The University of Manitoba, located in Winnipeg, is one of Canada’s fastest-growing and oldest universities. Established in 1877, the university has continued to attract and offer admission to both domestic and international applicants. Presently, the university offers over 100 graduate programs across the humanities, sciences, engineering, health sciences, and fine arts. It is particularly attractive to international applicants due to its affordable tuition fees and graduate funding opportunities.
All admitted applicants are considered for scholarships. The available scholarships at the university include Entrance Scholarships, which are awarded automatically to eligible students and do not require a separate application. Other funding opportunities include teaching assistantships, research assistantships, as well as faculty-specific fellowships awarded based on merit. Students can also compete for major Canadian awards such as the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) scholarships and provincial awards.
The university usually opens applications for its Fall intake 16 months before the start date. For Fall 2027, applications will open in July 2026. The University of Manitoba does not generally advertise application fee waivers for international graduate applicants. However, some departments may provide assistance to exceptional applicants on a case-by-case basis if contacted early. You are advised to contact your department to inquire about its current fee waiver policy. Currently, UManitoba charges a CAD $130 application fee.
Applicants need to have the following documents before applying for graduate programs, although requirements differ by faculty and department.
Transcripts: International applicants must possess a four-year bachelor’s degree with a minimum B average from a reputable and recognized institution. The GPA requirement is 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, or a B average calculated from your most recent 60 credit hours. Unofficial copies of transcripts, along with certificates from all post-secondary institutions attended, must be uploaded to the University of Manitoba application portal. Official transcripts and degree certificates in sealed and endorsed envelopes from previous institutions will only be requested if you are provisionally admitted.
English Language Proficiency (ELP): International students must provide proof of English language proficiency. Common minimum requirements include an IELTS (Academic) score of 6.5 overall or an internet-based TOEFL score of 86, with no section score below 20.
Letters of Recommendation: Usually, two to three academic references are required. Applicants will submit their referees’ email addresses through the application portal so that the university can contact them directly. Some departments require applicants to secure a potential faculty supervisor before applying.
Statement of Intent/Research Statement: This document outlines your research interests, goals, and reasons for wanting to study at the University of Manitoba. It is usually between 500 and 1,000 words. Applicants are advised to be direct when discussing their research goals and to support their claims with relevant experiences.
Curriculum Vitae (CV) or Résumé: A clear summary of your academic achievements and work experience. There should be consistency between your CV, Statement of Intent, and letters of recommendation.
Passport and Immigration Documents: Applicants must possess a valid passport and obtain a study permit through the Government of Canada immigration services. Proof of funds and medical examinations may also be required.
Click here to check the exact degree requirements and language score requirements for your country using the University of Manitoba Degree Equivalencies Guide.
