Founded in 1925, the Memorial University of Newfoundland is one of Canada's leading public research universities. Located primarily in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Memorial is recognised for its high-quality education, research excellence, and some of the most affordable tuition fees among Canadian universities. The university welcomes students from over 115 countries and is known for providing excellent value for international students seeking a globally recognised degree. Memorial University enrolls approximately 18,000 students across its campuses and offers more than 300 undergraduate and graduate programmes. The university is particularly renowned for Computer Science, Engineering, Marine Studies, Earth Sciences, Artificial Intelligence, Business, Data Science, Health Sciences, Environmental Science, Oil & Gas Engineering, and Fisheries & Ocean Sciences. Its strong research culture and close ties with industry provide students with valuable practical learning and career opportunities. Whether you're planning to pursue a bachelor's degree, master's programme, MBA, or PhD, this guide provides an overview of Memorial University admissions, available programmes, scholarships, admission requirements, and career opportunities for international students.
| Label | Value |
|---|---|
| Location | St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador |
| Program Levels | UG · Master's · MBA · PhD |
Which Program Level Fits You?
Memorial University offers undergraduate, postgraduate, professional, and research programmes across a wide range of disciplines.
| Program Level | Overview |
|---|---|
| Bachelor's (Undergraduate) | Undergraduate programmes in Computer Science, Engineering, Business, Data Science, Marine Studies, Earth Sciences, Psychology, Arts, Sciences, and Social Sciences. |
| Master's (Postgraduate Taught) | Advanced master's programmes in Computer Science, Engineering, Business Administration (MBA), Public Health, Data Science, Environmental Science, and more. |
| Professional Programmes | Graduate programmes through the Faculty of Business Administration, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, and Faculty of Medicine. |
| PhD (Research) | Research-intensive doctoral programmes supported by internationally recognised faculty and advanced research facilities. |
Admission Requirements
Admission requirements vary depending on the programme and level of study. Applicants must meet programme-specific academic and English language requirements.
| Requirement | Typical Requirement |
|---|---|
| Academic Qualifications | Strong academic performance with programme-specific requirements |
| GPA | Competitive academic record |
| IELTS Academic | Generally 6.5+ |
| TOEFL iBT | Generally 79–90+ depending on the programme |
| Duolingo English Test | Accepted for eligible programmes |
| Other Requirements | |
| Academic transcripts, statement of purpose, letters of recommendation, CV/résumé (where applicable), and programme-specific documents |
Cost of Attendance
The Memorial University of Newfoundland tuition fees vary depending on the programme and level of study. Students should also budget for accommodation, food, transportation, health insurance, books, and personal expenses while studying in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador. Memorial University is widely recognised as one of the most affordable public universities in Canada for international students. In addition to lower tuition fees, St. John's also offers a comparatively affordable cost of living compared with many other Canadian cities.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Memorial University offers a variety of entrance scholarships, graduate fellowships, teaching assistantships, research assistantships, bursaries, and departmental awards for international students. Eligible undergraduate applicants are automatically considered for many entrance scholarships—no separate application is required. Popular scholarship opportunities include:
- Memorial University International Entrance Scholarship
- IUGS Entrance Scholarship for Undergraduate Students
- Fortis Inc. – H. Stanley Marshall Scholarship
- Killam American Undergraduate Scholarship
- Convera Scholarship
- Graduate Fellowships
- Teaching Assistantships
- Research Assistantships
- Departmental Scholarships
- International Student Awards and Bursaries
- External Scholarships
Many graduate students also receive funding through assistantships, research grants, and faculty-specific fellowships depending on their programme. International students who maintain strong academic performance may also become eligible for continuing scholarships after their first year.
