U of T Holds Its Own Ranking Among the World’s Best in 2025

The University of Toronto (U of T) has once again proven why it stands among the best universities on the planet. According to the freshly released QS World University Rankings for 2025, U of T has secured a spot ranking just behind elite Ivy League schools like Princeton and Columbia—a massive feat for a Canadian institution.

If you’ve ever doubted U of T’s status as a global powerhouse, think again. This year’s ranking analyzed nearly 2,000 universities across 100 countries, evaluating factors like academic reputation, research impact, and subject rankings. U of T didn’t just hold its own—it dominated in several key disciplines.

Breaking Down the Rankings: Where U of T Shines

While the usual suspects—Harvard, Oxford, and Stanford—secured the top spots, U of T performed exceptionally well across multiple subject areas. Here’s how it stacked up:

Top Subject Rankings 2025:

• Life Sciences & Medicine – 13th in the world
• Psychology – 13th
• Arts & Humanities – 14th
• Medicine – 14th
• Social Sciences & Management – 14th
• Social Policy & Administration – 18th
• Computer Science & Information Systems – 12th
• Engineering & Technology – 17th
• Accounting & Finance – 17th

Even in fields where U of T didn’t quite crack the top 20—such as Business & Management Studies—it still ranked in the top 50 globally across all 46 subject areas examined. Not too shabby for a school nestled in downtown Toronto!

Why U of T is Competing With Ivy League Schools

The h-index factor (a measure of research impact) is where U of T truly flexes its academic muscle. With a staggering score of 88, it outperformed several schools ranked higher overall. This speaks volumes about the school’s research output and the global influence of its scholars.

On top of that, U of T consistently ranks high for employability, meaning grads aren’t just book smart—they’re job market ready. Employers worldwide recognize the value of a U of T education, making it one of the most sought-after schools for ambitious students.

Toronto vs. The Ivy League: What Sets U of T Apart?

So, how does a Canadian school continue to punch above its weight against Ivy League giants? Here’s what makes U of T a serious contender:

1. Cutting-Edge Research & Innovation

From AI breakthroughs to medical advancements, U of T is a leader in innovation. The university boasts partnerships with top-tier hospitals, tech firms, and global organizations, fueling groundbreaking discoveries that change the world.

2. A Diverse & Global Student Body

Toronto is one of the most multicultural cities on Earth, and U of T reflects that diversity. With students from over 160 countries, it offers a truly global perspective that many Ivy League schools struggle to match.

3. A Prime Location in the Heart of Toronto

Unlike Ivy League campuses tucked away in smaller towns, U of T is smack in the middle of one of North America’s most vibrant cities. Students have direct access to top employers, thriving cultural scenes, and endless networking opportunities—a huge advantage over more isolated schools.

4. A More Affordable Alternative

Let’s be real—Ivy League tuition is through the roof. While U of T isn’t exactly cheap, it’s far more affordable than private American universities, making world-class education more accessible to a broader range of students.

Talk of Toronto Final Thoughts: U of T’s Global Prestige is Undeniable

Year after year, U of T proves that it belongs in conversations about the best universities in the world. Whether you’re an aspiring student, a proud alum, or just a Torontonian who loves seeing local institutions thrive, this ranking is yet another reason to celebrate.

So, the next time someone asks if University of Toronto is Ivy League material, just hit them with the world ranking facts: It’s already playing in the big leagues.

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Surprise! There’s a New Fee for Canadians Crossing the U.S. Border

If you’re a Canadian who loves a quick trip to the U.S. for some cross-border shopping, there’s a new cost you need to watch out for. A fresh 25% surtax is now in effect on certain American goods, and it’s hitting not only commercial shipments but also regular folks bringing items back home.

This surtax, introduced by the federal government, is already in play as of March 4. That means your Target hauls, outlet mall deals, and Amazon U.S. orders could cost you a lot more.

What’s This New Surtax and Who’s Paying It?

In an email statement last Friday, Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) spokesperson Rebecca Purdy confirmed that the surtax applies to:

• Commercial shipments (businesses importing U.S. goods)
• Goods imported by mail or courier (yes, your online shopping too)
• Goods brought back by individual travellers above personal exemptions

The surtax is part of Canada’s countermeasures against U.S. trade restrictions. The government is making it clear: this extra charge will stay until the U.S. removes its restrictive measures against Canada.

How Will the Surtax Affect Your Shopping Trips?

If you’re heading to Buffalo, Detroit, or Seattle for a quick shopping run, here’s what you need to know:

• You can still bring back goods duty-free, but only if you stay within your exemption limit.
• If you exceed your personal exemption, you’ll have to pay up at the border.
• If you order goods from the U.S., expect to pay the surtax upon delivery.

How Much Can You Bring Back Without Paying Extra?

