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CANADA · KELOWNA

Okanagan University College

public · Founded 1963 · Languages: en

In short

Okanagan University College, located in British Columbia's scenic Okanagan Valley, offers flexible academic, vocational, and language programs for international students. The college provides dedicated support services, career-focused opportunities, and PGWP-eligible programs to help students succeed academically and professionally.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 1963
Students: 9,000
International students: 1,200
Acceptance rate: 75%
Tuition (intl): €1–3k/yr
Languages: EN
Location: Kelowna, Canada

Okanagan College is a public post-secondary institution located in British Columbia, Canada, offering a wide range of programs across multiple campuses in the Okanagan Valley. The college focuses on providing flexible learning opportunities, including degree, diploma, and certificate programs, as well as continuing studies and corporate training. It aims to prepare students for successful careers and further academic pursuits, with an emphasis on practical skills and community engagement. The college is recognized as one of B.C.'s Top Employers. International students are welcomed into many programs, with dedicated support services covering admissions, housing, and career pathways. Okanagan College provides a supportive environment for students looking to immerse themselves in Canadian culture and gain valuable work experience after graduation through Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) eligible programs. The institution is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive community, with resources like the Careers Hub connecting students and alumni with employment opportunities. Students benefit from an active campus life and various financial aid options, including scholarships and bursaries, to support their educational journey.

Why study here

Access PGWP-eligible programs to gain valuable Canadian work experience after graduation.
Benefit from career services and a dedicated 'Careers Hub' connecting students with employers for job and Work Integrated Learning opportunities.
Experience a supportive and diverse learning environment with resources tailored for international students, including housing and cultural integration programs.
Choose from a wide range of academic, vocational, and English language programs designed for practical skill development and career readiness.

Student life

Okanagan College offers various housing options for international students, including student housing at Kelowna, Vernon, and Salmon Arm campuses, private rentals, and a Homestay program. The Homestay program provides a cultural exchange opportunity, allowing students to live with Canadian host families to practice English and learn about local lifestyles. The Careers Hub assists students with job searches, Work Integrated Learning (WIL) co-op program applications, resume support, networking, and career events. The college also hosts an Annual Careers Expo & Employment Fair. Students can participate in Open Studies to take individual credit courses without enrolling in a full program and explore interests. Various events such as Convocation ceremonies are held across the campuses.

Fees

InternationalInternational tuition for academic courses (3 credits) is approximately $1,696 to $2,488 per course, depending on the start year. ESL English as a Second Language (140-hour course) ranges from $3,392 to $4,976. These fees do not include mandatory student activity fees (approx. $80), development and technology fees (approx. $150), or student union fees (approx. $90), which are added upon course registration. Trades, Engineering Technology, Health, and Social Development programs may have different fee structures. All fees are subject to change.

HomeDomestic British Columbia students pay substantially lower tuition, typically a few hundred dollars per 3-credit course.

LivingAdditional costs may include student residence or homestay fees. Homestay placement fee is $250 (non-refundable) and monthly homestay fees are required. Students under 18 must stay with approved host families until their 18th birthday. Budget roughly CAD 12,000-16,000 per year for living costs.

Students can pay fees digitally through PayMyTuition. Unpaid balances will result in a financial hold, preventing registration, access to transcripts/grades, and graduation. Payments can be made in person (debit, cheque, bank drafts, money orders) or via online banking (3-5 business days for transfer).

Admissions

Regular ApplicantsSecondary school graduation

Grade 11 MathMinimum 50% for Business Administration programs

Duolingo English TestOverall 105

TOEFL (internet-based)Total 79

Academic IELTSAll bands 6.0

University scholarships

International Entrance AwardsVaries

Okanagan College BursariesNeed-based

Accreditation

Okanagan College is a public institution designated under British Columbia's Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills and is a designated learning institution (DLI) for international students.

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 →

Okanagan University College · Canada

Academic Writing and English Language Resources: Grammar

Okanagan University College provides a comprehensive set of resources to help international students improve their English grammar. The 'Grammar' section on the Academic Writing and English Language Resources page offers various tools and links to enhance language proficiency, build confidence, and achieve a higher level of English.

Okanagan University College · Canada

Advanced Certificate in Communication

This certificate program is designed to enhance your applied communication skills, focusing on professional writing and public relations. You will develop practical abilities in areas such as management communications, marketing writing, and visual communication. The skills gained are directly applicable to a wide range of careers. This program is ideal for students who have already completed some post-secondary education and wish to specialize in an applied, career-oriented field.

Okanagan University College · Canada

Analyzing and Visualizing Data with Power BI

This course focuses on the fundamentals of data analysis and visualization using Power BI, a powerful business analytics tool. You will learn how to connect to various data sources, transform and model data, and create insightful reports and dashboards. The course is designed to equip you with the skills to effectively communicate data-driven findings and support better business decision-making. Suitable for anyone looking to enhance their data analysis capabilities.

Okanagan University College · Canada

Bachelor of Business Administration

The Hall School of Business and Entrepreneurship at Okanagan University College offers a four-year Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) degree program. This program focuses on Canadian and International business administration, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of the business world. An honours degree option is available for students with a strong aptitude for research. The school also offers Post-Baccalaureate programs for those with an undergraduate degree seeking further specialization in areas like human resources management, marketing, accounting, and marketing and data analytics. Additionally, diploma and certificate programs in Business Administration and specialized areas like Tourism Management and Office Administration are available, serving as a foundation for further studies or direct entry into the workforce.

Okanagan University College · Canada

Bachelor of Computer Information Systems

The Bachelor of Computer Information Systems (BCIS) program at Okanagan University College equips you with the technical skills to excel in the rapidly evolving field of computing. You will gain expertise in software design and development, database management, and systems analysis. The curriculum focuses on developing practical skills for creating software for computers, websites, and mobile applications, as well as managing and designing data models for technological solutions. You will learn to perform systems and object-oriented analysis and collaborate on real-world projects. This program provides a broad knowledge of computing principles and prepares you for entry-level positions or further studies. Through hands-on experience and a strong theoretical foundation, you will be well-prepared to tackle complex challenges in the IT industry.

Okanagan University College · Canada

Bookkeeping Certificate

This certificate program provides a comprehensive understanding of the complete bookkeeping cycle, from initial company setup through to the end of the business year. You will gain practical skills in computerized accounting systems, learn to apply your knowledge using spreadsheets, and develop an in-depth understanding of payroll administration. The program is delivered mostly online and designed for part-time study, offering flexibility for those balancing work or personal commitments.

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 estimated tuition fees for international students at Okanagan University College?

International tuition for academic courses typically ranges from approximately $1,696 to $2,488 per 3-credit course, depending on the start year. ESL courses have different fees, and mandatory student activity, development, technology, and union fees are additional.

What are the estimated living costs for students in British Columbia?

Students should budget roughly CAD 12,000-16,000 per year for living costs. This estimate may include student residence or homestay fees, with a non-refundable homestay placement fee of $250 and required monthly homestay fees.

Does Okanagan University College offer programs that allow graduates to work in Canada after studying?

Yes, Okanagan University College offers programs that are eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing international students to gain valuable Canadian work experience after graduation.

What support services are available for international students?

International students receive dedicated support for admissions, housing, and career pathways. The college also has a 'Careers Hub' that connects students with employment opportunities and offers resources for job searches and networking.

What are the English language proficiency requirements for international applicants?

International applicants can demonstrate English proficiency through a Duolingo English Test with an overall score of 105, a TOEFL (internet-based) test with a total score of 79, or an Academic IELTS with all bands scoring 6.0.

Last updated 3 July 2026