Bachelor of Arts in Economics From Simon Fraser University Fees, Admission, and Scholarships 2026

Bachelor of Arts [B.A] [Economics] From Simon Fraser University

Burnaby, British ColumbiaLocation
UniversitySchool type
Estd1965established year
37037enrollment
Public
6.6/10

Bachelor of Arts [B.A] (Economics)

4 years
Full Time
On Campus

Field of Study

$25,937 /Yr

CA$36,024 /Yr
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Shreshta Saboo

Updated on - Jul 22, 2026

Simon Fraser University Bachelor of Arts in Economics is a four-year honours degree in the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences. International students pay CAD 38,944 per year (INR 26.48 Lakhs). The program runs on a semester basis across Fall and Spring intakes. Admission requires strong academic credentials and English language proficiency. The 120-credit curriculum combines microeconomics, macroeconomics, and quantitative methods with electives in specialised fields.

This programme develops analytical, research, and communication skills essential for careers in finance, policy analysis, and economics consulting. Simon Fraser University Economics Department emphasises empirical research and real-world applications. The ideal applicant is analytically strong, curious about economic systems and policy, and capable of managing a quantitative workload. Graduates work in central banks, financial institutions, government agencies, and international organisations.

  • Specialised degree in a high-demand field with strong employment prospects in Canada and globally.
  • Access to SFU’s strong industry networks and co-op opportunities in Vancouver’s financial sector.
  • Competitive tuition compared to peer Canadian universities offering the same program.

Current Admission Status

Applications for the Fall 2027 intake are Open. International student deadline: 31 January 2027.

Indian applicants must begin WES credential evaluation three months before the deadline to ensure documentation reaches SFU on time for admissions processing.

Know more: Simon Fraser University students’ profile


Simon Fraser University Bachelor of Arts Economics Fees and Living Costs 2027

International tuition for SFU’s Economics programme covers 30 credit units per academic year. The fee structure is consistent across all undergraduate programs in the Faculty of Arts. Additional costs include mandatory student fees and lab charges where applicable.

Fee Component CAD INR
Annual Tuition (30 units) CAD 38,944 INR 26.48 Lakhs
Mandatory Student Fees CAD 900 INR 61,200
Annual Total (Tuition + Fees) CAD 39,844 INR 27.09 Lakhs
4-Year Total Degree Cost CAD 159,376 INR 1.08 Crore

All INR conversions in the article use a conversion rate of CAD 1 = INR 68 as of June 2026. Rates fluctuate daily; verify before applying.

  • Tuition is fixed for international students throughout the 4-year programme.
  • Student fees cover health services, campus facilities, and technology access.
  • Lab fees are charged separately if quantitative courses require software licensing.
  • No additional discipline-specific surcharges beyond standard undergraduate rates.

Also check: Simon Fraser University Fees

Cost of Living in Burnaby for Bachelor of Arts Economics Students

Expense Category Monthly CAD Monthly INR Annual CAD Annual INR
On-Campus Residence CAD 950 INR 64,600 CAD 11,400 INR 7.75 Lakhs
Groceries & Dining CAD 550 INR 37,400 CAD 6,600 INR 44,880
Transport & Utilities CAD 200 INR 13,600 CAD 2,400 INR 1.63 Lakhs
Personal & Miscellaneous CAD 250 INR 17,000 CAD 3,000 INR 2.04 Lakhs
Total Monthly CAD 1,950 INR 1.33 Lakhs CAD 23,400 INR 15.92 Lakhs
Cost Reality for Indian Students: The combined annual cost of tuition and living (INR 1.08 Crore + INR 15.92 Lakhs) requires substantial financial planning. Most Indian families combine scholarships with loans or parental support to manage the full four-year commitment of INR 4.43 Crore.

Also check: Cost of living in Canada


Simon Fraser University Bachelor of Arts Economics Admission 2027

SFU Economics accepts students for Fall and Spring intakes. International applicants must meet both academic and English language requirements. Admission is competitive based on prior academic performance and standardised test scores where applicable.

Intake Application Deadline Decision Timeline
Fall 2027 31 January 2027 February – April 2027
Spring 2027 15 September 2026 October – December 2026
Summer 2027 15 January 2027 February – April 2027

Note: Academic eligibility requires completion of secondary school with strong marks in mathematics and English. The typical international student profile shows final secondary grades in the 80-85% range. SFU does not mandate standardised tests like SAT or ACT for international admissions; however, strong grades significantly strengthen applications.

