Kwantlen Polytechnic University, known widely as KPU, is a public polytechnic university headquartered in Surrey, British Columbia and established in 1981. It operates five campuses across Metro Vancouver and welcomes international students from more than 100 countries each year.
The university runs 140+ programmes across business, design, health, science, arts, and trades, with English as the sole medium of instruction. KPU offers three yearly intakes (Fall, Spring, Summer) and is a preferred applied-learning route for Indian students seeking bachelor’s degrees, post-baccalaureate diplomas, and graduate diplomas. Compare KPU with peer universities in Canada before finalising your shortlist.
- Ranking: #95 in Canada, #742 globally (Collegedunia Study Abroad 2026)
- Acceptance rate: 60% (estimated)
- Intakes: September, January, May
- UG tuition: CAD 21,368 per year (INR 14.77 lakh)
- Graduate diploma tuition: CAD 26,674 per year (INR 18.44 lakh)
- Post-graduation work permit: Up to 3 years
Also Check: Master’s Universities in Canada
Most international programmes cost CAD 16,400 to CAD 26,400 per year (INR 11.34 lakh to INR 18.25 lakh) in tuition and mandatory fees. Every new international student is automatically considered for the KPU International Merit Scholarship worth CAD 5,000. Graduates of programmes 8 months or longer qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit valid up to 3 years, and can study in Canada with a Canadian study permit.
Exchange rate used: 1 CAD = INR 69.12 as of August 2026
Admission Status: Open (Spring 2027 intake). Limited-intake programmes closed on August 1, 2026 for Spring 2027 entry, while open-intake programmes accept applications until November 1, 2026. Summer 2027 applications are also open with a limited-intake deadline of December 1, 2026. Fall 2027 applications open on October 1, 2026 with a limited-intake deadline of March 1, 2027 and a final cutoff of July 1, 2027.
Table of Contents
- Popular Courses and Fees at Kwantlen Polytechnic University 2027
- Kwantlen Polytechnic University Admission 2027
- Kwantlen Polytechnic University Admission Requirements for Indian Applicants 2027
- Kwantlen Polytechnic University Acceptance Rate 2027
- Kwantlen Polytechnic University Fees and Cost of Living for Indian Students 2027
- Kwantlen Polytechnic University Campus, Facilities and Student Life
- Kwantlen Polytechnic University Scholarships 2027
- Kwantlen Polytechnic University Rankings 2027
- Kwantlen Polytechnic University Placements and Career Outcomes 2027
- Kwantlen Polytechnic University vs Peer Universities
- Kwantlen Polytechnic University FAQs
Popular Courses and KPU Fees at Kwantlen Polytechnic University 2027
Kwantlen Polytechnic University charges per-credit tuition, and most full-time international students pay between CAD 16,400 and CAD 26,400 annually. Graduate diplomas run one year, post-baccalaureate diplomas run two years, and bachelor’s programmes run four years. Fees for the Surrey Tech and standard campuses match at the same per-credit rate.
Top Post-Baccalaureate and Graduate Diploma Programmes at Kwantlen Polytechnic University
Each row shows the full-programme international fee at CAD 808.67 per credit for 2026-27, converted at 1 CAD = INR 69.12.
| Programme | Duration | Total Fee (CAD) | Total Fee (INR lakh) | Entry Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Graduate Diploma in Global Business Management | 1 year | 26,674 | 18.44 lakh | Bachelor’s with 55% or CGPA 5.5/10 (recommended) |
| Graduate Diploma in Green Business Management and Sustainability | 1 year | 26,674 | 18.44 lakh | Bachelor’s with 55% or CGPA 5.5/10 (recommended) |
| Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Operations and Supply Chain Management | 2 years | 42,736 | 29.54 lakh | Bachelor’s with 55% or CGPA 5.5/10 (recommended) |
| Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Accounting | 2 years | 42,736 | 29.54 lakh | Bachelor’s with 55% or CGPA 5.5/10 (recommended) |
| Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Technical Apparel Design | 2 years | 42,736 | 29.54 lakh | Bachelor’s in a related field, 55% (recommended) |
Top Undergraduate Programmes at Kwantlen Polytechnic University
Bachelor’s programmes run 120 credits over four years. Each row uses the same CAD 808.67 per-credit international rate at 30 credits per year.
