Memorial University of Newfoundland

Memorial University of Newfoundland: Courses, Fees, Admission & International Student Guide

Memorial University of Newfoundland is a public university in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. Founded in 1925 as a memorial to Newfoundlanders who lost their lives during the First World War, the university has grown into one of the country's major comprehensive universities.

Memorial University offers undergraduate, graduate and professional programs across a wide range of disciplines. Its main campus is located in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, with additional campuses and facilities in other locations.

For international students, Memorial University provides opportunities to study in fields ranging from business and computer science to engineering, medicine, marine studies, science, humanities and social sciences.

What is Memorial University of Newfoundland Known For?

Memorial University is known for its broad academic offering, research activities and connection to Newfoundland and Labrador.

The university has several distinctive areas of study and research, including:

• Marine and ocean sciences
• Engineering
• Computer science
• Business
• Earth sciences
• Biology
• Environmental science
• Medicine
• Nursing
• Education
• Humanities
• Social sciences

Its location in St. John's also gives the university a strong connection to Atlantic Canada's marine environment.

Memorial's academic structure includes several faculties and schools, allowing students to choose from undergraduate, graduate and professional programs.

Rankings – Memorial University of Newfoundland

Memorial University is regularly included in international and Canadian university rankings.

However, rankings can vary depending on the organization, methodology and academic subject being measured. Students should therefore consider rankings alongside other factors such as program quality, tuition, location, research opportunities, facilities and career prospects.

For international students, the specific program and campus can be more important than the university's overall ranking.

Why Do University Rankings Matter?

University rankings can provide a general indication of an institution's academic and research profile, but they should not be the only factor considered when choosing a university.

Students researching Memorial University should also evaluate:

• Their intended program
• Tuition fees
• Admission requirements
• Scholarships
• Living costs
• Campus location
• Co-op opportunities
• Research facilities
• Career support
• International student services

This broader approach gives students a better understanding of what studying at Memorial University could actually involve.

Quick Facts About Memorial University

Category	Details
University	Memorial University of Newfoundland
Type	Public university
Founded	1925
Country	Canada
Province	Newfoundland and Labrador
Main Campus	St. John's
Language of Instruction	English
International Students	Yes
Undergraduate Programs	Yes
Master's Programs	Yes
Doctoral Programs	Yes
Major Areas	Business, Engineering, Science, Computer Science, Marine Studies, Health, Arts and more
Main International Undergraduate Tuition	Approximately CAD 22,500 for two semesters
Application Fee	CAD 300 for international undergraduate applicants
IELTS Requirement	6.5 overall, with at least 6.0 in Reading and Writing

Is Memorial University a Good Choice for International Students?

Memorial University has a substantial international student community and welcomes students from many countries.

International students can choose from a wide range of academic programs and can access services designed to support their transition to studying in Canada.

The university's location in Newfoundland and Labrador also offers a different experience from studying in larger Canadian cities such as Toronto or Vancouver.

St. John's is a smaller Canadian city with a strong community atmosphere and a distinctive coastal environment.

Students interested in marine science, engineering, environmental studies, business, computer science and other disciplines may find the university's academic environment particularly relevant to their goals.

Campuses and Locations

St. John's Campus

The St. John's campus is Memorial University's main campus.

Located in Newfoundland and Labrador's capital city, it houses a large portion of the university's academic departments, research facilities, student services and recreational facilities.

Students can access:

• Libraries
• Laboratories
• Lecture halls
• Research centres
• Student residences
• Sports facilities
• Student support services
• Dining facilities
• Study spaces

Grenfell Campus

Memorial's Grenfell Campus is located in Corner Brook, Newfoundland and Labrador.

The campus offers undergraduate programs in areas including arts, business, science, environment and social sciences.

Its smaller setting provides students with a different campus experience compared with the larger St. John's campus.

Marine Institute

The Marine Institute in St. John's is a specialized centre for education, training and research connected to marine and ocean industries.

Programs and facilities focus on areas such as:

• Marine transportation
• Fisheries
• Ocean technology
• Marine engineering
• Aquaculture
• Safety
• Maritime studies

This gives Memorial University a particularly strong connection to Canada's marine sector.

Courses at Memorial University of Newfoundland

Memorial University offers programs across many academic disciplines.

