To all VIU International Students:
Recently,
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced changes to Canada’s international student program, resulting in lots of commentary in mainstream media and on social media about potential impacts. Much of this commentary is not factual and we urge you to rely only on official government sources for your information.
VIU International team members are collecting information to inform and advise you. In coming days, look for another communication from us which will share detailed information about the changes. All VIU communications related to IRCC policies are based on government sources. Feel free to contact immigration@viu.ca to book an appointment or ask questions.
Mild weather all year
Safe & affordable community
Close to nature & urban hubs
Programs
Undergraduate programs
Explore the options available at VIU for undergraduate certificates, diplomas, and degrees.
Graduate programs
Explore the options available at VIU for graduate and post-degree programs.
English language programs
Study English at a university recognized for teaching excellence. Complete your ESL with direct entry to university.
Resources for International Students
Future Students
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
More Student StoriesBlog Posts
MBA student shares his 2SLGBTQ+ university experience
Ashutosh Mishra says attending VIU was pivotal in his journey to experiencing “true freedom” as a member of the 2SLGBTQ+ community.“Coming from a small town in...
Saving an endangered Nanaimo flower
A small flower with yellow and cream petals is on the edge of extinction in Canada and a VIU research team is fighting to save it.Bryan Lamprecht, a VIU...
Life is more fun with purpose
Brian Yin discovered his passion for education while coaching and mentoring others when he worked as an auditor in New York. He contacted his old high school...
Student Life and 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!
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.
We are on Instagram
Contact Us
International Recruitment
Interested in studying at VIU?
Connect with a recruiter!
International Education
Contact us with general inquiries about advising, admissions and more.