Canada has personal exemptions that let you bring back a certain amount of goods without paying duties or taxes. Here’s a quick refresher:

If you exceed these limits, the surtax applies on top of regular duties and taxes.

What Kinds of Products Have the Surtax?

Not every item from the U.S. is affected, but Finance Canada has released a full list of goods subject to the surtax. Some of the affected items include:

• Household appliances
• Certain food products
• Specific consumer goods

If you’re unsure whether your purchase will get taxed, it’s best to check before you shop.

How Do You Pay the Surtax?

If you’re charged the surtax, here’s how you’ll be expected to pay:

• At the border: If you bring back goods exceeding your exemption, CBSA officers will assess the surtax and you’ll pay before re-entering Canada.
• Through couriers: If you ordered something online, expect to pay when your package arrives.
• At Canada Post: If your item is coming via mail, you’ll have to pay when you pick it up.

Why Is Canada Doing This?

This surtax is retaliation for U.S. trade policies that have placed tariffs on Canadian goods. Recently, U.S. President Donald Trump imposed 25% tariffs on all Canadian and Mexican products, plus 10% tariffs on energy. While some tariffs were paused until April 2, the Canadian government is pushing back with reciprocal measures.

Should You Still Shop in the U.S.?

With the surtax in place, here are some pro tips if you’re still planning to shop across the border:

Check exemption limits before shopping—stick to what’s allowed.

Buy Canadian when possible to avoid extra costs.

Use parcel forwarding services wisely, but remember that mailed goods can still get taxed.

Stay informed—the surtax list may change, so always check Finance Canada’s website before purchasing.

Talk of Toronto Final Thoughts

The new 25% surtax is another expense for Canadians who love cross-border shopping and online ordering from U.S. stores. While it’s meant to counter U.S. trade measures, it’s also an extra burden on shoppers. Before you head to Buffalo, New York City, or Seattle for deals, do the math to see if it’s still worth it. And if you’re ordering online, be ready for a surprise charge at your doorstep!

This article is now complete, stay locked in with TalkofToronto.ca for more news and updates

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Scarborough Shooting Shakes Toronto: 12 Injured in Brazen Attack

Scarborough was rocked by gunfire and chaos on what was supposed to be a celebratory night. The grand opening of a new pub near Scarborough Town Centre turned into a nightmare when three masked suspects stormed in and opened fire indiscriminately.

Gunmen Storm Piper Arms – What Happened?

On Friday night at 10:40 p.m., a violent ambush unfolded inside Piper Arms Pub on Progress Avenue. According to Toronto police, three masked men—one wielding an assault rifle and the other two carrying handguns—walked into the crowded venue and fired at random.

“They walked into the bar. They produced their guns, and they opened fire indiscriminately on the people sitting inside,” said Supt. Paul MacIntyre of Organized Crime Enforcement.

When emergency crews arrived, they found 12 people injured, their ages ranging from 20s to mid-50s.

• 6 victims suffered gunshot wounds.
• The other 6 sustained injuries from shattered glass and debris.
• Miraculously, no fatalities have been reported.

“I’m happy to report by the grace of God that there’s been no fatalities,” MacIntyre added. “Again, extremely lucky.”

Investigators Scramble for Clues

The suspects fled the scene, and police are now chasing leads. A silver car was spotted leaving the area, and one suspect was seen wearing a black balaclava. But beyond that? No solid description. No clear motive.

Police have set up a command post, sifting through surveillance footage and eyewitness reports to piece together what happened.

“The motive for this shooting remains unclear. We’re chasing down all leads,” said MacIntyre. “This was a brazen and reckless act of violence that’s really shaken our community.”

Terror Inside the Pub – Patrons Scrambled for Cover

The surveillance footage is gut-wrenching. MacIntyre described a scene of pure panic:

• Patrons ducked for cover, diving to the ground.
• Some bolted for the basement, hiding from the gunfire.
• Food and drinks abandoned mid-meal, shoes and purses left behind.
• Blood on the floors. Shattered glass everywhere. Bullet holes in the walls.

“It looks like we had a mass-casualty shooting inside a pub,” MacIntyre said. “When you walk in, it’s eerie. The drinks are still on the table. The food is still on the table. People’s belongings are still there.”

Is This Shooting Connected to Toronto’s Tow Truck Violence?

Toronto has seen four other shootings this week, all linked to the tow truck industry. Could this be part of the same wave of violence?

“We’re open to that, but we’re not sure yet,” MacIntyre said. Investigators are looking at the pub’s owners and patrons to see if someone inside was a specific target.

Mayor Olivia Chow Responds

Mayor Olivia Chow took to social media, expressing her deep concern:

“I am deeply troubled to hear reports of a shooting at a pub in Scarborough. I have spoken to (Toronto police) Chief (Myron) Demkiw and he has assured me all necessary resources have been deployed. This is an early and ongoing investigation – police will provide further details. My thoughts are with the victims and their families.”

