Bachelor of Science in Physical GeographySimon Fraser University Burnaby Mountain

Academic Requirements

For students interested in the Bachelor of Science in Physical Geography program at Simon Fraser University, the following Academic Requirements must be met:

• A minimum of five approved Grade 12 courses, including English Studies 12 (minimum 70%) or equivalent.
• Students must complete a minimum of five approved Grade 12 courses, including all required courses.
• Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.

Grade 11 Required Courses

• One of: English 11
• One of: Math 11
• All of: Science 11
• One of: Social Studies 11

Grade 12 Required Courses

• One of: English 12
• Two of: Anatomy & Physiology 12, Calculus 12, Chemistry 12, Physics 12
• One of: Pre-Calculus 12
• One additional from: List A or List B

Students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to ensure they meet all requirements and deadlines. For any clarification and support, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Language Requirements

English is the language of instruction at Simon Fraser University (SFU). All applicants, regardless of their country of origin or citizenship status, must demonstrate competence in the English language prior to admission. This competence is required in all four skills: listening, reading, speaking, and writing.

As an applicant to undergraduate studies, you can demonstrate English language competence through one of the following options:

• Completion of the last three (3) years of full-time secondary school education in English in Canada
  • Minimum requirement: 70% in a senior level English
• Completion of the last three (3) years of full-time secondary school education in English, in a country where English is the principal language of instruction
  • Minimum requirement: 70% in a senior level English
• Completion of the last four (4) years of full-time secondary school education in English at a recognized international school in a non-English speaking country
  • Minimum requirement: 70% in a senior level English
• Completion of the International Baccalaureate Diploma Program including English A (HL/SL) or English Literature and Performance (SL)
  • Minimum requirement: Grade of 3
• Completion of a three unit English (ENGL) course or a certified W (writing intensive) course for which SFU grants transfer credit
  • Minimum requirement: Grade of C- (C minus)
• GCSE O-Level English (or GCSE English Language B)
  • Minimum requirement: Grade of 4 (or C)

Additionally, you may complete a Language Proficiency Exam. The accepted exams and their requirements are as follows:

• International English Language Testing System (IELTS - Academic)
  • Minimum score: Overall 6.5 with no part less than 6.0
• Cambridge English Qualifications
  • B2 First
  • C1 Advanced
  • C2 Proficiency
  • Minimum score: Overall score 176 with no part less than 169
• Test of English as a Foreign Language internet based test (TOEFL iBT)
  • Minimum score: Overall score 88 with no part less than 20
• Canadian Academic English Language (CAEL)
  • Minimum score: Overall score of 70, with no part less than 60
• Pearson Test of English (PTE)
  • Minimum score: Overall score of 65, and a minimum score of 60 in the Communicative Skills
• Duolingo English Test (DET)
  • Minimum score: Overall score of 125

It is important to note that enrolment in first-year writing intensive courses requires higher grades than admission grades. Students must also meet the University’s literacy requirements in addition to the English language requirement.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.