I wanted to go to a university in Canada as I believe that there are more opportunities for students, especially international students, to succeed in Canada. I chose SFU because they have a really great business program focused on the concentrations I wanted to pursue. It is a very well-known university in Canada and is still affordable! While it might not be known internationally, in the networking events or interviews that I have been to here, many employers have great things to say about the university. Additionally, I received a scholarship which was probably the deal breaker that made me choose SFU over any other university!
Course Curriculum :
The course material is extremely relevant. During my first year, much of the material being taught is what had already been covered in my grade 11&12 ISC commerce and accounts classes. But, since then I have learned a lot and specialized in the fields relevant to me. Many professors try to bring speakers to the class or share their personal industry experiences with us. The various clubs at the university also host networking events that are open to all students and this gives us a chance to connect with industry professionals.
Exams :
For the application, I submitted my grade 12 preliminary report card, and IELTS grades, and completed the supplemental application. For the supplemental application be sure to highlight the skills you've learned in your past work and volunteer experiences. Additionally, it would be helpful to mention the times you have worked well in teams or on projects. This is something that any business school would look for in a student and would thus value!
Placement :
Students have been successful in their placement opportunities. Many alumni have been placed at firms like the Big 4, Google, Amazon, etc. I find that co-op plays a big role in the job you secure in the future and I would definitely recommend doing co-op. Co-op allows you to build relevant industry experience while studying and most students are rehired after graduating from the institution they did a co-op with. I have also seen many students, who do not take part in extracurricular activities or part-time jobs, struggle to secure a job after graduation. Thus, I would say it all depends on you and the effort you put in.
Internship :
I am currently applying for co-oo jobs!
Events :
Unfortunately, SFU doesn't have much of campus life and is known to be a commuter school. There are various events held throughout the year (Fall Kickoff, MANY INDIAN EVENTS) but it's probably not the same as a bigger university. The library and research facilities however are very well built. We have different libraries on each of the three campuses and students are allowed to take classes on whichever campus they please. This allows for a difference in atmosphere and more engagement as well.
Fees :
Tuition expenses for 4 courses per semester (including insurance, but excluding housing): $12,000.
Scholarship :
Yes! In my first year, I received the India International Entrance Award. This award was based on academic merit for international students and thus, I did not have to apply for it. It was for $11,000.
Faculty :
The professors and the departments as a whole have been very approachable so far. They are always willing to help in the best way they can. Other faculty that are reputable at SFU are the Communications department and the Faculty of Applied Sciences. My friends who are enrolled in FAS really value the structure and teachings of the faculty.
Hostel :
I used to live on campus. Campus housing has single rooms and townhouses (for 4 people). The cost of each room is approximately $3000 per semester. The rooms are small but they are private rooms which definitely helps! Everyone on campus is extremely friendly and I would definitely recommend living on campus during your first year. I met almost all my friends through Residence and during the events held on the residence. There is a common dining hall that operates 24/7 for students who choose to take the meal plan. The meal plan costs approximately $2000 per semester. For those who do not want to take the meal plan, there are separate buildings that have kitchen units on each floor for you to cook. I now live in off-campus. The rent for an off-campus basement suite is usually anywhere between $600-1000 per person. This increases based on utilities, amenities, location, building type, etc.
