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UNIVERSITY LIKE NOWHERE ELSE
This is Acadia University. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel it: this is a place unlike any other for kicking off your future.
It’s an education like nowhere else. Hands-on, high-impact, and deeply personal. You’ll grow as a thinker, a leader, and a human being. And you’ll graduate with the confidence to go wherever life takes you next.
It’s a campus like nowhere else. Leafy, compact, and full of light. Here, you’ll study in buildings rich with history and innovation, near orchards, trails, cafés, and coastlines. You’ll never feel lost in the crowd. Not here.
It’s a community like nowhere else. Tight-knit, supportive, and endlessly encouraging. This is a place where big questions are asked, bold thinking is welcomed, and your voice is heard.
And it’s in a town like nowhere else. Wolfville is warm and welcoming, full of charm, character, and curiosity. Tucked between the Bay of Fundy and the rolling hills of the Annapolis Valley, it’s a university town in the best sense.
Your education. Your future. Your experience. It all begins here. At a university like nowhere else.
1838 THE YEAR ACADIA WAS FOUNDED
5,057* POPULATION OF WOLFVILLE, NOVA SCOTIA
3,600 STUDENTS UNDERGRADUATE
50+ COUNTRIES THAT OUR STUDENTS HAIL FROM
200 KM OF RUNNING/HIKING TRAILS ACCESSIBLE FROM CAMPUS
1 HOUR FROM HALIFAX STANFIELD INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
80+ STUDENT CLUBS, SOCIETIES, AND ORGANIZATIONS
46 , 000+ ALUMNI WORLDWIDE
13 INTERNATIONAL EXCHANGE COUNTRIES
24 STUDENTS IN THE AVERAGE CLASS
80%
$8,000,000 IN SCHOLARSHIPS AND BURSARIES AWARDED ANNUALLY OF PROGRAMS OFFER CO-OP OR WORK-INTEGRATED LEARNING
DISCOVER WOLFVILLE
AND NOVA SCOTIA
Acadia calls Wolfville, Nova Scotia, home. And so will you. It’s not a big, busy city, and it’s not tucked away in the middle of nowhere. It’s something much better: a perfectly-sized town in a stunning part of Canada, where everything feels close— community, nature, inspiration, and possibility.
Welcome to Wolfville. Just an hour from Halifax, this small town punches far above its weight. It’s vibrant, creative, and full of life. You can walk from campus to indie coffee shops, art galleries, bookshops, and restaurants that serve food grown just down the road. There are farmers’ markets every week, live music spilling out of pubs, and festivals that fill the streets with colour and energy. And at every turn, you’ll meet people who smile, say hello, and genuinely care.
Wolfville is a university town through and through—safe, walkable, and welcoming. You’ll get to know the shop owners, the baristas, the neighbours, and they’ll get to know you. Acadia students are part of the fabric of this place, and Wolfville embraces that role with warmth and pride.
Beyond Wolfville, the rest of Nova Scotia unfolds. Hike coastal trails, kayak past cliffs carved by time, or just take in the view of the Bay of Fundy’s world-famous tides, only minutes from campus. You’re never far from adventure here. And when you want to head into the city, Halifax— and its international airport—are just down the highway.
This is where your university story unfolds. In a place that offers beauty, belonging, and balance. In a province shaped by the sea and defined by its people. This is life at Acadia—and it begins in Wolfville.
WOLFVILLE
TRURO
SYDNEY
AMHERST
YARMOUTH
ACADIA STANDS APART AS ONE OF CANADA’S OLDEST LIBERAL EDUCATION UNIVERSITIES.
At Acadia, you’re not just trained for a job, you’re prepared for life. The Acadia experience is built around the idea that a broad, diverse education makes you a stronger thinker, communicator, and problem solver. You’ll study across disciplines, challenge ideas, explore new perspectives, and learn how to connect the dots. You’ll graduate with the kind of adaptable, future-ready mindset that employers and communities need. At Acadia, this tradition comes to life in ways that will shape the direction of your future.
Here, small classes create space for real conversation. Professors don’t just teach— you’ll know them, and they’ll know you. That kind of connection builds confidence and curiosity. It invites you to share your perspective and stretch the way you think.
You’re never limited to a single path. In fact, you’ll be encouraged to explore across multiple subjects. That kind of academic flexibility is a core strength of our applied liberal education model—and at Acadia, it’s actively encouraged. And your education won’t stop at the classroom door. You’ll get your hands dirty—in the lab, in the field, in the workplace, and around the world.
