Vancouver is a beautiful city located in British Columbia, Canada. It is known for its stunning scenery, diverse culture, and exceptional educational institutions. Vancouver is home to some of the best universities in Canada, which offer a wide range of programs for international students. These universities provide a great opportunity for students to gain a high-quality education while experiencing the unique culture of Vancouver.
The universities on our list have diverse student populations, with over 16,000 international students from more than 160 countries. The university also offers various scholarships and financial aid programs to help international students with their tuition fees. They offer undergraduate and graduate programs in various fields, including business, communication, engineering, and health sciences.
List Of Best Universities In Vancouver Canada
Vancouver is a city that is home to some of the best universities in Canada, which have been attracting international students from all over the world for their best quality education and top-class facilities offered. The city has a diverse higher education landscape, offering a wide range of programs in various fields of study. With its strong emphasis on sustainability and innovation, Vancouver is a great destination for international students who are looking for quality education and a vibrant learning environment.
1. University of British Columbia
The University of British Columbia (UBC) is a public institution located in British Columbia, Canada. It is one of the oldest universities in the province, established in 1908 and opened in 1915. With two main campuses in Vancouver and Kelowna, UBC is a highly regarded university that attracts students from all over the world.
Programs for International Students
UBC offers a wide range of programs for international students, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. The university has a large population of international students, with about 30% of master’s students and 44% of doctoral students being international students. UBC offers over 250 research-based programs and 85 course-based master’s programs across 85 academic units.
Campus Facilities and Resources
UBC’s Vancouver campus is located on a beautiful peninsula surrounded by the Pacific Ocean and has a wide range of facilities and resources for students. The campus has state-of-the-art research facilities, libraries, and computer labs. UBC’s Vancouver campus also has a large student center, which offers a range of services and resources for students, including career services, counseling, and health services. UBC’s Kelowna campus is located in the heart of the Okanagan Valley and offers a range of facilities and resources for students, including a modern library, computer labs, and a student center.
Admission Requirements and Process
To apply to UBC, international students must meet the admission requirements and follow the application process. The admission requirements vary depending on the program, but generally, students must have a high school diploma or equivalent and meet the English language proficiency requirements. International students must also provide transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. The application process for UBC is online, and students must submit their application and all supporting documents by the deadline.
2. Simon Fraser University
Simon Fraser University (SFU) is a public research university located in Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada. It is the only Canadian university that is a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). SFU has three campuses in the Metro Vancouver area: Burnaby, Surrey, and Vancouver. The university is recognized as the number one innovative university in Canada by WURI 2021 Global Top 100 Innovative Universities.
Programs for International Students
SFU offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs for international students. The university offers more than 100 undergraduate programs and over 45 graduate programs. SFU’s programs are designed to provide students with a strong academic foundation, as well as practical experience through co-op and internship opportunities. International students can also take advantage of SFU’s English Language and Culture Program, which offers courses in English language proficiency, academic writing, and Canadian culture.
Campus Life and Support Services
SFU provides a supportive and inclusive campus environment for international students. The university offers a variety of support services, including academic advising, career services, and counseling services. SFU’s International Services for Students (ISS) provides support for international students throughout their time at the university, including assistance with immigration and visa issues, housing, and health insurance.
SFU also offers a wide range of extracurricular activities for international students, including sports teams, clubs, and cultural events. The university has a vibrant campus life, with a variety of events and activities throughout the year.
Admission Criteria for International Students
SFU has a competitive admission process for international students. To be considered for admission, international students must meet the university’s English language proficiency requirements and provide transcripts from their previous educational institutions. International students must also provide proof of financial support and a study permit or visa.
SFU’s admission process is holistic and takes into account a variety of factors, including academic achievement, extracurricular activities, and personal experiences. The university encourages international students to apply early and to seek assistance from SFU’s International Admissions team throughout the application process.
