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CANADA · KAMLOOPS

Thompson Rivers University

public · Founded 2005 · Languages: en

In short

Thompson Rivers University (TRU) is a public dual-sector university in Kamloops, British Columbia, offering a blend of academic and applied education. It provides flexible learning options, including over 140 on-campus programs and extensive online courses, serving a diverse student body of over 14,000 students, including 3,500 international students from more than 100 countries.

Key facts

Type: Public
Founded: 2005
Students: 14,000
International students: 3,500
Acceptance rate: 75%
Tuition (intl): €12–18k/yr
Languages: EN
Location: Kamloops, Canada

Thompson Rivers University (TRU) is a public dual-sector research university located in Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada. It integrates academic and applied education, offering a wide range of programs from trades and skills-based learning to undergraduate and graduate degrees. TRU's approach emphasizes flexible pathways for students, workforce development, and research that addresses real-world needs, contributing to the social and economic vitality of the region. TRU prides itself on being student-centred, applied, inclusive, and connected to its community. With campuses in Kamloops and Williams Lake, the university serves approximately 14,000 students, including 3,500 international students from over 100 countries each semester. TRU is committed to fostering an environment that supports lifelong learning and career mobility, ensuring that education evolves with its students. The university is situated on the traditional territory of the Secwepemc peoples, with its main Kamloops campus overlooking the confluence of the North Thompson and South Thompson rivers. TRU offers both on-campus and online learning options through its Open Learning division, providing flexibility for diverse student needs.

Why study here

Access to a dual-sector education model, combining academic degrees with trades and skills-based training, allowing for flexible career pathways.
Opportunity to engage in research that addresses real-world challenges, making a direct impact on the community and beyond.
A diverse and inclusive environment with 3,500 international students from over 100 countries.
Flexible learning options, including over 140 on-campus programs and extensive online courses through Open Learning, catering to various learning styles and schedules.
Strong focus on student success, with supportive services and resources for both domestic and international students.

Student life

TRU offers a vibrant campus life with various opportunities for students to engage and connect. Students can explore on-campus and online courses, participate in events like convocation and cultural celebrations such as Asian Heritage Month, and benefit from career planning services. On-campus housing and off-campus housing resources are available. The university also has a Students' Union Building and offers various study spaces including a library with study rooms. Faculty and staff testimonials highlight a welcoming community and opportunities for growth and connection. Students also have access to resources like financial aid, library services, IT support, and Moodle for online learning.

Fees

InternationalInternational undergraduate tuition is typically around CAD 19,000-22,000 per year depending on the programme, with additional mandatory fees and compulsory health insurance. Exact amounts are published per programme on the TRU website.

HomeDomestic Canadian students pay substantially lower provincially-subsidised tuition than international students.

LivingInternational students should budget approximately CAD 15,000-18,000 per year for accommodation, food, transport and personal expenses in Kamloops.

Early financial planning is crucial for student success. The university provides resources on financial advising and budgeting. Tuition deposits are required for admission.

Admissions

General AdmissionApplications are open for fall 2026. Specific requirements vary by program (undergraduate or graduate studies).

IELTS Academic6.0-6.5 overall depending on programme

TOEFL iBT76-88 depending on programme

Rankings

Universities CanadaRecognised by Universities Canada as a full member institution

Maclean's University RankingsListed among Canadian comprehensive and undergraduate universities

University scholarships

Undergraduate Entrance Scholarships, Awards & Bursaries—

In-course Awards, Bursaries & Scholarships—

TRU Assurance Bursary—

Graduate Awards & Bursaries—

Accreditation

Thompson Rivers University was established by the British Columbia Provincial Legislature through the Thompson Rivers University Act in 2005. Its leadership and degree-granting powers are also legislated by British Columbia's University Act. As a publicly funded post-secondary institution by the Province of British Columbia, TRU holds an Education Quality Assurance (EQA) designation, ensuring it meets or exceeds provincial quality assurance standards. Individual degree programs are approved by the Ministry of Post Secondary Education and Future Skills. Many trades, technology, and professional programs have additional accreditation from their respective professional associations or regulatory bodies. TRU is a member of the Research Universities’ Council of BC (RUCBC) and a full member of Universities Canada.

