Simon Fraser University (reviews)

If you choose the good professors, you will have a good experience. SFU has a better program than some other universities in that you can apply to coop earlier because you can choose what major you are doing earlier. However, SFU’s grading system does tank your grade a little because it does it by letter grade and not percentage, meaning that if you want to convert from letter grade to percentage, you have to round down to the lowest percentage range of that letter grade.

SFU offers a lot of strong options. The co-op program is excellent for students who want more hands-on experiences, honours programs for academic focus, and exchange/study abroad programs.

As a Communication student, the program was very theory-heavy. Many courses focus on critical analysis of media, cultural contexts, and communication theory, so if you like how mass media, power, and society intersect, this program is a is for you! It’s not as skills-based as some people might expect, but there are some upper-level classes that offer more applied, hands-on learning alongside the theory. I like that SFU has three campuses. While most Communication classes are on the Burnaby campus, some are offered downtown, and I like the mix of online and in-person options. The faculty also includes many incredible professors from diverse academic and professional backgrounds.

While I can’t speak for the other faculties, I would definitely recommend SFU to students interested in critical theory in Communication!

Simon Fraser University (SFU) is a strong academic institution that excels in its course offerings, co-op program, and diverse student body. Unlike many larger universities where professors and TAs can feel distant, SFU stands out for its faculty’s accessibility. Professors and TAs are eager to help, frequently offering additional office hours, guiding students through assignments, and even being flexible with deadlines when valid reasons are provided. This level of support creates a more personalized learning experience, which is invaluable for academic success.

What I Like About SFU
One of SFU’s biggest strengths is its co-op program, which offers students hands-on experience and strong job prospects post-graduation. Additionally, certain programs and courses at SFU are even stronger than those at more well-known universities like UBC. The university also fosters an inclusive environment, with a diverse mix of students from different cultural backgrounds.

What Could Be Improved
Being a commuter school, SFU lacks the vibrant campus life found at other universities. Socializing can be difficult, and for an international student without family nearby, this can be an isolating experience. Despite its stunning location on Burnaby Mountain, the campus architecture feels outdated, and student amenities are limited. The social scene also isn’t as open and engaging as UBC’s, making it harder to form friendships outside of familiar cultural circles.

Would I Recommend SFU?
Absolutely—especially for students who prioritize academic success and career opportunities. While it may not offer the most exciting social life, SFU provides an environment where students can focus, take advantage of top-tier academic programs, and build a strong foundation for a great job after graduation. If you’re willing to trade a bit of traditional campus experience for long-term career rewards, SFU is a solid choice.

It was big and filled with a lot of people and the teachers were all experts in their field and we had access to great resources.

It was big and filled with a lot of people and the teachers were all experts in their field and we had access to great resources.