Business

Students interested in business can study areas such as:

• Business Administration
• Accounting
• Finance
• Marketing
• Human Resources
• Management
• Economics

Business programs can provide students with knowledge in accounting, marketing, organizational management, finance and entrepreneurship.

Computer Science

Computer science is another major study area at Memorial University.

Students can develop knowledge in subjects such as:

• Programming
• Software development
• Algorithms
• Data structures
• Database systems
• Artificial intelligence
• Computer networks
• Cybersecurity
• Information systems

Computer science graduates can pursue careers in software development, information technology, data-related roles and other technology fields.

Engineering

Memorial University offers engineering education across several disciplines.

Potential areas include:

• Civil Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Ocean and Naval Architectural Engineering
• Process Engineering

Engineering education combines theoretical study with practical applications and project-based learning.

The university's location and research strengths also create opportunities connected to ocean engineering and offshore industries.

Science

Science programs cover areas such as:

• Biology
• Biochemistry
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Mathematics
• Earth Sciences
• Environmental Science
• Marine Biology

Students can choose between general science education and more specialized pathways depending on their academic interests.

Marine and Ocean Studies

Marine and ocean-related education is one of Memorial University's distinctive areas.

Students can explore subjects involving:

• Ocean sciences
• Marine biology
• Fisheries
• Aquaculture
• Marine technology
• Ocean engineering
• Maritime transportation

The university's location in Newfoundland and Labrador provides an important natural environment for marine research and education.

Health Sciences

Memorial University also offers programs connected to healthcare and health sciences.

Academic options include areas such as:

• Medicine
• Nursing
• Pharmacy
• Psychology
• Biochemistry
• Nutrition-related studies

Admission requirements for professional health programs can be significantly different from general undergraduate programs.

Students should carefully review the requirements for their specific program.

Arts and Humanities

Students can study subjects including:

• English
• History
• Philosophy
• Languages
• Religious Studies
• Classics
• Folklore
• Communication

These programs can develop research, writing, communication and analytical skills.

Social Sciences

Social science programs include areas such as:

• Political Science
• Sociology
• Economics
• Anthropology
• Geography
• Psychology
• International Studies

These disciplines can prepare students for careers in public service, research, education, business, communications and related fields.

Popular Areas of Study

Some of the university's prominent study areas include:

• Engineering
• Computer Science
• Business
• Marine Studies
• Environmental Science
• Biology
• Medicine
• Nursing
• Earth Sciences
• Psychology
• Arts and Humanities
• Social Sciences

Students should select programs according to their academic interests and career plans rather than relying only on general popularity.

Student Life at Memorial University

Student life at Memorial University extends beyond academic classes.

Students can participate in:

• Student clubs
• Societies
• Sports
• Cultural activities
• Volunteer opportunities
• Campus events
• Academic organizations
• Recreational activities

The St. John's campus provides a large student environment while still offering access to the close-knit community associated with the city.

International students can meet classmates from Canada and other countries and participate in cultural and social activities.

Facilities and Campus Life

Memorial University provides a variety of academic and recreational facilities.

Students can access:

• Libraries
• Research laboratories
• Computer facilities
• Science facilities
• Engineering laboratories
• Student centres
• Sports facilities
• Fitness facilities
• Study areas
• Dining services
• Student residences

Specialized facilities are also available for marine and ocean-related education and research.

Careers and Employability

Memorial University provides students with opportunities to develop academic and practical skills that can be useful after graduation.

Depending on the program, students may have access to:

• Co-operative education
• Internships
• Research opportunities
• Career counselling
• Employer events
• Work-integrated learning
• Academic advising

Co-op opportunities can be particularly relevant in disciplines such as engineering, business and computer science.

Students should check whether their chosen program includes a mandatory or optional work placement.

Co-op and Work Experience

Work-integrated learning can help students connect classroom knowledge with professional experience.

Memorial University offers co-operative education in selected programs.

Students can gain exposure to professional environments and develop skills such as:

• Communication
• Teamwork
• Problem-solving
• Project management
• Technical skills
• Workplace professionalism

The availability and structure of co-op placements vary by program.

Tuition Fees at Memorial University

Memorial University is known for having comparatively accessible tuition in relation to many Canadian universities, although the actual cost depends on the program and number of courses taken.

