The University of Toronto is about to start its new semester. As one of the most internationally renowned universities in Canada, U of T has always attracted much attention. And the University of Toronto acceptance rate is a topic of great concern to many people.
This blog will look in-depth at the University of Toronto’s acceptance rate. What is the average University of Toronto acceptance rate? What are the chances of being admitted to the University of Toronto? What are the majors with the highest and lowest U of T acceptance rate? What is the trend of the University of Toronto’s acceptance rate? Which countries or regions do international students mainly come from? Etc.
University of Toronto: Overview
Founded in 1827, the University of Toronto (U of T) is famous for its academic excellence, ingenuity and innovation. It has three distinct campuses: St. George Campus, Mississauga Campus(UTM) and Scarborough Campus(UTSC), offering more than 700 undergraduate programs and 200 graduate programs. When studying at the University of Toronto, students can not only get access to world-class faculty and resources, but they’ll also network with alumni and leaders from all walks of life around the globe, which can be very beneficial to their future personal development.
The University of Toronto is a member of the U15 Group of Canadian Research Universities, the Association of American Universities, and the Association of Commonwealth Universities. The University is also ranked among the best universities in the world.
University of Toronto Rankings
- 2025 QS World University Rankings: 25th in the world
- 2024-2025 Best Global Universities Rankings: 17th in the world
- 2024-2025 Best Universities in Canada Rankings: 1st
- 2024 Times Higher Education Rankings: 21st in the world
University of Toronto Acceptance Rate
The University of Toronto is one of the most popular universities in the world. Countless students from different countries and regions come here to study every year. At the same time, competition at the University of Toronto is becoming increasingly fierce. The University of Toronto acceptance rate of its top majors and Rotman School of Management is pretty low. Let’s look at the enrollment report to find out more information.
U of T Admissions Overview
The University of Toronto received nearly 160,000 undergraduate and graduate applications and admitted more than 86,000 students. The average University of Toronto acceptance rate is 43%. This means that for every 100 applicants, only 43 outstanding students can enter campus and start studying, while the other 57 will miss out on their dream university. Here are some detailed data.
The total full-time student enrollment at the University of Toronto for Fall 23 was 88,652, including 68,228 undergraduate students and 20,424 graduate students.
U of T Acceptance Rate - Undergraduate Enrolment
Undergraduate students make up 77% of total enrollment in more than 700 academic programs. Seven of the university’s academic departments offer direct-entry undergraduate programs, which allow students to enter directly from high school without prior postsecondary education. Almost 9 out of 10 undergraduates are enrolled in one of these direct-entry programs. The College of Arts and Sciences has the highest percentage of students at 40.4%.
| Undergraduate FTEs Fall 2023 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Actual | Growth | |
| St. George Campus | 43,372 | 3.1% |
| Mississauga Campus(UTM) | 13,238 | 5.6% |
| Scarborough Campus(UTSC) | 11,619 | 4.0% |
| Direct Entry | 60,429 | 3.9% |
| 2nd Entry | 7,799 | 2.1% |
| Total | 68,228 | 3.7% |
U of T Acceptance Rate - Graduate Enrolment
As a world-leading research university, graduate programs are vital to institutional development. Graduate students attending the University are enrolled in the School of Graduate Studies, and these programs are based on academic units. Each of the University’s 18 academic departments offers graduate programs leading to a professional master’s degree, a research master’s degree, or a doctoral degree.
As of the fall of 2023, the total number of graduate students is 20,424, including 9,913 professional masters (taught), 2,896 academic masters (research), and 8,195 doctoral students. In terms of the number of students, research masters are the least and the most difficult to apply for.
| Graduate FTEs Fall 2023 |
||
|---|---|---|
| Actual | Growth | |
| Prof’l Masters | 9,698 | 0.3% |
| Res. Maters | 2,646 | -6.3% |
| Doctoral | 7,861 | 0.5% |
| Total | 68,228 | 3.70% |
The number of full-time graduate students decreased by 102 compared to last year, resulting in a negative difference of 579 compared to the plan. While full-time graduate enrollment is down slightly this year, the University of Toronto has made it a strategic priority over the past sixteen years to increase graduate enrollment and graduate enrollment ratios at all three campuses to move closer to leading international research levels.
