University of Regina

The University of Regina is a public research university located in Regina, the capital city of Saskatchewan, Canada. It became an autonomous degree-granting university in 1974, though its origins trace back to Regina College, founded in 1911. Today it is one of Canada’s most affordable universities for international students, combining accredited programs, generous scholarship access, and some of the lowest living costs in the country.

The university is placed in the QS World University Rankings 2026 band of 1001–1200 and the THE World University Rankings 2026 band of 801–1000, with subject-level strengths that outperform its overall position — notably psychology, ranked 76–100 globally by the Shanghai ARWU subject rankings. Around 15,600 students study here, including approximately 3,000 international students from more than 90 countries, supported by ten faculties, 25 academic departments and schools, and 18 research centres and institutes.

International applicants choose Regina for very practical reasons: undergraduate tuition starts at indicative levels well below the Canadian average, entrance scholarships can reach up to CAD 80,000, the estimated acceptance rate sits around 80–91%, and the total annual cost of attendance is estimated at approximately CAD 47,000 including living expenses. Add Saskatchewan’s Provincial Nominee Program — one of Canada’s most accessible PR pathways for graduates — and Regina becomes a strategic choice, not just an affordable one. This complete guide covers University of Regina rankings, popular programs, University of Regina fees, admission requirements, scholarships, accommodation, deadlines, and the Canadian study permit process.

University of Regina Rankings 2026

The University of Regina ranking positions it as a mid-tier Canadian research university with genuine pockets of excellence. Here is the verified 2026 picture:

• QS World University Rankings 2026: 1001–1200 band (down from 951–1000 in QS 2025)
• THE World University Rankings 2026: 801–1000 band
• U.S. News Best Global Universities 2025–26: approximately #979
• Canada national standing: approximately #29 in Canada (third-party estimate)
• ARWU subject rankings: Psychology 76–100 globally; Water Resources 151–200; Human Biological Sciences 301–400; Earth Sciences 301–400; Environmental Sciences & Engineering 401–500
• THE subject bands 2026 (indicative): Business and Economics 601; Psychology 201; Computer Science 401; Engineering 401

What the numbers mean in practice: Regina will not win a ranking contest against Toronto or UBC, but rankings measure research output and reputation surveys — not teaching quality, affordability, or graduate employability in Saskatchewan. The psychology department’s top-100 global subject standing is a genuine research credential, and the engineering programs carry full Canadian accreditation, which is what employers actually check. For budget-conscious students, the ranking-to-cost ratio is the relevant metric, and Regina scores well on it. All figures are indicative; verify current standings on the official QS, THE, and ARWU websites.

Popular Programs at University of Regina

With more than 120 undergraduate and 78 graduate programs, choice is broad. Below are the programs international students ask about most, with indicative details.

Undergraduate Programs

1. Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) — 4 years. The flagship undergraduate business degree, run through the Faculty of Business Administration (Hill School of Business and Kenneth Levene Graduate School of Business at the graduate level). Students build general business foundations in the first two years, then specialize in Finance, Accounting, Marketing, Human Resource Management, or General Business Studies. Indicative international tuition is approximately CAD 28,740 per year. Co-op work terms are available and strongly recommended.

2. Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — 4 years. Covers software systems, algorithms, databases, and AI fundamentals. The department maintains a roughly 20:1 student-to-faculty ratio, and co-op placements connect students with Saskatchewan’s growing tech sector and remote-friendly employers. Indicative tuition approximately CAD 22,000–28,000 per year.

3. Bachelor of Engineering (Electronic Systems / Software Systems / Industrial Systems / Energy Systems) — 4–5 years. Fully accredited engineering degrees with mandatory co-op-style experiential components. Electronic Systems and Software Systems are the most popular with international students. Labs are modern, class sizes are manageable, and Saskatchewan’s energy and mining sectors hire heavily from these streams. Indicative tuition approximately CAD 26,000–32,000 per year.

4. Bachelor of Education — 4 years. Saskatchewan faces sustained teacher demand, making this a strong employment pathway. Note the higher English bar: IELTS 7.0 is typically required. The program includes extended practicum placements in provincial schools. Indicative tuition approximately CAD 24,000–30,000 per year.

5. Bachelor of Science in Nursing — 4 years. Delivered collaboratively with Saskatchewan Polytechnic. Nursing graduates enjoy near-guaranteed employment in the province. IELTS 7.0 required. Indicative tuition approximately CAD 24,000–30,000 per year.

6. Bachelor of Arts in Psychology — 4 years. The standout arts-science program: the department sits in ARWU’s 76–100 band globally. Strong preparation for graduate school in clinical, cognitive, and health psychology. Indicative tuition approximately CAD 20,000–25,000 per year.