3. British Columbia Institute of Technology
The British Columbia Institute of Technology (BCIT) is a public polytechnic located in Burnaby, British Columbia, Canada. BCIT offers a variety of specialized programs and pathways for international students seeking to further their education.
Specialized Programs and Pathways
BCIT offers a wide range of programs for international students, including certificates, diplomas, degrees, and master’s degrees. Some of the popular programs include Business Administration, Computer Systems Technology, Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology, and Mechanical Engineering. BCIT also offers specialized programs in areas such as Aerospace, Forensic Science, and Health Sciences.
International Student Support
BCIT is committed to providing support and resources for international students throughout their educational journey. The International Student Centre offers a variety of services, including pre-arrival information, orientation, immigration advising, and academic support. BCIT also provides on-campus housing options for international students.
Application Guide for Overseas Applicants
International students interested in studying at BCIT can find detailed information on the application process on the BCIT website. The website provides step-by-step instructions on how to apply, including information on admission requirements, language proficiency, and application deadlines. International students are encouraged to apply early to ensure they have enough time to obtain their study permits and visas.
4. Langara College
Langara College is a public institution located in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. It offers various programs for international students in arts and science, career, and limited enrolment programs.
University Transfer Programs
Langara College offers University Transfer Programs in Arts and Science for international students. These programs provide students with the opportunity to complete the first two years of their undergraduate degree before transferring to a university. The University Transfer Programs are designed to provide students with a solid foundation in their chosen field of study and prepare them for the rigors of university-level coursework.
Student Services and Engagement
Langara College provides a wide range of student services and engagement opportunities for international students. The college has an International Education Department that offers support and assistance to international students throughout their time at Langara. The department provides services such as orientation, academic advising, and cultural activities to help international students adjust to life in Canada.
Langara College also has a Student Services Department that offers a variety of services to students, including career services, counseling, and disability services. The college has several clubs and organizations that students can join to get involved in campus life and meet other students.
International Admission Procedures
Langara College has specific admission procedures for international students. International students must meet the general admission requirements for their chosen program of study, as well as the English language proficiency requirements. The college accepts a variety of English language proficiency tests, including TOEFL, IELTS, and CAEL.
International students must also provide proof of financial support and obtain a study permit from the Canadian government before beginning their studies at Langara College. The college assists international students throughout the admission process to ensure a smooth transition to studying in Canada.
5. Capilano University
Capilano University is a public university located in North Vancouver, British Columbia. The university was established in 1968 and is home to approximately 12,700 students, including 2,500 international students from 86 countries around the world. Capilano University offers a wide range of programs for international students, including degree and diploma options.
Degree and Diploma Options
Capilano University offers nearly 100 programs, including paths in design, film, business administration, kinesiology, interdisciplinary studies, and early childhood education, to name a few. The university’s comprehensive program of degrees, diplomas, and professional qualifications is internationally renowned for its excellence in teaching and student support.
Campus Experience for International Students
Capilano University’s campuses are located in some of the most beautiful and vibrant areas of Vancouver, offering students a unique and enriching campus experience. The university’s state-of-the-art facilities and modern classrooms provide students with an exceptional learning environment. Capilano University also offers athletics programs in soccer, volleyball, and basketball for men and women.
Enrollment Steps for International Candidates
International candidates interested in enrolling at Capilano University can follow these steps:
- Choose a program of study
- Review the admission requirements
- Submit an application online
- Pay the application fee
- Submit supporting documents
- Receive an offer of admission
- Accept the offer and pay the tuition deposit
- Apply for a study permit and student visa
6. Vancouver Island University
Vancouver Island University (VIU) is a public university located in Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada. It was established in 1969 and has since then become a popular destination for international students seeking quality education in Canada. VIU offers a wide range of programs at the undergraduate and graduate levels, making it an excellent choice for students from different academic backgrounds.
