Loading…

CANADA · VICTORIA

Camosun College

public · Founded 1971 · Languages: en

In short

Camosun College offers career-focused diploma, degree, and certificate programs in Victoria, BC, with hands-on learning and strong graduate employment outcomes. It provides an affordable education in one of Canada's most liveable cities for international students.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 1971
Students: 15,000
International students: 3,000
Acceptance rate: 70%
Tuition (intl): €11–17k/yr
Languages: EN
Location: Victoria, Canada

Camosun College is a publicly-funded post-secondary institution in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, serving approximately 15,000 students across two campuses — Lansdowne and Interurban. Founded in 1971, the college offers certificate, diploma, associate degree, and bachelor's degree programmes spanning trades, technology, health sciences, business, arts, and university transfer. Camosun is known for its hands-on, industry-connected education and strong graduate employment outcomes. Victoria's mild climate, natural beauty, and proximity to Vancouver make it one of Canada's most desirable study destinations for international students.

Why study here

Career-focused, hands-on programmes with industry partnerships ensure graduates are job-ready in high-demand fields like health, trades, and technology.
University transfer pathways allow seamless progression to British Columbia's research universities, including UVic and UBC.
Victoria is one of Canada's safest and most liveable cities, with mild weather, stunning natural scenery, and a welcoming community.
Dedicated international student services, including immigration advising, peer support, and English language upgrading.
Affordable tuition compared to Canadian universities, with a range of bursaries and entrance awards available to international students.

Student life

Campus life at Camosun College is active and community-focused. The Lansdowne campus hosts the main student services hub, athletics facilities, and a vibrant social scene, while the Interurban campus offers specialist workshops and labs with a more industry-oriented atmosphere. Students can join clubs, participate in intramural sports, access counselling and wellness services, and explore Victoria's thriving arts scene, cycling trails, and ocean-front parks. The city's compact size makes it easy to navigate by bike or public transit.

Fees

InternationalInternational students typically pay CAD 16,000–22,000 per year (approx. EUR 11,000–17,000) depending on programme.

HomeDomestic (BC resident) tuition is approximately CAD 2,500–5,000 per year.

LivingMonthly living costs in Victoria are approximately CAD 1,500–2,200 (EUR 1,050–1,550), covering rent, food, transit, and personal expenses.

Application fees, health and dental insurance, student activity fees, and textbooks are additional costs. On-campus housing is limited; most students rent off-campus.

Admissions

Academic qualificationCompletion of secondary school (Grade 12 or equivalent); programme-specific prerequisites may apply

Application processApply via the EducationPlannerBC portal; international applicants apply directly through Camosun's international admissions office

Official transcriptsRequired and must be translated into English if not in English or French

Health insuranceInternational students must enrol in BC's Medical Services Plan (MSP) after 3 months and may use Camosun's interim plan

IELTS Academic6.0 overall, no band below 5.5 (most programmes)

TOEFL iBT78 overall

CAEL60

Duolingo English Test110

Rankings

KPU/Colleges BC regional recognition

Victoria's top employer partner college (local recognition)

University scholarships

International Student Entrance AwardCAD 1,000–2,000 (one-time)

Camosun College Foundation BursariesVaries, typically CAD 500–2,500

Government of Canada Study Permit holders — provincial bursariesVaries

Accreditation

Camosun College is a publicly funded post-secondary institution designated under the BC College and Institute Act. Health programmes carry professional accreditations (e.g., nursing programmes accredited by the Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing). Trades programmes are registered with the Industry Training Authority (ITA) of British Columbia.

For international students

Canada

Student visa & funds

International students must obtain a study permit from IRCC before arriving. Most college and undergraduate applicants must also include a Provincial or Territorial Attestation Letter (PAL/TAL) confirming a space under the annual cap; from January 2026, master’s and doctoral students at public institutions are exempt from this requirement. Applicants must show living funds of CAD 22,895 (effective September 2025, for a single student, excluding tuition and travel), and Student Direct Stream applicants hold this amount as a GIC.

Working while you study

Full-time students at designated learning institutions whose permits include work authorization may work up to 24 hours per week off campus during academic terms — a cap in effect since November 2024 that replaced the former 20-hour rule and a temporary 40-hour exception. Students may work unlimited hours during scheduled breaks such as summer and winter holidays. From April 2026, eligible students no longer need a separate co-op work permit for mandatory placements.

After you graduate

Graduates of eligible programs may apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) within 180 days of confirmed completion. The PGWP matches program length up to a maximum of three years, and master’s graduates receive a three-year permit regardless of program length. Since November 2024 most applicants must show a recent language test at CLB 7 (university graduates) or CLB 5 (college graduates); degree graduates are exempt from the field-of-study alignment rule that applies to other applicants.

English tests

IELTS Academic6.0–6.5 with no band below 6.0; research-intensive universities 6.5–7.0
TOEFL iBT80–100; top universities (e.g. University of Toronto) 100+

Main intakes

SeptemberJanuaryMay

Typical living cost

€1,250/month

Approximate all-in student budget; major cities run higher.

SourcesIRCC — Study permit: get the right documents · CIC News — Increased fund requirements for study permits (Sept 2025) · CIC News — Off-campus work rules update (May 2026) · IRCC — Post-graduation work permit: who can apply · ETS — Minimum TOEFL score requirements for the USA, UK and Canada · Mastersportal — Living costs & tuition in Canada

Programs

a selection

View top programs →

Camosun College · Canada

High School Dual Credit Pathways

The High School Dual Credit Pathways program at Camosun College allows high school students to earn both high school and post-secondary credit simultaneously. This program provides an opportunity to explore new subjects and get a head start on college or university programs while still in high school. It is designed for students within specific school districts and offers pathways in Business, Arts and Sciences, Health Sciences, and Technology.

