Vancouver Island University: Ranking, Courses, Fees, Admission 2023 & Scholarships

Nanaimo, British ColumbiaLocation
UniversitySchool type
Estd1969established year
10652enrollment
Public
Partner [5 Courses]
7.0/10

Vancouver Island University is a public university. VIU currently includes about 18,000 full- and part-time students, including 1,100 international students from more than 40 countries. Vancouver Island University has 4 campuses located in British Columbia. Vancouver Island University has 120 programs in the arts, business, education, health, sciences, tourism, and trades.

Most enrolled programs at VIU for international students are MBA and BBA. To secure admission at VIU, international students are required to have a minimum GPA of 2.0 for the UG program and 3.0 for the PG program. Additionally, international students are required to submit an IELTS score of 6.5 and 7.0, for UG and PG programs respectively, to prove proficiency in English. 

Around 694 Indian students attend Vancouver Island University, making India one of the top countries of origin for international students applying to VIU. The estimated cost of attendance at VIU ranges between 24.23 lakhs and 51.97 lakhs for Indian students. International students at VIU who maintain a GPA of 3.0 can apply for scholarships to help them manage their finances.

Vancouver Island University Campus

The Vancouver Island University operates with one main campus, two other campuses namely the Cowichan and Powell River campuses, and one center in Parkville. The main Nanaimo ocean-view campus encompasses 92 acres of useful land. The university has a 100,000-square-foot library that provides paper and online materials.

  • The Malaspina Theatre that can accommodate up to 294 people is located on campus in the university. It is being used by the university all year round but can be rented by external community groups.
  • Two art galleries are located on campus with a gift shop. The art galleries are being run by a non-profit society and are free of charge.
  • On the Nanaimo campus is a multi-purpose gymnasium facility that houses free weights, treadmills, recumbent and exercise bikes, fitness/weight room with individual weight machines, stair masters, and elliptical and rowing machines.
  • More so, the main gym has fields and courts for soccer, badminton, volleyball, and basketball, as well as a racquetball court and convertible squash
  • There are several student clubs available at the university. These clubs are course unions, religious, general interest, activist, and partisan.
  • The Cowichan campus is the newest with modern facilities certified by LEED Gold.
  • The Powell River campus has a peaceful and compact environment with a well connected and friendly community.

Vancouver Island University Accommodation

There are ten residence buildings in the western area of the Nanaimo campus available for students. More than 500 students live in Vancouver Island University residences every year. The basic building styles offered are townhouse, traditional/dorm, and apartment.

Type of Room Annual Rent (in INR)
Modern Single Room 6.46 lakhs
Modern Double Room 3.82 lakhs
Traditional / Dorm - Single Room 6.22 lakhs

Off-Campus Accommodation

Off-Campus Housing is private, rented housing. Students that come to Nanaimo get into a legal contract with a local landlord. There are several types of accommodations available, as well as economical options. The Nanaimo property market can be difficult to navigate, and it may take some time to find your new home. Places4Students is a portal dedicated to listing VIU student housing. It is a reliable partner in delivering student renting alternatives.

Vancouver Island University Programs

There are 6 masters programs, 9 graduate diploma, 1 graduate certificate, 4 post-graduate diploma, and 2 advanced diploma. There are 67 undergraduate programs at the university in fields like business, management, education, health, science, technology etc.

Vancouver Island University offers a 20-month full-time MBA that indulges students in a 3-week foundation of blended coursework at the beginning and ends with a 4-month internship and an applied business project. The University offers certificate and non-credit programs under the umbrella of the Academic and Career Preparation and High School Equivalency (ABE) program.

Vancouver Island University Admission Process

Vancouver Island University accepts international student applications if they apply directly to the university or through authorized representatives. Students could also be a part of an exchange program between institutions, sponsored through Government or winners of competitions and scholarships. The process for admission to Vancouver Island University has been discussed below:

Vancouver Island University UG Admissions

Application Portal: Online Web Application
Application Fee: 150 CAD
Admission Requirements: 

  • Application from higher secondary school (Min. GPA 2.0)
  • Official high school transcripts
  • Letter of Intent
  • Applicants must be 17 years of age or submit a letter of intent
  • English proficiency scores
    • IELTS- 6.5 
    • TOEFL iBT- 88

Vancouver Island University PG Admissions

Application Portal: Online Application
Application Fee: 150 CAD
Admission Requirements: 

  • Official Transcripts (Min. GPA 3.0)
  • Proof of English proficiency
  • GMAT or GRE scores 
  • Statement of Purpose
  • Work experience
  • Resume
  • Interview (not mandatory)
  • Letter of Recommendations
  • English proficiency scores
    • IELTS- 7.0
    • TOEFL iBT- 93

Vancouver Island University Cost of Attendance

The cost of attendance for Vancouver Island University comprises the tuition fee and the cost of living. Cost of living will depend upon the preferences of the student. However, a room deposit of 500 CAD and security deposit of 250 CAD is necessary for all students living on campus.