Diverse Academic Programs
VIU offers over 120 programs across different faculties, including Arts and Humanities, Business and Management, Education, Science and Technology, Social Sciences, and Trades. Some of the most popular programs for international students include Business Administration, Computer Science, Education, Engineering, Hospitality and Tourism Management, and Nursing.
VIU also offers a range of graduate programs, including Master of Business Administration (MBA), Master of Arts in Sustainable Leisure Management, and Master of Community Planning. These programs are designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their respective fields.
International Student Community
VIU has a vibrant and diverse international student community, with over 2,000 students from more than 100 countries. The university provides various services and programs to help international students adjust to their new environment and succeed academically. These services include academic advising, career counseling, housing assistance, and cultural events.
Admission Information for Foreign Students
To apply as an international student for admission to Vancouver Island University (VIU), the applicant should follow the instructions provided on the VIU website. The admission requirements vary depending on the program of study and the applicant’s academic background. The applicant must provide evidence of English proficiency by submitting scores from an approved English language test.
International students are also required to pay tuition fees, which vary depending on the program of study and the student’s status (undergraduate or graduate). The tuition fees for undergraduate international students range from CAD 10,000 to 12,000, while the tuition fees for postgraduate courses may range from CAD 20,000 to 30,000.
Scholarships and Financial Aid for International Students
Vancouver is home to some of the best universities in Canada, and many of these institutions offer scholarships and financial aid to international students. These scholarships are designed to help students overcome the financial burden of studying abroad and to encourage them to pursue their academic goals.
One such institution is the University of British Columbia (UBC), which offers several scholarships to international students. The International Major Entrance Scholarship (IMES) is awarded to exceptional international students entering undergraduate programs at UBC. Students receive their IMES when they enter their first year at UBC, and the scholarships are renewable for up to three additional years of study. The UBC Sauder School of Business also offers financial aid, support, and assistance options available to both Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and international UBC MBA applicants.
Another institution that offers scholarships to international students is Simon Fraser University (SFU). The university offers several scholarships, including the SFU International Undergraduate Student Scholarship, which is awarded to international students entering their first year of undergraduate studies at SFU. The scholarship is valued at $10,000 CAD and is renewable for up to three additional years of study.
In addition to UBC and SFU, other institutions in Vancouver also offer scholarships and financial aid to international students. Vancouver Island University (VIU) offers the VIU Worldwide Entrance Award, the BC High School Entrance Award, and the International Undergraduate Student Regional Entrance Scholarship, among others. These awards are for new incoming undergraduate students only and have specific eligibility criteria.
Student Visa and Immigration Guidelines
International students who wish to study in Vancouver must obtain a study permit and a temporary resident visa (TRV) or an electronic travel authorization (eTA) before entering Canada. The TRV is a document issued by the Canadian government that allows a foreign national to enter Canada while the eTA is a new entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals that are traveling to Canada by air.
The processing time for a study permit application can vary depending on the country of origin. In general, it is recommended to apply for a study permit at least six months before the start of the academic program. To apply for a study permit, the student must have a letter of acceptance from a designated learning institution (DLI) in Canada.
The cost of a study permit application is CAD 150, and the processing time can take up to 90 days. The student must also provide proof of financial support for the duration of their studies in Canada. The amount of financial support required will depend on the length of the program and the location of the school.
It is important to note that not all international students require a TRV to enter Canada. Citizens of certain countries are exempt from the TRV requirement and may only need an eTA. The list of TRV-exempt countries can be found on the official website of the Government of Canada.
International students must also comply with the conditions of their study permit while in Canada. These conditions may include restrictions on working in Canada, maintaining full-time student status, and reporting any changes in their contact information or academic status to the Canadian government.
Conclusion
International students must obtain a study permit and a TRV or eTA before entering Canada to study in Vancouver. The application process can take several months, and students must provide proof of financial support for their studies. It is important to comply with the conditions of the study permit while in Canada to avoid any issues with immigration authorities.
