Bachelor of Computer Science [B.C.S]
Field of Study:
$36,531 /Yr
Carleton University Bachelor of Computer Science (B.C.S) is a four-year honours degree offered in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. The programme trains software engineers and full-stack developers in a co-op-enabled curriculum focused on industry-relevant skills. Admission requires IELTS 6.5 (minimum 6.0 per band) or TOEFL 86. Tuition is CAD 56,273.62 annually (INR 38.95 Lakhs). Fall 2026 intake applications are currently in rolling admissions with a priority deadline of 28 February 2027.
The programme stands out for direct partnerships with Ottawa’s tech employers—Microsoft, IBM, and local software firms hire Carleton co-op students regularly. You will study algorithms, databases, web development, systems design, and software engineering practices over four years. The ideal applicant has strong mathematics skills, curiosity about software problem-solving, and practical interest in Canadian work-integrated learning. Approximately 12 percent of the cohort are Indian nationals, reflecting the university’s global recruitment efforts.
- Co-op placements: up to three paid work terms embedded in the degree; average hourly rates CAD 18–25; co-op work is counted as academic credit.
- Employment: 92 percent of graduates employed within 12 months; average starting salary CAD 62,000; placement outcomes significantly enhanced by co-op experience.
- Tuition freeze: fees locked at 2026 rates through Fall 2028 for all intakes; strong economic commitment from the university.
Current Admission Status
Applications for the Fall 2026 intake are Open (Rolling Admissions). International student deadline: 28 February 2027.
WES transcript evaluation takes 4–6 weeks; apply immediately if you have not yet submitted official documents to avoid delays before the priority deadline.
Also Check: Carleton University Admission Requirements
Carleton University Bachelor of Computer Science Fees and Living Costs 2026
Annual tuition for international undergraduates in the B.C.S programme is CAD 56,273.62, which includes compulsory fees. This amount is frozen through Fall 2028, providing budget certainty for the entire four-year period. Carleton’s tuition lock policy is among the most student-friendly in Ontario.
| Fee Component | CAD (Annual) | INR (Annual) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (base) | C$40,674 | INR 28.14 Lakhs |
| Mandatory miscellaneous fees (UHIP, transit, athletics, health) | C$2,500 | INR 1.73 Lakhs |
| Books and supplies | C$1,200 | INR 83,028 |
| Off-campus rent (monthly, studio/shared) | C$850 (estimated) | INR 58,811 (monthly) |
| Total annual (tuition plus living estimate) | C$62,474 | INR 43.26 Lakhs |
The application fee is CAD 102.50 (INR 7,096), non-refundable, and a tuition deposit of CAD 2,000 (INR 1.38 Lakhs) is required upon acceptance to secure your place. This deposit is credited toward your first semester’s tuition.
All INR conversions in the article use a conversion rate of CAD 1 = INR 69.19 as of May 2026. Rates fluctuate daily; verify before applying.
- Tuition covers instruction, library access, and academic support services including writing centre and tutoring.
- Mandatory fees fund health insurance (UHIP), campus transit pass (UPASS), athletics facilities, and student health centre access with pharmacy.
- Books cost approximately CAD 1,200 annually; many courses use open-source materials or digital textbooks to reduce costs.
- Living costs vary significantly by housing choice; on-campus residence is more expensive but convenient for first-year students seeking community.
Cost of Living in Ottawa for Computer Science Students
Ottawa is Canada’s capital and has a moderate cost of living for a major Canadian city. Rent is the largest variable expense. Student housing near Carleton campus ranges significantly based on proximity and amenities.
| Expense Category | Monthly CAD | Monthly INR |
|---|---|---|
| On-campus residence (double room) | C$875–1,000 | INR 60,566–69,190 |
| Off-campus shared apartment (per person) | C$750–950 | INR 51,893–65,731 |
| Groceries (budget meal plan) | C$300–450 | INR 20,757–31,136 |
| Phone and internet | C$60–100 | INR 4,151–6,919 |
| Local transit (UPASS included in fees) | Included | Included |
| Dining out and entertainment | C$200–400 | INR 13,838–27,676 |
| Total monthly (off-campus) | C$1,500–2,500 | INR 1.04–1.73 Lakhs |
Cost Reality: Four-year total cost is approximately CAD 248,000–250,000 (INR 1.72 Crore), including tuition, fees, and living expenses. Co-op earnings (typically CAD 15,000–20,000 per term) can offset living costs in third and fourth years substantially.
