Vancouver Island University is a leading Canadian institution known for its dedication to academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement. Located on the stunning west coast of Canada, VIU offers students a world-class education in a truly inspiring environment.
With a history of over 50 years, VIU has grown into a thriving institution with multiple campuses and a diverse student body worldwide.
At VIU, students receive support from dedicated faculty and staff team committed to providing a personalized and transformative learning experience. With small class sizes, innovative teaching methods, and access to cutting-edge technology and resources, students can explore their interests, pursue their passions, and achieve their goals.
But VIU is more than just a great place to learn – it’s also a vibrant and inclusive community that values diversity, equity, and inclusion. From clubs and activities to volunteer opportunities and cultural events, there are countless ways to get involved and make connections at VIU.
So whether you’re a prospective student, a current student, or an alum, join us to discover all that Vancouver Island University has to offer.
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Vancouver Island University
Vancouver Island University (VIU) is a public university on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. The main campus is Nanaimo, and regional campuses are in Cowichan, Powell River, and Parksville-Qualicum. VIU offers various academic programs, including undergraduate and graduate degrees, diplomas, and certificates.
The university has a solid and diverse student body, with students from over 70 countries. VIU provides support services to assist students in succeeding, including academic advising, counselling, and career services.
Vancouver Island University Rankings
According to QS World University Rankings 2022, Vancouver Island University (VIU) ranks among the top 1,000 universities globally, ranking 801-1000. This ranking considers academic reputation, employer reputation, faculty/student ratio, citations per faculty, and international faculty and student ratios.
VIU is notably recognised for its commitment to social impact and sustainability. It ranks 31st globally for the SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals) category. And then 83rd for the SDG 4 (Quality Education) category. This reflects the university’s focus on fostering partnerships, promoting sustainability, and providing high-quality education to students.
In addition, according to the 2022 UI GreenMetric World University Rankings, VIU ranks 30th globally and 2nd in Canada for its sustainability initiatives. This ranking considers factors such as campus sustainability policies, energy usage, waste management, transportation, and education on sustainability.
Furthermore, according to the 2021 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, VIU ranks 11th globally and 1st in Canada for the Sustainable Cities and Communities category. This ranking highlights the university’s efforts to promote sustainable practices and community engagement.
These rankings reflect Vancouver Island University’s commitment to providing its students with a high-quality education that promotes sustainability, social responsibility, and community engagement.
With a focus on academic excellence, innovative research, and student-centred learning, VIU is a leading institution that positively impacts the world.
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Vancouver Island University Fees
Vancouver Island University (VIU) offers affordable tuition fees for abroad students planning to study in Canada.
The tuition fees for international students differ based on the program and your level of study. For undergraduate programs, the tuition fees go from CAD 20,425 to CAD 26,130 per year. For graduate programs, the fees range from CAD 15,750 to CAD 22,005 per year. These fees are subject to change and do not include extra costs such as housing, textbooks, and health insurance.
VIU also offers scholarships and awards to international students based on social activities, academic merit, and leadership skills. These scholarships and awards offset the cost of tuition and provide financial support to students who demonstrate excellence in their academic and personal pursuits.
But not just tuition fees, students abroad must also have health insurance while studying in Canada. VIU offers its international students a comprehensive health insurance plan to ensure they have access to medical services and emergency care while living in Canada.
Vancouver Island University Courses
Vancouver Island University (VIU) offers programs and courses across various disciplines to help students achieve their career and academic goals. Whether interested in pursuing a business, education, health, sciences, or arts degree, VIU has something for everyone.
At VIU, you can choose from over 120 programs designed to help students stand out in the job market. These programs include undergraduate and graduate degrees, diplomas, certificates, and post-degree diplomas available on-campus and online.
Some popular programs at VIU include Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Education, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Bachelor of Arts, and Bachelor of Science.
Additionally, VIU offers a variety of certificate and diploma programs in fields such as accounting, culinary arts, digital media, early childhood education, graphic design, and tourism.
VIU is also known for its innovative and interdisciplinary programs that combine different areas of study to provide students with a well-rounded education.
For example, the Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies program combines courses in humanities, social sciences, and sciences to provide students with a broad understanding of the world and its complexities.
Moreover, VIU provides practical learning experiences to prepare students for the workforce. Many of the programs at VIU include work-integrated learning opportunities such as co-op placements, internships, practicums, and field studies.
How do I get admission to Vancouver Island University?
Vancouver Island University (VIU) welcomes students worldwide and is a dynamic and inclusive institution. With various undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs, VIU offers multiple educational opportunities to help students achieve their academic and professional goals.
Admission to VIU is based on a combination of academic achievements, including high school grades, transfer credits, and standardised test scores. The university has different admission requirements for domestic and international students and specific requirements for different programs of study.