U of T to expand enrollment in certain majors:
The University of Toronto has experienced considerable growth in education over the past two decades, and today the school is entering a period of more focused expansion. Enrollment is projected to increase by about 5,800 over the next five years, including 3,700 undergraduate and 2,100 graduate programs.
This growth trend will be concentrated in St. George and UTSC campuses, involving undergraduate and graduate health and human resources, data science and non-professional education program areas.
U of T Acceptance Rate - International Enrolment
There are 26,942 full-time international students at the University of Toronto, representing 30.4% of total full-time enrolment in 2023-24 and 32.9% of the fall undergraduate students. International students represent a higher percentage of total full-time enrollment at the University of Toronto Scarborough Campus (34.4%) than at the St. George Campus (30.2%) and the Mississauga Campus (27.8%).
The number of international students varies significantly by academic program, with a larger proportion of international students enrolled in first-entry undergraduate programs (33.1%) and a lower proportion in second-entry professional programs (16.1%) and doctoral programs (12.4%).
| Year | International Undergraduate Students | International Graduate Students | Percentage of Total Students |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2016-17 | 12,902 | 2,995 | 20.3% |
| 2017-18 | 14,218 | 3,104 | 21.9% |
| 2018-19 | 15,452 | 3,506 | 23.5% |
| 2019-20 | 16,928 | 3,992 | 25.4% |
| 2020-21 | 18,570 | 4,159 | 26.8% |
| 2021-22 | 19,809 | 4,905 | 28.8% |
| 2022-23 | 20,343 | 5,343 | 29.8% |
| 2023-24 | 21,240 | 5,702 | 30.4% |
From the figure, we can see that the number and proportion of international students have been on an upward trend over the past years.
BUT! According to the international student admissions plan announced by the University of Toronto, the proportion of international undergraduate students in 2023 has basically reached its peak.
In the plan for the fall of 2028, the percentage of undergraduate international students is controlled at 31.2%, with only an increase of 0.1% from the current level. This means that in subsequent applications of undergraduate students, if no expansion in enrollment, competition for international students will continuously increase. In the face of this trend, applicants need to highlight their strengths and characteristics even more in order to stand out from the fierce competition.
Percentage of Undergraduate Students by Country: China Has the Highest Percentage
As of the fall of 2023, there are 13,167 Chinese students at the University of Toronto, accounting for 55.3% of the total international students. However, the number of international students from China has begun to show a downward trend since 2022. At the same time, the number of international students from other countries is increasing significantly.
After U of T Admission: Student Retention Rate
After successfully entering the University of Toronto and starting your studies, it is also important to achieve good grades and successfully enter the next grade and graduate. Therefore, the University of Toronto also emphasized the concept of the student retention rate for freshmen in its enrolment report.
Among students in direct-entry undergraduate programs at the University of Toronto, 91% of first-year students successfully progress to second year.
In comparison, the first-year retention rate of the University of British Columbia(UBC) is 92%, including 91% for international students. It is worth noting that the U of T report does not list the retention rate of international students separately.
While the University of Toronto’s 91% first-year retention rate seems high, it also means that 9% of students fail to make it to their second year. According to the data reported for the fall of 2023, more than 20,150 new undergraduates enrolled, which means that approximately 1,809 students had problems in the transition period during their first year.
The report also notes that the first year is a particularly important transition. And retention rates will improve as students adjust to college life and academics.
U of T Acceptance Requirements: Grades Are Not the Only Thing
English Language Requirements
English is the language of instruction and examination at the University of Toronto, and a high level of English proficiency is required to successfully complete all degree programs and pass exams and theses to graduate.
If English is not your first language (i.e. it was not the first language you learned at home as a child), you will need to provide adequate evidence of your English language proficiency to be considered for U of T admission, unless you meet an exemption.
