Course at a Glance
- MasterDegree level
- 3 terms; 4 termsDuration
- Vancouver, CanadaLocation
- Faculty of Arts and Social SciencesField of study
- EnglishLanguage of instruction
- VancouverCampus
- Master of ArtsAwards
- $6,578Fees
- AvailableScholarship
About this programme
This full-time 12 to 24 month program, leading to a master of arts (MA) in international studies, consists of seven courses that are completed over three consecutive terms. The duration of the program may be extended with the approval of the supervisor and graduate chair/director.
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In addition, students can earn a regional concentration by completing two courses and writing their thesis (IS 898) or extended essay (IS 880) on their region of expertise. The available concentrations are: Latin American studies Middle Eastern studies
Is this course right for you?
Our counsellors check your profile against this programme's entry criteria and tell you where you stand — before you pay anything.
What we look at
- Your subject background and grades
- Your English score, or how to get one
- Budget, including living costs
University & programme
Canada- Listed from the catalogueNot yet staff-verified — ask us to confirm the details.
- English requirementIELTS Overall 6.5
- Study modeFull-time
Admissions checklist
Entry requirements
Applicants must satisfy the university admission requirements as stated in Graduate General Regulations 1.3 in the SFU Calendar. Normally, to be considered for admission, applicants must have a bachelor's degree with a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.5 from a recognized university, preferably in an arts or social sciences discipline. In addition, the School also requires a statement of research interest. Those admitted with other credentials or those with arts degrees who in the judgment of the graduate chair are without adequate foundation in the social sciences may be required to make up any deficiency without receiving graduate credit for those courses. Students are admitted for commencement of studies in the fall term only. Please consult the School for International Studies website for application requirements. || University-level requirement: Applicants must satisfy the university admission requirements for graduate study in the SFU Fall 2026 Calendar (Graduate Admission / Graduate General Regulations 1.3) as well as the programme requirements on the programme page. English is the language of instruction and communication; an applicant whose primary language is not English must demonstrate command of English sufficient to pursue graduate studies in the chosen field. Source: SFU Fall 2026 Calendar, Graduate Admission. · English: IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0); TOEFL iBT 90; PTE Academic 65; Duolingo English Test 125 · English test waiver: International applicants are not required to complete an English-language test if they have completed a degree at an institution where the language of instruction and examination was English, in a country where English is the primary language. An applicant may also request a waiver in writing with their application, but SFU states that in order to maintain a high academic standard very few waivers are granted. · Application fee: CAD 112.00 (graduate application fee); CAD 160.00 where an international transcript evaluation is required (CAD 112 + CAD 48)
The usual set for this level. Your counsellor confirms the exact list for this university.
- Academic transcripts
- English test score (IELTS/TOEFL)
- Passport copy
- Statement of purpose (optional)
- Recommendation letters (optional)
Cost & scholarships
- Tuition$6,578 CAD / year≈ $4,837 / year
- Living costsVary by city — see the destination guide.
- ScholarshipsSFU administers internal and donor-funded graduate awards, Tri-Agency and government awards and external awards through the Faculty of Graduate Studies. SourceView scholarship page
Application timeline
Typical timings. Deadlines differ per university and intake.
- 1Prepare documents1–2 weeks
- 2Submit application1–3 weeks
- 3Receive offer letter2–6 weeks
- 4Apply for visa4–8 weeks
Visa & support journey
- Offer letterFrom the university
- Visa guidanceExpert support
- Pre-departureAccommodation & travel
- Ongoing supportEven after you arrive
Student stories
Real students. Real results.
- Average rating
- 4.9
- Google reviews
- 360+
- Rated five stars
- 95%
Average rating
Google reviews
Rated five stars
“I would like to express my gratitude for the excellent assistance provided during my student visa process. The team was responsive, knowledgeable, and supportive at every stage, from document preparation to submission guidance. Their clear communication and professional approach made the process much easier and more efficient.”
1 / 8
Nihad K, 5 out of 5 stars
Every review below is a real Google review — see all of them
Frequently asked questions
How much does International Studies (Master of Arts) cost?
CAD 6,578 / year.
What English score does it need?
IELTS 6.5 overall is the score listed for this programme.
How long is it?
3 terms; 4 terms, as listed by the university.
What are the entry requirements?
Applicants must satisfy the university admission requirements as stated in Graduate General Regulations 1.3 in the SFU Calendar. Normally, to be considered for admission, applicants must have a bachelor's degree with a cumulative grade point average of at least 3.5 from a recognized university, preferably in an arts or social sciences discipline. In addition, the School also requires a statement of research interest. Those admitted with other credentials or those with arts degrees who in the judgment of the graduate chair are without adequate foundation in the social sciences may be required to make up any deficiency without receiving graduate credit for those courses. Students are admitted for commencement of studies in the fall term only. Please consult the School for International Studies website for application requirements. || University-level requirement: Applicants must satisfy the university admission requirements for graduate study in the SFU Fall 2026 Calendar (Graduate Admission / Graduate General Regulations 1.3) as well as the programme requirements on the programme page. English is the language of instruction and communication; an applicant whose primary language is not English must demonstrate command of English sufficient to pursue graduate studies in the chosen field. Source: SFU Fall 2026 Calendar, Graduate Admission. · English: IELTS 6.5 (no band below 6.0); TOEFL iBT 90; PTE Academic 65; Duolingo English Test 125 · English test waiver: International applicants are not required to complete an English-language test if they have completed a degree at an institution where the language of instruction and examination was English, in a country where English is the primary language. An applicant may also request a waiver in writing with their application, but SFU states that in order to maintain a high academic standard very few waivers are granted. · Application fee: CAD 112.00 (graduate application fee); CAD 160.00 where an international transcript evaluation is required (CAD 112 + CAD 48)
Is there a scholarship?
SFU administers internal and donor-funded graduate awards, Tri-Agency and government awards and external awards through the Faculty of Graduate Studies. Source View scholarship page
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