Scarborough Residents Demand Action

This brazen attack has left the community on edge. Scarborough residents are demanding answers and better safety measures.

• Will there be increased police presence in nightlife areas?
• How will city officials address gun violence?
• What will it take to prevent another mass shooting like this?

What’s Next?

Police are urging anyone with information to come forward. If you saw anything suspicious, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or Toronto Police at (416) 808-2222.

As this investigation unfolds, Toronto watches closely. Who were these gunmen? What was their motive? And will they be caught before striking again?

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Six Townhomes Under Construction in Yorkville Burned Down in Overnight Fire Blaze

Toronto woke up to shocking news on Wednesday morning as a massive fire engulfed six townhomes under construction in Yorkville, leaving behind millions of dollars in damage. The three-alarm fire broke out in the early hours of the morning, quickly spreading to neighboring buildings and vehicles. The cause of the blaze remains unknown, and officials are still investigating.

Fire Breaks Out on Scollard Street, Leaving Destruction in Its Wake

Residents in the Yorkville area were jolted awake around 4:30 a.m. as flames lit up the sky on Scollard Street, near Bay Street and Davenport Road. By the time Toronto Fire Services arrived on the scene, the fire had already consumed multiple properties, making it a three-alarm emergency.

According to Toronto Deputy Fire Chief Steve Darling, the flames spread so aggressively that adjacent buildings were severely damaged, and the intense heat shattered windows across the street. Several vehicles were also destroyed, adding to the chaos. Hydro lines in the vicinity were impacted, leading to a partial evacuation of nearby residents.

No Reported Injuries, But Devastating Losses

Despite the intensity of the blaze, no injuries have been reported. However, the damage is extensive, with an estimated tens of millions of dollars in losses. Two individuals were removed from a neighboring property but did not require hospitalization.

Fire crews worked tirelessly throughout the night to contain the fire, reducing the number of trucks from 23 to 17 by the morning.

What Caused the Fire?

At this point, the cause of the fire remains unknown. The Ontario Fire Marshal has taken over the investigation, with fire officials expected to remain on-site for at least another two days as they sift through the debris.

“These buildings were under construction and had void spaces, which allowed the fire to spread rapidly,” said Darling. He also noted that the buildings would need to be gutted completely, while others would require extensive renovations.

Road Closures and Cleanup Efforts

The fire not only damaged buildings but also caused significant disruptions in the Yorkville area.

Bay Street remains closed between Yorkville Road and Davenport Road as crews assess structural integrity and power restoration timelines.

Toronto Hydro is on the scene, working to repair electrical damage caused by the downed power lines.

Firefighters are working to clear excess water pooling on the streets due to firefighting efforts and recent rain, which has complicated the cleanup process.

Yorkville Residents React to the Destruction

Yorkville, known for its luxury townhomes, high-end boutiques, and upscale restaurants, rarely sees an emergency of this scale. Local residents and business owners have taken to social media to share their shock and dismay over the destruction of these newly constructed townhomes.

“I walked past these townhomes just a few days ago, and now they’re completely gone,” said one Yorkville resident on Reddit Toronto.

Others expressed relief that no one was injured, but concerns remain over the financial and structural impact on the surrounding area.

What’s Next?

While the fire has been contained, the investigation is far from over. Authorities will be reviewing security footage, speaking to witnesses, and conducting structural assessments to determine how and why this fire spread so rapidly.

As Yorkville begins to rebuild, one thing is certain—this fire has left a lasting mark on the neighborhood, both physically and emotionally.

For now, residents are left wondering: Was this a freak accident, or is there more to the story?

Stay tuned to TalkofToronto.ca for the latest updates on this developing story.

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In a bold move to defend its economic interests, Canada has announced a series of retaliatory tariffs in response to the United States’ recent imposition of duties on Canadian goods. This escalating trade dispute has significant implications for both nations, affecting industries and consumers alike.

The Canada vs U.S. Tariffs Trade War: A Controversial Decision

On March 3, 2025, the U.S. administration, led by President Donald Trump, imposed 25% tariffs on Canadian exports and a 10% levy on Canadian energy products. The stated rationale behind these measures was to address concerns related to the flow of illegal drugs, particularly fentanyl, and illegal immigration, which the U.S. deems significant threats to national security.

– wsj.com

However, Canadian officials have strongly disputed these claims, highlighting that less than 1% of fentanyl intercepted at the U.S. border originates from Canada. In response to these allegations, Canada had proactively implemented a $1.3 billion border plan, which included increased resources, enhanced coordination, and the appointment of a Fentanyl Czar to combat drug trafficking. These efforts led to a 97% drop in fentanyl seizures from Canada between December 2024 and January 2025, reducing the quantity to a near-zero low of 0.03 pounds seized by U.S. Customs and Border Protection.

