McGill University has been surpassed by the University of Toronto in the latest 2025 rankings of Canada’s top universities

Montreal may be a dream city for students, but when it comes to university rankings, Toronto has taken the lead once again.

In CourseCompare’s latest rankings of the best Canadian universities in 2025, the University of Toronto (U of T) has secured the top spot, leaving McGill University trailing behind. Released on January 7, this annual ranking evaluates universities on their ability to prepare students for the future, focusing on key factors such as industry connections, research opportunities, and job readiness.

University of Toronto: A Clear Winner

Ranked #1, the University of Toronto continues to dominate thanks to its:

• 700+ undergraduate programs: Offering diverse educational opportunities across disciplines.
• Global reputation for research: U of T is renowned for cutting-edge innovations and academic breakthroughs.
• Industry partnerships: Collaborations with leading companies like Google, Amazon, and Apple provide students with unmatched access to co-op placements and internships.

These factors give U of T students a competitive edge in preparing for successful careers post-graduation.

McGill University: A Strong Contender

Despite falling behind U of T, McGill remains a formidable institution. Ranked second in Canada by CourseCompare, McGill’s strengths lie in:

• Groundbreaking research: Known for advancements in neuroscience, medicine, and climate science.
• Diverse student body: Thousands of international students flock to Montreal for its multicultural environment.
• Affordable, vibrant lifestyle: Montreal offers students a rich cultural experience and a more affordable cost of living compared to Toronto.

However, McGill’s focus on student life and research couldn’t quite match U of T’s career-oriented advantages this year.

Recurring Trends in Global Rankings

This isn’t the first time McGill has come second to U of T. In November, the Times Higher Education Global Employability University Ranking also placed McGill behind its Toronto counterpart. While U of T excelled globally, McGill held steady at 31st place worldwide.

Similarly, a research-focused global ranking from earlier in the year ranked McGill at 57th, far below U of T in 4th place and the University of British Columbia in 37th.

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Canada’s Top Universities in 2025

Here’s how CourseCompare’s list of the top 20 universities in Canada for 2025 looks:

1. University of Toronto
2. McGill University
3. University of British Columbia
4. University of Alberta
5. University of Calgary
6. Université de Montréal
7. McMaster University
8. Western University
9. Queen’s University
10. University of Ottawa
11. University of Waterloo
12. Dalhousie University
13. University of Saskatchewan
14. University of Manitoba
15. Simon Fraser University
16. University of Victoria
17. University of Guelph
18. York University
19. Wilfrid Laurier University
20. Concordia University

Conclusion

While Toronto continues to edge out Montreal in university rankings, both cities offer incredible opportunities for students. The University of Toronto’s focus on career-readiness and global partnerships has cemented its place as Canada’s top institution, while McGill shines as a hub of innovation, diversity, and student life.

For prospective students, the choice between these two iconic cities depends on their priorities: career-focused education or a vibrant, multicultural experience. Regardless, both universities remain top-tier options for shaping the future.