Fees Amount per year (INR)
Tuition and fees (for undergraduates) 13.32 lakhs
Tuition and fees (for graduates) 19.93 lakhs- 38.28 lakhs
Books and supplies 0.48 lakhs- 0.95 lakhs
Residence and meals 8.13 lakhs- 10.52 lakhs
Health and dental insurance 0.82 lakhs
Transportation 0.52 lakhs
Miscellaneous 0.96 lakhs

Vancouver Island University Scholarships

Financial aids that international students qualify for are scholarships, grants, student jobs, and external aids. The value of scholarships, awards, and bursaries available to students in 2019-20 is worth 3.5 million CAD. International students can also apply for external scholarships that are not administered by Vancouver Island University.

Among the external scholarships available for students is the Collegedunia Dream Scholarship worth 1000 CAD for which students must submit an essay in addition to meeting eligibility criteria. Scholarships available to international students at VIU include:

Scholarship Name Eligibility Criteria Amount Awarded
VIU Worldwide Entrance Scholarships Entering undergraduate students will be awarded on the basis of academic transcripts. 2000 CAD
VIU International Undergraduate Regional Scholarship Awarded to international students entering first year. 5000 CAD (2500 CAD in the first year of study and 2500 CAD in the second year)
International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Entrance Scholarship Awarded to successful applicants at VIU who graduated with an IB diploma. 1000 CAD per year for up to four academic years
International Education Academic Excellence Scholarship Awarded to full-time international undergraduate students who perform outstanding in their previous academic year at VIU. 1000 CAD
Outstanding International Student Awards Awarded to continuing full-time international undergraduate students with minimum GPA of 3.0 and who contribute to the community. 2000 CAD

Work Study Program

There are work options on campus for students to get involved, make money, and obtain useful experience. The Work-Op programme provides work opportunities for VIU students to gain broad experiential learning. Students must be enrolled at VIU to be eligible for the Work-op program. The other eligibility requirements are: 

  • a minimum of three 3-credit courses, 2 Academic and Career Preparation (ACP or English as a Second Language (ESL) courses; or
  • 60% course load at VIU for most students; or
  • for students with a recognized disability, full-time status is two 3-credit courses, 1 ACP/ESL course.

Vancouver Island University Alumni

Vancouver Island University alumni network involves more than 75,000 members who are entitled to several benefits that include:

  • Exclusive access to the university library
  • Unique access to VIU Athletics & Recreation Services (gym)
  • Alumni discounts at the VIU Campus Store at the Nanaimo Campus
  • 40% off the standard rate at Sparkling Hill Resort & Spa
  • Insurance and car rentals discount
  • 25% discount on Royal BC museum entry

Notable alumni include:

  • Kevin Borserio - Director of the Skidegate Haida Immersion Program (SHIP)
  • Rachel Blaney -Canadian MP
  • Paul Manly -Canadian Member of Parliament
  • Victor Blasco –Spanish footballer
  • Amelia Alcock-White -Canadian artist

Vancouver Island University Placements

MBA and MSc IB graduates can stay up to 14 months to three years and work in Canada coupled with the four-month MBA internships; such students stand a good chance of advancing their careers better than their counterparts.

The VIU career center hosts career fairs every spring where students meet with recruiters. 2053 employers have partnered with VIU since 2014 to provide work-integrated learning opportunities for students. Average salary of VIU MBA graduates is 31,000-60,000 CAD per annum.

FAQs

Ques. What are the general admission requirement for admission at Vancouver Island University?

Ans. The general admission requirement for admission at VIU are mentioned below: 

  • Copy of the High School Graduation Diploma (if available) or its equivalent
  • Proof of English language proficiency
  • Copy of your passport (photo page)
  • Official transcripts
  • Certified English translations for any documents that are not in English
  • Copy of university degree
  • Resume
  • Two letters of recommendation
  • Letter of introduction (if applicable)
  • Work experience (if required)
  • Specific program requirements.

