About
The University of Ottawa stands out as the world's largest English-French bilingual university, offering a unique academic experience in the heart of Canada's capital. It is highly regarded for its strong programs in public policy, health sciences, engineering, and law, including both common and civil law traditions. International students benefit from a welcoming and inclusive environment, supported by a dedicated International Office that provides extensive services, from immigration assistance and academic advising to social integration programs and English as a Second Language (ESL) courses. With a wide array of programs available in English and a vibrant, multicultural campus, the university fosters a truly global community. Its distinctive characteristic is its commitment to bilingualism, allowing students to study and live in both official languages.
Background
The University of Ottawa (French: Université d'Ottawa), often referred to as uOttawa, is a bilingual public research university in Ottawa, Ontario, the capital city of Canada. The main campus is located on 42.5 hectares (105 acres) directly to the northeast of Downtown Ottawa across the Rideau Canal in the Sandy Hill neighbourhood. The University of Ottawa was first established as the College of Bytown in 1848 by the first bishop of the Catholic Archdiocese of Ottawa, Joseph-Bruno Guigues. Placed under the direction of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate, it was renamed the College of Ottawa in 1861 and received university status five years later through an act of the Parliament of the Province of Canada.On 5 February 1889, the university was granted a pontifical charter by Pope Leo XIII, elevating the institution to a pontifical university. The university was reorganized on July 1, 1965, as a corporation, independent from any outside body or religious organization. As a result, the civil and pontifical charters were kept by the newly created Saint Paul University, federated with the university. The remaining...
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Quick facts
Nearby universities
Also in Ottawa
Elsewhere in Canada
- University of Prince Edward Island · Charlottetown
- University of Québec
- University of Regina · Regina
- University of Saskatchewan · Saskatoon
- University of Sudbury · Sudbury
- University of Toronto · Toronto
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Wondering if University of Ottawa is the right fit for you?
SchoolScout builds a personalized college list — reach, match, and safety schools — tailored to your profile, grades, and goals. Get financial aid estimates, scholarship guidance, and deep dives on every school.