Looking for a college that puts research and student success first? Lambton College, ranked the #1 research college in Canada for four years in a row, offers students opportunities to get paid while working on research projects.
For more than 50 years, Lambton welcomes students from around the world to its affordable and friendly campuses across Ontario. While the main campus is in Sarnia, international students can also study in Toronto, Mississauga, or Ottawa—giving them options and flexibility in a supportive environment.
Why Choose Lambton College?
Your journey to study in Canada starts with choosing the right college—and for many international students, that choice is Lambton. To help you get started, here are 7 reasons why students choose Lambton College:
- Canada’s Top College for Research Opportunities
Lambton has ranked #1 among medium-sized research colleges for four years and remains in Canada’s Top 5 for nine straight years. - Real-World Experience While You Study
Students gain hands-on experience through research projects with business, government, and non-profit partners. - Work in Canada After Graduation
PGWP eligibility now depends on your program’s field of study. Many Lambton programs qualify, letting graduates work in Canada for up to three years. - Lower Cost of Living Than Toronto
With lower tuition and living costs than Toronto, Sarnia offers quality education at an affordable price. - Careers in Energy, Gas & Oil
Students work closely with the energy and petrochemical industry and prepare for careers in these fields. - Career-Ready Programs in Tech and Trades
Students learn skills in growing fields like robotics, automation, and renewable energy through career-focused programs. - Award-Winning Student Leadership
Join Enactus Lambton—an internationally recognized team using business skills to solve global issues. - Active Campus Life and Wellness Support
Enjoy varsity sports, intramural games, and access to a full-service fitness and wellness center on campus.
Inspired by what Lambton offers? Apply now through UniApplyNow and begin your studies in Canada with confidence.
Top 5 Research Colleges in Canada
Lambton College is recognized as one of Canada’s top research colleges. It has consistently ranked among Canada’s top five research colleges for nine consecutive years— a record no other college has reached. These rankings show that students at Lambton have real opportunities to gain paid experience while working on meaningful research projects.
Latest Rankings:
- Ranked #2 research college in Canada by Research Infosource Inc., a national leader in research evaluation.
- Ranked #1 in total research funding, research partnerships, and paid research partnerships among medium-sized colleges.
- Ranked #1 medium-sized college for paid student research positions for four years in a row
These achievements reflect the college’s strong focus on innovation, hands-on learning, and helping students make a real impact in their communities.
Study and Work in Canada with Lambton
For international students, studying abroad isn’t just about the classroom—it’s also about gaining real-world experience. Lambton College helps students do both. Through co-op programs and research projects, students at Lambton can build strong resumes and get ready for their future careers in Canada or anywhere in the world.
Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)
After finishing their programs, international students at Lambton College may be eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), depending on their field of study. This permit allows graduates to:
- Work in Canada for up to three years
- Gain valuable job experience
- Explore long-term career and immigration options
Learn About Canada’s Latest PGWP Changes.
Work on Real Projects
Many students become part of Lambton’s Research & Innovation team, where they work on exciting projects that make a difference. These projects are done in partnership with local and international businesses, non-profit organizations, government agencies, and colleges and universities.
This opportunity helps international students develop teamwork and problem-solving skills while expanding their professional networks.
Study in Sarnia: A Student-Friendly City
Lambton College’s main campus is in Sarnia, a welcoming city located on the beautiful shores of Lake Huron. Sarnia offers a safe and affordable lifestyle for students, just a 2.5-hour drive from Toronto.
The city is a key center for the oil industry, bio-based manufacturing, applied research, and healthcare. Winters in Sarnia are generally mild, with less snow than many parts of southwestern Ontario.
Things to Do in Sarnia:
- Relax at one of Sarnia’s beautiful beaches
- Enjoy cross-country skiing during winter
- Try water sports like kayaking and paddle boarding
- Check out five local microbreweries
- Watch a film at the movie theater or enjoy a live theatre show
- Attend local festivals and community events throughout the year
- Explore First Fridays downtown with music, food, and late-night shopping
Sarnia, Ontario borders Michigan, USA, so students can travel to the U.S. easily—the border is just minutes away.
Indigenous Culture at Lambton College
One thing that makes Lambton College truly special is its deep respect for Indigenous culture and communities. Sarnia is located on the traditional lands of the Ojibwe, Potawatomi, and Odawa Nations, who are part of the Anishinaabeg people.
The city and region regularly host events that celebrate Indigenous traditions. These include drumming, singing, traditional food, and handmade art. Lambton College proudly takes part in honoring these rich cultural traditions.
Indigenous Student Centre
Lambton College opened its Indigenous Student Centre in 1992. The Centre offers support such as academic advising, tutoring, and workshops. Students also have access to traditional elders, visiting speakers, lunch programs, and device loans.
The Centre creates a welcoming and supportive space. Its goal is to help Indigenous students feel connected and succeed in college. It also provides opportunities to meet and build community with other Indigenous students.
Indigenous-Focused Curriculum
Lambton encourages all students to explore Indigenous topics during their studies. Programs include the Liberal Studies – Indigenous Stream and Indigenous-themed General Education Electives. These courses give students a deeper understanding of Indigenous history, culture, and perspectives—an important part of Canada’s shared story.
Campus Life at Lambton College
Student life at Lambton College is active, inclusive, and designed to help you grow beyond the classroom. Whether through sports, leadership, or cultural events, you’ll find many ways to get involved and stay connected.
Enactus Lambton
Enactus Lambton is a student-led organization that uses business skills to solve real-world problems both locally and globally. Since 2012, more than 500 students have volunteered over 62,000 hours, working on projects that address food scarcity, education, and economic development.
Students in Enactus also take part in major competitions where they present their work to panels of judges. These competitions happen at regional, national, and international levels. For example, in 2018, Enactus Lambton won the Enactus World Cup. In 2019, they earned second place. Their projects, such as “One Seed” and “One Circle,” have received global recognition for their impact on communities.
Athletics: Lambton Lions
Lambton College’s athletic teams are known as the Lambton Lions. They offer a fun and active sports environment for students who love competition and teamwork. Lambton’s varsity teams compete in the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA).
Varsity Sports Include:
- Men’s and Women’s Basketball
- Men’s Baseball and Women’s Softball
- Men’s and Women’s Soccer
- Badminton
- Cross Country
The Lambton Lions have earned strong recognition in recent seasons. The men’s baseball team ranked #4 in Ontario. Meanhile, the women’s basketball team achieved a national ranking of #13 and earned a silver medal at the OCAA Championship.
Ready to study at Lambton College? UniApplyNow assists students in finding the right university programs, visa support, and admission guidance for studying in Canada and the U.S.
Want to read more? Choosing the Right University as an International Student.