Postgraduate Programs

7. Master of Science in Computer Science — 2 years. A research-focused degree combining advanced coursework (AI, databases, graphics, software engineering) with an independent thesis. Requires a bachelor’s in CS or a related field with minimum 3.0 GPA. Indicative tuition approximately CAD 34,560 per year. September and January intakes. Teaching assistantships are commonly available and provide a living stipend.

8. Master of Engineering in Electronic Systems Engineering — 2 years. Course-based professional master’s aimed at industry roles in electronics, communications, and embedded systems. Indicative tuition approximately CAD 34,560 per year. The Fall 2026 application deadline is indicatively January 31, 2026 — confirm on the program page.

9. Master of Business Administration (Levene MBA) — 16–24 months. Saskatchewan’s established MBA, suited to working professionals and career switchers. Requires a bachelor’s degree and typically 2+ years of work experience; GMAT 500+ or GRE equivalent often expected. Indicative tuition approximately CAD 35,000–45,000 per year.

10. Master of Education (MEd) — 2 years. 30-credit program for educators and administrators. Indicative tuition approximately CAD 31,185 per year. English requirements are higher (IELTS up to 7.5, TOEFL 80, Duolingo 130 per program pages — verify).

11. Master of Science in Biochemistry — 2 years. Thesis-based research degree in the chemistry and biochemistry department. Indicative tuition approximately CAD 31,185 per year. Winter 2026 application deadline indicatively August 15, 2025.

12. Master of Social Work — 2 years. Accredited professional program with strong provincial employment demand in health, child welfare, and community services. Field placements are built into the curriculum.

All tuition figures are indicative, drawn from collegedunia and shiksha. Tuition is charged per credit hour, so totals vary with course load. Always confirm on the official program fee pages.

University of Regina Admission Requirements 2026

Undergraduate Admission

• General academic: minimum 70% average in final secondary qualifications, or minimum GPA 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (indicative)
• India (CBSE/ISC): 70%+ in Class 12 overall; prerequisite subjects (e.g., mathematics for engineering/business) may require 70%+ individually
• Bangladesh (HSC): Higher Secondary Certificate with strong grades; applications assessed case-by-case — contact international admissions for a pre-assessment
• IB Diploma: typically 24+ points overall, with higher scores for competitive programs (indicative)
• A-Levels: typically BCC or better; program-specific prerequisites apply (indicative)
• English: IELTS 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0 for most programs; IELTS 7.0 for Education and Nursing
• Application fee: CAD 100 (undergraduate)
• Minimum age: 17 years at time of enrolment

Postgraduate Admission

• General academic: 4-year bachelor’s degree with minimum 70% average (indicative); some research programs expect 75%+
• MBA: bachelor’s degree plus 2+ years of professional work experience; GMAT 500+ or GRE equivalent commonly expected
• English: IELTS 6.5–7.5 depending on program; TOEFL 80–86; PTE 59–68; Duolingo 120–130
• Documents: official transcripts, two letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, CV/resume, proof of finances, passport copy
• Application fee: CAD 125 (graduate)

The estimated acceptance rate is 80–91% (independent third-party estimates; the university publishes no official rate). Decisions are typically issued within 6–8 weeks of a complete application. International students are strongly encouraged to apply by the priority deadline to maximize scholarship and housing chances. Verify every requirement on the official admissions site before applying.

English Language Requirements

Figures are indicative (sources: collegedunia, edmissions). Exemptions may apply if you completed several years of full-time study in English — check the official English-proficiency page. If you fall slightly short, the university’s ESL pathway programs can bridge the gap, though they add time and cost.

University of Regina Tuition Fees for International Students (2026)

Regina is consistently among Canada’s most affordable universities. All figures below are indicative, based on third-party sources (collegedunia, shiksha, edmissions).

Undergraduate Tuition (indicative, per year)

Postgraduate Tuition (indicative, per year)

The estimated total annual cost of attendance (tuition + living expenses) is approximately CAD 47,000. Tuition is billed per credit hour, so your actual total depends on course load. Fees are paid per semester via the student portal (credit card or Flywire for international payments). Confirm the exact per-program fee schedule on uregina.ca before budgeting.

Cost of Living in Regina (2026)

Regina’s biggest selling point after tuition is its cost of living — among the lowest of any Canadian university city. The indicative monthly breakdown below draws on third-party estimates.