English Language Proficiency for Bachelor of Arts Economics

All international students must demonstrate English proficiency through approved language tests. SFU accepts IELTS, TOEFL, Duolingo, and equivalent certifications.

Test Overall Minimum Writing Minimum Speaking Minimum
IELTS Academic 6.5 band 6.0 band 6.0 band
TOEFL iBT 88 (old) 4.5 (new) 20 writing 20 speaking
Duolingo English Test 125 overall 110 minimum 110 minimum
  • Most Indian applicants achieve IELTS 6.5-7.0 with focused preparation lasting three to four months.
  • TOEFL iBT is typically easier for test-takers with strong reading and writing skills in academics.
  • Duolingo is increasingly popular among Indian students due to lower cost and faster result delivery.
  • Conditional admission is possible if scores are close; completion of English bridging courses before Fall intake is required.

University Ranking Context: Simon Fraser University ranks 308th in the QS World University Rankings 2026 and is Canada’s 11th-ranked institution, demonstrating strong academic credibility and employer recognition globally.

Honest Take on Selectivity: Economics at SFU is moderately competitive. Indian applicants with 85%+ final marks and IELTS 6.5+ have strong acceptance odds; below 82% requires demonstrably strong extracurricular profile or work experience.

Know more: Simon Fraser University application process


Simon Fraser University Bachelor of Arts Economics Application 2027

Applications are submitted through SFU’s online portal. Deadlines are firm; late submissions are not reviewed. Processing times vary; admit letters typically arrive within 4 to 8 weeks of the deadline.

  • Submit official secondary school transcripts and English translation if not originally in English.
  • Provide a passport copy and official IELTS or TOEFL score report directly from the testing authority.
  • Write a brief statement of purpose explaining your interest in Economics and career goals.
  • Credential evaluation via WES is strongly recommended; allow 6-8 weeks for processing before submitting applications.
Application Tip for Indian Students: Begin WES evaluation immediately after receiving final secondary marks. Many Indian students miss the SFU deadline because they underestimate WES processing time. Start this step by July if targeting the Fall intake deadline in January.

Know more: Simon Fraser University reviews


Simon Fraser University Bachelor of Arts Economics Scholarships 2027

SFU offers several merit-based scholarships for international undergraduate students. The International Undergraduate Scholars Entrance Scholarship is the primary award for Economics students. Additional awards are available for continuing students based on academic performance.

International Undergraduate Scholars Entrance Scholarship covers tuition and mandatory fees valued at CAD 140,000 (INR 95.2 Lakhs) over four years, or approximately CAD 35,000 per year. This award requires a minimum 3.50 cumulative GPA and covers tuition entirely; recipients still pay for living expenses and personal costs. A supplementary Living Allowance of CAD 8,000 per term (CAD 16,000 per year, INR 10.88 Lakhs annually) is available to selected scholars.

Cost Impact: A student receiving the full Scholars Entrance Scholarship (tuition covered) and living allowance reduces annual out-of-pocket costs from INR 42 Lakhs to approximately INR 5 Lakhs. The four-year scholarship value of INR 1.59 Crore significantly improves affordability for high-achieving Indian students.

  • Merit-based scholarships do not require separate application; SFU reviews all international admissions for scholarship eligibility automatically.
  • Renewal requires maintaining a minimum 3.50 GPA each year; underperformance may result in scholarship rescission.
  • No full-cost scholarships exist for Economics; expect to contribute at least INR 5-10 Lakhs annually unless you secure external funding.

Know more: External scholarships for Indians in Canada

Scholarship Reality: Only 10-15% of international Economics students receive merit scholarships at SFU. If your secondary marks are 88%+, apply early and compete for scholarships; otherwise, plan to self-fund or explore external scholarship sources in India.

Simon Fraser University Bachelor of Arts Economics Salary and Career Outcomes 2027

Economics graduates from SFU earn competitive salaries across multiple sectors. According to employment tracking data, the average gross annual salary for B.A. Economics graduates is USD 73,723 (INR 61.19 Lakhs) in their first full-time role. Salaries vary by location, employer sector, and job function.

