University of Ottawa
About the University of Ottawa
The University of Ottawa is the only bilingual research-intensive university in Canada and the largest bilingual (English-French) university in the world. It welcomes nearly 50,000 students and offers the opportunity to study, work and conduct research in French or English in an environment that is open to Indigenous knowledge and international perspectives.
Located in the heart of Canada’s capital, the University of Ottawa benefits from its immediate proximity to prime democratic institutions, embassies, top research hospitals, national research agencies, a major cultural corridor and a dynamic business environment, all of which support experiential learning, internships and career opportunities.
The University’s presence extends from downtown Ottawa to Kanata North, the largest tech park in Canada, to strengthen ties between university research, innovation and business.
Together, these features position the University of Ottawa as a leading institution that plays a major role in research, teaching and public engagement, both in Canada and internationally.
- More than 550 different undergraduate and graduate programs in over 100 disciplines
- Located steps from Parliament Hill, in the heart of Ottawa, Canada’s capital, one of the safest and best places to live in Canada
- Students and professors from over 150 different countries
- Largest bilingual (English-French) university in the world
- Opportunity to study in English or in French, or in both languages, and to take part in French immersion programs
- Ranked among the top 1% of universities in the world
- Ranked 1st in Canada for scholarships and financial aid (source: Maclean’s, Canada’s Best Universities 2026 – Scholarships and Bursaries)
- Ranked 5th in Canada in research intensity (source: Research Infosource 2025)
- Ranked 5th in Canada in terms of the size of its co-op program
Important Information
Program News and Changes
New Programs and Programs Being Offered Again
-
Environmental Studies (bilingual program)
- Honours BSocSc in Conflict Studies and Human Rights and Master of Arts in Security and Defence Studies
New In-depth Experiential Learning Stream (IELS)
The new IELS allows students enrolled in a program to apply their learning through concrete projects.
The IELS comprises a set of 10 courses with a recognized experiential learning component. The stream does not add to your program requirements or extend your program length.
By adding the stream to your program, you will:
- develop discipline-specific knowledge and skills,
- apply your knowledge and skills in a professional setting and
- receive practical feedback through genuine interaction in your environment, including with instructors, supervisors, colleagues and stakeholders.
The IELS stream is currently available with the following programs:
- International Development and Globalization
- Anthropology
- Social Work (offered in French only)
- Conflict Studies and Human Rights
- International Studies and Modern Languages
Learn more about the In-depth Experiential Learning Stream
Program Name Changes
- English as a Second Language is now English Language Studies
- Honours Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (Data Science) is now Honours Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Bachelor of Science in Mathematics (Data Science)
Admission Deposit for International Students
$2,000 tuition deposit for international students: This deposit is applied toward your tuition fees and is not refundable. You must pay it by the deadline in your offer of admission.
Scholarships and Awards
Most universities offer scholarships. Unlike having to pay back a loan, you do not need to pay back a scholarship. Universities award scholarships based on academic merit, financial need, extracurricular activities and other distinctions.
You can apply for some scholarships and may be automatically considered for others.
University Events
Universities host events like open houses, campus tours, Student for a Day programs, and virtual tours to help you explore what student life is really like. These events are a great way to experience the campus, connect with current students and faculty, and get a feel for whether a university is the right fit for you.
Offers of Admission
Basic Requirements for Admission
Some programs have a minimum required admission average of 75%; however, many programs require a greater admission average.
A minimum combined average of 70% is required for prerequisite courses in science and mathematics in certain faculties.
Students who do not have Calculus and Vectors 4U can take the replacement course at the university either the summer before or during their first term.
Failed and Repeated Courses
We use the highest grade. Therefore, if a course is failed and repeated, we take the higher of the 2 grades.
Timing and Process for Admission Decisions
We will issue conditional offers of admission starting at the end of November 2026 for fall 2027 to highly qualified applicants.
We will continue to issue offers of admission on a weekly basis to qualified applicants until the end of June. Please note that the requirements listed for these programs are minimum requirements only and are subject to change. Meeting the minimum average does not guarantee admission.
Early offers are based on the average of five 3U/M grades or a combination of 3U/M and available 4U/M final grades. No offers are sent before February for Acting (BFA), Music (BMus) and Music and Science (5-year double degree).
From February to April, we calculate the average using the top 6 final 4U/M or 3U/M marks, including prerequisites. A minimum of two 4U/M grades are used for this round of offers.
In our last round of offers in May and June, we calculate the average using the top 6 final or interim 4U/M, including prerequisites. Refusals and alternate offers are only issued during this round.