80% of programs offer co-op or workintegrated learning
The average co-op term salary is $10,000 Work in Tech, Science Healthcare, Business, Education and more Exchange opportunities in 13 COUNTRIES
A DEGREE. YOU’LL LEAVE WITH MOMENTUM.
Here, you’ll gain the knowledge, experience, and clarity to shape your own future, wherever it leads. Some Acadia grads dive straight into meaningful careers, working in healthcare, tech, education, business, government, and beyond. Others launch startups, bringing their own ideas to life. Many continue their studies in competitive graduate and professional programs across Canada and around the world.
Whatever your path, you won’t walk it alone. The relationships you build at Acadia—with professors, mentors, classmates, and co-op partners—often open doors you didn’t expect. Our alumni network is strong, supportive, and proudly global.
Acadia graduates lead companies, conduct research, make policy, write books, build communities, and change lives.
ERIN RICHELLE
RESEARCH ASSISTANT
(BACHELOR OF SCIENCE IN NUTRITION, ‘24)
I started in Chemistry; now I’m a nutritionist. I helped design a Food Chemistry course, which led to me being one of 10 Canadian undergrads to win a 3M National Student Fellowship Award.
DANISH MOHAMMED
ASSOCIATE DATA ARCHITECT
(BACHELOR OF SCIENCE, COMPUTER SCIENCE, ’22)
I did a co-op program in software development, where I worked on an application now being used by financial industry brokers worldwide. And since graduating, I’m still involved in software development.
TOM ZHAI TEACHER
(BACHELOR OF EDUCATION, ‘25)
While studying for my B.Ed., I landed a rare job in the university’s Writing Centre. There, I got to design 11 teaching resources. I also was given a key role in adding math as a teachable subject to the School of Education’s curriculum.
No two journeys are the same. An Acadia education is wide in scope, rich in experience, and deeply personal. It’s designed to help you discover what you’re capable of, and equip you to go after it. Where will Acadia take you? Where do you want to go? Wherever it is, Acadia can get you there.
More details on where Acadia can take you here.
STARTING UNIVERSITY IS A GIANT LEAP
BUT ACADIA MAKES IT FEEL MORE LIKE A GENTLE LANDING.
It’s completely normal to feel nervous about the transition from high school to university. New environment. New people. New classes. New routines. At Acadia, we get that. It’s why we’re ready to support you all along the way.
It all begins with Orientation Week, a fun and welcoming introduction to life at Acadia. You’ll meet new friends, explore campus, and learn what to expect before classes even begin. It’s designed to help you feel comfortable and confident from day one.
Once the semester is underway, you won’t be left to figure things out on your own. Our academic advisors will guide you through your academic progress. And our on-campus student resource and wellness teams are always here for you.
Read more about all available student services here.
At Acadia, you’re never just a number. You’re part of a community that sees you, supports you, and believes in you. So come as you are—and get ready to discover how ready you really are. We’ve got you.
THERE’S SOMETHING SPECIAL AND EASY ABOUT WAKING UP ON CAMPUS
Most first-year students choose to live in residence, and it’s easy to see why. You’re not just renting a room, you’re joining a community. Living on campus means never experiencing FOMO: you’ll be a part of late-night study sessions, impromptu movie nights, group hikes, and everything in between. It’s a built-in support system. A way to feel grounded and connected, especially in those early days when everything’s new. Residence at Acadia gives you space to grow, friends to grow with, and a community that makes you feel like you belong.
WHY LIVE IN RESIDENCE?
You’re close to everything. Classes, the gym, the dining hall, the library, it’s all just steps away.
You’ll make friends fast. From floor events to common-room hangouts, residence is where connections are made.
Built-in academic support. Study groups, quiet spaces, and helpful RAs mean you’re set up for success.
We’ve got your back. With Resident Assistants and on-call support, you’ll always have someone to turn to.
It’s safe and secure. Campus security is available 24/7, so you can feel comfortable and confident.
You’ll learn real-life skills. From doing laundry to managing your schedule, you’ll build independence.
It’s a diverse, welcoming space. You’ll live alongside students from across the country and around the world.
Get full details on living in residence here.
PROGRAMS AND PATHWAYS
At Acadia, we believe your program of study should grow with you. University isn’t just about sticking to a plan, it’s about exploring, questioning, and discovering what truly excites you. You’re never locked into a path here. If your interests shift, we’ll help you pivot—whether that means changing majors, mixing disciplines across faculties, or adding a minor that expands your worldview. We’ll even help you take your studies abroad, or—believe it or not—aboard a tall ship with the Class Afloat program. At Acadia, your degree is a journey that’s truly yours to shape.
