Did you know that Simon Fraser University is a public research university located in Burnaby, Surrey, and Vancouver in the Greater Vancouver area? This prestigious institution was named after Simon Fraser, a fur trader and traveler who was crucial in mapping out much of what is now British Columbia. SFU is known for being incredibly flexible and accommodating, with a wide range of courses available to students. Additionally, the university has a strong reputation for excelling in sports, making it an excellent choice for student-athletes. Of course, one of the most important aspects of any university experience is the level of support offered to students, and SFU truly shines in this area. In this article, you will learn how to get admission into Simon Fraser University as an International Student.
Overview of Simon Fraser University
Simon Fraser University (SFU) is a public research university in the Canadian city of Burnaby. It was founded in 1965 after the fur merchant and adventurer Simon Fraser. SFU is divided into three campuses: Burnaby, Surrey, and Vancouver.
SFU provides various undergraduate and graduate degrees in fields including arts and social sciences, business, communication, computer science, engineering, and health sciences. The institution is well-known for its outstanding business administration, computer science, and environmental science departments.
SFU is a comprehensive university with a research and innovation emphasis. It boasts a dynamic and varied student community with over 30,000 students from over 120 nationalities. The institution is particularly well-known for its co-op education program, allowing students valuable job experience.
Burnaby Mountain, where SFU’s Burnaby campus is situated, provides a magnificent environment with views of Vancouver and the surrounding mountains. The Surrey campus is in the center of downtown Surrey, while the Vancouver campus is in the heart of downtown Vancouver.
SFU is known for its contributions to research, notably in the fields of renewable energy, remote sensing, artificial intelligence, and health sciences. The institution is committed to community participation and has formed ties with various groups and industry leaders.
Simon Fraser University is a top higher education institution in Canada, renowned for academic achievement, research, and innovation.

Benefits of attending Simon Fraser University
Attending Simon Fraser University offers numerous academic and personal benefits to help you reach your full potential. Here are just a few examples:
- Students at SFU have the freedom and flexibility to design their degrees. You may pursue your interests and hobbies by combining majors, minors, and certifications from several institutions. You may also take advantage of SFU’s well-known Co-op program, which provides helpful job experience while earning money.
- Students from all over the world are welcome at SFU, which has a diverse and open society. You will have the chance to meet new people, hear different points of view, and participate in various social and artistic events on campus. SFU also helps students succeed in school, improve their health and fitness, and grow as people.
- Greater Vancouver is one of the best places to live in the world. SFU has three schools there. This area has beautiful landscapes, a wide range of cultures, and a lively way of life. You will also be able to use up-to-date buildings, museums, and services on each site.
The admission process at Simon Fraser University
Living in Greater Vancouver is an experience like no other. With three schools at SFU, you’ll be immersed in a diverse community that celebrates different cultures and lifestyles. The landscapes are breathtaking, and there’s always something to do in this vibrant area. Plus, you’ll have access to modern buildings, museums, and services that cater to your every need. It’s no wonder Greater Vancouver is considered one of the best places to live globally.