All offers of admission are conditional. You must successfully complete a minimum of 6 eligible 4U/M courses, including prerequisite subjects of the requested program, obtain a specific admission average and present proof of your Ontario Secondary School Diploma or the equivalent before September.
Details regarding offers of residence and scholarships will be sent with the offer of admission. You must respond before the date indicated in your offer of admission.
Note About Programs
The programs listed on OUInfo are entry programs only. We offer several areas of study within these programs. For a complete list of degree majors and minors, options, specializations and interdisciplinary programs, visit programs and courses.
Extenuating Circumstances
Students who wish to tell Ottawa about their personal journey, such as circumstances or challenges that may have influenced their grades, may fill out the University of Ottawa Declaration of Personal Experience form. This process is optional for Canadian students who applied to certain direct-entry faculties and wish to strengthen their application.
Read more about undergraduate admission and extenuating circumstances on Ottawa's website.
Get Ready: Resources to help you prepare for University
Academic Accommodations Service (Accessibility)
The University is committed to providing students with disabilities academic accommodations to allow them an equitable opportunity to fully access and participate in the learning environment with dignity and autonomy.
Academic Support
We are committed to providing students with an environment favorable to their success.
Help with course enrollment, as well as on-campus workshops and information sessions.
Campus Life
- Help with research, reserving a group study room and publishing support.
- There are over 200 mentors on campus and even more students who are ready to help and support you academically and socially.
Mashkawazìwogamig Indigenous Resource Centre
Academic and cultural support for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit students.
New Students
This is your go-to resource for everything related to your transition to University! It includes essential tasks like:
- Getting your first student card
- Enrolling in your courses
- Managing your studies
Regional Mentors help you find the academic and personal support you need. Get advice from peers who have been through the same experience.
Open house and information evenings. Come out and see us. Our representatives will be on hand to answer questions.
Student Immigration Advising Team
Our international student advisers are certified immigration professionals who can guide you on how to apply for a study permit and keep your legal status while studying in Canada.
Student Health, Wellness and Support
Student health and wellness is a top priority at the University of Ottawa. We are here to support your health and wellness throughout your academic journey.
- Student Health and Wellness Centre: Access to physical health, mental health and health promotion and education services
- Online Peer Chat service
- Wellness lounge and wellness themed study spaces
Wellness resources and workshops on different health topics.
Sexual Violence: Support and Prevention
The University of Ottawa is committed to maintaining a campus that promotes respect for the dignity of every individual and a community that is free from sexual harassment, discrimination and violence. Our goal is to make our university a place where students, faculty and staff can feel safe and secure. We pledge to foster mutual respect and create a campus where any survivors of sexual violence can get the support they need.
Student Union Support
The University of Ottawa Students’ Union offers a range of services:
Residences and Meal Plans
Residence Price(s)
Approximate residence fees, academic year 2026-2027: Ranging from $9,278 (double room in a traditional residence, 8 months), to $20,464 (single room in a 2-bedroom apartment, 12 months).
Room Types
All residences are located on campus or within walking distance to the campus.
Traditional residence rooms and suites and studios are assigned for one academic year (September – April), while rooms in apartments are mainly for year-round occupancy. Many units are adapted for special needs.
Amenities
Amenities include laundry rooms, kitchen facilities and wireless internet services. All apartments and rooms are furnished.
Students living in residence can rely on the dedicated presence of community advisors and have access to professional resources, the Student Mentorship program, residence study groups and social activities.
Residence Guarantee
To benefit from the housing guarantee for first-year students, you must be admitted for the fall to an undergraduate program and reserve your spot by paying a $950 deposit by June 1, 2027. The guarantee does not apply if you have already completed more than 5 university courses or equivalent.
Deposit Required
A $950 deposit is required by June 1, 2027, for guaranteed housing. Rooms can be booked starting in December through the Housing Portal, available in uoZone.
Meal Plans
A meal plan is mandatory in the traditional residence rooms and suites, but optional in the other residences.
Featured Programs
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History and Political Science (Joint Honours – 4 years) (French Immersion Stream is available)
uOttawa- BA (Co-op)
- BSocSc
OXW
EN
< 75%
-
History and Political Science (Joint Honours – 4 years) (French Immersion Stream is available)
uOttawa- BA
- BA (Co-op)
OU
EN
< 75%
-
Acting (3 years)
uOttawa- BA
- BFA
OCB
EN
< 75%
18
-
Administration publique (4 ans)
uOttawa- BA (Co-op)
- BSocSc
OFG
FR
< 75%




