Master of Science [MS] (Physical Therapy)
Field of Study:
$23,789 /Yr
University of Alberta Master of Science (Physical Therapy) is a 2-year professional graduate program leading to licensure as a physiotherapist in Canada. The program follows a course-based Master’s format, accepting approximately 124 students annually from around the globe. Eligibility requires a Bachelor’s degree with specific prerequisites, IELTS or TOEFL proficiency, and successful completion of the Casper situational judgment exam. International students pay (First year tuition fee: $11,000 | INR 7.41 Lakhs). The tuition fee changes every year. The program is delivered in Edmonton, Alberta, one of Canada’s largest and most active rehabilitation medicine hubs.
University of Alberta’s Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine offers one of Canada’s largest entry-to-practice physical therapy programs, combining evidence-based clinical training with cutting-edge musculoskeletal, neurological, and cardiopulmonary rehabilitation. Graduates work in hospitals, private clinics, community health centers, sports medicine facilities, and research institutions across Canada and globally. The curriculum integrates clinical placements with advanced coursework in assessment, treatment, research methods, and professional practice, with a distinct emphasis on patient-centered care and interdisciplinary collaboration. This program is ideal for internationally trained healthcare professionals and science graduates seeking a direct pathway to regulated practice in Canada’s healthcare system.
Current Admission Status
Applications for the Fall 2027 intake are Not Yet Open. International student deadline (estimated): 15 January 2027.
Applications typically open in October 2026; international applicants with non-Canadian transcripts must submit by the January 15 deadline, well before interviews in April 2027. Indian students requiring a WES credential evaluation should begin the process by August 2026 to avoid delays.
University of Alberta Master of Science Physical Therapy Fees 2027
The cost of studying the Master of Science in Physical Therapy at the University of Alberta comprises tuition, ancillary fees, and mandatory insurance. International students pay program-specific tuition locked for the program duration under the University of Alberta’s international fee guarantee policy.
| Fee Component | Per Year (CAD) | Per Year (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition (International) | First year: $11,000 | INR 7.41 Lakhs |
All INR conversions in the article use a conversion rate of CAD 1 = INR 70.12 as of June 2026.
University of Alberta MS Physical Therapy Admission 2027
The Master of Science in Physical Therapy at the University of Alberta is an entry-to-practice program for individuals with a Bachelor’s degree and prerequisite coursework in anatomy, physiology, and life sciences. Admissions decisions are made following an academic screening, Casper situational judgment assessment, and interview process.
| Criterion | Detail |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s Degree | Completed a Bachelor’s in any discipline with prerequisite coursework: Anatomy, Physiology, Biochemistry, Psychology, Statistics, Organic Chemistry. |
| GPA / Academic Average | Minimum 3.0 GPA (B or equivalent), 73% to 76% in last 60 credit hours; competitive average is 3.5+ (A- or higher). |
| Interview | Virtually |
| CASPER Exam | Mandatory situational judgment assessment (online, 100 minutes); score is integral to admission decisions; incomplete scores result in automatic rejection. |
| Work Experience | Not mandatory; however, healthcare exposure (volunteer, shadow, internship) strengthens applications. |
Also read: Scholarships offered by the University of Alberta
English Language Proficiency (ELP) Requirements
International applicants from non-English-speaking countries must demonstrate English proficiency via standardized tests. University of Alberta accepts the following:
- IELTS: 7.5 overall
- TOEFL iBT: 580 (paper-based)
University of Alberta Master of Science Physical Therapy Application 2027
The application process combines an online portal submission, Casper assessment, and interview rounds. Dates are synchronized across Canadian physiotherapy programs through a centralized matching system.
| Stage | Expected Deadline / Date | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Application Portal Opens | October 1, 2026 (Expected) | Not Yet Open |
| International Student Deadline | January 15, 2027 (Expected) | Not Yet Open |
| Casper Exam Window | January 15 - February 28, 2027 (Expected) | Not Yet Open |
| Preliminary Admission Decisions (Interviewed / Rejected) | Early March 2027 (Expected) | Not Yet Open |
| Interviews (In-Person or Virtual) | April 11-12, 2027 (Expected) | Not Yet Open |
| Final Admission Decisions | May-June 2027 (Expected) | Not Yet Open |
| Mandatory Orientation | Late July 2027 (Expected) | Not Yet Open |
| Program Start (Fall Intake) | September 2027 | Not Yet Open |
Also read: University of Alberta Acceptance Rate
University of Alberta Master of Science Physical Therapy Scholarships 2027
University of Alberta offers a limited number of entrance scholarships for international master’s students, awarded based on academic merit and sometimes demonstrated leadership. However, competitive merit-based scholarships are more limited for graduate programs compared to undergraduate programs.
The University of Alberta Graduate Entrance Scholarship provides up to CAD 17,500 (INR 12.28 Lakhs) as a one-time stipend for newly admitted international graduate students ranked highly by their department. Additionally, the Alberta Graduate Excellence Scholarship (AGES) awards CAD 12,000 (INR 8.41 Lakhs) to selected merit-based graduate students, with a portion reserved for international candidates.