Below is a list of tests/qualifications that the University of Toronto accepts as evidence of English proficiency.
| Test/Qualification | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Cambridge English C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency |
A minimum overall score of 180, with at least 170 in each component. |
| CAEL, including CAEL Online | Minimum an overall score of 70 and no part below 60 |
| Caribbean Examinations Council English courses | Minimum a final grade of A (I) or B (II) in CSEC English. |
| Duolingo English Test | The Duolingo English Test is updating their scoring system. |
| ELDA/COPE | Minimum: a total score of 86. 32 in Writing and 22 in each of Reading and Listening Discretionary Range: total score 80 or higher, 32 in Writing and 22 in each of Reading and Listening |
| GCSE/IGCSE/GCE/AICE English | A minimum final grade of “B” (“6” in reformed qualifications) in GCSE/IGCSE/GCE Ordinary Level English, English Language, or English as a Second Language; OR a minimum final or predicted grade of “C” in GCE A Level/AS Level/AICE English or English Language. Note that IGCSE English as an Additional Language is not accepted. |
| IB English | At least 4 (predicted or final) in Higher or Standard Level English A: Literature or English A: Language and Literature. HL English B is not acceptable. |
| IELTS Academic (including IELTS Online) | Minimum an overall band of 6.5, with no band below 6.0. Results from IELTS (Academic) for UKVI test sittings are accepted. |
| PTE Academic | Minimum an overall score of 65 with no part below 60. Results from PTE (Academic) UKVI test sittings are accepted. |
| TOEFL iBT (including Home/Paper Edition) | Minimum a total score of 89 with 22 in each of Speaking and Writing. |
| University of Toronto School of Continuing Studies “Academic English” course | Minimum a grade of “B” at the 60/Advanced level. |
| University Studies | The minimum requirement is one year of full-time study completed at a recognized university in a country where English is the dominant language. At least four full-year transferable courses completed with a grade of “C” in each are required. Courses in progress will also be considered. A current, updated transcript is required. |
Prerequisites for Your Intended Area of Study
Different programs and campuses have different prerequisites and grade requirements, which you can review carefully before you start preparing your application.
In addition to excellent grades...
There is no shortage of outstanding talents among students who want to apply to the University of Toronto.
According to the latest statistics from the Ontario Universities Application Centre (OUAC), 45% of University of Toronto new students have a high school average score of 90%+. And in Ontario, one in five high school graduates with an average score of more than 90% choose to study at the University of Toronto.
However! Grades are only part of the assessment. The University of Toronto values new students’ comprehensive qualities such as leadership, community service, interpersonal skills, and life experiences, which are also important considerations for admission.
Therefore, at the University of Toronto, students are not just representations of their grade numbers, but individuals with comprehensive qualities and potential.
Top Programs at the University of Toronto
Renowned for its rigorous academic programs and groundbreaking research opportunities, the University of Toronto consistently ranks among the world’s top universities.
The three campuses offer more than 700 programs, so whether you’re more inclined towards science, engineering, literature or the arts, you’ll be able to find a direction that interests you and develop your skills in many areas. Before you decide to apply for your interested major, remember to check the University of Toronto acceptance rate on this program. You may be hard to be admitted if the major is popular.
Here are some of the best professional courses in U of T for your reference:
UofT Applied Science & Engineering
The University of Toronto’s Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering is ranked as one of the best engineering faculties in Canada, and every program in the faculty is highly competitive, with a low University of Toronto acceptance rate.
The faculty of Engineering offers both undergraduate and graduate programs. It provides students with world-class facilities, opportunities for hands-on experience, and a network of industry partners. Students can take courses ranging from mechanical and electrical engineering to computer science and engineering, all of which are skills and knowledge needed to succeed in today’s fast-changing world.
UofT Computer Science
The University of Toronto’s Department of Computer Science is one of the strongest in the world. However, the University of Toronto acceptance rate of CS has fluctuated between 5-10% in recent years, with application scores above 95% and an average score approaching 98%. This is one of the most difficult majors to apply for.
Ongoing close collaboration with the industry is one of the key factors. Database, AI (Artificial Intelligence), and Machine Learning are at the forefront of the world. Some of the courses in Machine Learning are taught by Geoffrey Hinton, who is known as the “father of neural networks” and the “pioneer of deep learning”.
While teaching emphasizes the diversity of theories, it also attaches great importance to practical ability. In the paid internship program (PEYCo-op), students can fully practice what they have learned and prepare for future employment.
Data science and artificial intelligence are both in high demand, and U of T’s programs are among the best in the world. Students here have solid theoretical knowledge and rich practical experience, so they are very popular with employers. Many computer science students have found jobs even before graduation.
UofT Rotman Business
Rotman School of Business is the graduate business school of the University of Toronto. Located in the bustling city center of Toronto, it occupies a central position both in terms of location and in terms of global business education. At the same time, Rotman School of Business is one of the most respected business schools in North America. Its faculty are some of the most experienced and knowledgeable in the field, providing students with a wealth of experience.
