Dalhousie University institutional logo

Dalhousie University

Halifax, Canada Founded 1818 World Rank #466

Overview

Founded: 1818
Control Type: Public
Entity Type: Non-profit
World Rank: #466
Rank in Canada: #14
Motto: Ora et Labora
Colours: Black and gold
Mascot: Dalhousie Tiger; Rocky the Ram
Dalhousie University central facility
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Founded in 1818, the Dalhousie University is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the urban setting of the medium city of Halifax (population range of 250,000-499,999 inhabitants), Nova Scotia.

This institution also has a branch campus in Truro. Officially recognized by the Department of Advanced Education of Nova Scotia, Dalhousie University is a large-sized coeducational Canadian higher education institution.

Dalhousie University offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as master's degrees in several areas of study. This 206-year-old Canadian higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on students' past academic records and grades.

The acceptance rate range is 70-79% making this Canadian higher education organization a moderately selective institution.

International students are welcome to apply for enrollment. Dalhousie University also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.

Location & Contact

Dalhousie University's street address and primary contact methods. Social channels often differentiate by purpose — admissions on one, alumni on another, events on a third.

Address: 6885 University Avenue
Postal Code: B3H 4H6
Phone: +1 (902) 494 2450
Fax: +1 (902) 494 1630
Social Media:

Academic Details

Dalhousie University's institutional metrics and recognition context. Recognition reciprocity matters for credential portability — check whether your home country accepts Dalhousie University's qualifications.

Student Enrollment: 15
Academic Staff Range: 1,000-1,499
Campus Setting: Urban
Memberships & Networks
Universities Canada (UC) Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) U15 Group of Canadian Research Universities (U15) Canadian Bureau for International Education (CBIE) Canadian University Society for Intercollegiate Debate (CUSID)

Academic Structures

Each constituent academic unit at Dalhousie University is captured below — including research centres alongside teaching faculties. Research centres often signal the institution's strategic priorities.

Unit 12 items
  • Faculty of Agriculture
  • Faculty of Architecture and Planning
  • Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
  • Faculty of Computer Science
  • Faculty of Dentistry
  • Faculty of Engineering
  • Faculty of Graduate Studies
  • Faculty of Health
  • Faculty of Law
  • Faculty of Management
  • Faculty of Medicine
  • Faculty of Science

How to apply to Dalhousie University

Application guidance for Dalhousie University, structured as five practical steps with attention to documents and admissions communication.

  1. 1
    Identify the right programme

    Begin by checking which programmes are available at Dalhousie University. Match the level to your prior education, then confirm the subject area you want to study.

  2. 2
    Check entry requirements

    Each programme at Dalhousie University has its own entry requirements — academic minimums, language proficiency, supporting documents, and sometimes interviews or portfolios. Check the programme-specific page or contact admissions to confirm eligibility.

  3. 3
    Prepare your application documents

    Most applications require certified academic records, identification documents, language test certificates (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent for English-medium programmes), CV/résumé, and a statement of purpose. Allow extra time for document authentication.

  4. 4
    Submit via the institution

    Apply directly via Dalhousie University's online portal at www.dal.ca. Complete the application form, upload supporting documents, and pay any application fee. Confirmation emails typically arrive within a few business days.

  5. 5
    Get in touch with admissions

    After submitting, confirm receipt with the admissions office and track your application status through the portal. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (902) 494 2450. Set reminders for any interview requests, additional document submissions, or admission decision deadlines.

Frequently Asked Questions about Dalhousie University

Quick reference for Dalhousie University: founding, control type, student body, rankings, and recognition status in one place.

When did Dalhousie University open?

Dalhousie University traces its founding to 1818 (approximately 208 years ago).

Where is Dalhousie University located?

Dalhousie University is located in Halifax, Canada.

Is Dalhousie University a public or private institution?

Dalhousie University is a public institution.

What is the student enrolment at Dalhousie University?

Student enrolment at Dalhousie University is around 15,000-19,999.

Where does Dalhousie University stand in university rankings?

Dalhousie University holds rank #466 globally and #14 in Canada.

How many faculties does Dalhousie University have?

Dalhousie University has 12 academic units.

Who recognises Dalhousie University?

The institution holds recognition from Department of Advanced Education of Nova Scotia.

Where can I learn more about Dalhousie University?

The institution's website is www.dal.ca.

Top-Ranked Universities in Canada

These are the most highly ranked universities in Canada. Putting Dalhousie University alongside them gives a clearer picture of where it sits in the national academic landscape, especially when reputation matters for credential portability.

Members of Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU)

Member institutions of Association of Commonwealth Universities (ACU) often have reciprocity arrangements on accreditation — degrees from one member institution typically face fewer credential-recognition issues at others.

Faculties at Nearby Universities

The universities below sit close to Dalhousie University geographically and may suit students who want to stay within the same region for study. Proximity affects commuting cost, family contact, and the ease of switching institutions if circumstances change.

Universities Often Compared with Dalhousie University

Peer cohort diversity — gender, nationality, socioeconomic background — varies more than rankings might suggest. Diversity affects classroom dynamics and post-grad networks.

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