– pm.gc.ca

Canada’s Retaliation: Standing Firm

In light of the U.S. tariffs, Canada has unveiled a robust response strategy. Effective March 4, 2025, at 12:01 a.m. EST, Canada imposed 25% tariffs on $30 billion worth of U.S. goods, with plans to extend these measures to a total of $155 billion in imports if the U.S. maintains its current stance.

– pm.gc.ca

The initial list of targeted U.S. products includes a diverse range of items such as orange juice, peanut butter, wine, spirits, beer, coffee, appliances, apparel, footwear, motorcycles, cosmetics, and certain pulp and paper products. This strategic selection aims to minimize the impact on Canadian consumers while sending a clear message to the U.S. administration.

– thecanadianmedia.com

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has been vocal in his criticism of the U.S. tariffs, labeling them as “unjustified” and warning of their detrimental effects on both economies. He emphasized that these measures would increase costs for American consumers, disrupt trade relations, and potentially lead to job losses.

– theguardian.com

Economic Implications: A Lose-Lose Scenario?

The escalating trade tensions between Canada and the U.S. have raised concerns about broader economic repercussions. Analysts predict that the tariffs could lead to increased prices for consumers in both countries, strained supply chains, and a slowdown in economic growth. The U.S. stock market has already reacted negatively, with the S&P 500 index dropping 2% following the announcements.

– nypost.com

In Canada, industries reliant on cross-border trade are bracing for impact. The government has pledged support for affected workers and businesses, emphasizing its commitment to protecting Canadian jobs and industries.

– thecanadianmedia.com

The Path Forward: Seeking Resolution

Both Canada and the U.S. face significant challenges in navigating this trade dispute. While Canada remains open to dialogue, it stands firm in its resolve to protect its national interests. The U.S., on the other hand, must weigh the domestic benefits of its protectionist measures against the broader consequences of strained international relations.

The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the trajectory of this dispute. Stakeholders on both sides of the border are hopeful for a resolution that upholds the longstanding spirit of cooperation and mutual benefit that has characterized Canada-U.S. relations for decades.

In the meantime, consumers and businesses alike are advised to stay informed and prepare for potential changes in the economic landscape as this situation continues to unfold.

For more updates on this developing story and other news affecting Toronto and beyond, stay tuned to TalkofToronto.ca

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Toronto recently bore the brunt of heavy rainfall, leading to widespread flooding that disrupted daily life across the city. From road closures to transit disruptions and airport delays, here’s a comprehensive look at how Toronto is coping in the aftermath of the deluge.

Impact on Roadways

The heavy rainfall resulted in several major road closures, significantly impacting commuters and residents alike:

• Southbound lanes of Highway 410 at Highway 401
• Eastbound lanes of Highway 403 at Highway 401 and 410
• Closure of the Don Valley Parkway between York Mills Rd and the Gardiner Expressway
• Eastbound lanes of the Gardiner at Lower Jarvis Street
• Bayview Avenue from Pottery Road to River Street
• Convair Drive in both directions between Britannia Road East and Flightline Drive

Residents are advised to avoid additional areas like Lake Shore Boulevard near Ontario Place, the westbound Bloor Viaduct bike lanes, Bayview Avenue at Nesbitt Drive, and Wilson and Bridge.

TTC Service Updates

Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) services were significantly affected:

• Regular subway service has resumed at Union, Lawrence West, and Yorkdale stations.
• Glencairn Station remains closed due to a power failure.
• Accessibility issues at Union, St. Patrick, and Pape stations due to elevator and escalator outages.
• Service on Line 2 has resumed between Islington and Jane Stations after a temporary suspension.

Impact on GO Transit

GO Train services experienced delays and modifications due to weather-related track conditions. Passengers were advised to expect delays, modifications, and possible cancellations during their commute.

Toronto Airports and Flights

Toronto Pearson Airport and Billy Bishop Airport faced varying impacts:

• Convair Drive closure affected access to Toronto Pearson Airport.
• Billy Bishop Airport warned of flight delays and closed its pedestrian tunnel due to flooding.
• Passengers were advised to check with airlines for flight status updates.

Citywide Impact and Response

The record-breaking rainfall led to power outages affecting over 167,000 customers, with emergency services responding to numerous calls for assistance. The city’s infrastructure and residents faced significant challenges amidst the deluge.

Images and videos circulated showing severe flooding across Toronto, with notable figures like Drake sharing their own experiences of water entering homes and businesses. The storm highlighted vulnerabilities in Toronto’s flood management systems, prompting discussions on future preparedness and infrastructure investments.

In conclusion, while Toronto recovers from the recent deluge, efforts are underway to restore normalcy across affected areas. Stay updated on local news and advisories as the city continues to address the aftermath of this significant weather event.

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