Athabasca University

Athabasca University, where educational excellence meets flexibility and innovation was established with a commitment to providing accessible, high-quality education. Athabasca University is well-known for its online learning facility. As a globally recognized institution, AU offers a diverse range of programs designed to meet the needs of learners from all walks of life. Whether you’re a busy professional seeking to advance your career, a lifelong learner pursuing your passions, or an international student aspiring for a quality education, Athabasca University opens the doors to a world-class learning experience.

Why Choose Athabasca University?

Here are the compelling reasons for candidates to select Athabasca University:

  • Athabasca University was founded to make education accessible to adult learners worldwide, with an open admission policy.
  • It offers 850+ courses and 55 programs, ensuring options for diverse academic and career interests.
  • As a reputed institution, it’s one of Alberta’s four comprehensive universities, known for its quality education.
  • Over 350 agreements with institutions worldwide create opportunities for research, exchange programs, and networking.
  • Athabasca’s student body represents 87 countries, fostering a multicultural and inclusive learning environment.
  • Multiple intake options cater to varied schedules and commitments.
  • With a 93% employment rate, it equips graduates for lucrative careers in Canada.

Get Your Letter Acceptance from Athabasca University

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Athabasca University Ranking

Prospective students should review Athabasca University rankings prior to submitting their applications. Below, you’ll find the Athabasca University rankings as reported by various ranking organizations.

  • #1742 in Global Ranking
  • #47 in Canada Ranking

Athabasca University Acceptance Rate

In comparison to other Canadian universities, Athabasca University maintains a moderate level of selectivity in its admission process. The approximate Athabasca University acceptance rate is around 75%, with considerable variation based on the specific program to which a candidate applies.

  • 43300 students
  • 35520 Undergraduate students
  • 5110 Postgraduate students
  • 1364 International students

Athabasca University PROGRAMS

Check Complete UG Programs and PG Programs at Athabasca University

Download Athabasca University Undergraduate and Graduate Programs Brochure

Athabasca University provides numerous courses at affordable tuition rates for students. The table below provides Athabasca University fees for some popular programs for international students.

Top ProgramsFee (Per Year)
MBA Supply Chain ManagementCAD 38,988
MBA AccountsCAD 38,988
Graduate Diploma in ArchitectureCAD 2,229
Graduate Certificate in Data AnalyticsCAD 2,229
Master of Science in Information SystemsCAD 2,229
Bachelor of Science in ArchitectureCAD 17,750
Bachelor of Arts in PsychologyCAD 17,750
Master of Science in NursingCAD 2,106
Bachelor of Science in Applied MathematicsCAD 17,750
Bachelor of Science in Computing and Information SystemsCAD 12,916

Admissions

Student Intakes 2023-2024

Student CategoryActivityDeadline Date
Undergraduate StudentsApplicationApply anytime – No deadline
Course RegistrationRegister by Nov 10th to start on Dec 1st
Graduate StudentsApplicationDeadlines vary by program
Course RegistrationVaries by program
(Cohort-based: See program website)
(Individualized: Register by Nov 10th to start on Dec 1st)
Students with DisabilitiesContact Accessibility Services4-6 months before beginning studies
Course-RelatedWithdraw with RefundUp to 30 days after course start date
Course ExtensionApply at least 30 days before course end date
Transfer Credit AssessmentRegister in courses while waiting for the results of your transfer credit evaluation
Graduate Program Offer LetterVaries by program
Course Start DatesMonthly, on the 1st of each month
Receive Tutor Information1-2 weeks before course start
Access Course MaterialsOn or before the start date
Maintain Active Student StatusRegister for at least one course every 12 months

Eligibility Criteria For Athabasca University

Undergraduate Programs

TestMinimum Requirements
IELTS6.0
TOEFL (Computer-based)213
TOEFL (Internet-based)80
PTE59
MELAB80
CAEL60%

Graduate Programs

RequirementsMaster of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies – Adult EducationMaster of Business AdministrationMaster of Counselling EducationMaster of Science in Information SystemMaster of Health Nursing
TranscriptsRequiredRequiredRequiredRequiredRequired
Academic QualificationsCompleted bachelor’s degree in relevant fieldCompleted bachelor’s degree in relevant field4-year bachelor’s degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0Bachelor’s degree in computer science, information systems, or related field4-year bachelor’s degree in a health-related field
Academic Writing Assessment (AWA)RequiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot required
Professional CV/ResumeNot requiredRequiredNot requiredRequiredRequired
Work ExperienceNot requiredRequired, at least 3 years of managerial work experienceNot requiredExperience working with IT knowledgeExperience in the healthcare field
Admission InterviewNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot requiredNot required

How To Apply?

