Bishop’s University

Top Public Research University in Ontario

Public University Toronto, Ontario QS Ranking: #21 Fall, Winter, Summer Intakes

University Overview

Established in 1843, Bishop’s University is a prestigious liberal arts university located in the beautiful town of Lennoxville, Sherbrooke, Quebec. With a strong emphasis on personalized education and community engagement, Bishop’s is home to approximately 2,900 students from across Canada and over 50 countries around the world. Known for its close-knit campus and student-focused approach, the university fosters a vibrant academic and social community.

Bishop’s University offers a wide range of undergraduate programs in fields such as Arts, Science, Business, Education, and Fine Arts, as well as select graduate programs in areas like Education and Clinical Psychology. The university’s academic philosophy centers on critical thinking, interdisciplinary learning, and experiential opportunities such as research projects, internships, and community service.

Consistently ranked among the top undergraduate universities in Canada for student satisfaction by Maclean’s, Bishop’s is renowned for its small class sizes (average of 25 students), dedicated faculty, and picturesque 550-acre campus. Offering a truly bilingual environment and affordable tuition fees, Bishop’s University provides an exceptional educational experience that combines academic excellence with a strong sense of belonging and purpose.

Key Facts & Highlights

1843

Established

2,900+

Total Students (2024–25)

25%+

International Students from 70+ Countries

60%

Approximate Acceptance Rate

Top 20

Primarily Undergraduate Universities in Canada (Maclean’s, 2024)

#1 in Quebec

For Student Satisfaction & Teaching Quality

Tuition & Living Costs

Item	Cost (CAD/year)
Tuition Fee (Domestic Students)	6,500 – 8,500
Tuition Fee (International Students)	25,000 – 30,000
Living Expenses	10,000 – 14,000
Accommodation	6,500 – 11,000
Health Insurance	800 – 1,000
Application Fee	65 (one-time, non-refundable)

Note: Tuition and fees at Bishop’s University vary depending on the program and student status. Programs such as Business, Computer Science, and Education may have additional fees. Living costs include housing, meals, books, and personal expenses, which depend on individual lifestyle and accommodation choices. For detailed and up-to-date fee information, visit the official Bishop’s University tuition page.

Scholarships & Financial Aid

Bishop’s University Chancellor’s Excellence Scholarship

The Chancellor’s Excellence Scholarship is Bishop’s University’s most prestigious entrance award, recognizing top academic achievers entering their first undergraduate degree. Recipients are awarded a CAD 5,000 renewable scholarship per academic year, provided they maintain a minimum cumulative average of 80%. This award celebrates outstanding academic merit and leadership potential within the campus community.

Bishop’s University Principal’s Scholarship

The Principal’s Scholarship is available to students entering Bishop’s with an admission average of at least 85%. This one-time award of CAD 3,000 supports students who demonstrate both strong academic achievement and community engagement. Recipients are encouraged to participate in Bishop’s leadership and volunteer initiatives throughout their studies.

Bishop’s Bursaries & Need-Based Financial Assistance

Bishop’s University provides need-based bursaries and financial assistance programs for students facing financial barriers. Awards typically range from CAD 500 to CAD 3,000 per year and are open to both Canadian and international students. Applications are submitted through the university’s online myBU portal after admission and are assessed based on financial need and academic standing.

Program-Specific & Indigenous Scholarships

Bishop’s offers a range of program-specific awards for fields such as Arts, Business, Education, and Natural Sciences, as well as dedicated Indigenous student scholarships for First Nations, Métis, and Inuit learners. These awards recognize excellence, community involvement, and a commitment to academic success. Visit the official Bishop’s University Financial Aid page for detailed eligibility criteria and application deadlines.

Programs Offered at Bishop’s University

Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA)

Duration: 4 Years (Honours) Tuition: CAD 26,000/year (International) IELTS: 6.5 | TOEFL: 86 (iBT)

Bachelor of Science in Computer Science

Duration: 4 Years (Honours) Tuition: CAD 27,000/year (International) IELTS: 6.5 | TOEFL: 90 (iBT)

Bachelor of Arts in Psychology

Duration: 4 Years Tuition: CAD 25,000/year IELTS: 6.5 | TOEFL: 90 (iBT)

Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.)