For new international undergraduate students at the St. John's campus, the university's 2026–27 information lists approximately CAD 22,500 in tuition for two semesters.

Additional university and student fees may apply.

Students should also budget for:

• Accommodation
• Food
• Transportation
• Books
• Health insurance
• Personal expenses
• Study materials

Professional programs can have different tuition structures and additional costs.

Scholarships for International Students

Memorial University provides scholarship and financial-support opportunities for eligible students.

International students may be considered for entrance scholarships depending on their academic background and the applicable scholarship conditions.

Other funding opportunities may be available through faculties, departments or specific academic programs.

Scholarship eligibility can depend on:

• Academic performance
• Program
• Admission status
• Application timing
• Other eligibility criteria

Students should investigate scholarship opportunities before finalizing their study budget.

Admission Requirements

Admission requirements depend on the selected program and the applicant's educational background.

International undergraduate applicants generally need to provide academic records demonstrating completion of an appropriate secondary-school qualification.

Depending on the program, applicants may need specific prerequisite subjects such as:

• Mathematics
• Chemistry
• Physics
• Biology
• English
• Other program-specific subjects

Highly competitive programs can have additional requirements.

English Language Requirements

English is the primary language of instruction at Memorial University.

For undergraduate admission, the university currently lists an IELTS Academic score of 6.5 overall, with at least 6.0 in Reading and Writing.

Other approved English-language tests may also be accepted.

The exact language requirements can vary depending on the academic program and applicant's previous education.

Students should make sure their test meets the university's current requirements before submitting an application.

International Student Application Process

International applicants generally need to follow several steps.

Step 1: Select a Program

Choose the undergraduate or graduate program that matches your academic interests and career goals.

Step 2: Review Requirements

Check academic prerequisites, English-language requirements and any program-specific conditions.

Step 3: Prepare Documents

Common documents include:

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

Step 4: Submit the Application

Complete the university's application process and pay the applicable application fee.

For international undergraduate applicants, the application fee is currently CAD 300.

Step 5: Wait for the Admission Decision

Once the university has received the required information, the application can be assessed.

Applicants should regularly monitor their application status and respond to requests for additional documentation.

Intakes at Memorial University

Memorial University generally offers major admission periods around the academic year.

The most common undergraduate intake is Fall, beginning in September.

Some programs may also offer admission during:

• Winter
• Spring
• Other program-specific periods

Not every program is available during every intake, so applicants should check the intake applicable to their selected course.

Accommodation for Students

Memorial University provides student residence options, particularly at the St. John's campus.

Students can choose from different residence arrangements depending on availability.

Accommodation costs vary according to:

• Residence type
• Room type
• Meal-plan requirements
• Campus
• Length of stay

International students should apply for accommodation early because residence availability can be limited.

Students living off campus can also explore private rental options in St. John's or Corner Brook.

Cost of Living in St. John's

St. John's generally has a different cost profile from Canada's largest cities.

International students should budget for:

• Rent
• Groceries
• Transportation
• Utilities
• Mobile phone
• Internet
• Entertainment
• Personal expenses

Actual costs vary considerably depending on accommodation type and lifestyle.

Sharing accommodation can help students reduce monthly housing costs.

International Student Support

Memorial University provides services intended to help international students adjust to university life in Canada.

Support can cover areas such as:

• Immigration-related information
• Academic advising
• Orientation
• Health and wellness
• Housing
• Career development
• Cultural adjustment
• Student activities

International students can also participate in campus organizations and events to build social and professional connections.

Research Opportunities

Research is an important part of Memorial University's academic environment.

The university conducts research in fields including:

• Ocean sciences
• Marine technology
• Engineering
• Health
• Environmental science
• Natural resources
• Social sciences
• Humanities
• Business

Graduate students can pursue research-based master's and doctoral programs in relevant disciplines.

Undergraduate students may also have opportunities to participate in research depending on their faculty and program.

Why Study in Newfoundland and Labrador?

Studying in Newfoundland and Labrador provides students with a different Canadian experience from the country's largest urban centres.