Ques. What is the acceptance rate at Vancouver Island University?

Ans.  The Vancouver Island University has a moderately selective admission policy with an acceptance rate of 60 to 70%. 

Ques. What is the English language requirement for international students at VIU?

Ans. International students whose first language is not English must prove their English language proficiency by submitting one of the following test scores:

Test Minimum Requirements for UG Minimum Requirements for PG
TOEFL iBT 88  93
IELTS 6.5 7.0

Ques. How many students are there at Vancouver Island University?

Ans. VIU currently has a student population in excess of 11,963 full-and part-time learners, including 1,456 international students from more than 40 countries, and over 1,000 aboriginal students. Around 694 students from India study at Vancouver Island University which makes India among the top countries of origin from where international students apply to VIU.

Ques. How many students are admitted into the program each intake at Vancouver Island University?

Ans. The number of students admitted each year varies depending on the number of part-time students. However the average size of the yearly intake is approximately 34 students.

Ques. How can I prepare for the interview for admission at VIU?

Ans.

The interview is intended as an opportunity for faculty to be introduced to students and for students to become familiarized with the program. Be on time and ready to present yourself in a professional manner.

Vancouver Island University Program Fees & Deadlines

ProgramImportant DatesFeesExams ScoreAction
Application Deadline for September Intake (26th May 2024)
INR 10.2 L/Yr
CAD 16,630 /Yr
  • IELTS: 6.5
  • TOEFL: 88
  • PTE: 60
  • Duolingo: 110
Application Deadline for September Intake (28th Apr 2024)
INR 13.3 L/Yr
CAD 21,624 /Yr
  • IELTS: 6.5
  • TOEFL: 88
  • PTE: 60
  • Duolingo: 110
Application Deadline for September Intake (28th Apr 2024)
INR 12.3 L/Yr
CAD 19,977 /Yr
  • IELTS: 7
  • TOEFL: 93
  • PTE: 65
  • Duolingo: 110
Application Deadline for September Intake (28th Apr 2024)
INR 8.2 L/Yr
CAD 13,313 /Yr
  • IELTS: 6.5
  • TOEFL: 88
  • PTE: 60
  • Duolingo: 110
Application Deadline for September Intake (12th May 2024)
INR 10.2 L/Yr
CAD 16,642 /Yr
  • IELTS: 6.5
  • TOEFL: 88
  • PTE: 60
  • Duolingo: 110
Application Deadline for September Intake (28th Apr 2024)
INR 8.2 L/Yr
CAD 13,313 /Yr
  • IELTS: 6.5
  • TOEFL: 88
  • PTE: 60
  • Duolingo: 110

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Vancouver Island University comparison

Vancouver Island UniversityThompson Rivers UniversityUniversity Canada WestThompson Rivers University
Overall Ranking
  • 1001 QS World University 2024
  • 1001 QS World University 2023
---
Subject Strength----
Programs
  • UG Programs- 33
  • PG Programs - 3
  • UG Programs- 48
  • PG Programs - 7
  • Doctorate Programs -1
  • UG Programs- 3
  • PG Programs - 1
-
Acceptance Rate98.0 %82.0 %80.0 %-
Exam Score-
Cost to Study
  • Average Tuition Fees:INR 817418.2 [For UG Program]
  • Average Tuition Fees:INR 1226587.8 [For PG Program]
  • Hostel + Meal:INR 497340 Per Year
  • Average Tuition Fees:INR 1025073 [For UG Program]
  • Average Tuition Fees:INR 1643064 [For PG Program]
  • Hostel + Meal:INR 2550617.4 Per Year
  • Average Tuition Fees:INR 1178880 [For UG Program]
  • Average Tuition Fees:INR 1188090 [For PG Program]
  • Hostel + Meal:INR 159640 Per Year
-
Placement

The average graduate salary for MBA program is $31,000-60,000 CAD. 


  • Thompson Rivers University's Student Placement Service assists students in finding placements and internships.
  • Under Thompson Rivers University's work and study program, students can get job placements while still studying.
  • If they study for up to two years at TRU, they will need a work permit in Canada for up to two years after graduation.
  • Students can work up to 20 hours per week and earn an average of 2400-3000 CAD (1,48,134.51- 1,85,168.14 INR)per month under the program. 
  • In Canada, a student can earn up to 120,000 CAD (74,07,207.68 INR)per year. According to PayScale, the average annual salary for University graduates is 66,306  CAD (40,91,622.58 INR).

