Top Canadian Universities Ranked in QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025
In the latest edition of the QS World University Rankings by Subject, several Canadian universities have secured positions among the top 100 institutions globally across a wide range of disciplines.
Published by the reputable Quacquarelli Symonds (QS), the 15th edition of this subject ranking evaluates 55 academic fields under five broad categories:
The Five Major Subject Areas
Engineering and Technology
Life Sciences and Medicine
Natural Sciences
Arts and Humanities
Social Sciences and Management
Top Canadian University Rankings by Subject in 2025
| University | Engineering & Technology | Life Sciences & Medicine | Natural Sciences | Arts & Humanities | Social Sciences & Management |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Toronto (UofT) | Rank 17 | Rank 13 | Rank 20 | Rank 14 | Rank 14 |
| University of British Columbia (UBC) | Rank 31 | Rank 25 | Rank 22 | Rank 19 | Rank 20 |
| McGill University | Rank 45 | Rank 27 | Rank 48 | Rank 36 | Rank 39 |
| University of Waterloo | Rank 47 | – | – | – | – |
| McMaster University | – | Rank 59 | – | – | – |
| University of Alberta | – | Rank 86 | – | – | – |
Academic Disciplines Covered in Each Category
Engineering & Technology:
Data Engineering, Artificial Intelligence, Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Petroleum, and Mining Engineering
Life Sciences & Medicine:
Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Veterinary Medicine, Psychology, Physiology, Agriculture
Natural Sciences:
Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Earth Sciences, Oceanography, Environmental Sciences, Astronomy
Arts & Humanities:
English Literature, Modern Languages, History, Linguistics, Architecture, Music, Philosophy, Theatre
Social Sciences & Management:
Accounting, Economics, Political Science, Communications, Education, Management, Marketing, Sociology, Law
QS Ranking Methodology
The QS Subject Rankings are based on five key indicators:
Academic Reputation:
Which universities are most respected by academics and researchers?
Employer Reputation:
How do employers rate graduates from each university?
Research Citations per Paper:
How often are academic publications cited?
H-index:
A measure of research quality and impact.
International Research Network:
Collaboration with global institutions and universities on research projects.
How to Apply for a Canadian Study Permit
If you’re planning to study at a Designated Learning Institution (DLI) in Canada, you’ll need a Study Permit. Here’s what you need to know:
:Required Documents
Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a DLI
Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL or TAL)
Financial documents showing ability to pay tuition and living expenses
Passport and identification documents
Passport-size photos
Payment of application fees
Minimum Proof of Funds (Excluding Tuition Fees)
| Family Size | Minimum Annual Living Expenses (CAD) |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $20,635 |
| 2 people | $25,690 |
| 3 people | $31,583 |
| 4 people | $38,346 |
| 5 people | $43,492 |
| 6 people | $49,051 |
| 7 people | $54,611 |
| Additional person | +$5,559 per person |
Steps to Apply for a Study Permit in Canada
Choose a program and DLI
Receive a Letter of Acceptance (LOA)
Gather documents and apply online
Obtain a PAL or TAL from the relevant province
Submit the final Study Permit application
Receive a Port of Entry (POE) letter + temporary visa or eTA
Tip: If you’re bringing a spouse, check if they qualify for an Open Work Permit (SOWP)