Studying at UBC is almost like a guarantee of career success because it is one of the top-ranked universities worldwide, standing at 41st place according to Times Higher Education. UBC is one of the four best universities in BC. BC continues to attract Canadians and foreigners alike: 40,000 people settle in the province each year, and its population in 2023 now exceeds 5.43 million. The University of BC excels in some programs like social sciences, business & economics, and life sciences. British Columbia (BC) ranks second as a destination (24% or 119,110 study permits), attracting double the share of students that enrol in Quebec (12%). UBC consistently ranks as one of the world’s top research universities. Globally connected, we attract the highest-calibre research faculty and students and more than $700 million in research funding each year. Read more. Continue reading to learn more about the best universities in BC.
Here is why British Columbia is a good choice for International Students
- In British Columbia, there is a program called the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) that lets graduating students apply for Permanent Residency (PR). The process starts with obtaining a Provincial Nominee Certificate. This certificate means PR applications will be processed faster than other immigration routes. Plus, BC offers plenty of job opportunities for international students, thanks to its high employability rates and exposure to various industries.
- In 2021, 22% of all international students moving to Canada, chose to move to British Columbia.
- Studying and living in Canada is affordable compared to the USA or the UK. BC offers world-class education with expert educators and international standards.
- Vancouver has a thriving film industry that offers opportunities for aspiring filmmakers and media professionals.
- BC has beautiful landscapes and welcoming communities making it an ideal place to live and study.
Best Universities in BC for International Students
University of the Fraser Valley
The University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) is a Canadian public university with campuses in Abbotsford, Chilliwack, Mission, Hope, and Agassiz. They offer over 100 study programs in 30 subject areas, from accounting to graphic design. They welcome new students during their orientation with a chance to familiarize themselves with campus life and meet peers. UFV provides extensive support services, including an international centre, financial aid, counselling, and assistance for students with disabilities. The average tuition fee is $8,592 at the University of Fraser Valley. One of the available scholarships for international students is the International Excellence Entrance Scholarship. The amount offered per student is CAD 20,000 ($5,000 per year for four years).
Who is this Scholarship for
- Those who apply to study at UFV.
- Those who are in their graduating year or have recently graduated.
Thompson Rivers University
Thompson Rivers University (TRU) is a public research university in Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada. With a history dating back to 1970, the university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, including business, law, nursing, education, engineering, arts, and sciences. Some popular courses at TRU include Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, and Master of Education. The university also offers several postgraduate programs, including a Master of Business Administration, a Master of Science in Environmental Economics and Management, and a Master of Nursing. The average international student fee is $31,805 yearly. International applicants must pay an application fee of $100 to begin their applications. Check here for deadlines.
Vancouver Island University
Vancouver Island University is a public liberal arts university With a history dating back to 1969 in Nanaimo, Powell River, Duncan, Parksville-Qualicum Beach, British Columbia, Canada. VIU welcomes over 16,000 full-time and part-time students of 1,800 international students from more than 40 countries. VIU is one of the best universities in BC. The application fee is $150. The average international student fee is $25,258 yearly. Apply for scholarships for international students.
The University of Victoria
The University of Victoria, known as UVic or just Victoria, is a public research university in Oak Bay and Saanich within the Greater Victoria area of British Columbia. Established in 1903 as Victoria College, In 1963, it transitioned into the independent university we know today. UVic is the third largest university in British Columbia, welcoming around 20,000 students annually. It’s renowned for its beautiful architecture, vibrant gardens, and delightful climate. Tuition is estimated to be about $40,000 for international students.
University of British Columbia
The University of British Columbia (UBC) is a global centre for teaching, learning and research, consistently ranked among the top 20 public universities in the world and recently recognized as North America’s most international university. UBC consistently ranks as one of the world’s top research universities. Globally connected, we attract the highest-calibre research faculty and students and more than $700 million in research funding each year.
Scholarships and Eligibility Criteria for International Students in British Columbia
As soon as you receive an offer of admission to UBC, you will automatically be eligible for these merit-based awards. Consideration is on your demonstrated academic achievement and your extracurricular involvement.
IMES scholarships, valued between $10,000- $20,000 annually, are awarded to exceptional international students starting undergraduate programs at UBC. These scholarships are renewable for up to three additional years, depending on available funding.
Eligibility criteria for IMES include;
- Being new to UBC directly from secondary school.
- Have a Canadian study permit.
- Demonstrate exceptional academic and extracurricular achievements.
- Apply to UBC by the admissions deadline.
Similarly, the OIS Award, valued between $10,000- $25,000, is a one-time, merit-based entrance scholarship for qualified international students admitted to UBC.
Eligibility requirements for OIS include;
- Being new to UBC from secondary school or post-secondary education
- Holding a Canadian study permit
- Demonstrating outstanding academic and extracurricular involvement
Conclusion
In the quest for quality education in British Columbia, it is crucial to consider institutions that check academic excellence without burdening international students with fees. While some universities seek to profit from international enrollments, there are schools dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for all learners.
After reading this, we know you would not want to abandon this dream of studying in Canada. To make your dream a reality, contact us today as we hold your hands and walk you to British Columbia through this opportunity.
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