Campus Life & Student Experience
Memorial University offers a welcoming campus community with strong academic support and experiential learning opportunities. Students benefit from:
- More than 180 student clubs and societies
- Modern research laboratories and innovation centres
- Career counselling and co-op opportunities
- Undergraduate research programmes
- Entrepreneurship and innovation support
- International exchange programmes
- Recreation, athletics, and wellness facilities
- A safe, friendly, and multicultural campus environment
- The university offers strong experiential learning opportunities, particularly in engineering, business, computer science, marine studies, and environmental sciences
Research & Global Reputation
Memorial University is internationally recognised for research excellence and innovation. Highlights include:
- Ranked among the Top 700 universities worldwide
- One of Atlantic Canada's leading public research universities
- Strong research in Artificial Intelligence, Computer Science, Marine Science, Ocean Technology, Earth Sciences, Energy, Environmental Science, Health Research, Data Science, and Arctic Studies
- Home to internationally recognised faculties including the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, Faculty of Business Administration, and the Marine Institute
- Strong partnerships with employers including Cenovus Energy, ExxonMobil Canada, IBM Canada, Kraken Robotics, Verafin, Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, and numerous research organisations
- Excellent graduate employability supported by industry collaborations, research projects, and experiential learning opportunities
Visa & Post-Study Work
International students admitted to Memorial University of Newfoundland generally require a Canadian Study Permit before beginning their studies. After graduation, eligible students may apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit, allowing them to gain valuable Canadian work experience. The PGWP can also support pathways toward Canadian permanent residency, subject to current Government of Canada immigration policies.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Study Permit | International students generally require a Canadian Study Permit before beginning their studies. |
| Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) | Eligible graduates may apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing them to gain valuable Canadian work experience, subject to current Canadian immigration regulations. |
How to Apply
Every study level follows a similar application process, although deadlines, admission criteria, and required documents vary depending on the programme.
- Undergraduate — choose your programme — Choose your preferred programme. Apply through the Memorial University online application portal.
- Undergraduate — submit documents — Submit academic transcripts and supporting documents. Meet English language and programme-specific requirements.
- Undergraduate — accept your offer — Receive and accept your admission offer.
- Postgraduate — apply online — Apply through the Memorial University Graduate Studies application portal. Upload academic transcripts and required documents.
- Postgraduate — meet requirements and accept — Meet programme-specific admission requirements. Receive your admission decision. Accept your offer and begin your Canadian study permit process.
- Begin your Canadian study permit process — After accepting your offer, begin your Canadian study permit process.
FAQs About Studying Here
Is Memorial University of Newfoundland good for international students?
Yes. Memorial University is one of Canada's most affordable public research universities, offering globally recognised degrees, strong research opportunities, generous scholarship options, and excellent graduate outcomes.
Does Memorial University offer scholarships for international students?
Yes. Memorial offers the International Entrance Scholarship, IUGS Entrance Scholarship, Convera Scholarship, graduate fellowships, teaching assistantships, research assistantships, and departmental awards. Most undergraduate entrance scholarships are awarded automatically to eligible students.
What English language tests does Memorial University accept?
Memorial University accepts IELTS Academic, TOEFL iBT, Duolingo English Test, and other approved English language proficiency tests. Programme-specific minimum score requirements may vary.
How do I apply to Memorial University of Newfoundland?
Applicants submit their application through the Memorial University online application portal, along with academic transcripts and other required documents. International applicants are encouraged to apply early to allow sufficient time for study permit processing.
Can international students work after graduating from Memorial University?
Yes. Eligible graduates may apply for the Post-Graduation Work Permit, allowing them to work in Canada after completing their studies and potentially qualify for permanent residency pathways.
Does Memorial University provide career support?
Yes. Memorial University offers career counselling, work-integrated learning, internships, employer networking events, entrepreneurship support, research opportunities, and comprehensive career development services. Students also benefit from strong connections with employers in technology, engineering, energy, marine industries, healthcare, and environmental sciences.
Get personalized study abroad advice
Chat with our AI advisor about this university guide — tailored to your profile.
Start conversation