| Programme | Duration | Total Fee (CAD) | Total Fee (INR lakh) | Entry Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing Management | 4 years | 85,472 | 59.08 lakh | Class 12 with 65% to 70% (recommended) |
| Bachelor of Design in Graphic Design for Marketing | 4 years | 85,472 | 59.08 lakh | Class 12 with 65% and portfolio (recommended) |
| Bachelor of Science in Nursing Advanced Entry | 4 years | 85,472 | 59.08 lakh | Class 12 with 75% including Biology (recommended) |
| Bachelor of Science in Biology | 4 years | 85,472 | 59.08 lakh | Class 12 with 70% including Biology (recommended) |
| Bachelor of Technology in Information Technology | 4 years | 85,472 | 59.08 lakh | Class 12 with 65% including Mathematics (recommended) |
[Source: KPU International Cost of Study 2026-27]
Insider note: Indian students most often pick the Graduate Diploma in Global Business Management and the Post-Baccalaureate Diploma in Accounting, both leading to a 3-year Post-Graduation Work Permit.
Read More: Kwantlen Polytechnic University Programmes and Fees Guide
Kwantlen Polytechnic University Admission 2027
Kwantlen Polytechnic University offers three intakes each year, with Fall (September) as the primary intake for Indian applicants. Deadlines split by limited-intake programmes (competitive quotas) and open-intake programmes (rolling seat allocation).
| Milestone | Date | Notes for Indian Applicants |
|---|---|---|
| Spring 2027 open-intake application deadline | November 1, 2026 | Limited-intake programmes already closed on August 1, 2026 |
| Summer 2027 limited-intake deadline | December 1, 2026 | Final cutoff March 1, 2027 for open-intake programmes |
| Fall 2027 application opens | October 1, 2026 | Apply early since study permit processing takes 8 to 12 weeks |
| Fall 2027 limited-intake deadline | March 1, 2027 | Final cutoff July 1, 2027 for open-intake programmes |
| Fall 2027 programme start | September 2027 | Orientation runs one week before classes |
[Source: KPU International Application Timelines]
Planning note: Nursing, Aviation, Brewing, and Graphic Design are limited-intake programmes with tighter deadlines. Indian applicants should submit at least eight weeks before the limited-intake cutoff to allow document verification.
Read More: Kwantlen Polytechnic University Admissions Guide for Indian Students
Kwantlen Polytechnic University Admission Requirements for Indian Applicants 2027
Indian applicants must submit academic transcripts, English test scores, and a valid passport, and pay the CAD 120 application fee.
- PG diploma eligibility: Bachelor’s degree with 55% aggregate or CGPA 5.5/10 (recommended) in a related field
- English proficiency: IELTS 6.5 overall with no band below 6.0, TOEFL iBT 88 with no subscore under 20, PTE 61, or Duolingo 110
- UG eligibility: Class 12 with 65% to 70% (recommended) for open-intake bachelor’s; up to 75% for competitive programmes like Nursing
- Document verification: Notarised transcripts, passport copy, financial proof of CAD 20,635 (INR 14.26 lakh) per year
Key insight: Applicants who fall short of IELTS 6.5 can enter through the KPU Pathway to Undergraduate Studies. Level 2 starts at IELTS 5.5 with no band below 5.5, and progression to degree study is automatic after passing the pathway courses.
Kwantlen Polytechnic University Acceptance Rate 2027
Kwantlen Polytechnic University reports an acceptance rate of 60% (estimated), since the university does not publish official admissions statistics. The figure aggregates open-intake bachelor’s and diploma programmes where applicants who meet the minimum grades and English requirements are typically admitted.
Programme-level acceptance is lower for limited-intake programmes such as Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Bachelor of Design, and Bachelor of Applied Journalism. Rolling admission for open-intake programmes means early applicants have the highest chance of securing a seat.
Reality check: Indian applicants who submit before the limited-intake deadline with IELTS 6.5+ and Class 12 above 70% typically receive an offer within four to six weeks.
Read More: Kwantlen Polytechnic University Acceptance Rate Analysis
Kwantlen Polytechnic University Fees and Cost of Living for Indian Students 2027
Total annual cost for an Indian student at Kwantlen Polytechnic University sits between CAD 38,000 and CAD 48,000 (INR 26.27 lakh to INR 33.18 lakh), covering tuition and living costs in the Metro Vancouver area.
