources for English language proficiency. International students can also engage in numerous cultural organizations and events, promoting cultural integration and a vibrant campus life.
Campus & Location
Carleton University boasts a beautiful riverside campus bordered by the Rideau River and Canal, offering ample green space. Located in Ottawa, Canada's capital city, students have access to a wealth of resources including federal government institutions, national galleries, museums, and a thriving high-tech sector often referred to as "Silicon Valley North." Ottawa is recognized as a student-friendly, safe, and welcoming city with a high quality of life, numerous festivals, and affordable living options. On-campus housing is guaranteed for eligible first-year international students, with 12 residence buildings offering various living styles and amenities.
Career Outcomes
Carleton University is highly committed to preparing students for successful careers, ranking #10 for employment outcomes among Canadian universities. The university offers extensive career services, including resume help, interview practice, and job search strategies. Carleton's co-op programs provide valuable paid work experience with leading organizations such as Microsoft, IBM, Amazon, and Deloitte. The International Student Employment Program (ISEP) specifically assists international students in navigating the Canadian labor market and securing paid experiential learning opportunities. Graduates benefit from strong industry connections, particularly in Ottawa's high-tech and public sectors.
Highlights
- Canada's Capital University in Ottawa
- Leader in journalism and communications
- Extensive underground heated tunnel system
- Top-tier engineering and aerospace programs
- Strong focus on experiential learning
- High-ranking international affairs and public policy
Student Life & Support
Campus Housing Work Placements Sports Facilities Disability Support Scholarships Available
Photos








Programs Offered at Carleton University (20)
Offers programs in:
Arts & Design Business & Management Computer Science Engineering Linguistics & Literature Natural Sciences Social Sciences
Bachelor Programs (10)
Architectural Studies
STEM
Architecture
Architecture
architecturalarchitecturebabachelorbachelor's
48 months English Full-time
Business Administration
Business
Business Administration
bachelor in business administrationstudy business administration in canadabusiness administration bachelor programbusiness administration in ottawastudy business administration abroad
48 months English Full-time
Computer Science
STEM
Computer Science
Computer Science
algorithmsbabachelorbachelor's degreebeng
48 months English Full-time
Economics
Economics
Economics
undergraduate economicsbs in economicsfinance economicsbachelor of economicsbachelor in economics
48 months English Full-time
Civil Engineering
STEM
Engineering
Engineering
babachelorbsbsccanada
48 months English Full-time
Aerospace Engineering
STEM
Engineering
Engineering
bachelor in engineeringbachelors engineeringbsc engineeringba engineeringundergraduate engineering
48 months English Full-time
Journalism
Journalism
Journalism
undergraduate journalismbachelor journalism in canadabachelor in journalismjournalismundergraduate in journalism
48 months English Full-time
Psychology
Psychology
Psychology
psychologybachelorcanadacarleton
48 months English Full-time
Public Affairs and Policy Management
Public Affairs
Public Affairs
bachelor in public affairsbachelor public affairsstudy public affairs in canadabachelor public affairs in canadabachelor public affairs ottawa
48 months English Full-time
Biochemistry
STEM
Science
Science
bachelorbiochemistrycanadacarletonscience
48 months English Full-time
Master Programs (7)
Master of Architecture
STEM
Architecture
Architecture
architecturecanadagraduatemamaster
24 months English Full-time
Master of Business Administration
Business
Business
administrationbusinesscanadacarletonmaster
20 months English Full-time
Master of Computer Science
STEM
Computer Science
Computer Science
computer science at carleton universitycomputer science masters programcs degree careerenglish masters computer scienceinternational masters computer science
24 months English Full-time
Master of Engineering (Aerospace)
STEM
Engineering
Engineering
master of engineering (aerospace)mengengineer degree programmasters engineeringengineering masters ottawa
24 months English Full-time
Master of Arts in English
English Literature
English Literature
canadaenglishliteraturemaster
12 months English Full-time
Master of Journalism
Journalism
M.Sc./M.A. Journalism
canadacarletonjournalismmaster
12 months English Full-time
Master of Arts in Public Policy and Administration
Public Policy
Public Policy
masters in public policymasters public policyms public policystudy public policy in canadamasters in public policy in canada
24 months English Full-time
PhD Programs (3)
PhD in Economics
Economics
Economics
EconomicsPhD in EconomicsEconomics phdstudy economicsphd in Canada
48 months English Full-time
PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering
STEM
Engineering
Engineering
phd in engineeringphd engineeringstudy engineering in canadaphd engineering in canadaengineering program in ottawa
48 months English Full-time
PhD in Psychology
Psychology
Psychology
phd in psychologyenglish-taught phd psychology in canadadoctorate psychologystudy psychologyphd in psychology in canada
48 months English Full-time
Carleton University Admissions Requirements & Acceptance Rate
6.5+ IELTS
80+ TOEFL
120+ Duolingo
2.7+ GPA
Acceptance Rate Selective (20-40%)
Intakes January, September
Tuition (per year) $25k - $39k/yr
Teaching Language English
Accreditation
Ministry of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security (MCURES) of the Province of OntarioCanadian Engineering Accreditation Board of Engineers CanadaCanadian Architectural Certification Board (CACB)Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International)Network of International Business Schools (NIBS)Accreditation Council of the Canadian Information Processing SocietyCanadian Society for ChemistryStatistical Society of Canada (SSC)Canadian Association of Social Work Education
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Frequently Asked Questions About Carleton University
Common questions from international students considering Carleton University.
What is the acceptance rate at Carleton University?
Carleton University is classified as "Selective (20-40%)" by admissions selectivity. Acceptance rates vary by program — competitive programs and graduate degrees typically have lower acceptance rates than undergraduate programs.
How much does Carleton University cost for international students?
Tuition at Carleton University ranges from $25k - $39k/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 Carleton University ranked globally?
Carleton University holds the following rankings: QS World #781, Times Higher Education #501, ARWU #501, #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 Carleton University have?
Carleton University typically requires IELTS 6.5+ or TOEFL 80+ 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 Carleton University?
Yes, Carleton 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 Carleton University start its semesters?
Carleton University has intakes starting in January, September. 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 Carleton University offer?
Carleton University offers 20+ 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 Carleton University located?
Carleton University is located in Ottawa, Canada 🇨🇦. The city offers an international student-friendly environment with access to academic facilities, accommodation, and cultural amenities.
What are the admission requirements for Carleton University?
For specific details about Carleton University, we recommend reviewing the program-specific information and contacting the admissions office. Each program may have unique requirements and considerations.
What programs does Carleton University offer?
For specific details about Carleton 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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