History
Simon Fraser University is one of Canada’s leading modern research universities. Founded in 1965, the university was established with a strong commitment to innovation, public engagement, and academic excellence. Since opening its doors, SFU has developed into a globally recognised institution with a strong research profile and a distinctive role in British Columbia’s higher education landscape.
Notable Alumni
Simon Fraser University has built a broad and influential alumni tradition across public life, business, science, technology, the arts, and community leadership. Its alumni community now includes more than 200,000 graduates living in more than 135 countries, reflecting the university’s growing national and international reach.
Strong Subjects
SFU is especially well known for computing science, engineering, business, economics, communication, criminology, education, environmental studies, health sciences, political science, and a wide range of arts and social sciences disciplines. The university is particularly recognised for combining academic breadth with strong professional relevance and interdisciplinary research.
Academic Structure
Simon Fraser University is organised into eight faculties: Applied Sciences, Arts and Social Sciences, Beedie School of Business, Communication, Art and Technology, Education, Environment, Health Sciences, and Science. This structure supports both disciplinary depth and interdisciplinary collaboration across the university’s three campuses.
Distinctive Features
One of SFU’s defining characteristics is the way it combines modern research intensity with a strong civic and community-oriented mission. It is known for innovation, public engagement, and a multi-campus identity spanning Burnaby, Vancouver, and Surrey. SFU also has a strong reputation for co-op opportunities, interdisciplinary learning, and a globally connected student experience.
Admissions
Undergraduate admission to SFU is competitive and academically focused. Applicants must meet general admission requirements, English language requirements, and quantitative and analytical skills requirements, while also satisfying any faculty- or program-specific subject requirements. Admission is based on evaluation of approved academic courses and competitive academic standing, and some programs such as SFU Beedie require a supplemental application in addition to academic results.
Summary
Simon Fraser University is a research-led, globally connected university with strong academic breadth, a modern institutional identity, and a strong public mission. It is especially attractive to students seeking academic ambition, interdisciplinary opportunity, and a university experience connected to innovation and real-world impact.