KPU Fees at Kwantlen Polytechnic University for Indian Students 2026-27
Tuition is charged per credit, so the annual amount varies with course load between nine and 15 credits per term.
| Level | Annual Range (CAD) | Annual Range (INR lakh) |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate (Bachelor’s) | 16,400 to 26,400 | 11.34 to 18.25 lakh |
| Post-Baccalaureate Diploma | 21,368 to 26,674 | 14.77 to 18.44 lakh |
| Graduate Diploma | 26,674 | 18.44 lakh |
| Application fee (one-time) | 120 | 0.08 lakh |
| Confirmation deposit (one-time) | 5,000 | 3.46 lakh |
[Source: KPU International Costs Page 2026-27]
Monthly Cost of Living in Surrey for Kwantlen Polytechnic University Students
Surrey is more affordable than downtown Vancouver, and rent forms the largest share of monthly outgoings.
| Category | Monthly (CAD) | Monthly (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation (shared) | 900 | INR 62,208 |
| Food and groceries | 500 | INR 34,560 |
| Transportation (U-Pass included in fees) | 60 | INR 4,147 |
| Books and supplies | 100 | INR 6,912 |
| Personal and mobile | 250 | INR 17,280 |
| Total monthly | 1,810 | INR 1,25,107 |
| Annual total | 21,720 | 15.01 lakh |
[Source: Numbeo Surrey 2026 estimates and Government of Canada minimum funds benchmark]
Insider note: Sharing a two-bedroom apartment with one roommate in Surrey Central drops rent to CAD 700 per month (INR 48,384). Many Indian students at KPU pool housing near King George SkyTrain to reduce commute time.
Read More: Cost of Living in Canada for Indian Students
Kwantlen Polytechnic University Campus, Facilities and Student Life
Kwantlen Polytechnic University runs five campuses in Metro Vancouver: Surrey (main), Richmond, Cloverdale, Langley, and the Civic Plaza tech campus in downtown Surrey.
- Location and transport: Surrey campus sits five minutes from King George SkyTrain; U-Pass covers unlimited TransLink travel across Metro Vancouver
- Housing: No on-campus residence at KPU; most Indian students rent shared housing in Surrey or Richmond at CAD 700 to CAD 1,200 per month (INR 48,384 to INR 82,944)
- Applied learning facilities: Chip and Shannon Wilson School of Design studio at Richmond, brewing pilot plant, and a functioning teaching farm at Richmond
- Indian community: Surrey has the largest Indian diaspora in British Columbia, giving KPU one of the most active South Asian student communities in Canada
What Indian students say: Class sizes are small at 30 to 40 students, making it easy to ask questions. Weekend food and grocery costs stay low because Surrey has extensive Indian supermarkets and restaurants close to campus.
Kwantlen Polytechnic University Scholarships 2027
Kwantlen Polytechnic University runs three officially named scholarship schemes for entering international students, plus more than 50 donor-funded awards for continuing students.
| Scholarship | Type | Award Value | Eligibility | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| KPU President’s Scholarship | Merit (major entrance) | CAD 30,000 (INR 20.74 lakh) | New students, minimum 3.0 CGPA continuance, personal statement and references | April 15 (Fall); August 15 (Spring) |
| KPU Merit Scholarship | Merit (major entrance) | CAD 7,500 (INR 5.18 lakh) | New students meeting academic and community-involvement criteria | April 15 (Fall); August 15 (Spring) |
| KPU International Merit Scholarship | Merit (automatic) | CAD 5,000 (INR 3.46 lakh) | All new international students with strong academic record; no separate application | Automatic consideration at admission |
| Donor-Funded Entrance Awards | Need or merit (over 50 awards) | CAD 1,000 to CAD 5,000 (INR 0.69 lakh to INR 3.46 lakh) | Varies by donor; Fall intake only | April 15 (Fall) |
[Source: KPU Major Entrance Scholarships Page]
Planning note: The KPU International Merit Scholarship needs no separate application, so every eligible Indian student is auto-considered. Major Entrance Scholarships need a strong personal statement plus two references, and success rates are typically under 5%.
Read More: Kwantlen Polytechnic University Scholarships Guide
Kwantlen Polytechnic University Rankings 2027
Kwantlen Polytechnic University is a teaching-focused polytechnic and is not featured in the flagship research-weighted global tables. Its strongest verified placement is on the Collegedunia Study Abroad table at #95 in Canada.
| Ranking Body | Latest Edition | Previous Edition | Two Editions Back |
|---|---|---|---|
| QS World | 2027: Not ranked | 2026: Not ranked | 2025: Not ranked |
| THE World | 2026: Not ranked | 2025: Not ranked | 2024: Not ranked |
| US News Best Global | 2025-2026: Not ranked | 2024-2025: Not ranked | 2023-2024: Not ranked |
| Collegedunia Study Abroad | 2026: #95 in Canada, #742 globally | NA | NA |
[Source: QS Topuniversities, Times Higher Education, Collegedunia Study Abroad]
Key insight: KPU is a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), so Indian graduates qualify for the Post-Graduation Work Permit regardless of the university’s absence from research rankings. Employer recognition in British Columbia rests on applied credentials and co-op experience rather than global rank.
