Carleton University

Carleton University: Courses, Admission, Tuition Fees, Scholarships and Study in Canada

Carleton University is a public university located in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada's capital city. The university offers undergraduate and graduate education across areas including computer science, engineering, business, journalism, public affairs, international studies, mathematics, science, humanities, social sciences and health sciences.

Carleton has a large international community, with more than 3,000 international students from 150 countries. Its Ottawa location also places students close to government departments, embassies, research organizations, NGOs and technology companies.

For international students, Carleton combines academic programs with co-op and experiential learning opportunities, international student support, scholarships and access to the professional environment of Canada's capital.

Carleton University at a Glance

Information	Details
University	Carleton University
Location	Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
Institution Type	Public University
Main Campus	Ottawa
Language of Instruction	English
International Students	3,000+
International Student Representation	150 countries
Popular Study Areas	Computer Science, Engineering, Business, Journalism, Public Affairs, International Studies, Mathematics, Science and Humanities
International Undergraduate Tuition	Approximately CAD $39,000–$55,000 depending on program
International Application Fee	CAD $100 direct application
IELTS	Generally 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0
Scholarships	Entrance scholarships, President's Welcome Award and Prestige Scholarships
Academic Year	September–April

Carleton's official 2026/27 international tuition information places undergraduate tuition broadly between CAD $39,000 and CAD $55,000 depending on the program, with international undergraduate tuition frozen for the 2026–27 through 2028–29 academic years.

About Carleton University

Carleton University is situated on a campus of more than 100 acres between the Rideau River and the Rideau Canal in Ottawa. Its location provides students with access to the institutions and organizations that make Canada's capital an important centre for government, public policy, international affairs and technology.

The university offers a wide selection of undergraduate and graduate programs. Its academic areas include technology and engineering alongside business, journalism, public affairs, international studies, arts and sciences.

For international students, Carleton also provides dedicated services through the Global Opportunities and International Student Services Office (GO-ISSO). These services help students adjust to life in Canada and participate in international internships, exchanges, study-abroad programs and other global opportunities.

Programs at Carleton University

Carleton offers undergraduate programs across a broad range of academic disciplines.

Computer Science

Carleton's Bachelor of Computer Science provides students with an academic pathway into computing and technology.

Students can develop knowledge in programming, algorithms, software development, computer systems, data and related areas.

The university also offers specialized technology programs such as Cyber Security, Data Science and Information Technology. International tuition for these programs is among the higher undergraduate rates at Carleton. For 2026/27, the university's fee schedule lists approximately CAD $57,397 in combined Fall and Winter charges for the Bachelor of Computer Science, Cyber Security and Data Science.

Engineering

Carleton offers undergraduate engineering programs covering multiple engineering disciplines.

The university also offers Mechatronics Engineering, combining mechanical, electrical and computer-related engineering concepts.

For 2026/27, the international combined Fall/Winter tuition and compulsory miscellaneous fees for the Bachelor of Engineering are listed at approximately CAD $57,506.

Business

Students interested in business can choose programs including:

• Bachelor of Accounting
• Bachelor of Commerce
• Bachelor of International Business

Business programs provide opportunities to study areas such as accounting, finance, management, marketing and international business.

For 2026/27, international students in the Bachelor of Accounting, Commerce and International Business are listed at approximately CAD $47,609 for combined Fall and Winter charges including compulsory miscellaneous fees.

Journalism

Carleton has established programs in journalism, including the Bachelor of Journalism and the combined Bachelor of Journalism and Humanities.

Students can develop skills in reporting, research, writing, digital media and communication.

Journalism students can also benefit from studying in Ottawa, where federal institutions, public organizations and national media organizations provide a relevant professional environment.

Global and International Studies

The Bachelor of Global and International Studies (BGInS) examines international and global issues through multiple academic perspectives.

The program includes areas such as global history, economics, culture, law, ethics, climate change and international theory. Students can also select from 13 optional concentrations.

The Ottawa location provides students with access to embassies, government departments and NGOs, which can complement the academic study of international affairs.

Mathematics and Science

Carleton offers undergraduate programs in mathematics and science.

Available areas include programs such as:

• Bachelor of Mathematics
• Bachelor of Science
• Bachelor of Health Sciences
• Bachelor of Cognitive Science

The university also offers interdisciplinary pathways that allow students to combine different areas of study.

Humanities and Social Sciences

Students can pursue degrees in humanities and social sciences, including subjects related to history, philosophy, languages, economics, communication, political studies and sociology.

These programs can develop research, writing, analytical and communication skills applicable to a wide range of further-study and career pathways.

Admission Requirements for International Students

Admission requirements vary depending on the applicant's country, previous qualification and chosen program.

Applicants should review the specific requirements for their academic curriculum before applying. Some programs have additional prerequisites in subjects such as mathematics or science.

Carleton accepts international applications through two primary routes:

• Ontario Universities' Application Centre (OUAC)
• Direct application to Carleton University

Students applying directly to Carleton can select up to two program choices in one application. The current direct international application fee is CAD $100.

