- CredentialCertificate
Heading back to school to finish your high school education is a big step. Getting your high school diploma will help you qualify for many post-secondary program options, and get you on the path to the job you see in your future. VIU offers the Adult Basic Education program to support learners in obtaining their Adult Basic Education Diploma or GED Diploma.
The High School Equivalency (ABE) program is taught in an inclusive environment, where you receive the individual attention that will help you succeed. Study in small class groups with instructors who care about your success.
Tuition is free for domestic students, and financial support for other costs could be made available.
The Adult Basic Education Certificate Program
Adult Basic Education (ABE) courses are for adults who want to:
- complete prerequisite courses needed for further study;
- obtain a graduation certificate;
- prepare for employment;
- refresh their skills and confidence for work or further studies;
- reach a personal goal.
ABE instructors understand the challenges students face when returning to school as adults, and provide support to students to make their experience a success.
Adult Basic Education (ABE) offers:
- A supportive adult-centred learning environment.
- Small class sizes.
- Free tutorial assistance.
- Advising, counseling, and student support services.
- Assistance with course planning to meet your goals.
- Daytime and evening classes.
- A variety of options, from instructor-led classes to self-paced, flexible-schedule classes.
Courses are available up to the Grade 12 level in Biology, Chemistry, Computer Studies, English, History, Mathematics, Physics, Psychology, Science, Education and Career Planning, and Reading and Writing.
Note: Not all courses or levels may be available in every semester or location.
BC Adult Graduation Diploma
The BC Adult Graduation Diploma (BCAGD), is a diploma that is equivalent to a BC Grade 12 diploma. To be eligible to graduate from this program students must complete five ABE courses. Normally, at least three of these courses would be taken at VIU (or another post-secondary institution), and at least one of these courses MUST be taken at VIU in order for students to be eligible for the BCAGD offered through VIU. Prior Learning Assessments may be used to meet any of the requirements for the BCAGD. Check the BC Adult Graduation Diploma program matrix for further details.
Financial Support
Financial support may be available to students in ABE programs through the Adult Upgrading Grant (AUG), Human Resources and Social Development Canada, the Ministry of Human Resources, Native Bands, and other organizations. Check with the agencies concerned or ask about financial aid at your local campus or centre.
ABE Learning Centres
Learning Centres are available to assist students with:
- help while studying ABE courses
- preparing for assessments for admission to ABE or other VIU programs
- materials to prepare for assessments and other tests
- support for distance and online courses
Call your campus to find out more about Learning Centre services and hours.
GED—General Educational Development Exam
Vancouver Island University will consider the GED as the equivalent of a minimum high school graduation, provided that the student has attained at least 500 on each of the component tests. The GED does not provide equivalencies for English 12, Mathematics 11, or any other specific high school course.
- Minimum 17 years of age and out of school for one year
OR
- High school graduation
OR
- Enrolled in a VIU academic or trades/vocational program.
Note: An assessment may be required for placement purposes if prerequisites were completed more than 5 years prior to admission.
Domestic Fees | International Fees
Domestic Fees
Tuition and Other Mandatory Student Fees
When applying to graduate, students will be charged a non-refundable graduation and alumni fee.
Some courses have additional fees to pay for extraordinary class–related expenses.
Fees - per course* |
Amount |
|---|---|
|
Tuition: $0 per course |
0.00 |
|
Student Activity fee ($14.93 per course) |
14.93 |
|
Student Services fee ($16.55 per course) |
16.55 |
|
VIU Students' Union fee (4 months x $26.59 per month) |
106.36 |
|
Total |
137.84 |
* The above table is based on a four-month semester. ABE courses can run more than, or less than, four months.
Contact the CAP Department for a list of required textbooks and costs.
Financial Aid may be available under the StudentAidBC Adult Upgrading Grant. See StudentAidBC for more information.
All fees are subject to change without prior notice and are expected to increase by 2% each year on April 1.
International Fees
Tuition and Other Mandatory Student Fees
When applying to graduate, students will be charged a non-refundable graduation and alumni fee.
Some courses have additional fees to pay for extraordinary class–related expenses.
Fees - per semester |
Amount |
|---|---|
|
Tuition (1 semester x $10870.72 per semester) |
10,870.72 |
|
Ancillary Fee (1 semesters x $463.40 per semester) |
463.40 |
|
VIU Students' Union fee (4 months x $26.59 per month) |
106.36 |
|
Total |
11,440.48 |
Tuition in the above table is based on $776.48 per credit, up to a maximum of $10,870.72 per semester for 15 credits; $776.48 per credit beyond 15 credits. Ancillary Fees in the above table are based on $33.10 per credit, up to a maximum of $463.40 per semester for 15 credits; $33.10 per credit beyond 15 credits.
* The above table is based on a four-month semester. ABE courses can run more than, or less than, four months.
Contact the CAP Department for a list of required textbooks and costs.
Financial Aid may be available under the StudentAidBC Adult Upgrading Grant. See StudentAidBC for more information.
All fees are subject to change without prior notice and are expected to increase by 2% each year on April 1.
UpdatedContact Vancouver Island University in your community for information on course availability, schedules, and registration information.
By Email:
By Phone:
- in Nanaimo, call 250-618-4713.
- in Parksville-Qualicum, call 250-248-2096.
- in Cowichan, call 250-746-3500.
- in Powell River, call 604-485-2878.
Further information on this program can be found on the Department website.
Previous versions of this program can be found in the Program Archive.
Brianna Thorne
“After enrolling in the ABE program, the care and support that was offered to me from all of my instructors took me by surprise. I have never felt so supported and encouraged in my entire life as a student. It didn’t matter what obstacle I was faced with, my instructors were always there to accommodate whatever it was that I needed. If it were a matter of finances, moral support or extra help in a subject that I was struggling with, there was always a team there to support and guide me. The amazing staff has lifted me up when I needed it the most and created a confidence in myself that I never knew existed. I would not be where I am today without this program.”
Brianna is working on her Bachelor of Education after completing courses in the Adult Basic Education Program