Read More: Cost of Living in Canada for Indian Students
Carleton University Bachelor of Computer Science Admission 2026
Carleton admits international undergraduate students for the Fall intake annually using a rolling admissions process. Rolling admissions started 1 June 2026. The following table shows current and projected deadlines for both the current and next intake cycles.
| Intake | Application Opens | Rolling Admissions Priority Deadline | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall 2026 | 1 June 2026 | 28 February 2027 | Open (Rolling) |
| Fall 2027 | Expected: 1 June 2027 | Expected: 28 February 2028 | Not Yet Open |
Academic Eligibility
Secondary school completion with 12 years of study is the baseline requirement. Most admitted students have 12th-grade completion from Indian boards (CBSE or ICSE) with 74–82 percent marks or equivalent. Carleton evaluates academic performance holistically, considering the strength of curriculum (science, mathematics) and grade trends.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Secondary completion | Class 12th completion from CBSE, ICSE, or state board with official transcript; all grades required |
| GPA equivalent | Minimum 70 percent (competitive: 75 percent and above) |
| Mathematics | Core mathematics or advanced mathematics required at secondary level; demonstrates quantitative readiness |
| English | English proficiency demonstrated via IELTS, TOEFL, or other approved test; no separate English subject grade required |
English Language Proficiency (ELP) Requirements
All international applicants must demonstrate English proficiency. Carleton accepts multiple standardized tests with the following minimum scores. Choose the test that best suits your preparation timeline and learning style.
| Test | Overall Minimum | Per-Component Minimum |
|---|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.5 | 6.0 in reading, writing, speaking, listening |
| TOEFL (iBT) | 86 | 20 and above in each section |
| PTE | 60 | 50 and above in each component |
| Duolingo English Test | 110 | Not specified; overall score used |
- IELTS 6.5 is achievable for strong Indian students with 3–4 months of focused preparation; band-wise minimums mean no section below 6.0.
- TOEFL 86 requires intermediate-to-advanced reading, writing, and listening skills; speaking is often the lowest-scoring section for Indian test-takers.
- Duolingo (110) is the fastest and cheapest pathway; test results arrive within one week and cost USD 49; widely accepted by Canadian universities.
- Realistic acceptance rate for Indian applicants is 2–3 percent at Carleton overall; CS competitiveness is higher due to strong local demand from employers.
Carleton University ranks 781–790 globally (QS 2026) and 501 internationally (THE 2026). In Canada, it is classified as Tier 1 Comprehensive and ranks in the top 15 nationally (Maclean’s 2026).
Admission Reality: Carleton receives 35,000 and above applications annually for 5,000 undergraduate places. CS is one of the most competitive programmes due to employer recruitment. Strong academic credentials (75 percent and above), valid English test (IELTS/TOEFL near minimums), and an optional statement of purpose improve your odds significantly.
Check Out: Carleton University Computer Science Program Details
Carleton University Bachelor of Computer Science Application 2026
Apply through the Ontario Universities’ Application Centre (OUAC) portal for most Canadian universities, including Carleton. International students use the same portal but submit additional documents to verify international secondary credentials.
| Deadline | Intake | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 28 February 2027 | Fall 2026 (Rolling) | Open | Priority deadline for international students; rolling admissions ongoing |
| Expected 28 February 2028 | Fall 2027 | Not Yet Open | Typical annual window; check OUAC in June 2027 |
- Completed OUAC application form (online) with programme selection and personal details
- Official secondary school transcripts and Class 12th certificate (WES-evaluated for international authenticity)
- English language test result (IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, or Duolingo) demonstrating minimum proficiency
- Application fee: CAD 102.50 (INR 7,096), non-refundable; covers OUAC processing and credential verification
- Upon offer of admission, pay tuition deposit CAD 2,000 (INR 1.38 Lakhs) to confirm your place and secure enrolment
Application Tip: WES evaluations take 4–6 weeks. Submit your secondary transcripts to WES 8 weeks before the deadline to ensure Carleton receives your assessment in time. Late submissions are automatically deferred to Fall 2027.