Read More: Kwantlen Polytechnic University Rankings Analysis
Kwantlen Polytechnic University Placements and Career Outcomes 2027
Kwantlen Polytechnic University offers a structured Co-operative Education (Co-op) programme across most business, science, and technology streams.
- Co-op structure: Full-time paid work terms of minimum 420 hours each, with 8-month options across two consecutive terms
- Median starting salary: CAD 45,000 to CAD 55,000 per year (INR 31.10 lakh to INR 38.02 lakh) as a British Columbia market median for polytechnic graduates
- Top hiring sectors: Retail and consumer brands, hospitality, technology, healthcare, and public administration in Metro Vancouver
- Post-graduation work permit: Up to 3 years for programmes 8 months or longer, allowing Indian graduates to work anywhere in Canada in any occupation
- Career services: Dedicated Career Development Centre with resume clinics, employer networking, and Indigenous and international student support
Insider note: Indian graduates of the Graduate Diploma in Global Business Management often secure roles with regional recruiters, supported by the co-op work term. As per Immigration Canada, the PGWP is a common pathway to Canadian Experience Class permanent residency.
Kwantlen Polytechnic University vs Peer Universities
Applied-learning peers in British Columbia offer similar Post-Graduation Work Permit eligibility and comparable tuition bands.
| University | QS Rank 2027 | Collegedunia Study Abroad 2026 | Avg Annual International Fee (CAD / INR lakh) | Differentiator |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kwantlen Polytechnic University | Not ranked | #95 in Canada | 21,368 to 26,674 / 14.77 to 18.44 lakh | Polytechnic applied model with 5 Metro Vancouver campuses |
| Thompson Rivers University | Not ranked | NA | Verify at official site | Open-learning distance study alongside on-campus programmes |
| University of the Fraser Valley | Not ranked | NA | Verify at official site | Teaching-first model with lower class sizes |
| Capilano University | Not ranked | NA | Verify at official site | Focus on design, film, and creative industries in North Vancouver |
Kwantlen Polytechnic University stands out for its Wilson School of Design and its brewing and horticulture programmes, both unique in Western Canada. Its Metro Vancouver location keeps Indian students close to a large diaspora job market.
Kwantlen Polytechnic University suits Indian students who want an applied-learning route with reasonable fees and a route to a 3-year Post-Graduation Work Permit. Total investment sits at CAD 42,000 to CAD 48,000 per year (INR 29.03 lakh to INR 33.18 lakh), against a British Columbia median entry salary of CAD 50,000 (INR 34.56 lakh), giving a payback period of roughly one to two working years. The Surrey location plus Metro Vancouver co-op network gives Indian graduates a rare combination of low commute cost and access to Canada study permit and PGWP pathways.
The university is not the right fit for applicants seeking research-heavy master’s degrees, PhD supervision, or a globally top-100 QS brand. Indian students targeting research-oriented postgraduate study should shortlist the University of British Columbia or Simon Fraser University instead.
Kwantlen Polytechnic University FAQs
Ques. What English pathway options does KPU offer applicants below IELTS 6.5?
Ans. KPU runs the Pathway to Undergraduate Studies programme with two entry levels for Indian applicants. Level 1 accepts IELTS 4.5 (no band under 4.0), and Level 2 accepts IELTS 5.5 with no band under 5.5. Progression to degree study is automatic on passing pathway courses at the required grade, so no re-test is needed for direct entry.
Ques. How does the Co-op programme at Kwantlen Polytechnic University work for Indian students?
Ans. Indian students at KPU alternate academic terms with paid co-op work terms of minimum 420 hours each. From April 1, 2026, international students no longer need a separate co-op work permit for these placements. Co-op experience often converts into a full-time job offer at graduation, aiding Post-Graduation Work Permit and permanent-residency pathways under Canadian Experience Class.
Ques. Can Indian students transfer credits from an Indian bachelor’s degree to KPU?
Ans. KPU accepts transfer credit from recognised Indian universities on a course-by-course basis after transcript evaluation. Post-baccalaureate diploma applicants usually enter afresh without transfer credit, since these programmes assume a completed bachelor’s. Bachelor’s applicants may receive block transfer if course content and hours match KPU equivalents.
Ques. Does Kwantlen Polytechnic University require GRE or GMAT for post-baccalaureate diploma admission?
