Our international students are valued members of our Vancouver Island University community and we honour your contributions to the VIU family. We recognize the COVID-19 pandemic has created unique challenges for you. We are here to support our current and future students during the global pandemic.
14,500 Total Students, 2,000 International Students
120+ Programs
100,000+ Worldwide Alumni Network
Max Class Size 34 Students
International Students from 93 Countries
70 Staff Supporting International Students
Mild weather all year
Safe & affordable community
Close to nature & urban hubs
Lethy Makwenge
As a French, Swahili and Lingala speaker, Lethy didn’t feel confident to speak English when she first arrived at VIU. While studying ESL, she was master of ceremonies at the ESL grad celebration. She also volunteered with Peer Helpers and Cultural Connections. Lethy cherishes the amazing relationships she built and friends she made while volunteering. “I was touched by the peer helpers who welcomed me when I arrived at VIU. So I wanted to help new students to feel the same way”.
- Lethy Makwenge, Democratic Republic of Congo, Peer Helper, Student Activity Leader
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University Programs
Explore the options available at VIU for undergraduate and graduate certificates, diplomas, and degrees.
English Language Programs
Study English at a university recognized for teaching excellence. Complete your ESL with direct entry to university.
High School at VIU
The High School at Vancouver Island University offers the independence and flexibility of learning on a university campus with access to university facilities.
Resources for International Students
Student Life & Activities
At VIU, we know that students participating in extracurricular activities experience a more fulfilling university life. We encourage you to start out the year right, and join events, events or student life programs that interest you!
Events
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Dec0812:00am to 1:30pm
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Dec146:00am to 7:00am
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Dec148:00am to 9:00am
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Dec168:00pm to 9:00pm
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Dec176:00pm to 7:00pm
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Dec177:00pm to 8:00pm
Blog Posts
Harnessing the power of the poop loop
Jenni [pronounced Yenni] Ottilie Keppler says she’s always felt a “personal calling towards the west coast of North America,” and a desire to conduct research...
Taking her education global with international internships
Gabrielle Hayashi Santos has been interested in the topic of internationalizing education ever since she was in high school.It’s an interest that led the...
How do I tailor my resumé to a specific job?
One of the questions I get asked frequently is how to best tailor a resumé to a specific job to increase the chances of getting called for an interview.Think...
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International Recruitment
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Connect with a recruiter!
International Education
Contact us with general inquiries about advising, admissions and more.