Read More: Canadian Student Visa Requirements for Indians
Carleton University Bachelor of Computer Science Scholarships 2026
Carleton offers merit-based scholarships to admitted international undergraduates. Scholarships are awarded at the time of admission based on secondary school grades; no separate scholarship application is required. The university prioritizes financial accessibility for international students with strong academic records.
| Scholarship | Amount (CAD) | Amount (INR) | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| President’s Welcome Award (Automatic) | C$2,000–5,000 | INR 1.38–3.46 Lakhs | All admitted international undergraduate students |
| Prestige Scholarship (Competitive) | C$5,000–14,178 | INR 3.46–9.81 Lakhs | Admission average 90 percent and above and community involvement |
| International Student Tuition Prize (Draw) | C$10,000 | INR 6.92 Lakhs | Random draw among admitted internationals (5 recipients annually) |
For a B.C.S student with an admission average of 80 percent, the net scholarship is typically CAD 2,000–5,000 annually. This offsets approximately 3.5–8.9 percent of tuition. Over four years, a Prestige Scholarship (CAD 10,000 per year) reduces total tuition cost from CAD 225,094 to INR 1.61 Crore, significantly improving accessibility.
Scholarship Reality: Most Indian applicants admitted to Carleton fall into the 75–85 percent range and qualify for the automatic President’s Welcome Award only. Aim for 90 percent and above in Class 12 (or equivalent) to unlock the Prestige Scholarship and meaningfully reduce your financial burden.
Also Check: Carleton University Scholarships for International Students
Carleton University Bachelor of Computer Science Salary 2026
B.C.S graduates enter high-demand roles in software development, data engineering, and systems design. Carleton’s strong co-op programme ensures most graduates have 8–12 months of work experience before graduation, giving them competitive advantage in the job market.
| Career Metric | Outcome (CAD) | Outcome (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Starting salary (median, first year post-graduation) | C$62,000 | INR 42.90 Lakhs |
| Starting salary range (25–75th percentile) | C$50,000–80,000 | INR 34.60–55.35 Lakhs |
| Co-op term earnings (average, per term) | C$15,000–20,000 | INR 10.38–13.84 Lakhs |
| Employment rate at 6 months | 85 percent | |
| Employment rate at 12 months | 92 percent | |
Take-home salary after Canadian tax (federal and Ontario provincial) is approximately 72–75 percent of gross. A CAD 62,000 starting salary nets approximately CAD 45,000–46,500 annually after federal and provincial income tax, CPP contributions (5.95 percent), and employment insurance (1.63 percent).
Source: Carleton University Office of Institutional Research and Planning (2024–2025 Graduate Survey); Ontario Ministry of Labour wage data.
Salary Reality: B.C.S graduates working in Ottawa start near CAD 62,000, but remote roles and larger tech hubs (Toronto, Vancouver) offer CAD 70,000–90,000 and above within two years. Co-op earnings can offset your four-year living costs substantially if you work three terms at CAD 18–25 per hour.
Check Out: Carleton University Graduate Placements and Salary Statistics
Canada Visa and Work Rights for Computer Science Students 2026
India-to-Carleton B.C.S students are eligible for a study permit valid for the duration of your programme plus one semester. Post-graduation, you can work in Canada under an open Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for up to four years without needing employer sponsorship. This creates a clear pathway to permanent residence.
- Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP): Open for four years; employers do not sponsor or control your visa status.
- Permanent residence pathway: Canadian skilled-worker visas (Express Entry) require CAD 62,000 and above annual salary and 12 months of Canadian work experience; processing time is 6 months.
