| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
Founded: 1965 (originally as Alberta Vocational Centre)
Type: Public community college
Campus: Main campus in Fort McMurray, with additional campuses in Fort Chipewyan and Fort McKay
Affiliations: Alberta Rural Development Network (ARDN), Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan)
Keyano College offers a wide range of programs, including:
Certificates and Diplomas in trades, business, health, and arts
University Transfer Programs that allow students to complete part of their degree at Keyano before transferring to a university
Collaborative Degrees, including programs in Nursing in partnership with the University of Alberta
Apprenticeship and Pre-employment Trades
Continuing Education and professional development
Nursing
Heavy Equipment Technician
Business Administration
Power Engineering
Early Learning and Child Care
Student housing available on campus
Various student clubs and events
Fitness and recreation facilities, including the Syncrude Sport & Wellness Centre
Support services for Indigenous students, international students, and students with disabilities
Keyano College welcomes international students and provides support services, including:
Immigration advising
Orientation programs
English language support
Power Engineering (3rd Class, 4th Class)
Heavy Equipment Technician
Electrician
Millwright
Welding
Steamfitter-Pipefitter
Instrumentation and Control Technician
Pre-Employment Trades Programs (introductory training for trades)
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (in collaboration with the University of Alberta)
Practical Nurse Diploma
Health Care Aide Certificate
Primary Care Paramedic Certificate
Early Learning and Child Care (Certificate & Diploma)
Social Work (University Transfer)
Business Administration Diploma
Specializations: Accounting, Management
Office Administration Certificate
Keyano offers 1st and 2nd-year courses that transfer to Alberta universities, including:
Arts
Science
Education
Commerce
Engineering
Social Work
Nursing
Drama/Theatre Studies
English
History
Indigenous Studies
Safety courses (e.g., First Aid, WHMIS)
Professional development workshops
Industry certifications
Online learning options
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Science in Nursing |
4 years |
~$13,000 – $14,000 |
|
Bachelor of Education (Transfer to University) |
2 years at Keyano (then transfer) |
~$12,500 |
|
Bachelor of Arts (University Transfer) |
2 years at Keyano (then transfer) |
~$12,500 |
|
Bachelor of Science (University Transfer) |
2 years at Keyano (then transfer) |
~$12,500 |
|
Bachelor of Commerce (University Transfer) |
2 years at Keyano (then transfer) |
~$12,500 |
|
Bachelor of Social Work (University Transfer) |
2 years at Keyano (then transfer) |
~$12,500 |
Keyano College in Canada welcomes international students and provides a supportive environment for academic and personal growth. Located in Fort McMurray, Alberta, Keyano offers a variety of diploma, certificate, university transfer, and one full bachelor’s degree program. The college is known for small class sizes, personalized instruction, and strong community connections, which make it a good starting point for international students planning to study in Canada.
International students can apply to a range of programs including Business Administration, Practical Nurse, Early Learning and Child Care, Power Engineering, and the collaborative Bachelor of Science in Nursing program (in partnership with the University of Alberta). While Keyano does not offer master’s or PhD programs, it provides university transfer pathways where students can complete their first one or two years of undergraduate studies before moving on to a university.
Tuition fees for international students typically range from 12,500 to 14,000 USD per year, depending on the program. Additional costs include student fees, books, health insurance, and living expenses. Keyano offers on-campus housing options, and Fort McMurray provides a relatively affordable living environment compared to larger Canadian cities.
The college also provides support services for international students such as immigration advising, orientation programs, academic support, and English language resources. International students are eligible to work part-time during their studies and may qualify for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after completing an eligible program.