As an internationally renowned research and academic center, Rotman School of Business is not only proud of its innovative educational methods and excellent research, but also known for its extensive industry connections and excellent global network. The school has always strived to stay at the forefront of business education, research and innovation. The average University of Toronto acceptance rate of Rotman is about 10%. When applying, you need to have good academic performance and professional qualities.
In addition to these three majors, there are some other programs at the University of Toronto that are also ranked high in the world according to the latest rankings released by Times Higher Education:
- Psychology: 10th
- Education: 9th
- Arts & Humanities: 13th
- Social Sciences: 24th
- Business & Economics: 24th
- Clinical & Health: 9th
- Law: 21st
- Physical Sciences: 25th
- Life Sciences: 27th
Tips: How to Improve Your Chances of Admission
Although the University of Toronto acceptance rate is not high, when you are applying to your dream university, you can do some preparation in advance to increase your chances of being admitted. Here are some suggestions:
- Plan Ahead
Consider the choice of university, major and programs in advance, set goals for yourself, and develop a reasonable action plan.
- Study hard
First of all, studying hard and having excellent grades are the basis for improving your chances of U of T acceptance. Complete course assignments carefully, actively participate in extracurricular activities, and constantly expand your knowledge, professional qualities and comprehensive abilities.
- Comprehensive personal qualities
Actively participating in community service and volunteer activities can also increase your competitive advantage. By serving others and participating in public welfare, you can demonstrate your sense of social responsibility and teamwork spirit.
Reading a wide range of classic cultural books and excellent literature can help cultivate deep thinking and critical thinking skills. Such qualities will play an important role in writing application materials and interviews.
- Seek Recommendations
Getting a recommendation letter from a teacher or mentor is also one way to improve your chances of U of T acceptance. By asking someone with rich experience and willing to mentor you, they can evaluate your abilities, achievements and potential, and give you professional advice and feedback.
Cost of Living When Studying at The University of Toronto
In addition to focusing on the University of Toronto acceptance rate, other aspects of life also need to be considered when studying here, such as the cost of living in Toronto, including U of T tuition, U of T off-campus housing, transportation, and daily necessities, etc.
U of T tuition and off-campus housing are the two biggest expenses. U of T tuition varies depending on the major and grade, ranging from $61,720 to $71,560. Renting an apartment in Toronto costs about $2,000-2,500. If you want to save some money, shared accommodation is a more affordable option.
For transportation, you can buy a monthly pass for around $150. Don’t forget to use student discounts. Other living expenses, such as ingredients for your own cooking, going out with friends for entertainment, watching movies, fitness, etc., can be adjusted according to your budget plan. The cost of living in downtown Toronto is higher than that in Scarborough and Mississauga.
If you’re thinking about studying in Canada, it’s crucial to find the right student housing. That’s where uhomes.com comes in. It’s a reliable platform that helps students like you find the perfect place to live in Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa, Hamilton and many other cities. So far, they’ve helped more than 55,000 students successfully find their dream homes.
FAQ
Is the University of Toronto hard to get into?
Overall, getting into the University of Toronto may be not easy. The average U of T acceptance rate is 43%. This means that for every 100 applicants, only 43 outstanding students can enter campus and start studying.
What GPA does University of Toronto require?
Competition at the University of Toronto is fierce, and as an applicant, the higher your GPA, the better! Your GPA should be at least a 3.0. However, the average GPA of actual admitted students is usually much higher, typically around 3.7.
Is U of T better than NYU?
In the latest 2025 QS World University Rankings, the University of Toronto is ranked 25th and New York University is ranked 43rd, both of which are world-leading excellent universities.
What is the best major in U of T?
| Major | Ranking |
|---|---|
| Psychology | 10 |
| Education | 9 |
| Arts & Humanities | 13 |
| Social Sciences | 24 |
| Business & Economics | 24 |
| Clinical & Health | 9 |
| Law | 21 |
| Physical Sciences | 25 |
| Life Sciences | 27 |
How many Indian students are in UofT?
Of the 97,678 registered students at the University of Toronto, 2,405 are Indian. This number and proportion is growing.
Is the University of Toronto an Ivy League?
No, the Ivy League only includes universities in the United States, so the University of Toronto is not a member of the Ivy League.