Acadia offers more than 200 degree options within three core faculties: Arts, Professional Studies, and Pure & Applied Science.
Faculty of ARTS
At Acadia, the arts are about asking big questions and finding deeper meaning. Small classes and discussion-based learning create space for ideas to thrive and for your voice to be heard.
Canadian Studies
Classical Studies
Economics
English
Environmental & Sustainability Studies
French
German
Faculty of PURE AND APPLIED SCIENCE
Here, science doesn’t just live in labs and lectures. It lives in the field, in research, in innovation. You’ll get your hands dirty, ask better questions, and graduate ready to shape the world.
Applied Bioscience
Applied Science
Biology
Chemistry
Computer Science
Engineering
Environmental Geoscience
Law and Society
Mathematics & Statistics
Faculty of PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
We prepare students for real careers with real impact. Whatever your passion, you’ll graduate with practical experience, professional insight, and a head start on your future.
Business Administration
Community Development
Education
Kinesiology
Music
Sociology
Women’s & Gender
Mathematics & Statistics
Mathematics Education
Nutrition & Dietetics Physics Psychology
Nursing 200+
DEGREE OPTIONS
STUDENT LIFE AT ACADIA ISN’T JUST ABOUT ACADEMICS.
IT’S ABOUT HOW YOU LIVE, WHERE YOU GROW, AND WHO YOU BECOME ALONG THE WAY.
You’ll live and learn in the heart of campus, surrounded by leafy green spaces and red-brick buildings that feel like a living piece of history.
Get involved in clubs, causes, and communities that reflect your interests—or spark new ones. Join a student society. Volunteer with a community group. Lead a sustainability initiative. Create your own podcast. Be part of something bigger.
When you need a breath of fresh air, you’re surrounded by nature: 200 kilometres of trails, unbelievable valley views, and the world’s highest tides just minutes from campus.
At Acadia, life isn’t lived on the sidelines. It’s experienced fully, on campus, in the community, and in every small moment you’ll never forget.
FUEL UP
in the dining hall or cook your favourites with friends at myPantry, Acadia’s modern community kitchen space. Our campus is the country’s first Organic Campus, designated by the Canada Organic Trade Association.
Learn more about the dining hall and other options here.
CAMPUS AND FACILITIES
ACADIA’S CAMPUS IS ONE OF THOSE RARE PLACES THAT FEELS BOTH FULL OF POSSIBILITY AND EASY TO NAVIGATE.
Everything—from lecture halls and research labs to green spaces, dining halls, and hangout spots—is right at hand. You’ll move through your days surrounded by classic stone buildings, red brick landmarks, and modern architecture that all tell Acadia’s story. And because it’s beautifully intimate, you’ll get to know this place quickly and feel at home just as fast. Heading to class? Catching up with friends? Hitting the gym? You’re never far from where you need to be.
AND ACTIVE LIVING POSSIBILITIES
The Athletics Complex is where Acadia’s studentathletes train and compete, and where students come to move, sweat, and reset. There’s a fully-equipped fitness centre, indoor walking track, spin studio, squash and racquetball courts, hockey arena, volleyball and basketball courts. Outside, you’ll find Raymond Field, with its artificial turf, track, and stadium seating.
Not a varsity athlete? No problem. Intramurals, club teams, fitness classes, and outdoor adventures are always in play. However you move, you’ll find your stride, and your team, at Acadia.
CHAMPIONSHIP TITLES AND 10 U SPORTS NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP TITLES
VARSITY
TO ALL REGULAR SEASON GAMES
CHECK OUT THE UPCOMING SCHEDULE HERE.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Whether you’re applying from high school or transferring from another university, we aim to make the admission process as clear and approachable as possible. If you have questions or concerns regarding admission, just reach out for advice—our people are here to support you.
These admission requirements are specifically for domestic students. For equivalent requirements for students applying from outside of Canada, please refer to acadiau.ca.
TRANSFER STUDENTS
If you’ve already begun your post-secondary journey, Acadia could be the perfect place to continue it. Many students join us from other institutions and find a welcoming, supportive community here. We’ll work with you to assess your credits and help you chart the smoothest path to graduation. Reach out to admissions@acadiau.ca for help with your transition.
