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McMaster University Acceptance Rate

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Dark Clock Icon Last updated on 10 May '24, by Anushree Sinha (Study Abroad Expert)

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One of the most prestigious universities in the world, McMaster University is a public research university in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. It is one of the best study abroad universities for international students as the McMaster University ranking has been consistent among the top 200 global universities for more than a decade now.

Students across the globe apply for McMaster University admissions. However, only a fraction of candidates secure an enrolment due to the competitive nature of the university.

McMaster University Acceptance Rate 2024

For the academic-year 2021-22, McMaster received over 33,000 applications from prospective undergraduates and graduates. Out of these, about 20,000 candidates secured an admission offer from the university. Thus, it can be concluded that with the McMaster University acceptance rate of 60.4%, the university is moderately selective to get into.

Particulars

Headcount/Percentage

Applicants

33,159

Admitted Students

20,079

Students Enrolled

5,451

Acceptance Rate

60.4%

Yield Rate

27.1%

McMaster University Acceptance Rate for International Students

As of the academic year 2022-23, the total student enrollment of the university stands at 37,537. Out of these, the undergraduate student count is 32,174 and the graduate student count is 5,363. The McMaster University international students contribute 17% to the total student population and they come from 125 countries around the globe. It is interesting to note that India is the second top-most international contributor of the McMaster University student body.

In terms of nationalities, most of the international students are from China, India, Iran, South Korea, and Saudi Arabia.

Country/Nation Percentage of McMaster International Students
China 61.5%
India 10%
Iran 3.7%
South Korea 2.1%
Saudi Arabia 1.9%

McMaster University Acceptance Rate Trends

Lately, the acceptance rate of McMaster has plummeted in comparison to the previous years. In the academic year 2021-22, the McMaster University acceptance rate for international students stood at 60.4%. Whereas, in the academic year 2020-21, it was recorded to be at 68.3%.

Also, the number of students applying to McMaster has significantly increased in the past few years. In academic year 2021-22, the university received a total of 33,159 applications, out of which 20,079 students managed to secure an admission in the university. When we talk about the academic year 2017-18 statistics, a total of 29,044 candidates applied to the university and 17,553 out of them were granted an admission.

Academic Year Number of Applications Received Number of Students Accepted McMaster University Acceptance Rate
2021-22 33,159 20,079 60.4%
2020-21 30,411 20,792 68.3%
2019-20 31,404 18,405 58.6%
2018-19 30,385 17,810 58.6%
2017-18 29,044 17,553 60.4%

McMaster University Admission Requirements for International Students

In order to secure an admission, all overseas applicants must fulfill certain McMaster University entry requirements listed below:

Undergraduate Courses Graduate Courses

CBSE / CISCE

  • All India Senior School Certificate granted by CBSE / Indian School Certificate awarded by CISCE;
  • Year 12 State board exams with excellent results shall also be considered individually;
  • 5 Class 12th subjects including all compulsory pre-requisite subjects for the selected program;
  • Average is calculated on class 12th predicted grades; and
  • Minimum average required for admission consideration differs by program.
  • An honors bachelor's degree or equivalent; and
  • B+ is the minimum average required (based on a full-year equivalent of final-year courses appropriate to the program).

McMaster University English Language Requirements: McMaster University accepts major English language exam score as a proof of proficiency in the language. Students can refer to the table below for minimum score requirements, as per the course of choice:

Tests

Minimum Scores for Undergraduate Studies

Minimum Score for Graduate Studies

IELTS

Overall score of 6.5

(with a minimum of 6.0 in each of the four components)

Overall score of 6.5

(with a minimum of 5.5 in each section)

TOEFL iBT

Overall score of 86

(with 20 in each section)

iBT: 92 or higher

Computer-based: 237 or higher

Paper-based: 580 or higher

PTE Academic

Overall score of 60

(with a minimum score of 60 in Writing and Speaking)

Overall score of 63

Duolingo

Overall score of 115

-

Note: For Graduate Engineering programs, the English Language requirements vary, so applicants are advised to check the details before applying.

Tips to get Selected in McMaster University

McMaster University takes a holistic approach for admissions, and thus, students must submit exceptional academic grades as well as excel in co-curricular activities. In order to get enrolled in the university, applicants must secure 80% or above grades in terms of academic achievement. Majorly, admission decisions are based on the educational capability and merit of the candidate. Hence, students must fulfill all the admission requirements, meet/exceed the English language requirements and be active in the world outside class to boost their chances.

McMaster University Acceptance Rate Vs University of Alberta Acceptance Rate

University of Alberta acceptance rate stands at 55%, which makes it a moderately selective university to get into. In comparison with the McMaster University acceptance rate of 60%, Alberta University can be considered more selective in their admission criteria.

