Simon Fraser University (SFU) has been named Canada's number one comprehensive university in the 2026 Maclean's University Rankings.
The university has held top spot in the rankings for 17 of the last 18 years, with Maclean's describing the institution as "contemporary, inventive and forward-thinking."
Maclean's puts universities into three categories, recognizing the differences in types of institutions, levels of research funding, diversity of offerings, and breadth and depth of graduate and professional programs.
In the latest rankings, SFU scored top marks for excellence in student awards, medical/science grants, operating budget and library expenses.
"As we celebrate SFU's 60th anniversary this year, we are honoured to be once again ranked as Canada's top comprehensive university," says SFU President Joy Johnson.
"Since our founding, SFU's students, faculty, staff and alumni have worked to advance an inclusive and sustainable future through learning, teaching and research excellence, and we are proud to carry on that legacy, now and into the future."
Universities in the comprehensive category have a significant degree of research activity and a wide range of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels, including professional degrees.
SFU is described as "gaining international attention for its newsworthy inventions and innovations" with a number of recent developments highlighted in support of its top status:
- The launch of Fir, the country's most powerful academic supercomputer
- Construction of a new student residence and expanded child care
- The opening of the new First Peoples' Gathering House, as part of SFU's commitment to upholding Truth and Reconciliation
- The unveiling of the new Marianne and Edward Gibson Art Museum
Maclean's also notes how nearly 40,000 students are drawn by "SFU's excellent campus life" and facilities, which include two medical clinics, an "impressive athletic complex" and a Multifaith Centre.
The 2026 rankings were launched on the same day that SFU announced the location of its new medical school in Surrey - the first new medical school in Western Canada in nearly 60 years.
With applications now open, Maclean's says students can expect "a modern curriculum with problem-based learning, digital resources and extensive community partnerships."
Maclean's also highlighted SFU courses in health sciences and computer science as standout programs across all Canadian universities.