Physical therapy students may also access faculty-specific scholarships through the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, including awards for research excellence, clinical innovation, and community engagement. The Canadian Physiotherapy Association (CPA) and provincial physiotherapy associations offer post-graduation bursaries for licensed practitioners pursuing advanced study or specialization.
- University of Alberta Graduate Entrance Scholarship: CAD 17,500 (INR 12.28 Lakhs) for highly competitive applicants with strong academic records and research interests.
- Alberta Graduate Excellence Scholarship (AGES): CAD 12,000 (INR 8.41 Lakhs), merit-based, limited international slots available.
- Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine Research Awards: CAD 5,000-8,000 (INR 3.51-5.61 Lakhs) for students pursuing thesis or independent research components.
Scholarship reality: Graduate PT scholarships are competitive and merit-based; most international students do not receive full tuition waivers. Strategy: apply for the entrance scholarships, secure a Graduate Entrance Scholarship (if eligible), and supplement with external funding from the Indian government or private organizations. Combining CAD 17,500 scholarship with part-time work (20 hours/week on campus at CAD 16.55/hour minimum wage) covers approximately 40% of annual costs.
University of Alberta Master of Science Physical Therapy Salary and Placements 2027
Graduates of the University of Alberta Physical Therapy program enter regulated practice in Canada and earn competitive salaries across hospitals, clinics, community centers, and research institutions. Employment outcomes are exceptionally strong, with over 90% of graduates securing positions within 6 months of graduation.
| Career Stage | Annual Salary (CAD) | Annual Salary (INR) | Hourly Rate (CAD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Entry-Level (0-2 years) | CAD 64,977 - CAD 78,995 | INR 45.58 - INR 55.41 Lakhs | CAD 33-40 |
| Early Career (3-5 years) | CAD 85,000 - CAD 105,000 | INR 59.60 - INR 73.63 Lakhs | CAD 43-53 |
| Mid-Career (6-10 years) | CAD 100,000 - CAD 125,000 | INR 70.12 - INR 87.65 Lakhs | CAD 50-63 |
| Senior/Specialized (10+ years) | CAD 120,000 - CAD 150,000 | INR 84.14 - INR 1.05 Crore | CAD 60-75 |
Source: Statistics Canada Labour Force Survey 2026, Glassdoor Canada 2026, Canadian Physiotherapy Association salary surveys.
- Entry-level physiotherapists in Ontario and Alberta earn approximately CAD 70,000 gross (INR 49.08 Lakhs); after federal tax (14%), provincial tax (5-6%), CPP (5.95%), and EI (1.63%), take-home is approximately 65-70% of gross, or INR 31.83-34.36 Lakhs per year.
- Hospital-based positions offer higher base salaries (CAD 72,000-78,000) with pension benefits; private clinic positions offer 5-15% higher salaries but no pension or benefits.
- Specialization in sports medicine, ergonomics, or neurological rehabilitation commands 10-15% salary premiums; leadership roles (clinic director, manager) reach CAD 120,000+ within 8-10 years of practice.
- Employers hiring University of Alberta graduates include Alberta Health Services (AHS), British Columbia Health Services (BCHSA), Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, Royal Victoria Hospital (Montreal), and private chains (Physionet, Athlete’s Care, Linacare).
ROI reality: Total 2-year cost (INR 50.66 Lakhs) is recovered in approximately 10-12 months of employment as a licensed physiotherapist. A graduate earning CAD 72,000 (INR 50.48 Lakhs gross) recoups their entire investment and begins net savings within 14 months, positioning PT as a strong financial return among healthcare graduate programs.
The University of Alberta's Master of Science in Physical Therapy prepares internationally trained healthcare professionals for immediate clinical practice and career advancement in Canada’s regulated healthcare system. With strong employment outcomes (90%+ placement within 6 months), competitive entry-level salaries (CAD 70,000-79,000), and a clear pathway to permanent residency within 18-24 months, the program delivers measurable ROI for Indian applicants. The combination of rigorous curriculum, affordable tuition (relative to Toronto/UBC alternatives), and location in a growing healthcare market makes UofA an attractive entry point to Canadian physiotherapy practice and long-term settlement.
FAQs
Ques. Can Indian students with a Bachelor’s degree in science (non-healthcare) apply to the University of Alberta PT Master’s?
Ans. Yes. University of Alberta requires prerequisite coursework (anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, psychology, statistics, organic chemistry) but does not mandate a healthcare-specific Bachelor’s degree. Indian applicants with BSc, BTech, or other science-based degrees can apply provided they have completed or can complete the prerequisite courses. Some students take a 1-year diploma or bridge program to fulfill prerequisites before applying. Confirm your transcript meets University of Alberta’s specific prerequisite requirements by contacting Graduate Admissions.
Ques. What is the Casper exam and how critical is it to admission decisions?