As listed, getting into the University of Alberta is competitive. Hence, students must excel in academics in order to boost their chances. Apart from this, students who are outstanding in activities outside class also stand a good chance to secure an admission.

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McMaster University 
FAQs

Q:   Is McMaster University hard to get in?

A: 

McMaster University acceptance rate is 59%, which make it difficult for international students to get into the university. The university Admission process involves a thorough evaluation process, Considering academic excellence, essays, Letter of recommendation, SOP, extracurricular activities and many more. Applicants are suggested to approach the admission process with utter dedication, showcasing their strengths and talents. Beyond the numerical, McMaster is a great institution with an exceptional education and renowned faculty. 

Q:   How many international students does McMaster University host?

A: 

McMaster University is home to more than 37,589 students. Out of these, international students make up 17% of the student population and represent 120 countries around the globe.

Particulars

Headcount/Percentage

Total Students

37,589

International Students

17%

Nationalities Represented

120

Undergraduate Students

32,102

Graduate Students

5,487

International Graduate Students

31.1%

Q:   What is the acceptance rate of McMaster University for Indian students?

A: 

McMaster University acceptance rate is about 59%. This figure tells us that the university is relatively selective when it comes to admissions. Out of every 100 applicants, only 59 applicants are considered for admission. So, the applicants applying to McMaster University must stand out from the crowd with impressive grades and participation in extra-curricular activities.

Q:   What are the requirements to get into McMaster?

A: 

In order to secure an enrollment, international students must fulfill the McMaster University admission requirements listed below:

Undergraduate Courses : 

  • All India Senior School Certificate Awarded by CNSE/Indian School Certificate awarded by CISCE;

  • Year 12 State Board Exams with excellent results will also be considered individually;

  • 5 class XII subjects, including all mandatory prerequisite subjects for the selected program ;

  • Average is calculated on class XII predicted grades;

  • Must have a minimum average however, the admission consideration varies by program;

  • Applicants must need to have their Class X documents result ready;

  • Class XI transcripts;

  • Class XII predicted grades; and

  • English language requirements.

Postgraduate Courses 

  • Honours bachelor’s degree or equivalent;

  • B+ (B- for Engineering) minimum average, based on a full year of final year courses i.e 3rd/4th level relevant to that particular program;

  • Each programme has different additional/higher requirements, and reviewing the programme webiste for details is highly suggested;

  • Degrees from overseas universities are evaluated for their equivalency to McMasters. Please contact or review the programme for specific details;

  • Some Graduate courses might ask for additional requirments, such as GRE;

  • Admission is said to be competitive: meeting the minimum requirments does not guarantee admission; and

  • English language requirements.

Q:   What are some helpful tips for students starting their first year at McMaster University?

A: 

McMaster University is one of the best universities in Canada and students across the world desire to study here. Listed below are some helpful tips for students starting their first semester at the university:

  • Join clubs and participate actively in co-curricular activities;
  • Build a schedule and stay organized;
  • Engage in part-time jobs on and off campus;
  • Enjoy the beautiful city of Hamilton;
  • Do not procastinate studying; and
  • Find out a way to de-stress and engage in fun activities/events.

Q:   Does McMaster University accept GRE scores for graduate admissions?

A: 

No, GRE score is not one of the major requirements for admissions in McMaster University master's programs. However, students who have already appeared for the exam can submit the scores to the admission office, which will further help in assessing the application and potential of the applicant.

Q:   Is it expensive to study in McMaster University?

A: 

McMaster University offers more than 100 programs across six faculty members of study, namely Health Sciences, Social Sciences, Humanities, Business, Science, and Engineering for their international students. Annual tuition fee required to pursue a degree course at McMaster University is around 20-25L on an average, which can be considered expensive as a study abroad option. Students can refer to the table listed below for course specific fees requirements:

Courses1st Year Tuition Fees
B.Sc. (42 courses)
INR 23 L - 36 L
B.E. / B.Tech (46 courses)
INR 26 L - 38 L
MS (37 courses)
INR 7 L - 26 L
B.A. (72 courses)
INR 23 L - 24 L
MASc (9 courses)
INR 7 L - 13 L
M.A. (20 courses)
INR 7 L - 13 L
UG certificate (10 courses)
INR 2 L - 9 L
MEng (10 courses)
INR 13 L - 24 L
UG Diploma (5 courses)
INR 4 L - 34 L
MIM (8 courses)
INR 7 L - 34 L
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Anushree Sinha

Study Abroad Expert

Anushree is a Graduate in Bachelor's degree in Journalism and Mass Communication and takes keen interest in content creation. She has affinity for writing and travelling around the world takes the top spot on her bucket list. Bringing out the creativ...Read Full Bio

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