Camosun College · Canada

Nautical Programs

Camosun College offers programs in nautical training, preparing students for careers at sea. The college is located in Victoria, BC, Canada, and acknowledges the traditional territories of several First Nations peoples. The Nautical Training programs provide essential skills and knowledge for individuals aspiring to work in the maritime industry. Information regarding specific program details, admissions, and schedules is available through the college's portal and official announcements.

Camosun College · Canada

Nautical Training

Camosun College offers specialized Nautical Training programs designed to equip individuals with the skills and certifications needed for a career in the maritime industry. These programs balance indoor theoretical learning with essential outdoor practical experience, catering to various working styles and preferences within the sector. Graduates can look forward to well-compensated roles exploring Canadian waters and developing strong professional camaraderie. The college emphasizes practical, industry-approved training delivered by experienced mariners. Instructors possess decades of real-world experience and up-to-date knowledge of regulations from Transport Canada, Industry Canada, and the provincial government. With over 40 years of providing training, Camosun is dedicated to delivering the practical skills and support necessary for students to achieve their required industry certifications.

Camosun College · Canada

Programs and Courses at Camosun College for International Students

Camosun College offers a range of full-time Canadian college programs and short-term global learning experiences for international students. As a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), Camosun provides programs in diverse fields including Business, Arts, Science, Computers, Engineering, Sport, Health Sciences, and Human Services. Many full-time programs offer co-op, internship, or practicum options to enhance practical skills and career readiness.

Camosun College · Canada

Trade and Apprenticeship Programs

Camosun College offers a variety of Trade and Apprenticeship programs designed to equip you with the skills needed for a successful career in the skilled trades. These programs are structured into two main pathways: Foundation programs, which provide entry-level technical training for those not yet employed in a trade, and Apprenticeship programs, for individuals already employed and sponsored by an employer. Completing these programs can lead to Red Seal endorsement, a recognized standard of excellence across Canada.

Camosun College · Canada

Trades and Apprenticeships

Scholarships

for Canada

Browse all scholarships →

full funding

University of Toronto

Lester B. Pearson International Student Scholarship

For international students beginning undergraduate study at the University of Toronto who are first-time entrants from outside Canada. Students must be nominated by their school, then complete the U of T application and scholarship process. Selection recognises exceptional academic achievement and creativity, with a record of leadership and impact at school.

University of British Columbia

International Leader of Tomorrow (ILOT) Award

For international students entering their first undergraduate degree at the University of British Columbia (UBC) who demonstrate outstanding academic achievement, leadership, and financial need. Students must be nominated by their school and require financial support to study at UBC; the award is need-based, covering costs the student and family cannot meet.

Western University National Scholarship Program (Canada)

Open to Canadian citizens and permanent residents entering full-time undergraduate study at Western University's main campus, with a minimum academic average of 90% in Grade 12 U/M courses (or equivalent), a school nomination, a reference letter, a transcript and an essay.

University of Ottawa International English Scholarships

Open to international undergraduate students who hold a valid Canadian study permit and are newly admitted to an English-language undergraduate programme in Arts, Engineering, Health Sciences, Science, Social Sciences, or the Telfer School of Management. A minimum admission average of 80 percent is needed for the Admission Scholarship and 90 percent for the Academic Excellence Scholarship. Students in the French immersion or French-language streams are not eligible.

Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC), Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC)

Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships

Open to Canadian and international students pursuing a doctoral (PhD) degree at a Canadian university. Candidates must be nominated by the Canadian institution, not yet have started the doctoral program beyond defined limits, and demonstrate academic excellence, research potential, and leadership.

CIHR / NSERC / SSHRC (Tri-Agency), Government of Canada

Canada Graduate Research Scholarship – Doctoral (CGRS-D)

For doctoral students undertaking a PhD at a Canadian institution, with an outstanding academic record. Awards are made by Canada's tri-agency (CIHR, NSERC, SSHRC); applicants apply through their university, and eligibility (including for international students) follows the current Canada Graduate Scholarships rules.

Frequently asked questions

What are the typical annual tuition fees for international students at Camosun College?

International students can expect to pay between CAD 16,000 and CAD 22,000 per year in tuition, depending on the specific program. This estimate does not include additional costs such as application fees, insurance, or textbooks.

What are the estimated monthly living costs for students in Victoria?

Monthly living expenses in Victoria, including rent, food, transit, and personal expenses, are estimated to be between CAD 1,500 and CAD 2,200. This can vary based on individual lifestyle choices.

What English language proficiency scores are required for international applicants?

Most programs require an IELTS Academic score of 6.0 overall with no band below 5.5, or a TOEFL iBT score of 78. Other accepted tests include CAEL (60) and Duolingo English Test (110).

What academic qualifications are needed to apply to Camosun College?

Applicants must have completed secondary school (Grade 12 or equivalent). Some programs may have specific prerequisite courses or academic requirements.

Does Camosun College offer pathways to university transfer?

Yes, Camosun College provides university transfer pathways that allow students to seamlessly progress to major British Columbia research universities, including UVic and UBC.

Last updated 3 July 2026