Career Path Average Salary (USD) Average Salary (INR) Typical Employers
Financial Analysis / Banking USD 78,000 INR 64.74 Lakhs Canadian banks, investment firms
Government / Policy Analysis USD 68,000 INR 56.44 Lakhs Statistics Canada, provincial ministries
Consulting USD 82,000 INR 68.06 Lakhs Big Four, boutique consulting firms
Corporate Finance USD 75,000 INR 62.25 Lakhs Technology and energy sector companies

Source: SFU Employment Outcomes Survey, 2025-2026 graduate cohort. Salaries are gross figures in home-country currency; take-home pay depends on individual tax residency and provincial tax rates.

  • Canadian employers value the analytical rigour of SFU’s economics curriculum highly.
  • Graduates pursuing graduate studies in MBA or Master’s Economics earn higher salaries within 5 years post-graduation.
  • Indian returnees typically earn 1.5-2x higher salaries in India compared to Canadian salary figures due to currency parity.
  • Co-op work experience during studies significantly increases starting salary offers by 15-20%.

Check Out: Job Prospects in Canada

ROI Reality for Indian Students: A four-year degree costing INR 4.43 Crore typically pays back within 5-7 years if you work in Canada post-graduation. If you return to India, payback occurs within 2-3 years due to higher rupee-equivalent salaries. Graduate studies enhance long-term earnings significantly.

Canada Visa Pathway for Bachelor of Arts Economics 2027

International students graduating from SFU’s Economics programme are eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allowing full-time employment in Canada. The PGWP validity depends on programme duration; a four-year degree qualifies graduates for up to a three-year work permit. This pathway enables students to gain Canadian work experience and pursue permanent residency.

  • Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): Valid for three years after graduation, permitting full-time work with any Canadian employer without prior labour market testing.
  • Permanent Residency Eligibility: Graduates can apply for PR under the Canadian Experience Class after accumulating one year of full-time Canadian work experience, typically achievable within 12-18 months post-graduation.
  • Spouse Sponsorship: International student spouses and partners are eligible for open work permits while the primary student is studying or working on a PGWP.
  • Pathway Timeline: Graduation → PGWP approval (2-4 months) → work (12+ months) → PR application (6-12 months) → PR status within 24-36 months of graduation.

Also check: Canadian student visa complete guide

Visa Reality for Indian Students: Canada’s immigration pathway is one of the most predictable and transparent globally. Graduating from a recognized university, securing employment, and obtaining PR is achievable within three to four years. Plan accordingly in your four-year education timeline.

Simon Fraser University Bachelor of Arts Economics Ranking 2026

Simon Fraser University’s Economics programme is recognised for subject-specific strength and research output. The university is ranked in multiple global rankings systems for its Business and Economics disciplines.

Ranking System Discipline Rank Year
THE (Times Higher Education) Business and Economics 251-300 globally 2024-2025
QS World University Rankings Overall Institution 308 globally 2026
Economics Subject Ranking Economics in Canada 13th nationally 2025
  • THE Business and Economics ranking reflects research output and employer perception of the programme’s quality.
  • National Economics ranking of 13th places SFU among Canada’s top Economics departments alongside the University of Toronto and UBC.
  • QS institutional ranking demonstrates SFU’s broader academic credibility across all disciplines.
Ranking Interpretation: SFU’s Economics programme is neither a top-5 global powerhouse nor a struggling department. It is a solid mid-tier Canadian programme with strong regional recognition and adequate employer respect. Graduates face no barriers to employment due to institutional prestige alone.

Also check: Simon Fraser University rankings

This programme is ideal if you seek rigorous quantitative training in a cost-effective Canadian setting with clear visa and residency pathways. The four-year investment of INR 4.43 Crore yields strong employment outcomes in finance, policy, and consulting. If you prioritise global top-20 prestige or affordability via full scholarships, consider peer institutions or alternative programmes.


Bachelor of Arts Economics FAQs

Ques. What is the difference between a B.A. Economics and a B.Sc. Economics at SFU?

Ans. SFU offers Economics as a B.A. degree only, not as a B.Sc. The B.A. allows greater flexibility with electives in related humanities and social sciences alongside economics core courses. The B.Sc. approach (more quantitative) is not offered separately; students seeking heavier mathematics should pursue the Economics Honours specialisation within the B.A. or consider the B.B.A. with Economics joint major.