Duration: 2 Years (After undergraduate degree) Tuition: CAD 22,500/year IELTS: 7.0 | TOEFL: 95 (iBT)

Master of Arts in Leadership

Duration: 2 Years (Full-Time) Tuition: CAD 28,000/year IELTS: 7.0 | TOEFL: 95 (iBT)

Admission Requirements – Bishop’s University

English Language Requirements

IELTS: Overall 6.5 (no band below 6.0)
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 90 (writing 22)
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 115

Academic Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent with strong academic standing
Minimum overall average of 75% (or equivalent GPA)
Subject prerequisites depending on chosen faculty (e.g., Math for Economics, Chemistry for Biology)

Required Documents

Official high school transcripts (English or French translation if applicable)
Proof of English language proficiency (IELTS, TOEFL, or Duolingo)
Copy of valid passport or government-issued ID
Personal statement or letter of intent (recommended for competitive programs)
Non-refundable application fee: CAD 65

English Language Requirements

IELTS: Overall 7.0 (no band less than 6.5)
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 94 (writing 24)
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 120

Academic Requirements

Bachelor’s degree (4 years) from an accredited university
Minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 or equivalent (B average)
Program-specific prerequisites (e.g., research experience for M.Sc. programs)

Required Documents

Official transcripts and proof of degree completion
Two academic or professional reference letters
Statement of Intent describing research interests and academic goals
Résumé or curriculum vitae (CV)
Non-refundable application fee: CAD 75

How to Apply to Bishop’s University

Choose Your Program

Explore Bishop’s University’s wide range of undergraduate programs in Arts, Business, Education, Humanities, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences. Popular majors include Psychology, Economics, Computer Science, Biology, and Business Administration. Select a program that fits your goals and interests.

Check Admission Requirements

Review the entry requirements for your chosen program. Undergraduate applicants typically need a minimum overall average of 70% (or equivalent). International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency with IELTS (6.5 overall), TOEFL (90 iBT), or Duolingo (115). Some programs may require specific prerequisite courses.

Prepare Supporting Documents

Collect all required documents: official transcripts, proof of English proficiency, a personal statement, and a copy of your passport. Graduate or specialized programs may also request letters of recommendation or a résumé/CV.

Submit Your Application Online

Apply through the Bishop’s University Application Portal or via the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC) for certain programs. Ensure all sections are completed and all documents uploaded before submission.

Pay the Application Fee

Pay the non-refundable application fee of approximately CAD 65 for Canadian applicants or CAD 150 for international applicants. Applications will be processed only after payment confirmation.

Receive Your Offer & Apply for Study Permit

If accepted, you’ll receive an official Offer of Admission from Bishop’s University. Confirm your acceptance, pay any required tuition deposit, and proceed to apply for your Canadian study permit to begin your academic journey in Lennoxville, Quebec.

Important Dates - Bishop’s University

Intake	Application Deadline
Fall 2025 (September)	April 1, 2025
Winter 2026 (January)	October 1, 2025
Spring/Summer 2026 (May)	February 1, 2026

Note: Application deadlines at Bishop’s University may vary by program, applicant status, and visa processing requirements. International applicants are encouraged to apply well in advance to allow sufficient time for study permit processing. Some programs, such as Psychology, Education, and Business, may have earlier or rolling deadlines. Always check the official Bishop’s University admissions calendar for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

What Our Students Say

Hear from international students who found their academic home at Bishop’s University through Mera Admission.

Studying at Bishop’s University has been incredible! The small class sizes and close interaction with professors helped me grow academically and personally. Mera Admission made the process seamless and stress-free.

Verified Student

Bishop’s combines high academic standards with a close-knit campus life. I love how professors actually know your name! The research facilities are top-notch for graduate students.

Verified Student

The scenic campus and close proximity to nature make Bishop’s the perfect place to study environmental and biological sciences. Fieldwork and lab experience have been exceptional!

Verified Student

Bishop’s has one of the most beautiful campuses in Canada and offers great co-op opportunities. The business faculty is supportive and career-focused, helping me land an internship in Montreal!

Verified Student

2500+

Bishop’s Students Guided

96%

Visa Approval Rate

4.9/5

Student Satisfaction

50+

Undergraduate & Graduate Programs

Study Permit & Visa Guide

Complete guide to Canadian study permits, visa requirements, and immigration processes for international students

Study Permit Application Process

Receive Letter of Acceptance

Get your official acceptance letter from University of Toronto before applying for a study permit.

Gather Required Documents

Prepare passport, acceptance letter, financial proof, medical exam results, and other supporting documents.

Apply Online or Paper

Submit your application through IRCC portal or paper application at your local visa office.

Biometrics & Medical Exam

Complete biometrics collection and medical examination if required for your country.

Wait for Decision

Processing times vary by country (typically 2-8 weeks for SDS applications).