Students applying through OUAC pay the applicable OUAC application fee. The current international admissions page lists the OUAC base fee at CAD $166.

English-Language Requirements

International applicants who do not qualify for an English-language exemption must demonstrate English proficiency.

For many undergraduate programs, Carleton uses an IELTS Academic benchmark of 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0.

Because requirements can vary by program and applicant background, students should verify the exact English-language requirement before submitting an application.

How to Apply to Carleton University

Step 1: Choose a Program

Review Carleton's undergraduate programs and identify the degree that matches your academic interests and career plans.

Pay attention to program-specific prerequisites.

Step 2: Check Your Academic Requirements

Review the admission requirements for your country or curriculum.

International applicants should make sure their academic qualifications meet Carleton's requirements.

Step 3: Choose an Application Route

Applicants can apply directly to Carleton or through OUAC, depending on their circumstances.

Direct international applicants create a Carleton360 account and complete the university's online application.

Step 4: Submit Required Documents

Documents can include:

• Academic transcripts
• Graduation certificates
• English-language test results
• Identification documents
• Program-specific documents

Applicants should follow Carleton's instructions for submitting official documents.

Step 5: Monitor Carleton360

After applying, students can use their Carleton360 account to monitor application progress and receive information about missing documents or admission decisions.

Step 6: Accept Your Offer

Students who receive an offer should follow the instructions in the offer letter and complete the required steps for enrolment.

Application Deadlines

Carleton offers September entry across a broad selection of programs, while January entry is available for selected programs.

For the January 2027 term, Carleton lists:

• October 15, 2026: international applicants whose transcripts originate outside Canada or the United States
• November 15, 2026: applicants whose transcripts originate in Canada or the United States

The university notes that some programs may have earlier deadlines or additional requirements.

Students should always check the deadline for their exact program before applying.

Tuition Fees for International Students

Carleton's 2026/27 international undergraduate tuition varies substantially by program.

The university's published combined Fall and Winter figures, including compulsory miscellaneous fees, include approximately:

Program	2026/27 International Cost
Bachelor of Arts	CAD $41,383.68
Bachelor of Commerce	CAD $47,608.68
Bachelor of Computer Science	CAD $57,397.12
Bachelor of Cyber Security	CAD $57,397.12
Bachelor of Data Science	CAD $57,397.12
Bachelor of Engineering	CAD $57,505.68
Bachelor of Journalism	CAD $41,383.68
Bachelor of Mathematics	CAD $41,397.12
Bachelor of Science	CAD $41,397.12
Bachelor of International Business	CAD $47,608.68

These are official 2026/27 Fall + Winter figures and include compulsory miscellaneous fees.

Carleton separately describes international undergraduate tuition as ranging from approximately CAD $39,000 to CAD $55,000, depending on program, and states that these tuition rates are frozen for three academic years beginning in Fall 2026.

Students should therefore use the university's fee calculator and their specific program fee table when preparing a budget.

Scholarships for International Students

Carleton offers several scholarships for international undergraduate students.

Automatic Entrance Scholarships

Eligible international high-school applicants can automatically receive entrance scholarships based on their previous academic performance and language requirements.

The university currently lists automatic entrance scholarships of CAD $1,000 to CAD $3,000 per year.

These scholarships can be renewable if students meet the required academic standing.

President's Welcome Award for International Students

Carleton also lists the President's Welcome Award for International Students.

For students applying for September 2027, the award is valued at CAD $2,000 to CAD $5,000, depending on grades at the time of admission.

Prestige Scholarships

International students with an admission average above 90% can apply for Carleton's Prestige Scholarships.

The university's international admissions information lists Prestige Scholarship values ranging from approximately CAD $20,000 to CAD $56,712 over four years, depending on the award. Selection can consider academic achievement as well as leadership, community service and extracurricular participation.

Scholarship availability, eligibility and award values can change, so applicants should verify the current conditions before applying.

Cost of Living in Ottawa

Tuition is only one component of the total cost of studying at Carleton.

International students should budget for:

• Accommodation
• Food
• Books and supplies
• Transportation
• Health insurance
• Personal expenses
• University and campus fees

Carleton's 2026 international admissions information estimates traditional residence room and board at approximately CAD $13,442, with books and supplies estimated at CAD $1,400 and personal expenses at CAD $3,000. Actual expenses vary according to accommodation and lifestyle.

Accommodation at Carleton

Carleton has multiple residence buildings on campus.

The university states that international students entering directly from high school are automatically offered a room in one of its 12 on-campus residence buildings if they receive their offer by mid-May.

Students should still review residence deadlines, eligibility conditions, room types and meal-plan information before making housing arrangements.

Off-campus accommodation is another option for students who prefer to live outside university residence.

International Student Support

Carleton provides dedicated support through its Global Opportunities and International Student Services Office.

Services and programs include:

• International orientation
• Immigration information
• Transition support
• Student advising
• International internships
• Exchange opportunities
• Study-abroad programs
• Community and social programming

The GO-ISSO's programs are designed to help international students adjust to university life and living in Canada.