Ans. No, KPU does not require GRE or GMAT for any post-baccalaureate or graduate diploma programme. Admission is decided on the applicant’s bachelor’s percentage or CGPA, English test score, and programme-specific prerequisites. This lowers the application cost for Indian graduates compared to a US master’s route.
Ques. What is the KPU refund policy for Indian students who defer or withdraw?
Ans. The CAD 5,000 confirmation deposit at KPU is non-refundable but is applied against tuition once classes begin. Full tuition refunds apply if the student withdraws before the term start date, minus administrative fees. Study-permit refusal from Immigration Canada attracts a partial deposit refund on submission of the refusal letter.
Ques. How much financial proof does an Indian applicant need for a KPU study permit?
Ans. Immigration Canada requires Indian applicants to show funds of at least CAD 20,635 (INR 14.26 lakh) per year for living expenses. This is separate from tuition, which must also be shown as paid or funded. Total proof for a KPU intake typically ranges from CAD 42,000 to CAD 48,000 per year, evidenced through GIC and education loan sanction letters.
Ques. Which Indian banks fund education loans for Kwantlen Polytechnic University?
Ans. Major Indian public banks like SBI and Bank of Baroda, plus private lenders such as HDFC Credila, Axis Bank, ICICI Bank, and Avanse offer loans for KPU as a Designated Learning Institution. Collateral loans usually cover the full CAD 42,000 to CAD 48,000 per year. Unsecured loans up to INR 40 lakh are common for bachelor’s and post-baccalaureate programmes at KPU.
Ques. What part-time work rules apply to Indian students at KPU during semesters?
Ans. As per Immigration Canada, Indian students on a valid study permit at KPU can work up to 24 hours per week off-campus during academic sessions from November 2024 onward. Full-time work is allowed during scheduled breaks such as summer and winter holidays. On-campus work at KPU has no hour cap during active study terms.
Kwantlen Polytechnic University Program Fees & Deadlines
| Program | Important Dates | Fees | Application Fees | Eligibility | Financial Aid |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| USD 19,205 /Yr CAD 26,674 /Yr | 120 | GPA: 2.67, IELTS: 6.5, TOEFL iBT: 88 |
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Kwantlen Polytechnic University comparison
| University Name | Kwantlen Polytechnic University | Capilano University | Douglas College | Langara College |
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| Acceptance Rate | 60.0 % | 23.0 % | 25.0 % | 85.0 % |
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| Placement | Around 89% of the students get employed and with an average salary of CAD$54,000 | The employement rate of the university is around 89% and the average salary ranges around CAD$45,000 |
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The following are the average salaries of graduates in different job positions:
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| - | Read Full Comparison | Read Full Comparison | Read Full Comparison |
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Overall 742 out of 824 in Global Ranking
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Kwantlen Polytechnic University Reviews
1 Reviews Found
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- Good university in British Columbia and provides suitable environment.
Overview
It is amazing and I am learning a lot there. Meet with new peers is a different kind of experience.
Campus Life
It is amazing and free wifi , Tim Hortons, library and big parking . Play area.
Kwantlen Polytechnic University Scholarships
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bharat Petroleum Scholarship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyMaster | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Forktip Women’s- Innovation Scholarship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| FINCAD Women in Finance Scholarship | Scholarship per student$20,000 | Level Of StudyMaster | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Ontario Graduate Fellowship | Scholarship per student$8,875 | Level Of StudyDoctorate | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Jared J. Davis Grant | Scholarship per student$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| The Google Lime Scholarship | Scholarship per student$10,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based |
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Kwantlen Polytechnic University Admissions
Application Portal: https://apply.educationplannerbc.ca/
Fall Deadlines
Important Date: March1 (Application deadline)Important Date: May1 (Application results)Spring Deadlines
Important Date: August1 (Application deadline)Important Date: December1 (Application results)
Kwantlen Polytechnic University Exam Scores
Attendance Cost
The table shows average yearly cost of attendance for international students. Amount may vary with the course opted, nature of accommodation, and personal spending habits of a candidate.Check Program wise Fees
Kwantlen Polytechnic University Accreditations
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Comments
Found 6 Comments
Can I get a fully funded scholarship?
Kwantlen Polytechnic University [KPU] offers various scholarships. However, check the available scholarships, their benefits and eligibility for the KPU Scholarships.
Kwantlen Polytechnic University does not offer diploma in Health Care Assistant but the program is a full-time certificate program. The university accepts applications for this program in Fall (September) and Spring (January) semesters.