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 →

Thompson Rivers University · Canada

Associate of Arts Degree

The Associate of Arts (AA) degree is a two-year program designed to provide students with a broad foundation in the arts and humanities. This degree is ideal for students who wish to explore various disciplines before committing to a specific bachelor's degree, or for those seeking a comprehensive education in liberal arts subjects. The program encourages critical thinking, communication skills, and an understanding of diverse perspectives, preparing students for further academic pursuits or entry-level positions in fields that value well-rounded individuals.

Thompson Rivers University · Canada

Bachelor of Arts

The Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree at Thompson Rivers University provides a comprehensive foundation in the liberal arts with a wide array of major and minor specializations. This flexible and innovative program is designed to cultivate essential skills such as critical thinking, communication, teamwork, and leadership. Students have opportunities to engage in undergraduate research, co-operative education (co-op), field schools, and study abroad experiences, allowing them to apply their knowledge in practical, real-world settings.

Thompson Rivers University · Canada

Bachelor of Communication and Digital Journalism

This Bachelor of Communication and Digital Journalism program allows you to explore various aspects of communication, including public relations, media relations, media and technology, multimedia storytelling, digital journalism, visual communication, and digital design. Graduates will be prepared for diverse career paths in the evolving media landscape.

Thompson Rivers University · Canada

Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies

The Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Studies (BIS) at Thompson Rivers University offers a unique and flexible path for students who wish to explore their diverse academic interests without concentrating on a single major. This program allows you to design a personalized curriculum by drawing from various disciplines within the arts, sciences, and business. It's an ideal choice if you have broad academic passions or are unsure about a specific field of study and want a varied learning experience. The BIS degree provides opportunities to engage in practical learning experiences such as co-op placements, service-learning projects, undergraduate research, and study abroad programs. This approach ensures you gain a well-rounded education and develop a broad skill set applicable to a wide range of future opportunities. The program encourages you to discover your academic and personal passions through an interdisciplinary lens.

Thompson Rivers University · Canada

Certificate in World Languages and Cultures

The Certificate in World Languages and Cultures at Thompson Rivers University (TRU) is designed to enhance your appreciation and understanding of global linguistics and diverse cultures. This program equips you with essential intercultural communication skills, vital in today's interconnected world. Through engaging coursework, practical language labs, and opportunities for immersive study abroad or field schools, you will develop proficiency in your chosen language and gain a deeper insight into its associated cultural contexts. This certificate program is ideal for students looking to gain a competitive edge in international careers, broaden their worldview, and improve their ability to connect with people from different backgrounds.

Thompson Rivers University · Canada

General Arts and Science

The General Arts and Science program at Thompson Rivers University (TRU) offers a flexible and interdisciplinary pathway for students interested in exploring a broad range of academic subjects. This program is ideal for those who want to develop a diverse skill set, gain a well-rounded education, and discover their academic passions before committing to a specific major. Students can combine courses from various disciplines to create a personalized learning experience, preparing them for a wide array of future academic pursuits or career paths.

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 annual fees for international undergraduate students at Thompson Rivers University?

International undergraduate tuition at TRU typically ranges from CAD 19,000 to 22,000 per year, depending on the specific program. Additional mandatory fees and compulsory health insurance are also required. Exact amounts are published per program on the TRU website.

What is the estimated cost of living for international students in Kamloops?

International students should budget approximately CAD 15,000 to 18,000 per year for accommodation, food, transportation, and personal expenses in Kamloops. Early financial planning is crucial for student success.

Does Thompson Rivers University offer both academic and trades-based education?

Yes, TRU is a public dual-sector university that integrates academic and applied education. It offers a wide range of programs from trades and skills-based learning to undergraduate and graduate degrees, providing flexible career pathways.

What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?

For IELTS Academic, students generally need a score of 6.0-6.5 overall, depending on the program. For TOEFL iBT, scores of 76-88 are typically required, also varying by program.

How diverse is the student population at Thompson Rivers University?

TRU has a diverse and inclusive environment, with approximately 3,500 international students from over 100 countries studying there each semester.

Last updated 3 July 2026