Universities in Canada Accepting 3 Years Bachelors Degree: Eligibility Criteria, Application Process

Content Writer - Study Abroad | Updated On - Oct 7, 2024

While choosing Canada to pursue your master's studies, it is important to check if the university accepts your undergraduate degree. It is crucial for Indian students, as most Indian undergraduate arts, commerce, and sciences undergraduate programs are structured as 3-year degrees. Whereas, in countries like the USA and Canada, a 4-year bachelor's degree is more common.

Canada has always been a top destination for prospective Indian students going abroad due to its quality of education, affordability, and post-study options. Since accepting 3-year bachelor's degrees by Canadian universities is not common, some top universities accept 3-year degrees. Many universities evaluate degrees on a case-by-case basis, often considering factors like:

Reputation of the institution: Degrees from recognized and accredited Indian universities are more likely to be accepted.
Field of study: Certain fields, such as engineering or business, may have stricter criteria than others.
Academic performance: Strong academic records like a high GPA or percentage might help.
Work experience: If you have a minimum work experience of 2–3 years, it might offset the 4-year degree requirement.

List of Universities Accepting 3-year Bachelor Degrees in Canada

To be eligible for master's programs in Canada, you need 16 years of education (12 years of schooling+4-year bachelor's degree). Some of the top universities in Canada accepting 15 years of education or simply 3 years of Bachelor’s courses for their Master’s programs are tabulated below:

QS Ranking 2025	University	Average Tuition Fees/ year
#25	University of Toronto	31,880 to 121,600 CAD
#362	York University	10,133 to 123,732 CAD
#38	University of British Columbia	9,131 to 74,464 CAD
#29	McGill University	27,447 to 67,572 CAD
#319	Simon Fraser University	5,998 to 66,390 CAD
#96	University of Alberta	7,604 to 45,482
#801-850	Toronto Metropolitan University	19,185 to 38,472 CAD
#661-670	University of Manitoba	8,859 to 31,824 CAD

Eligibility Criteria for Masters in Canada

To be eligible for a master's in Canada, you need to have the following

Minimum GPA of 3.0/4.0 (70-75%) or its equivalent international UG degree in a related field of study.
Test scores such as GMAT or GRE
- GMAT score: 550
- GRE scores: 160 in both sections
Proof of English proficiency:
- TOEFL: 80-100
- IELTS: 6.5-7.0
1–3 years of work experience in a few master's programs such as business/ management
Certified academic transcripts and certificates
Updated CV/ resume
References or Letters of Recommendation
Personal statements/ writing samples
Copy of Passport
Proof of scholarship or funding
Canada Student Visa

Key Facts for Students with 3-years Bachelor's Degree

Here are some key takeouts while applying to study in Canada with a 3-year bachelor’s degree.

Pre-master programs: Canadian universities may require Indian students with 3-year degrees to enroll in a pre-master’s program or complete additional coursework before being eligible for a full master’s degree program.
Work Experience and Certifications: In highly competitive programs like MBA or engineering, applicants with a 3-year bachelor’s degree are required to have relevant work experience of 3–5 years.
Academic performance: If you have a 3-year bachelor's degree from a recognized Indian institution will have a stronger case.
Field of Study: Applying for arts, social sciences, or humanities programs may have an easier time getting admission with a 3-year degree in comparison to STEM fields.
Comparison with USA and UK: A 4-year bachelor's degree is always required for USA and UK, while Canadian universities are more lenient about accepting 3-year degrees.
Work Permit: Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows students to work in Canada for up to 3 years after completing their studies.

The number of overseas institutes that recognize a 3-year bachelor's degree in Canada as part of the Indian education system is increasing. The ever-increasing number of Indian students seeking to study abroad is one of the key reasons behind this.

FAQs

Ques: Does Canada accept 3-year bachelor's degrees?

Ans: Many Canadian universities like the University of Toronto, York University, and University of British Columbia accept a 3-year bachelor’s degree.

Ques: Which countries accept a 3-year bachelor's degree?

Ans: Countries like UK, Australia, Canada, US accept a 3-year bachelors degree for admission of international students.

Ques: Does University of Toronto accept 3-year degree for Masters?

Ans: Yes, the University of Toronto accepts 3-year degrees for masters. However, it might differ depending on your chosen master's degree.

Ques: What is a 3-year college degree called in Canada?

Ans: A 3-year college degree is called a bachelor degree in Canada.