For Fall 2026, Carleton scheduled a dedicated International Orientation Day on September 4, 2026.

Co-op and Career Opportunities

Carleton offers co-op and other experiential learning opportunities in selected programs.

The university's location in Ottawa can provide access to organizations involved in government, public policy, technology, international affairs and research.

Carleton also operates an International Student Employment Program (ISEP) designed to support international students with paid work opportunities and career-related resources.

Students should check whether co-op or other work-integrated learning is available in their specific program and understand the relevant eligibility requirements.

International Exchange and Study Abroad

Carleton provides exchange and study-abroad opportunities through its Global Opportunities and International Student Services Office.

Students can participate in international internships, exchange programs and study-abroad experiences depending on their academic program and eligibility.

Incoming exchange students can study at Carleton for one semester or a full academic year under an approved exchange agreement with their home institution.

Campus and Location

Carleton's campus is located between the Rideau River and Rideau Canal in Ottawa.

The location provides students with access to downtown Ottawa and Canada's national institutions while retaining a substantial university campus environment.

Ottawa is home to federal government departments, embassies, NGOs, research organizations, museums and other institutions, which can be particularly relevant for students studying international affairs, public policy, journalism and related disciplines.

Student Life

Carleton's student community includes domestic and international students from many different backgrounds.

Students can participate in:

• Student clubs
• Sports and recreation
• Academic organizations
• Cultural activities
• Volunteer opportunities
• International events
• Career activities

International students can also participate in orientation and mentorship programs designed to help them navigate university life and build connections.

Why Consider Carleton University?

Carleton's characteristics that may be relevant to prospective students include:

Location in Canada's Capital

Ottawa provides access to government institutions, embassies, NGOs, research organizations and technology-related employers.

Wide Range of Programs

Students can choose from technology, engineering, business, journalism, international studies, mathematics, science, humanities and social sciences.

International Community

Carleton reports more than 3,000 international students from 150 countries.

International Scholarships

Eligible students can access automatic entrance scholarships, the President's Welcome Award and other scholarship opportunities.

Tuition Fee Freeze

International undergraduate tuition rates are frozen for three academic years beginning in Fall 2026, according to Carleton's current admissions information.

International Student Services

Dedicated international services provide support with orientation, immigration information, transition to Canada, exchanges and international opportunities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Carleton University located?

Carleton University is located in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.

Is Carleton University public?

Yes. Carleton University is a public university in Ontario.

Does Carleton University accept international students?

Yes. Carleton reports more than 3,000 international students from 150 countries.

How much does Carleton University cost for international students?

For 2026/27, international undergraduate tuition varies by program. The university describes the range as approximately CAD $39,000–$55,000, while the detailed fee schedule shows that some programs have total Fall/Winter charges above this range once compulsory fees are included.

What IELTS score is required at Carleton University?

For many undergraduate programs, the IELTS Academic requirement is 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0. Students should verify the requirement for their specific program.

Does Carleton University offer Computer Science?

Yes. Carleton offers a Bachelor of Computer Science as well as programs in Cyber Security, Data Science and Information Technology.

Does Carleton offer scholarships for international students?

Yes. International students can be considered for automatic entrance scholarships and other awards. Automatic entrance scholarships currently range from CAD $1,000 to $3,000 per year.

Is accommodation available at Carleton University?

Yes. Carleton has 12 on-campus residence buildings and provides residence options for students. International students entering directly from high school can receive an automatic room offer if they receive their admission offer by the specified deadline.

Does Carleton have co-op programs?

Yes. Co-op and experiential learning opportunities are available in selected programs. Students should check their specific program for eligibility and availability.

Can international students work while studying?

Carleton provides career and employment support for international students, including its International Student Employment Program. Students must follow the applicable Canadian immigration and work-authorization rules.

What is Carleton University known for?

Carleton has academic strengths across areas including business, journalism, public affairs, international affairs, architecture, high technology, computer science, engineering and the sciences. Its Ottawa location is particularly relevant to students interested in government, international affairs and public policy.

Final Takeaway

Carleton University offers international students a broad selection of undergraduate and graduate programs in Ottawa, Canada's capital city. Its academic portfolio includes computer science, cybersecurity, data science, engineering, business, journalism, international studies, mathematics, science, humanities and social sciences.

For 2026/27, international undergraduate tuition varies by program, with official Fall/Winter figures ranging from approximately CAD $41,384 for many Arts programs to more than CAD $57,000 for programs such as Computer Science and Engineering when compulsory fees are included. Carleton has also announced that international undergraduate tuition rates are frozen for the 2026–27 through 2028–29 academic years.

International students can access entrance scholarships, dedicated international student services, residence options, co-op opportunities and international exchange programs.

Students considering Carleton should compare their intended program's admission requirements, exact tuition, scholarship eligibility, accommodation costs and application deadlines before applying. All fees and requirements should be verified against Carleton University's latest official information before submitting an application.