Money-saving tips: (1) Share a 2-bedroom apartment after first year — it is almost always cheaper than residence. (2) Use the U-Pass rather than owning a car; Regina is compact and winters make driving stressful for newcomers. (3) Shop at discount grocery chains and cook in bulk. (4) Buy textbooks used or rent them. (5) Apply for residence early to lock the published rate. Part-time work math: at Saskatchewan’s minimum wage, 24 hours per week during term can cover most living costs; during scheduled breaks you may work full-time. Many students in co-op programs earn enough during work terms to fund a full semester.

University of Regina Scholarships for International Students

• International Entrance Scholarships (undergraduate): automatic consideration for high-achieving entrants; awards range from approximately CAD 3,000 up to CAD 80,000 in total value (indicative, per collegedunia) — among the most generous entrance packages in the country
• Graduate scholarships and assistantships: teaching assistantships and research assistantships provide stipends plus tuition support; faculty-level awards for master’s and PhD students with strong academic records
• Faculty-specific awards: the Business, Engineering, and Science faculties administer additional merit awards for continuing students
• External awards: Saskatchewan provincial scholarships, Mitacs funding for research internships, and Canadian federal awards for eligible graduate students

How to maximize your chances: (1) Apply by the priority deadline — March 15 for Fall undergraduate entry (indicative) — because scholarship pools are finite. (2) Target 85%+ in your final secondary grades. (3) Complete any separate scholarship application carefully; don’t assume admission alone triggers every award. (4) Document leadership, volunteering, and work experience — several awards weigh these. (5) For graduate funding, contact potential supervisors early with a clear research statement. All amounts and criteria are indicative; confirm on the official scholarships and awards page.

Campus and Facilities

The main campus occupies 239 acres adjacent to Wascana Park, one of North America’s largest urban parks — the setting is genuinely attractive, with the lake and parkland woven into campus life. Key facilities include the Dr. John Archer Library (with extensive digital collections and quiet study space), modern engineering and science laboratories, the Centre for Kinesiology, Health and Sport, and well-used athletics facilities. The university also maintains federated colleges — Campion College, Luther College, and First Nations University of Canada — which add academic and community diversity.

Co-op and experiential learning are embedded across business, engineering, and science: students alternate study terms with paid work terms, graduating with real Canadian work experience. Student services include the UR International office (study-permit advising, orientation, housing help), career services with employer networking events, academic advising, and health and counselling services. More than 295 institutions from 48 countries collaborate with Regina on exchanges and research, giving the campus an international outlook well beyond its prairie location.

Accommodation Options

• On-campus residences: several residence halls plus apartment-style units for upper-year students; indicative cost approximately CAD 6,552 per year for accommodation, with meal plans around CAD 5,800 (edmissions, indicative). Residence applications open early in the year and popular room types fill by spring.
• Off-campus rentals: shared apartments near campus typically CAD 500–800 per month; basement suites and multi-bedroom houses are common. Regina’s rental market is far less pressured than Toronto or Vancouver.
• Homestay: local providers match students with Canadian families — a good soft landing for first-semester students.

Tips: first-year students are encouraged to live on campus for the community and convenience. If renting off-campus, confirm what is included (heat, water, electricity, internet) — Saskatchewan winters make heating costs a real budget line. Never send deposit money before verifying a listing; rental scams target international students in every Canadian city.

Application Deadlines and Intakes 2026

Regina offers three intakes: Fall (September), Winter (January), and Spring/Summer (May). Fall is the primary intake with the widest program and scholarship availability. All deadlines below are indicative.

Graduate deadlines vary sharply by department — the MEng’s Fall deadline is indicatively January 31 while some science programs close in August for Winter entry. Start your application at least 6 months before the intake, because the study-permit process adds 2–4 months after you receive an offer. Always confirm on the official admissions calendar.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

1. Choose your program and read the program page carefully — note prerequisites, English thresholds, and intake availability.
2. Create an account on the University of Regina’s online application portal.
3. Complete the application form with accurate personal and academic history.
4. Upload documents: official transcripts, English test scores, passport bio page; graduate applicants add two reference letters, a statement of purpose, and a CV/resume.
5. Pay the application fee: CAD 100 (undergraduate) or CAD 125 (graduate), by credit card or Flywire.
6. Track your status in the portal; respond promptly to any requests for additional documents.
7. Accept your offer by the deadline stated in the letter; pay the indicative CAD 500 international confirmation deposit if required.
8. Apply for residence immediately after accepting — housing is first-come, first-served.
9. Apply for your Canadian study permit with the official letter of acceptance, proof of funds, and biometrics.