Domestic students’ admission to most undergraduate programs requires a high school diploma or equivalent, with minimum grade requirements in specific courses.
For graduate programs, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from a valid institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.
International students must meet specific language proficiency requirements, which can be demonstrated through standardised English language tests such as TOEFL, IELTS, or CAEL.
International students may need to provide transcripts, certificates, or other documents from their previous educational institutions to demonstrate their academic achievements and qualifications.
VIU also welcomes transfer students from other post-secondary institutions. Transfer applicants must provide transcripts from their previous institutions, and admission is based on the applicant’s academic achievements and the program’s specific requirements.
Requirements
The requirements for undergraduate programs at Vancouver Island University are as follows:
1. High School Diploma or Equivalent: Applicants must have finished a high school diploma or equivalent, such as a GED or Adult Basic Education (ABE) program.
2. English Language Proficiency: Applicants whose first language is not English must provide proof of English language proficiency through one of the following tests: TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo.
3. Program-specific Requirements: Some programs have additional admission requirements, such as specific high school courses or prerequisite courses.
4. Transfer Students: Applicants who have completed post-secondary coursework may be eligible for transfer credit. Transfer students must also meet the admission requirements for their specific program.
5. Mature Students: Applicants who are 20 years or more and have been out of school for at least two years are considered for admission as mature students.
Also Read: London School of Economics Acceptance Rate in 2023
Does Vancouver Island University Require IELTS?
Vancouver Island University (VIU) requires applicants whose first language is not English to provide proof of language proficiency through the following tests: TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo.
Thus, if English is not your domestic language, you must take a language proficiency test and submit your results as part of your application. The minimum required score for IELTS differs depending on the program and level of study. So it’s essential to check the specific admission requirements for the program you are interested in before applying.
For further guidance on navigating your proficiency test, discover: IELTS Exam Syllabus 2023 OUT | Exam Pattern, Dates & Important Tips
Scholarships
VIU supports students financially and offers various scholarships and awards to help alleviate the institution’s financial burden of pursuing higher education.
These scholarships and awards are open to domestic and international students based on academic excellence, financial need, and other factors such as community involvement and leadership.
Some of the scholarships and awards available at VIU include the following:
1. VIU Scholarships: Students receive this scholarship based on academic achievement and are available to full-time and part-time students. The scholarships range in value from $500 to $5,000.
2. VIU Entrance Scholarships: These scholarships are awarded to students entering their first year of full-time studies at VIU. The scholarships are based on academic achievement and range in value from $500 to $5,000.
3. VIU Bursaries: These are awarded based on financial need and are available to full-time and part-time students. The bursaries range in value from $500 to $2,500.
4. VIU International Student Scholarships and Awards: These scholarships and awards are available to international students. Students receive this scholarship based on academic achievement, financial need, and other factors such as community involvement and leadership. The scholarships range in value from $500 to $5,000.
5. VIU Awards for Indigenous Students: These awards are available to Indigenous students based on academic achievement and financial need. The awards range in value from $500 to $5,000.
Does Vancouver Island University offer scholarships for international students?
Vancouver Island University (VIU) offers scholarships and awards for international students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and community involvement. Students receive this award to help offset the costs of tuition, textbooks, and living expenses for international students studying at VIU.
The university offers scholarships and awards, including entrance scholarships for newly admitted international students and continuing scholarships for international students with a minimum of one year of study at VIU. Students receive these merit-based awards based on academic achievements, leadership qualities, and community involvement.
Moreso, VIU offers awards specifically for international students from certain countries, such as the India Global Leaders Scholarship and the Vietnam Global Leaders Scholarship. These awards help support students from specific countries pursuing higher education at VIU.
Not just that, VIU offers awards and bursaries for international students experiencing financial difficulties or facing unforeseen circumstances.
These awards provide financial assistance to international students who need help covering the costs of tuition, textbooks, or other living expenses.
To apply for scholarships and awards at VIU, international students must submit an application form and provide supporting documentation, such as transcripts, essays, and letters of reference.
The application deadlines vary depending on the scholarship or award, so students should consult the University Website.
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Official Website
Visit the Vancouver Island University Official Website here: VIU Official.
FAQS
Vancouver Island University (VIU) is a British Columbia, Canada public university. The government funds it, and it is part of the public post-secondary education system in the province. VIU offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs to serve the diverse needs of students.
Yes, Vancouver Island University (VIU) is an excellent choice for international students looking to study in Canada.
VIU’s International Education Department provides various services and resources to help international students succeed academically and socially. These programs include orientation programs, academic advising, language support, and cultural activities. The university also offers homestay options and on-campus housing for international students new to the area.
References
- VIU.ca – Vancouver Island University
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