Alberta vs Calgary
How Alberta and Calgary stack up on the numbers that decide where you apply: selectivity, cost after aid, testing, and essays.
| Alberta | Calgary | |
|---|---|---|
| Acceptance rate | 58% | 60% |
| Testing policy | flexible | Test-blind |
| Type | Public | Public |
| Location | Canada | Canada |
| Sticker price (per year) | $41,000 | $36,900 |
| Average cost after aid | $41,000 | $36,900 |
| Supplemental essays | 1 | 2 |
- Alberta is harder to get into than Calgary (58% versus 60%), so treat it as the bigger reach.
- After aid, Calgary is usually the cheaper option ($36,900 versus $41,000 per year on average).
- On testing, Alberta sets its own testing policy while Calgary is test-blind.
- Calgary asks for more supplemental writing (2 essays versus 1), so budget more time for its application.
- Run the free chances calculator to see your real odds at both, then get a free read on each school's essays.
Alberta vs Calgary FAQ
Is Alberta or Calgary harder to get into?
Alberta is harder to get into, admitting about 58% of applicants versus 60% at Calgary.
Is Alberta or Calgary cheaper?
After financial aid, Calgary is usually cheaper, about $36,900 per year on average versus $41,000 at Alberta.
See your real chances at Alberta and Calgary.
Build my college list