Explore your options
Explore the exciting range of classes available at SFU and discover the perfect fit for your hobbies, goals, and skills. The Admission Compass tool allows you to easily check your eligibility for various schools. Also, don’t forget to look into the admission standards in your country before making your final decision.
Apply online
Complete the online registration form and submit the required fee without delay. You are required to provide detailed information about yourself, your educational background, and your preferred programs. Additionally, you must provide all the necessary documentation, including records, test scores, reference letters, and personal statements. EducationPlannerBC’s online service is mandatory for this process.
Check your status
After you send in your application, you will get a confirmation email with your SFU student number and directions on how to use your Student Information System (goSFU). You can use goSFU to see where your application is in the process, add any missing papers, and see what choices have been made about your application.
Accept your offer
You must comply with the deadline specified in your offer letter and accept your admission offer to SFU. Additionally, you must submit a non-refundable entrance deposit that will be applied to your tuition. Furthermore, if necessary, you must apply for a study permit and visa from the Canadian government. You must fulfill these requirements promptly to ensure a successful enrollment at SFU.
Prepare for enrolment
Once you’ve accepted your offer, we’ll guide you through registering for classes, applying for housing, and seeking financial assistance. We want to ensure you’re fully prepared for your arrival, so we encourage you to take advantage of all our orientation activities. If you need additional help, please visit the SFU website or contact Student Services. Before you make your journey to Canada, it’s essential to plan for travel, lodging, health insurance, and any other concerns you may have.
Scholarship opportunities for international students at simon fraser university
If you’re an international student hoping to study at Simon Fraser University, you’ll be pleased to know that many scholarship opportunities are available to you! Depending on your academic achievements, interests, and level of study, you may be eligible for one of these fantastic programs. Check out some of the options below:
- Entrance Scholarships, Awards, and Bursaries: These are available to all international applicants for undergraduate programs. They range from $10,000 to $40,000 and are renewable for up to four years. Some require a separate application, while others are automatically assessed based on your admission application.
- Undergraduate Scholarships: These are available to international students who have completed at least 12 units of standard-graded courses at SFU and have a minimum CGPA of 3.50. You can apply online for various scholarships each term, depending on your eligibility and interests. Some may require additional documents, such as letters of recommendation or personal statements.
- Graduate Scholarships are available to international students pursuing a master’s or doctoral degree at SFU. They include internal awards, such as the Graduate Fellowships, the President’s Ph.D. Scholarships, the Provost’s Prize of Distinction, as well as external awards, such as the Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships, the Trudeau Foundation Doctoral Scholarships, and the McCall MacBain Scholarships.
- Exchange/Study Abroad Scholarships: These are available to international students enrolled in a short-term study program at SFU from another institution. They include the International Mobility Award, the International Undergraduate Student Award, and the International Graduate Student Award.

Hostel facilities at Simon Fraser University
Looking for a great place to stay while at Simon Fraser University? Look no further than their fantastic selection of hostels, perfect for students, visitors, and guests alike. You’ll find plenty of options, each offering a comfortable and convenient home away from home. So why wait? Book your stay today and experience what Simon Fraser University offers!
- Student Residences: These are on-campus housing options for undergraduate and graduate students who want to live in a diverse and supportive community. Different types of residences exist, such as townhouses, apartments, single rooms, and shared rooms. Each residence has amenities like kitchens, bathrooms, laundry facilities, common areas, and internet access. You can apply for residence online and choose the community that suits your needs and preferences.
- Guest Accommodations: These are on-campus lodging options for visitors and guests who want to stay at SFU for short-term or long-term purposes. Different guest accommodations include hotel rooms, studio suites, conference rooms, and meeting spaces. Each guest accommodation has amenities like private bathrooms, mini-fridges, microwaves, coffee makers, televisions, and wifi access. You can book your stay online and enjoy the scenic views and convenient services at SFU.
FAQs
What is the campus size of Simon Fraser University?
Simon Fraser University is spread across three campuses, with approximately 1.7 million square feet.
What programs does Simon Fraser University offer?
SFU offers undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, such as Arts and Social Sciences, Business, Communication, Science, Education, Engineering, Health Sciences, and Environment.
Is Simon Fraser University a public or private institution?
Simon Fraser University is a public research university. The government of British Columbia funds it and operates as a publicly funded institution.
What is the student population at Simon Fraser University?
As of 2021, SFU has a population of around 30,000 undergraduate and graduate students.
What are the admission requirements for Simon Fraser University?
Applicants must meet specific prerequisites and minimum GPA requirements to be considered for admission, although these can vary depending on the program. Completion of high school is also a requirement.
Does Simon Fraser University offer scholarships or financial aid?
Yes, SFU offers various scholarships, grants, and bursaries to help students with tuition fees and living expenses. Eligibility and application procedures for financial aid may vary, and students are encouraged to contact the university’s financial aid office for more information.
What are the sports teams and athletics facilities at Simon Fraser University?
SFU proudly joins the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) and participates in the Great Northwest Athletic Conference. The university has a wide range of basketball, soccer, wrestling, swimming, track and field sports teams. SFU also has numerous sports facilities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center and fields for various sports.
What is the ranking of Simon Fraser University?
SFU consistently ranks among the top universities in Canada. It is consistently recognized for its academic excellence, research output, and innovative programs.
Does Simon Fraser University offer on-campus housing?
Yes, SFU provides on-campus student housing options, including residence halls and apartments. The university has an extensive residence community that offers a variety of living styles and amenities.
What research opportunities are available at Simon Fraser University?
SFU’s exceptional research programs are available to all undergraduate and graduate students. Accessing these opportunities is vital to your academic success. The university has several research centers and institutes dedicated to various fields of study, promoting collaboration and innovation among faculty and students.