Frequently Asked QuestionsGeneral Information
8 Steps to Become a VIU Student
Information for International students can be found in the International Education section.
We are pleased you are considering attending VIU, and we look forward to welcoming you to our student community. We hope this information will help you understand the steps necessary to join us.
1. Choose a Program
VIU offers over 120 certificate, diploma, and degree programs. Information on programs, admission requirements, and course offerings can be found in the online Calendar.
For assistance in choosing a program, contact our Advising Centre.
2. Submit an Application
You can apply online or by using a paper application for admission.
You must support your application with an official transcript from your high school and from any college or university you have attended. Current high school students from British Columbia and the Yukon should provide their Personal Education Number (PEN), and may be required to submit an interim transcript for admission purposes.
There may be other documents or procedures required. Some programs require an assessment test and most have application deadlines.
An application fee is required. Applicants to undergraduate programs are asked to pay a $36.40 fee; applicants to Master's degree programs pay a $100 fee (excluding the Faculty of Management) or $150 fee for Faculty of Management programs.
If you are using the paper application form, it can be delivered or mailed to any campus – Nanaimo, Cowichan, Powell River, or Parksville•Qualicum.
Make a copy of all the documents you submit and keep all paperwork together in a safe place.
3. Gain Acceptance
Within three weeks of receiving your application, Vancouver Island University will send you an acknowledgement letter.
Additional letters may request information from you to complete your application. Please read the letters carefully and call the Registration Centre if you have any questions. If you move, please let the Registration Centre know your new address.
If you are selected for admission, a letter of acceptance will be mailed to you. To confirm your acceptance of an offer of admission, a $200 deposit will be required. For some programs the deposit may be more.
4. Pay Tuition Deposit
A tuition deposit (usually $200), will be required; this deposit will be applied to your first semester’s tuition fees. The date by which you must pay this deposit will be noted in your registration letter.
5. Select your Courses
To prepare for registration you need to decide exactly which courses you want to take. Some programs require that you take very specific courses; others have many options and require you to choose from those options. The program outlines in the Calendar contain the information you will need to select your courses. You may also wish to consult with an Academic Advisor for assistance.
6. Timetable and Register for Courses
The university will send you full details on how and when to register. This information will arrive sometime in late May. The online registration system will help you build a timetable using the courses you need for your program.
7. Get Oriented
Orientation sessions are held to help you familiarize yourself with Vancouver Island University. If you are enrolling in a University program, we encourage you to sign up for an Orientation when you register for your Fall classes.
If you would like a guided tour of the campus on a Friday, please contact the Welcome Center by phone (1-888-920-2221) or by email (cu@viu.ca).
8. Pay the Tuition for your Courses
You will be notified when your tuition payment is due.
Further Information
We are here to help you. If you have any questions about becoming a student at VIU, email: registration@viu.ca, or call (250) 740–6400 or toll–free 1–888–920–2221 local 6400.
Updated March 6, 2013