The province offers:

• Coastal environments
• Outdoor recreation
• Marine industries
• Strong cultural heritage
• Smaller-city communities
• Research opportunities
• Access to Atlantic Canada

St. John's combines university life with the culture and history of Newfoundland and Labrador.

Students who prefer a smaller urban environment may find the setting different from studying in Toronto or Vancouver.

Post-Graduation Work Opportunities

International students considering Memorial University should understand Canada's current post-graduation work-permit rules before selecting a program.

Eligibility depends on factors such as:

• Program
• Study format
• Program length
• Institution
• Current immigration regulations

Students should verify the requirements that apply to their specific program before making an enrolment decision.

Graduates may pursue employment in fields related to their studies, depending on their qualifications and applicable Canadian work authorization.

The Honest Verdict – Is Memorial University Right for You?

Memorial University offers a broad Canadian university experience with strong connections to Newfoundland and Labrador.

Its academic options span business, computer science, engineering, science, health, marine studies, arts and social sciences.

The university's location can be an important factor. Students who want to live in a smaller Canadian city and experience Atlantic Canada may find St. John's quite different from Canada's largest metropolitan areas.

International applicants should pay particular attention to tuition, program-specific admission requirements, English-language requirements and current immigration rules.

Memorial University May Suit Students Who...

• Want to study at a Canadian public university
• Are interested in engineering
• Want to study computer science
• Are interested in marine and ocean sciences
• Want to study business
• Are interested in environmental science
• Want healthcare-related education
• Prefer studying in Atlantic Canada
• Want access to research opportunities
• Are interested in co-op or work-integrated learning

Students Should Carefully Consider...

• The specific program's admission requirements
• Total tuition and living expenses
• The location of the campus
• Availability of their preferred intake
• Current PGWP rules
• Accommodation availability
• Program-specific career outcomes

Frequently Asked Questions About Memorial University

Is Memorial University of Newfoundland a public university?

Yes. Memorial University of Newfoundland is a public university in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.

Where is Memorial University located?

Its main campus is in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador. Memorial also has the Grenfell Campus in Corner Brook and the Marine Institute in St. John's.

How much is tuition for international undergraduate students?

For new international undergraduate students at the St. John's campus, tuition for two semesters in 2026–27 is approximately CAD 22,500.

What IELTS score does Memorial University require?

The undergraduate IELTS requirement is currently 6.5 overall, with at least 6.0 in Reading and Writing.

Does Memorial University accept international students?

Yes. Memorial University welcomes international students across its undergraduate and graduate programs.

Does Memorial University offer Computer Science?

Yes. Computer Science is available as an academic field, with programs covering areas such as programming, software development, algorithms, databases and related technology subjects.

Does Memorial University offer Engineering?

Yes. Engineering programs include several disciplines, including civil, electrical, mechanical, process and ocean and naval architectural engineering.

Is Memorial University good for marine studies?

Memorial has significant academic and research activity connected to marine and ocean sciences, supported in part by its location and the Marine Institute.

Does Memorial University provide accommodation?

Yes. Student residence options are available, particularly at the St. John's campus, subject to availability.

Does Memorial University offer scholarships?

Yes. Eligible students can access scholarship opportunities, including entrance scholarships and other forms of financial support.

What is Memorial University known for?

The university is known for its broad academic programs and research, with notable areas including engineering, marine and ocean studies, science, business, health and environmental research.

Does Memorial University offer co-op programs?

Yes. Co-operative education is available in selected programs, allowing eligible students to gain practical work experience alongside their academic studies.

A Final Word – Studying at Memorial University of Newfoundland

Memorial University of Newfoundland offers international students the opportunity to study at a Canadian public university in the distinctive environment of Newfoundland and Labrador.

With programs across business, computer science, engineering, marine studies, science, health, arts and social sciences, students have many academic pathways to explore.

The university's relatively moderate international undergraduate tuition, research opportunities and connections to marine and engineering industries are important factors to consider.

At the same time, students should look beyond tuition when planning their education. Accommodation, living costs, program requirements, career opportunities and immigration rules all play a role in the overall study experience.

Before applying, prospective students should review the exact requirements and costs for their chosen program and intake.

For students interested in Atlantic Canada, research, engineering, marine studies, science, business or a broad Canadian university education, Memorial University provides a distinctive academic environment worth exploring.