In short
North Island College is a public community college in British Columbia offering university transfer, trades, and healthcare programs with small class sizes. It provides an intimate learning environment on Vancouver Island, with estimated annual tuition around EUR 9,000-12,000 for international students.
Key facts
- Type
- Public
- Founded
- 1975
- Students
- 9,000
- International students
- 900
- Tuition (intl)
- €9–12k/yr
- Languages
- EN
- Location
- Courtenay, Canada
North Island College (NIC) is a public community college located on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, Canada. Established in 1975, NIC offers a range of programs including university-level courses, associate degrees, hands-on trades training, and programs in healthcare and community services. Students can start their degrees at NIC and transfer credits to universities across British Columbia and beyond. With four campuses across Vancouver Island, NIC provides an intimate learning environment characterized by small class sizes and a high instructor rating. The college is committed to building healthy communities and supporting high-demand fields, ensuring graduates are job-ready. NIC also emphasizes Indigenous education and engagement, recognizing and operating on the traditional territories of local First Nations. The college offers a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical, applied skills through lab exercises and projects. Student housing is available, with new on-campus options at tul'al'txw offering various suite types. NIC is celebrating 50 years of providing education and continues to innovate and adapt to student and community needs.
Why study here
- Small class sizes and personalized attention from instructors.
- Programs designed to prepare students for immediate employment in high-demand fields.
- Opportunity to start university-level studies and transfer credits to other institutions.
- Access to financial aid and awards, including specific scholarships for various student groups.
- Located in naturally extraordinary settings on Vancouver Island, offering a unique living and learning experience.
Student life
North Island College offers a vibrant student life across its four campuses on Vancouver Island. Students can take advantage of new on-campus housing options at tul'al'txw, which offers various suite types including nano, studio, quad, and family suites. The college fosters a supportive community with an emphasis on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Beyond academics, students can engage in community events and activities, benefitting from the natural beauty and outdoor opportunities of Vancouver Island. The college also provides a variety of supports and services, including financial aid and awards, and resources for new international students to help them adjust to living on Vancouver Island.
Fees
InternationalApproximately EUR 9,000-12,000 per year for full-time international diploma and university-transfer programmes, billed per credit; trades and specialised programmes may differ.
HomeDomestic Canadian and BC-resident tuition is substantially lower and is set under provincial guidelines.
LivingAround EUR 9,000-12,000 per year for accommodation, food and personal expenses on Vancouver Island; new on-campus housing is available at tul'al'txw.
Information regarding tuition and costs for international students, including deposits, refunds, and payment methods, is available on the North Island College website under the 'Tuition and costs' section for international students. Students should also consider living expenses for Vancouver Island.
Admissions
General RequirementsProspective international students must meet the general admission requirements for their chosen program. Specific details are available on the NIC website.
IELTS6.0 overall (typical; varies by program, with pathway options available)
TOEFL iBT79-80 (typical; varies by program)
University scholarships
Beedie Luminaries Single Parent Award for Resilience and Knowledge (SPARK)$44,000
Accreditation
North Island College is a public post-secondary institution designated and accredited by the Province of British Columbia, and its university-transfer courses articulate with universities through the BC Transfer System.
For international students
CanadaStudent 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 selectionNorth Island College · Canada
Associate of Science Degree
The Associate of Science Degree provides two years of university-level study, earning 60 credits that can be transferred to any university in British Columbia. This flexible program allows you to explore a wide range of scientific subjects and develop critical thinking, research, and technical skills. It's an excellent pathway for students aiming for further studies in fields like medicine, dentistry, optometry, veterinary science, or other science-related careers. You can tailor your studies to your specific interests or focus on meeting prerequisites for professional programs across Canada.
Bachelor's
Level
€20k
Tuition
24 mo
Duration
North Island College · Canada
Bachelor of Business Administration – Accounting
North Island College offers a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) with a specialization in Accounting. This program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of accounting principles and practices, preparing them for a variety of roles in the field. The curriculum covers core business concepts alongside specialized accounting coursework, aiming to equip graduates with the analytical and technical skills needed to succeed in the accounting profession.
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
48 mo
Duration
North Island College · Canada
Bachelor of Science in Environmental Science
Bachelor's
Level
—
Tuition
—
Duration
North Island College · Canada
University Studies
This pathway allows you to take individual university-level courses in a variety of subjects. It's designed for students who plan to transfer to another institution to complete a bachelor's degree. You can explore your academic interests at your own pace, taking as many or as few courses as you wish. NIC courses are structured to be transferable, helping you build a personalized plan to meet the specific requirements of your chosen program at other universities in British Columbia and beyond.
Diploma
Level
—
Tuition
4 mo
Duration
Scholarships
for Canada
full fundingUniversity 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.
full
Funding
€200k
Max
Nov 30, 2026
Deadline
full fundingUniversity 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.
full
Funding
€70k
Max
Nov 15, 2026
Deadline
full fundingWestern University
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.
full
Funding
€47k
Max
Feb 14, 2027
Deadline
partial fundingUniversity of Ottawa
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.
partial
Funding
€46k
Max
Apr 1, 2027
Deadline
full fundingCanadian 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.
full
Funding
€34k
Max
Nov 4, 2026
Deadline
full fundingCIHR / 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.
full
Funding
€27k
Max
Nov 1, 2026
Deadline
Frequently asked questions
What programs does North Island College offer?
+
North Island College offers a range of programs including university-level courses, associate degrees, hands-on trades training, and programs in healthcare and community services. Students can begin their degrees at NIC and transfer credits to other institutions.
What are the approximate tuition fees for international students?
+
Full-time international diploma and university-transfer programs are approximately EUR 9,000-12,000 per year, billed per credit. Trades and specialized programs may have different fees.
What are the estimated living expenses for international students?
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Living expenses for accommodation, food, and personal costs on Vancouver Island are estimated at around EUR 9,000-12,000 per year. New on-campus housing is available at tul'al'txw.
Does North Island College offer support for international students?
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Yes, North Island College welcomes international students and provides resources to assist with applications, study permits, and settling into life on Vancouver Island. International students can also find agents to help with their applications.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
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Typical requirements include an IELTS score of 6.0 overall or a TOEFL iBT score of 79-80, though scores can vary by program. Pathway options are also available.
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