The university offers multiple placement assistance to its students to ensure they get the best opportunities in all majors. In addition, the university's placement rate is around 85%.

University Canada West  provides resume building, mock interviews, recruiters meetings and other facilities to all its students.  Many international companies, Apple, Nestle, SAP, Siemens, etc., hire students of university canada west for various positions. The average salary of University Canada West graduates is around 50,000 CAD.


-
-Read Full ComparisonRead Full ComparisonRead Full Comparison

Vancouver Island University Ranking

20242023

QS World University logo

Overall 1001 out of 1401 in Global Ranking

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Vancouver Island University Ratings

Based on 1 Students Rating

7.0 out of 10
8.0/10Academic
7.0/10Accommodation
8.0/10Faculty
7.0/10Infrastructure
6.0/10Placement
6.0/10Social Life

Vancouver Island University Reviews


StreamDegree TypeStudent StatusNationalityBatchCourse
Sort By :
Newest First

Business (1)
Canada (1)
Community (1)
Degree (1)
Entrance (1)
Experience (1)
Island (1)
Program (1)

1 Reviews Found

Alvin Meledath
7.0 /10

The university had a co-op element, well-accredited, and economic living arrangements. I also had a few people from my network who did this program so I had some assurance. The program was designed for working professionals since I had work ex and have done a master's before I was more inclined towards this program. Also, their dual-degree option with their Partnered University from the UK was a great incentive to join.

Fees:

There are scholarships available for students from Japan and certain countries. The fee structure is subject to change but was approximately 47,000 for me for the dual degree option. Considering living expenses as well this was a fairly economical option for a Master's Degree in Canada. It having a work element also made it quite cost-effective.

academic: 8/10
faculty: 8/10
infrastructure: 7/10
accomodation: 7/10
placement: 6/10
extracurricular: 6/10

Vancouver Island University Scholarships


NameScholarship Per StudentLevel of StudyType
JN Tata Endowment ScholarshipScholarship per studentVariable AmountLevel Of StudyDoctorateTypeMerit-Based
Microsoft Tuition ScholarshipScholarship per studentVariable AmountLevel Of StudyBachelorTypeMerit-Based
updated Hubert H. Humphrey Fellowship Program updatedScholarship per studentVariable AmountLevel Of StudyDoctorateTypeMerit-Based
Forte FellowshipScholarship per student₹ 20.4 L/Yr$24,623Level Of StudyMasterTypeMerit-Based
The Google Lime ScholarshipScholarship per student₹ 8.3 L/Yr$10,000Level Of StudyBachelorTypeMerit-Based
Australia Awards ScholarshipScholarship per studentVariable AmountLevel Of StudyBachelorTypeMerit-Based

Vancouver Island University Admissions

  • Regular Decision Deadlines

    Important Date: March31 (Application deadline)
    Important Date: June1 (Application results)

Vancouver Island University Exam Scores

ExamsAvg. ScoreMin ScoreMax. Score%Submitted'
Language Proficiency
IELTS-6.59-
Check Detailed Score
Reading-6--
Writing-6--
Listening-6--
Speaking-6--
PTE-6590-
TOEFL-88120-
Check Detailed Score
Reading-20--
Writing-20--
Listening-20--
Speaking-20--

Attendance Cost

₹817,418

attendance cost

The table shows average yearly cost of attendance for international students. Amount may vary with the course opted, nature of accommodation, and personal spending habits of a candidate.Check Program wise Fees

Tuition fees
Undergraduate Programs
₹817,418 / Year
Post Graduate Program
₹1,226,588 / Year
On Campus
Residence Room
₹497,340 / Year

Vancouver Island University Accreditations

Program wise accreditation
Engineering Programs
Canadian Council of Technicians and Technologists
Interior Design Programs
Council for Interior Design Accreditation
Language Programs
Languages Canada

Faculty

Total FacultyFull TimePart TimeGraduate Assistants
2000---

Vancouver Island University Campus Location


+1-250-740-6315
Telephone
900 Fifth Street, Nanaimo, BC
Address

Comments



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A
Anonymous

What is the deadline for fall 2023 Intake?

S
Sinbad Chongtham

The application deadline for the Fall 2023 intake of Vancouver Island University differ for graduate programs, International students, and activities at regional campuses. To know the application deadline for the program you are interested in, you must visit the specific program page on the university’s website.

A
Anonymous
I have Duolingo ( 120 ) is it acceptable?

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