FACULTY OF ARTS
FACULTY OF PROFESSIONAL STUDIES
FACULTY OF PURE AND APPLIED SCIENCE
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS BY PROVINCE AND TERRITORY
No matter where in Canada you’re coming from, we’re excited to review your application. This chart helps translate your provincial or territorial courses into Acadia’s admission requirements.
NOVA
HOW TO APPLY
Applying to university can feel like a big step. We’ve made the process at Acadia as simple and stress-free as possible. And no worries, you don’t have to have everything figured out yet—we’ll walk you through it.
DATES & DEADLINES
We know there’s a lot to keep track of when you’re getting ready for university, so we’ve pulled all the important dates together in one place. Here’s a quick look at the key dates and deadlines to help you stay on track. That way, you won’t miss a thing.
2025 2026
1
2
Choose your program.
3
Create an account and complete the online application at acadiau.ca.
4
After submission, you’ll be brought to your Acadia Status Portal, where a checklist will outline any requirements that are missing.
5
Check scholarship deadlines and apply.
Check residence options and apply early to secure your preferred space.
September
Applications for admission open
October
Residence applications open
October 24
Open House
November 8
Open House
November 15
Virtual Open House
January
Winter Orientation
February
Experience Acadia Day
February 28
Nursing applications close March 1
Scholarship application deadline for additional scholarships on top of grade-based entrance scholarships
March
By mid-March, final scholarship offers go out to scholarshipeligible students by email and mail
May
Residence room selection begins
May New Student Kickoff
May Course registration opens August Fall Orientation Week
September Fall classes begin
TUITION & OTHER COSTS
THE FINANCIAL PART OF YOUR UNIVERSITY JOURNEY IS TOO IMPORTANT TO LEAVE TO GUESSWORK.
Understanding the full cost of your education helps you build an accurate budget, which is so important for your peace of mind. We have a flexible tuition model with per-course costs for students taking fewer courses, and a flat fee for students with a full course load. Use this guide to plan ahead with confidence, so you can focus on what really matters: making the most of your time at Acadia.
RESIDENCE
Residence fees vary depending on the building and room you choose. They currently range from $6,260 to $10,370 per academic year. For room types and costs, visit.
MEAL PLANS
Meal plans are available to students living on or offcampus. Their costs range from $5,994 to $6,707 per academic year.
Meal plan details, here.
SCHOLARSHIPS & FINANCIAL AID
AT ACADIA, WE BELIEVE IN REWARDING POTENTIAL AND REMOVING BARRIERS, AND WE BACK THAT UP IN A BIG WAY.
You may be a top student, you could be facing financial need, or other factors might affect you. We’ll do our best to help you make the most of an Acadia education. Once you apply, you’re automatically considered for entrance scholarships. It’s our way of investing in your future from the very start.
Learn more about scholarships here.
SCHOLARSHIP TIERS
SCHOLARSHIP AVERAGES ARE CALCULATED BASED ON GRADE 11 AND GRADE 12 MARKS.
You must maintain 80% in grade 12 to remain eligible for a scholarship.
MAINTAIN A MINIMUM 80% AVERAGE and you’ll automatically receive an entrance scholarship with the opportunity to receive more.
$8,000 ($2,000 per year) 90.0% TO 94.9% AVERAGE
$2,000 ($500 per year) 80.0% TO 84.9% AVERAGE $4,000 ($1,000 per year) 85.0% TO 89.9% AVERAGE $10,000 ($2,500 per year) 95.0% AND ABOVE AVERAGE
IN 2024–2025, NEARLY
2,000 STUDENTS RECEIVED OVER 4,000 AWARDS
All dollar amounts are subject to change and apply for up to 4 years or until graduation, whichever occurs first.
$8M in scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid AWARDED EACH YEAR
LET US SHOW YOU AROUND
Welcome to Acadia University.
Choosing a university is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. And I truly believe Acadia offers something no other school in Nova Scotia, or even Canada, can match. This is a place where learning is deeply personal, where professors genuinely care about your success, and where opportunities— academic, professional, and personal—are woven into every part of the student experience.
As a proud Acadia graduate myself, I know the power this university has to shape not just careers, but lives. The friends you’ll make here, the support you’ll receive, and the confidence you’ll build, it all adds up to something very special.
If you’re ready for a university experience like nowhere else, I can’t wait to welcome you to campus.
Sincerely,
Dr. Jeff Hennessy President and Vice-Chancellor Acadia University
Come experience a place like nowhere else.
Our Student Ambassadors are excited to show you what Acadia University has to offer!
Register for a Campus Tour Today.