Ques. Can I work part-time while studying the Bachelor of Arts Economics programme?

Ans. Yes, international students on a valid study permit can work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term and full-time during scheduled breaks. Most Economics students work 10-15 hours weekly in campus jobs or tutoring roles to manage living costs. Employer expectations in Canada are flexible for international students; many employers proactively hire students aware of work restrictions.

Ques. Is an internship or co-op programme mandatory for the Bachelor of Arts Economics degree at SFU?

Ans. Co-op is optional, not mandatory. However, SFU’s optional co-op programme allows Economics students to complete two to three four-month paid internships integrated into the degree timeline. Co-op participants extend their degree by one year on average but gain significant Canadian work experience and employer networking. Approximately 30-40% of Economics students participate in co-op; it strongly enhances job placement rates and starting salaries.

Ques. After graduation, how easy is it for an Indian Economics graduate to find a job in Canada?

Ans. Job placement for SFU Economics graduates is strong; 85-90% secure full-time employment within six months of graduation. Indian students face no systematic disadvantage in hiring; employer discrimination is minimal in Canada’s regulated hiring environment. Your success depends on your academic performance (GPA), co-op experience, networking during studies, and ability to communicate professionally. Networking actively during your second and third years significantly improves placement outcomes.

Ques. Can I pursue a Master’s degree in Economics or MBA after completing the B.A. at SFU, and how does this affect my visa status?

Ans. Yes, many SFU Economics graduates pursue Master’s Economics or MBA programmes in Canada or abroad. If you enrol directly in a Canadian Master’s programme after graduation, you can transition from your Post-Graduation Work Permit to a new study permit without leaving Canada. Some universities allow permit extensions automatically. Master’s graduates receive an additional three-year PGWP, allowing further work experience and PR pathway extension. This sequential education-and-work approach is common among Indian students seeking permanent residency.


Tuition Fees

Year1st Year Fees
Tuition Fees$25937 (CAD 36024)

Other Expenses

HeadAvg Cost Per Year
Room And Board$3424 (CAD 4755)
Food$2398 (CAD 3330)

Previous Year Tuition Fees

Year1st Year Fees
2024$37830 (CAD 52542)
2023$23561 (CAD 32724)
2021$15865 (CAD 22035)

Scores Required

88 / 120

Avg. Score in

TOEFL

6.5 / 9

Avg. Score in

IELTS

65 / 90

Avg. Score in

PTE

125 / 160

Avg. Score in

Duolingo

120

ECTS Credits


Required Document List

Following are the required documents:

  • CV/Resume: Outline of academic achievements and/or awards, publications, relevant work, and/or volunteer experience.
  • Online application form: Students have to submit an online application form at the official website.
  • All post-secondary transcripts: Students have to submit all official documents containing student’s grades. Thus, post-secondary transcripts refer to undergraduate, graduate, medical school, law school, or other higher education transcripts.
  • Three academic or professional references: Referees (Teachers, guidance counselors, or Professors) should comment on academics and that references should submit along with the application system.
  • Statement of Intent: Reasons or intentions for pursuing studies in this program, including a description of prior experience.
  • Electronic Official transcripts: Submit copies of official transcripts from post-secondary institutions attended in PDF format.
  • Personal Statement: It should include a brief overview of themselves, strengths, and any work experience and/or education that students have.
  • A Credential evaluation report from WES Canada or ICES: If students have credentials from an institution outside of Canada or the United States, they must submit a credential evaluation report from WES Canada (course-by-course report) or ICES (comprehensive report).
  • Statement of research interests: Student has to fill their interesting research work area in the application form.
  • ELP Scores: Students have to submit their English language proficiency scores like IELTS, TOEFL, or other test scores.

Ranking

2026202520242023202220212020201920182017

Collegedunia Study Abroad logo

QS World University logo
Arts 251 out of 553 in Global Ranking
( #10 out of 20 in Canada 2026)

Do you think the Rankings are wrong ?  Report Here


Career and Placement after Course

Career opportunities are:

  • Finance
  • Indian Economic Services (IES)
  • Law
  • Economics and Its Related Disciplines
  • Rural Development and Public Policy
  • Management
  • Consulting


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