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CANADA · PRINCE GEORGE

College of New Caledonia

public · Founded 1969 · Languages: en

In short

The College of New Caledonia (CNC) is a public college in British Columbia offering career-focused programs in trades, technology, and university transfer. It provides smaller class sizes, industry connections, and a more affordable cost of living, with dedicated support for international students.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 1969
Students: 4,000
International students: 300
Acceptance rate: 80%
Tuition (intl): €9–14k/yr
Languages: EN
Location: Prince George, Canada

The College of New Caledonia (CNC) is a publicly funded college established in 1969, headquartered in Prince George, British Columbia, with additional campuses in Quesnel, Burns Lake, Fort St. James, Mackenzie, and Vanderhoof. It serves the vast north-central region of BC with practical, career-focused programmes in trades, technology, health sciences, business, human services, and university-transfer studies. With more than 100,000 alumni, CNC has been central to workforce development and community education in its region for over five decades.

Why study here

Complete the first two years of a university degree through BC Transfer System credits, then move seamlessly to UNBC or other BC universities.
Gain hands-on skills in high-demand trades and technology fields, with strong connections to regional industry employers.
Benefit from smaller class sizes and personalised support uncommon at large universities.
Study in Prince George, a growing city with a low cost of living compared to Vancouver or Victoria.
Access dedicated international student services including academic advising, settlement support, and housing assistance.

Student life

The College of New Caledonia fosters a vibrant student experience by offering various student support services designed to promote academic success and overall well-being. Students can engage with campus life across multiple locations, including the main campus in Prince George and smaller community campuses. The college also celebrates the achievements of its graduates through events like Convocation, welcoming new members to its extensive alumni network.

Fees

InternationalAnnual international student tuition is approximately CAD 14,000-20,000 (EUR 9,000-13,000) depending on the programme. Trades and certificate programmes may have different fee structures.

HomeDomestic BC students pay approximately CAD 4,500-6,000 per year in tuition for most two-year diploma programmes.

LivingPrince George living costs are among the lowest in BC, estimated at CAD 12,000-15,000/year (EUR 7,500-9,500) including accommodation.

Fee schedules are published annually on the CNC website. International students should also budget for a health and dental plan.

Admissions

Certificate and diploma programmesBC secondary school graduation or equivalent. Specific courses (Math, English, Sciences) required depending on programme.

University transferGrade 12 with English 12 (C+ or higher) and Math 11 or 12 depending on the faculty stream.

International applicantsAcademic transcripts with certified English translations and proof of English language proficiency required.

IELTS Academic6.0 overall (no band below 5.5)

TOEFL iBT60+

University scholarships

CNC International Student Entrance AwardCAD 1,000 for qualifying new international students

CNC BursariesVarious amounts for students with financial need; apply through Student Services

Accreditation

The College of New Caledonia is designated as a public post-secondary institution under the College and Institute Act of British Columbia. Programmes are approved by the BC Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills. University-transfer credits are recognised through the BC Transfer System (BCCAT).

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 →

College of New Caledonia · Canada

Business and Management

College of New Caledonia · Canada

College of New Caledonia - Programs Overview

The College of New Caledonia (CNC) offers a diverse range of programs across various fields, including Business, Health Sciences, Technologies, and Trades. With multiple campuses located throughout North Central BC, CNC provides accessible education tailored to the needs of the region. Programs lead to various credentials such as Certificates, Diplomas, Associate Degrees, and Bachelor Degrees. CNC is committed to providing flexible learning options and relevant training to prepare students for successful careers. The college serves a wide geographical area, offering programs at campuses in Prince George, Quesnel, Burns Lake, Mackenzie, Fort St. James, and Vanderhoof. Whether you are looking to start a new career, upgrade your skills, or pursue higher education, CNC has options to fit your goals.

College of New Caledonia · Canada

Continuing Education Programs at College of New Caledonia

The College of New Caledonia (CNC) offers a variety of continuing education programs and short courses designed to help individuals upskill, reskill, and prepare for the current and future workforce. These programs can enhance your existing knowledge or help you transition into new fields. CNC also offers funded training opportunities in several areas, often supported by ministry grants and community partnerships, to make education more accessible. Additionally, the college provides custom training packages for employers and industry partners in Northern BC.

College of New Caledonia · Canada

Health Sciences Discovery Pathway

The Health Sciences Discovery Pathway is a tuition-free, one-year preparatory program designed to support aspiring healthcare professionals. It aims to build student confidence, enhance academic readiness, and provide exploration of various healthcare career options before entering competitive health science programs. This program is ideal for individuals who may benefit from additional preparation, including Indigenous learners, adult upgrading students, mature learners, and those new to healthcare who want to explore career paths.

College of New Caledonia · Canada

Programs at College of New Caledonia

College of New Caledonia (CNC) offers a diverse range of programs across various disciplines, designed to prepare students for successful careers. With multiple campuses and learning centers, CNC provides accessible education to the communities of Northern British Columbia. The college focuses on delivering practical, career-oriented education and fostering a supportive learning environment.

College of New Caledonia · Canada

Technologies

Scholarships

for Canada

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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 academic programs are offered at the College of New Caledonia (CNC)?

CNC offers practical, career-focused programs in trades, technology, health sciences, business, human services, and university-transfer studies. You can also complete the first two years of a university degree and transfer to other BC universities.

What are the estimated tuition and living costs for international students at CNC?

Annual international student tuition is approximately CAD 14,000-20,000, depending on the program. Living costs in Prince George are estimated at CAD 12,000-15,000 per year, including accommodation.

What are the English proficiency requirements for international students?

For IELTS Academic, a score of 6.0 overall with no band below 5.5 is required. For TOEFL iBT, a score of 60+ is needed.

Does CNC offer support services for international students?

Yes, CNC provides dedicated international student services, including academic advising, settlement support, and housing assistance, to help students succeed.

What are the advantages of studying at CNC?

CNC offers smaller class sizes, personalized support, strong connections to regional industry for trades and technology fields, and a lower cost of living compared to larger cities.

Last updated 3 July 2026