Travel to Canada

Once approved, travel to Canada and present your study permit at the port of entry.

Student Direct Stream (SDS) vs Regular Stream

Student Direct Stream (SDS)

Faster processing (2-4 weeks)
IELTS 6.0+ in all bands
GIC of $10,000 CAD
First year tuition paid
Available for select countries

Regular Stream

Standard processing (4-8 weeks)
Flexible language requirements
Detailed financial proof
Bank statements required
Available for all countries

Required Documents Checklist

Essential Documents

Valid passport (6+ months validity)
Letter of Acceptance from UofT
Completed application forms
Passport-sized photographs

Financial Documents

Bank statements (4+ months)
GIC Certificate (SDS only)
Tuition payment receipt
Sponsor's financial documents

Important Tips & Common Mistakes

✅ Do's

Apply early (3-4 months before start date)
Provide complete and accurate information
Keep copies of all documents
Write a strong Statement of Purpose

❌ Don'ts

Submit incomplete applications
Provide false information
Ignore document requirements
Apply too close to start date

English Language Requirements

IELTS: Overall 7.0 (no band less than 6.5)
TOEFL iBT: Overall 105+
PTE Academic: Overall 75+

Academic Requirements

Bachelor's degree in relevant field
Minimum 3.3 GPA (B+ average)
GRE/GMAT (program dependent)

Required Documents

Official academic transcripts (Bachelor's degree)
Valid passport copy
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Letters of Recommendation (3)
Resume/CV
Application fee: CAD 125

Location & Lifestyle

Sherbrooke, Quebec

Bishop’s University is located in Sherbrooke, Quebec, in the picturesque Eastern Townships region. The campus, set along the scenic Massawippi and St. Francis Rivers, combines natural beauty with a vibrant university-town atmosphere. Students enjoy a warm, bilingual community, a strong sense of belonging, and access to a wide range of cultural, recreational, and outdoor activities. The relaxed pace of life, charming cafés, and nearby nature trails make Sherbrooke a welcoming environment for both academic focus and personal growth.

Climate: Distinct four seasons; snowy winters (-5°C to -20°C) perfect for skiing, and pleasant summers (20°C to 28°C) for hiking and festivals
Transportation: Public bus network across Sherbrooke; students also benefit from on-campus residence proximity and easy access to Montreal (1.5-hour drive)
Career Opportunities: Access to Quebec’s growing sectors in education, business, healthcare, and technology; Bishop’s supports students with internships and bilingual career development programs

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, Bishop’s University is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI No. O19359011007) and accepts Student Direct Stream (SDS) applications for faster visa processing for eligible students from countries including India, China, the Philippines, and Vietnam.

For undergraduate admission, Bishop’s University typically requires an overall IELTS score of 6.5 with no band lower than 6.0. For graduate programs, a minimum overall score of 7.0 may be required. Equivalent scores in TOEFL (minimum 90 iBT), PTE, or Duolingo English Test (minimum 120) are also accepted.

Yes, international students enrolled at Bishop’s University can work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during scheduled breaks. Students often find part-time jobs on campus or within the Lennoxville and Sherbrooke areas, offering flexible work opportunities close to the university.

Yes, Bishop’s University offers several on-campus housing options, including single and double rooms in residences such as Paterson Hall, Abbott, and Kuehner. Annual residence fees typically range from CAD 5,500 to CAD 9,000, with meal plans available. Off-campus housing in nearby Sherbrooke is also popular among upper-year students.

As a publicly funded and accredited Canadian university, Bishop’s University maintains a strong visa success rate for international students, often above 80%, provided applicants meet admission and financial requirements and submit complete documentation.

Yes, international graduates from Bishop’s University are eligible for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing them to work in Canada for up to three years after completing an eligible degree program. This experience often helps graduates transition to permanent residency through programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) or Quebec immigration pathways.

Other Universities You Might Like

Mount Allison University

Sackville, New Brunswick

Consistently ranked among Canada’s top primarily undergraduate universities

St. Francis Xavier University

Antigonish, Nova Scotia

Renowned for Business, Education, and Arts programs with small class sizes

Acadia University

Wolfville, Nova Scotia

Known for strong Science and Environmental Studies programs

Ready to Begin Your Journey at Bishop’s University?

Take the first step toward an exceptional education in the heart of Quebec’s Eastern Townships. Apply today and join a close-knit community that values academic excellence, leadership, and global citizenship. Explore programs in Arts, Business, Education, Humanities, Natural Sciences, and Social Sciences—designed to help you thrive personally and professionally.