Undergraduate Programs

  • Online Application: Fill the online application form. Choose a degree, diploma, or certificate, or simply take specific courses of interest.
  • Course Registration: As an admitted AU student, you can register for your desired courses online. Undergraduate courses commence on the first day of each month. Ensure you register and pay your fees by the 10th of the preceding month to start on time. Plus, you have the flexibility to set a start date for a course up to three months in advance.

Graduate Programs

  • Application Process: Graduate programs have a multi-step application process. Most programs have specific application deadlines and intake schedules. A bachelor’s degree is typically required for admission to graduate programs. Doctoral degrees and post-master’s certificates and diplomas necessitate a master’s degree for admission.
  • Course Registration: After acceptance into your chosen program, you can promptly register for your graduate courses. Please note that many programs require an admission fee upon acceptance.

Cost of Attendance

Student Living Costs In Canada

Living costs in Canada vary by location. You may check living expenses in Canada here.

LocationAverage Monthly Living Costs (CAD)
Most Provinces800 – 1,500
Vancouver & CalgaryAround 2,000
Accommodation Options
– Student Residences250 – 625
– University Homestays400 – 800
– Apartment Rentals300 – 700 (Higher costs for studios)

Diversity

Athabasca University is well-known for its diversity, equity, and inclusion. They embrace diverse communities, perspectives, and methods, aligning with their I-CARE values. The institution follows the principles of the NSERC Dimensions Charter, striving to create an inclusive environment in research. Their Canada Research Chairs program focuses on equity, diversity, and inclusion through an approved action plan.

Moreover, Athabasca University partners with the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion, reinforcing their commitment to diversity and equity across all facets. Their dedication to diversity and inclusivity permeates their academic and research initiatives.

Athabasca University Scholarships

Athabasca University offers a range of external scholarships, including:

  • Soroptimist Foundation of Canada: Several grants of CAD 7,500. Application period: November 1, 2021, to January 31, 2022.
  • Generation Google Scholarship (North America): USD 10,000 (for the US) or CAD 5,000 (for Canada) for the 2022-2023 school year. Deadline: December 10, 2021.
  • Google Lime Scholarship: USD 10,000 (for the US) or CAD 5,000 (for Canada) for the 2022-2023 school year. Deadline: December 12, 2021.
  • Laura Bassi Scholarship: Master’s candidates receive CAD 750; Doctoral Candidates receive CAD 2,500. Deadline: December 15, 2021.
  • Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation (PETF) Doctoral Scholarship: Stipend up to CAD 40,000 per year. Application Deadline: December 21, 2021. Available for doctoral students.
  • MINDS Collaborative Networks: Award of CAD 250,000 per year for three years. Deadline: December 22, 2021.
  • Google Europe Students with Disabilities Scholarship: Award of EUR 7,000 (or local equivalent). Deadline: December 31, 2021.
  • SSHRC Storytellers Challenge: Top 25 submissions receive CAD 3,000; Final 5 winners receive an additional CAD 1,000. Deadline: January 24, 2022.
  • SNAME Graduate Scholarships: Various award amounts. Deadline: February 1, 2022.
  • HQP Leadership Awards: Ongoing applications accepted with varying award amounts.

Notable Alumini

NameProfession
Ryan O’MarraIce Hockey Player
Ralph KleinFormer Premier of Alberta
Deidra DionneCanadian freestyle skier
Gary CarrFormer Member of Provincial Parliament of Ontario
Kalynn ParkCanadian coach

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, it is fully accredited in both Canada and the USA. As one of the 4 research-intensive publicly funded institutions in Alberta, the university offers a rigorous and high-quality university education. Rest assured that your experience here is respected and acknowledged, backed by a proven track record.

International students applying to this university must provide a valid study authorization confirming their permission to study in Canada before being admitted or registered in a course. It’s important to note that there are no reduced fees for senior citizens who are non-Canadians at the university.

The average monthly cost of living in Athabasca for a single person who rents is CAD 3,337. Various factors such as housing, transportation, groceries, and entertainment expenses may affect this number.

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