Ans. Casper is a 100-minute online situational judgment test that assesses ethical reasoning, communication, and interpersonal skills through video-based scenarios. It is mandatory for all applicants (since the 2025 cycle); incomplete or missing Casper scores result in automatic rejection. The exam costs approximately CAD 120-150 and is offered multiple times throughout the application cycle. Preparation involves understanding common PT ethical dilemmas and practicing timed responses. Many Indian applicants find Casper challenging due to cultural communication style differences; practice platforms like Casper’s own prep guide and Reddit’s r/PT community discussions help build familiarity. Aim for a score in the top 50% percentile to remain competitive.
Ques. Is healthcare volunteer or work experience mandatory to be admitted?
Ans. Healthcare experience is not mandatory for admission to the University of Alberta PT program, but it strengthens your application significantly. Competitive applicants typically have 100+ hours of exposure through volunteer roles (hospital, clinic, physiotherapy center), shadowing, or employment. Indian applicants can accumulate this experience before applying: volunteering at local hospitals or clinics for 4-6 weeks yields 80+ hours. Alternatively, some Indian applicants leverage existing healthcare backgrounds (nursing, exercise science, chiropody) as proxy experience. Emphasize any such exposure in your personal statement or interview.
Ques. How long does credential evaluation (WES) take and when should I start the process?
Ans. WES evaluation typically takes 6-8 weeks from receipt of your official transcripts from your Indian university, plus 2-3 weeks of postal/shipping time to and from India. Total timeline: 10-12 weeks. Since the international deadline is January 15, 2027, you should request official sealed transcripts from your Indian university by August 1, 2026 and submit them to WES immediately. WES provides an electronic report link within 2 weeks of completion; you can then upload the report to the University of Alberta application portal by December 15, 2026, leaving a 4-week buffer before the deadline.
Ques. After graduation, what are the steps to become a licensed physiotherapist in Canada?
Ans. Upon graduation from the University of Alberta MSc PT program, you are eligible to apply for the Canadian Physiotherapy Examination (CPE), administered by Physiotherapy Exam Canada. Pass the CPE (90% of UofA graduates pass on the first attempt), and you become a Registered Physiotherapist (RP) in your province of practice. Registration timelines vary: Alberta and British Columbia typically register new graduates within 4-6 weeks; Ontario takes 8-12 weeks due to higher application volume. The exam costs approximately CAD 400-500. Upon licensure, you can work independently, open a private practice, or accept offers from hospitals/clinics. International students often secure employment before graduation; your employer may even sponsor CPE exam costs as a hiring incentive.
Important Alert
- Application Deadline for Fall 2027 Intake - Feb 1, 2027
Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | $23789 (CAD 33984) |
Other Expenses
| Head | Avg Cost Per Year |
|---|---|
| Housing | $5880 (CAD 8400) |
| Food | $2520 (CAD 3600) |
Per Credit Tuition Fee: $ 715.48
Previous Year Tuition Fees
| Year | 1st Year Fees |
|---|---|
| 2025 | $24040 (CAD 34343) |
| 2024 | $24040 (CAD 34343) |
| 2023 | $21298 (CAD 30425) |
| 2022 | $20880 (CAD 29829) |
| 2021 | $9780 (CAD 13972) |
Important Dates
| Event | Application Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline for Fall 2027 Intake | Feb 1, 2027 |
Scores Required
Required Document List
Complete Application
Application Fee
Official Transcripts
English Language Requirements
A copy of the Passport
Resume
Statement of Intent
Three Letters of Recommendation
Writing Sample

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TOP Scholarships
| Scholarship name | Award amount | Eligibility |
|---|---|---|
| Graduate Entrance Scholarship | $17,500 | Automatic consideration upon admission |
| Alberta Graduate Excellence Scholarship | $12,000 | Students with GPA of 3.3 or above |
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College Student Profiles
Scholarship Grants & Financial Aids
| Name | Scholarship Per Student | Level of Study | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bharat Petroleum Scholarship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyMaster | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Forktip Women’s- Innovation Scholarship | Scholarship per studentVariable Amount | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeCollege-Specific | |
| FINCAD Women in Finance Scholarship | Scholarship per student$ 14,000/Yr$20,000 | Level Of StudyMaster | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Ontario Graduate Fellowship | Scholarship per student$ 6,213/Yr$8,875 | Level Of StudyDoctorate | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Jared J. Davis Grant | Scholarship per student$ 700/Yr$1,000 | Level Of StudyBachelor | TypeMerit-Based | |
| Golden Key Graduate Scholar Award | Scholarship per student$ 1,050/Yr$1,500 | Level Of StudyMaster | TypeMerit-Based |
Similar Programs
| Program | Important Date | Total Fees | Median Exams Score | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Application Deadline for Fall Intake (1st Feb 2027) | USD 6,686 /Yr CAD 9,552 /Yr |
| ||
Application Deadline for Winter 2027 Intake (1st Sep 2026) Application Deadline for Spring 2027 Intake (1st Jan 2027) Application Deadline for Summer 2027 Intake (1st Mar 2027) Application Deadline for Fall 2027 Intake (1st May 2027) | USD 7,363 /Yr CAD 10,518 /Yr |
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| USD 43,408 /Yr CAD 62,011 /Yr |
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-- | USD 20,846 /Yr CAD 29,780 /Yr |
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