Did you know the University of Ottawa is a renowned public research university in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada? It offers courses in both English and French and has over 450 classes across ten schools, with a whopping 43,000 students from 150 different countries. This impressive university is ranked among the top 200 in the world thanks to its dedication to promoting the study, creativity, and positively impacting society.
Overview of the University of Ottawa
The University of Ottawa is more than just a university. It is a community of students, faculty, staff, and alums who share a passion for learning, discovery, and social impact. Here are some more details about the university that you may find interesting:
The university was founded in 1848 as the College of Bytown by the Oblates of Mary Immaculate, a Catholic religious order. It became the University of Ottawa in 1866 and received its first charter from the Parliament of Canada in 1869.
The university is a bilingual institution offering programs and services in both English and French. It is the largest English-French bilingual university in the world, with over 40% of its students enrolled in at least one course in their second official language.
Why you should attend the University of Ottawa as International Student.
There are many reasons why international students should attend the University of Ottawa. Here are some of them:
- Consider this if you’re looking for a top-notch research university in Canada. It’s known for its high-quality education, state-of-the-art facilities, and innovative research projects. You’ll have access to these fantastic resources as an international student. So why not take advantage of this great opportunity and apply today?
- The university is vibrant, offering its students a rich and diverse campus life. This means that international students can enjoy the numerous events and festivals that the university hosts, the various clubs and associations that they can join, and the friendly and supportive atmosphere that they can find on campus.
- The university is socially engaged and committed to fostering positive change in society. This means that international students can get involved in various causes and activities that align with their values and interests and make a difference in the local and global community.

The admission process at the University of Ottawa
Choose your program of interest.
Looking to pursue your academic goals and interests? Look no further than the university, which offers numerous undergraduate and graduate programs in numerous fields. Whether you’re drawn to the arts, engineering, health sciences, law, management, medicine, science, or social sciences, there’s bound to be a program that sparks your curiosity. Take a peek at the university’s website or use the program finder tool to explore your options today!
Check the admission requirements.
Depending on the program, you may need to meet academic, language, and supplementary requirements. This can include a high school diploma or equivalent, a minimum GPA, specific prerequisite courses, language proficiency, a personal statement, a portfolio, or an interview. Check the university website or contact admissions for specific program requirements.
Apply online
Head to the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC) website to start your journey toward attending the University of Ottawa. Once there, you must create an account and enter your personal and academic information. Then, select up to three programs you’re interested in, make your payment, and upload all of the required supporting documents. Remember, most programs’ deadlines are January 15th for the fall term and November 1st for the winter term. We can’t wait to see your application!
Apply for a study permit.
International students studying in Canada for over six months must possess a valid study permit. To apply for one, you must provide proof of acceptance from the University of Ottawa, proof of financial support, proof of identity, and other documents that Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requires. You can apply either online or at a visa office in your country. You should apply immediately after receiving your admission offer, as processing times can take several weeks or months.
Prepare for your arrival.

Before arriving in Canada, ensure you arrange accommodation, transportation, health insurance, and other essentials. The university website and the International Office offer helpful resources and guidance. Attend orientation sessions and events organized by the university and student associations to familiarize yourself with the campus, city, and Canadian culture.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about the University of Ottawa:
Where is the University of Ottawa located?
The University of Ottawa is situated in the city of Ottawa, in the province of Ontario, which is located in Canada.
Is the University of Ottawa a public or private university?
The University of Ottawa is a public university.
What programs does the University of Ottawa offer?
The University of Ottawa offers various undergraduate and graduate programs, including arts, science, engineering, health sciences, social sciences, business, law, medicine, education, and more.
Is the University of Ottawa bilingual?
Yes, the University of Ottawa is known for its bilingualism and offers programs in both English and French.
How can I apply to the University of Ottawa?
To apply to the University of Ottawa, you can do so online through their website. Application details and specific requirements can be found on their admissions page.
What are the tuition fees at the University of Ottawa?
Please be aware that tuition fees may vary depending on the program and level of study. International students are typically charged higher fees. For the most accurate and current information regarding tuition costs, we highly recommend visiting the University of Ottawa’s website.
Is there on-campus housing available?
Yes, the University of Ottawa offers on-campus housing options for students. These include traditional dormitories, apartment-style residences, and suite-style accommodations.

Does the University of Ottawa have co-op/internship programs?
The University of Ottawa has a Co-operative Education Program that integrates work terms into students’ academic studies. This allows students to gain practical work experience in their field of study.
Are there research opportunities available at the University of Ottawa?
Yes, the University of Ottawa is a research-intensive institution with numerous research opportunities for students. The university has several research centers, institutes, and labs where students can collaborate with faculty members on various research projects.
Does the University of Ottawa have sports teams?
Yes, the University of Ottawa has a varsity sports program and competes in various sports in the Ontario University Athletics (OUA) and U Sports leagues. The teams are called the Gee-Gees.