Canada Student Visa — Key Points

• Study permit: mandatory for programs longer than 6 months. Apply online through IRCC after receiving your letter of acceptance.
• Proof of funds: demonstrate at least CAD 20,635 per year for living expenses (outside Quebec) plus first-year tuition and travel costs. GIC, bank statements, or sponsor affidavits are standard evidence.
• Biometrics and medical: most applicants need biometrics at a visa application centre; a panel-physician medical exam may be required depending on your country of residence.
• Work rights: with a valid study permit you may work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks.
• PGWP: graduates of eligible programs of 8+ months can receive a post-graduation work permit of up to 3 years.
• Saskatchewan PR pathway: the Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP) includes streams for graduates who study and work in the province — a major strategic advantage of choosing Regina.

Immigration rules change frequently. Verify every requirement on the official IRCC website and consider the university’s international advising office for document reviews before you submit.

Research Excellence

The University of Regina hosts 18 research centres and institutes spanning health, environment, energy, and social justice. Flagship strengths include psychology (ARWU 76–100 globally), water resources and environmental engineering (ARWU 151–200), petroleum and energy systems tied to Saskatchewan’s resource economy, and Indigenous research through the First Nations University of Canada partnership. The university’s collaboration network spans more than 295 institutions in 48 countries. Graduate students routinely access teaching and research assistantships that fund their studies while building publishable research experience — a significant advantage given Regina’s low tuition.

Notable Alumni

The university’s alumni network exceeds 85,644 graduates worldwide, with notable representation in Saskatchewan public life, Canadian business, journalism, and the arts. Regina graduates are particularly visible in provincial politics, public administration, and the energy sector. The alumni association runs mentorship programs that connect current international students with graduates working across Canada — worth joining in your first year for networking and job-search guidance. (Verify specific names on the university’s official alumni pages.)

Comparison Table

Ranks and fees are indicative. Regina’s pitch is value: comparable degree outcomes at a meaningfully lower total cost, plus one of Canada’s smoothest graduate PR pathways.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the University of Regina QS ranking for 2026?

The University of Regina sits in the QS World University Rankings 2026 band of 1001–1200, and in the THE 2026 band of 801–1000. Its psychology department ranks 76–100 globally in the ARWU subject rankings.

What are the tuition fees for international students?

Indicative undergraduate tuition is approximately CAD 20,000–30,000 per year (BBA around CAD 28,740), and graduate tuition approximately CAD 31,000–35,000 per year. The estimated total annual cost of attendance is around CAD 47,000 including living expenses — well below the Canadian average.

What IELTS score do I need?

IELTS 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0 for most undergraduate programs; IELTS 7.0 for Education and Nursing; graduate programs typically require IELTS 6.5–7.5 depending on the department.

Is the University of Regina good for international students?

Yes. It combines low tuition, entrance scholarships worth up to CAD 80,000, an estimated 80–91% acceptance rate, co-op work terms, and Saskatchewan’s accessible post-study PR pathway — a strong value package.

When should I apply for Fall 2026?

Aim for the priority deadline of March 15 (indicative) for undergraduate programs; the final deadline is around August 15. Graduate deadlines vary by program — many close between January and April for Fall entry. Start 6+ months early to leave time for the study permit.

Can I work part-time while studying?

Yes. With a valid study permit you may work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks.

What post-study options exist?

Eligible graduates can obtain a PGWP of up to 3 years. Saskatchewan’s SINP offers dedicated PR streams for graduates who study and work in the province.

What is the acceptance rate?

Independent sources estimate 80–91%. The university publishes no official rate, so treat this as an estimate, not a guarantee.

Is on-campus housing guaranteed for first-years?

Not guaranteed — residence is allocated first-come, first-served, so apply as soon as you accept your offer.

How cold does Regina get, and how do students cope?

Winters are genuinely cold (regularly below −20°C). Budget for a quality parka, boots, and layers in your first year; campus buildings are connected and heated, and the U-Pass keeps you off icy sidewalks.

Final Thoughts

The University of Regina deserves a place on every budget-conscious student’s shortlist. It offers accredited programs, real research credentials in fields like psychology and water resources, co-op work experience, and scholarship packages that can cut the already-low tuition dramatically. The Saskatchewan PR pathway adds a long-term strategic dimension that higher-ranked but far more expensive universities cannot match. If your priorities are affordability, employability, and a realistic route to staying in Canada after graduation, Regina is difficult to beat. Verify all fees, deadlines, and requirements on the official university website before applying — and start your study-permit paperwork the moment you accept an offer.

Sources and Verification

• collegedunia.com — University of Regina profile, fees, and admissions
• shiksha.com — University of Regina courses, rankings, and fees
• ed-ex.com — University of Regina institutional facts
• uregina.ca — official university website (verify all figures)

Disclaimer: Rankings, tuition fees, deadlines, and scholarship figures are indicative and drawn from the third-party sources cited above. Always verify current information on the official university website and the IRCC website before making application or immigration decisions.