Visit the official Keyano College website and review available programs. Make sure the program:
Is open to international students
Matches your academic background and career goals
Is eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) if that’s your goal
Each program has specific academic and English language requirements. In general:
High school diploma (Grade 12 or equivalent) is required for most diploma/certificate programs
Some programs may require post-secondary education (e.g., for Nursing)
English Proficiency:
IELTS: Minimum 6.0 overall (with no band less than 5.5)
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 79
Duolingo or other tests may be accepted
You’ll need:
Academic transcripts (official and translated to English if needed)
Proof of English language proficiency
Copy of passport
Resume (for some programs)
Statement of Purpose or Letter of Intent (optional but helpful)
Application fee (non-refundable, usually around CAD 100)
Submit your application through the Keyano College online portal or Apply Alberta website. Ensure all documents are uploaded correctly.
If accepted, you will receive a Letter of Acceptance (LOA), which is required to apply for a Canadian Study Permit (student visa).
Once you receive the offer letter, you’ll usually need to pay a tuition deposit (amount varies by program) to secure your seat.
Use the Letter of Acceptance and payment receipt to apply for a study permit through the Government of Canada website.
After receiving your visa:
Book your flight
Arrange housing (on-campus or off-campus)
Attend pre-arrival orientation if available
Intake Seasons:
Keyano College offers multiple intake periods throughout the year, though not all programs are available in every intake. The primary intakes are:
Fall Intake (September) – Most programs, including popular ones like Nursing, Business, and Power Engineering, are available.
Winter Intake (January) – Fewer programs are available compared to Fall.
Spring/Summer Intake (May/June) – Limited offerings, mostly in trades or short-term programs.
It’s important to check the specific intake availability for your chosen program, as some programs (like the Bachelor of Science in Nursing) may only admit students once a year.
General Eligibility Criteria for International Students:
Academic Requirements:
For certificate and diploma programs: Completion of high school (Grade 12 or equivalent).
For university transfer or degree programs: Strong academic performance in relevant subjects (e.g., biology and chemistry for Nursing).
Transcripts must be official and translated into English if necessary.
English Language Proficiency:
International students must meet one of the following:
IELTS Academic: Overall 6.0 with no band less than 5.5
TOEFL iBT: Minimum score of 79
Duolingo English Test: Minimum score typically 105–115 (check specific program requirements)
Other tests: Some programs may accept PTE or CAEL
Program-Specific Requirements:
Some programs, like Nursing, may have additional prerequisites such as high grades in math and sciences, or require an interview or other assessments.
Health-related programs may require immunization records and police clearances.
Age Requirement:
Applicants must be at least 18 years old by the time their program begins. Some exceptions may apply with guardian consent.
Study Permit (Visa):
After receiving a Letter of Acceptance, international students must apply for a Canadian study permit.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Approximate Value (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Keyano College Entrance Awards |
New full-time students with strong academic records |
$500 – $1,500 |
|
International Student Award |
High-achieving international students |
$1,000 – $3,000 |
|
Academic Excellence Scholarship |
Top-performing students in diploma/degree programs |
$1,000 – $2,000 |
|
Trades & Technology Bursaries |
Students in trades programs (e.g. Welding, Power Engineering) |
$500 – $2,000 |
|
Health Sciences Awards (e.g. Nursing) |
Students enrolled in health-related programs |
$1,000 – $2,500 |
|
Indigenous Student Awards |
For students of Indigenous heritage |
(may include living allowance) |
|
Donor-Funded Awards & External Bursaries |
Based on financial need and academic merit |
$500 – $3,000+ (varies by donor) |
Facility |
Details |
Approximate Cost (USD/month) |
|---|---|---|
|
Main Campus (Fort McMurray) |
Located in downtown Fort McMurray; offers classrooms, labs, library, bookstore, Syncrude Sport & Wellness Centre |
N/A |
|
Clearwater Campus |
Trades and technical training, including heavy equipment and power engineering programs |
N/A |
|
On-Campus Housing – Clearwater Hall |
Dorm-style residence with shared kitchen and lounge areas |
$500 – $600 |
|
On-Campus Housing – Penhorwood Apartments |
Apartment-style units (1 to 4 bedrooms), private kitchen, living area |
$600 – $750 |
|
On-Campus Housing – M Residence |
Newer building, semi-private rooms with shared kitchen and bath |
$700 – $800 |
|
Meal Plan (optional) |
Not mandatory; students usually cook their own meals |
Self-catered |
|
Off-Campus Housing |
Private rentals in Fort McMurray (shared or solo) |
$700 – $1,200+ |
|
Other Facilities |
Fitness centre, computer labs, student lounge, cafeteria, campus Wi-Fi |
Included in student fees |
Keyano College is located in Fort McMurray, Alberta, a smaller, friendly city with access to nature, outdoor activities, and a tight-knit community. The college itself has a welcoming atmosphere, small class sizes, and accessible faculty, which enhances student engagement.