- PGWP earnings: An initial CAD 62,000 salary is above Canada’s skilled-worker threshold; you can apply for PR during your PGWP validity period.
- Spouse and dependent support: Family sponsorship is available for permanent residents; work permits can be issued to eligible spouses during your study or PGWP period.
Visa Reality: The study permit is straightforward if you meet financial requirements (Proof of Funds: CAD 20,000 for Guaranteed Investment Certificate). Post-graduation is where opportunity opens: a four-year PGWP plus Canadian work experience makes you competitive for permanent residence, which Indian B.C.S graduates increasingly pursue.
Read More: Canada Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) for Indian Students
The Carleton University Bachelor of Computer Science programme is a structured four-year path to employment in Canadian technology. Realistic Indian applicants score 75 percent and above in Class 12, achieve IELTS 6.5 or TOEFL 86, and secure admission on academic merit. Costs are significant—INR 1.72 Crore over four years—but employer demand in Ottawa and strong co-op earnings make this investment viable. Apply immediately for Fall 2026 rolling admissions; the priority deadline is 28 February 2027.
Bachelor of Computer Science FAQs
Ques. Is Carleton Computer Science suitable for Indian students with no coding experience?
Ans. Yes. Carleton does not require prior coding experience for admission. First-year courses introduce Python, algorithms, and basic data structures from the ground up. However, familiarity with mathematics (algebra, basic calculus) is strongly recommended; students without this background may benefit from tutoring support in first year.
Ques. Can I work during my studies on a study permit?
Ans. Yes. Indian students on a valid study permit can work up to 20 hours per week during academic sessions and full-time during official breaks (Christmas, summer). Many Carleton CS students work part-time on campus or for local tech companies. Earnings supplement living costs and provide valuable industry experience.
Ques. Does Carleton B.C.S guarantee co-op placement?
Ans. Co-op is integrated into the curriculum, but not guaranteed for every student. Typically, 70–80 percent of B.C.S students complete at least one co-op term. Your academic performance, resume quality, and interview skills determine placement success. Low performers may skip co-op and graduate with a regular degree instead.
Ques. What is the difference between B.C.S and combined honours (B.C.S with Mathematics)?
Ans. The B.C.S (Honours) focuses on computer science and industry skills. Combined Honours (B.C.S with Mathematics) adds advanced mathematics courses (real analysis, abstract algebra) in place of some CS electives. Combined Honours suits students interested in theory, cryptography, or academic research; standard B.C.S suits industry-oriented roles. Both are four years and cost the same tuition.
Ques. Can I transfer credits from an Indian engineering college to Carleton?
Ans. Transfer credit policies vary by programme and institution. If you have completed a diploma or first year of engineering in India, contact Carleton’s International Admissions office to request a transcript evaluation. Typically, up to one year of credits may transfer, reducing your time to degree and saving tuition costs. This is rare for first-entry students but possible for those who have completed post-secondary study in India.
Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | $36531 (CAD 52187) |
Other Expenses
| Head | Avg Cost Per Year |
|---|---|
| On-Campus Residence and Meal Plan | $9410 (CAD 13443) |
| Personal expenses | $2100 (CAD 3000) |
Tuition fee per credit- 10,437.4
Important Dates
| Event | Application Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline For September 2026 Intake | |
Scores Required


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TOP Scholarships
| Scholarship name | Award amount | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| President’s Welcome Award | $2,000 – $5,000 | This award is available only to international students entering directly from high school and paying international student fees. |
| International Students’ Award | $10,000 | Admitted international students who have accepted their offers of admission and paid the tuition deposit by May 15th, 2026, will be automatically considered |
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Scholarship Grants & Financial Aids
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| VueVille Future Technology Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 700/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Go Clean Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 2,450/Yr$3,500 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Forktip Women’s- Innovation Scholarship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| Jared J. Davis Grant | Scholarship per student$ 700/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| The Google Lime Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 7,000/Yr$10,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Axol Science Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 1,400/Yr$2,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCompany-Sponsored |

















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