The Keyano Students’ Association (KSA) runs student clubs, social events, and advocacy programs. Students can participate in:
Cultural and language clubs
Sports and recreation groups
Academic and interest-based clubs (e.g., Business Club, Indigenous Student Circle)
Volunteer opportunities and leadership roles
Keyano College supports varsity sports teams known as the Keyano Huskies, competing in soccer, volleyball, and basketball. Students also have access to the Syncrude Sport & Wellness Centre, which includes:
A fitness center
Indoor track
Gymnasium
Group fitness classes
The college hosts various events throughout the year such as:
Welcome Week and Orientation
Multicultural events and food fairs
Movie nights, game nights, and seasonal celebrations
Career fairs and academic workshops
Students benefit from a wide range of support services:
Academic advising and tutoring
Mental health and wellness counseling
Career and employment services
International student support (immigration help, cultural adjustment)
Indigenous student services and elders on campus
Fort McMurray offers affordable living compared to larger Canadian cities and access to hiking, skiing, and Northern Lights viewing. Students can enjoy both urban amenities and outdoor adventures.
Here’s how placement and employment support works at Keyano:
Many programs at Keyano, especially in trades, health sciences, and business, include practical training, field placements, or clinical rotations.
For example:
Nursing students participate in clinical placements at local hospitals and care facilities.
Trades programs (e.g., Welding, Heavy Equipment) prepare students for apprenticeship positions with local industries.
Business students may have internship or practicum options in local companies.
Keyano College offers career development support through:
Resume and cover letter workshops
Job search assistance and interview coaching
Career fairs and employer networking events
One-on-one career counseling
Keyano is located in Fort McMurray, a hub for Canada’s oil sands and energy industry. The college has strong ties with major employers like:
Suncor Energy
Syncrude
CNRL (Canadian Natural Resources)
Alberta Health Services
These partnerships help students connect with apprenticeship opportunities, entry-level jobs, and co-op placements.
Most graduates from trades and health-related programs have strong employment prospects, particularly in Alberta.
International students who graduate from eligible programs may apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), allowing them to work in Canada for up to 3 years after graduation.
Unlike some systems (e.g., India), Keyano College does not guarantee job placement after graduation. Success depends on the student’s academic performance, networking, and participation in co-op/internship opportunities.
The acceptance rate of Keyano College is estimated to be moderately high, around 70–80%, especially for programs that do not have limited seats or competitive entry.
Program Type:
Competitive programs like the Bachelor of Science in Nursing have more selective admissions due to limited seats and strict academic requirements.
Most certificate, diploma, and trades programs have open or flexible entry criteria, making them more accessible.
Meeting Minimum Requirements: As long as you meet the academic and English proficiency requirements, chances of acceptance are generally good.
Document Submission: Incomplete or late applications can affect your admission, even if you meet academic criteria.
International applicants are welcomed, and the college provides a relatively straightforward application process.
Demand for some programs can be higher, so early application is encouraged, particularly for popular intakes (Fall and Winter).
Address:
Keyano College – Clearwater Campus
8115 Franklin Avenue
Fort McMurray, Alberta, T9H 2H7
Canada
