| 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 | |
Location: Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
Type: Public Community College
Established: 1965
Website: N/A
NorQuest College offers a wide variety of certificate, diploma, and post-diploma programs focused on practical, career-ready skills. Popular areas of study include:
Health & Community Studies (e.g., Practical Nursing, Social Work)
Business (e.g., Accounting, Business Administration)
Technology (e.g., Data Analytics, Machine Learning)
Foundational Learning (Academic upgrading, English Language Training)
Environment & Sustainability
Indigenous Studies
Many programs are designed to help students transition directly into the workforce or further post-secondary education.
NorQuest is very welcoming to international students, offering:
Support services (orientation, visa advice, career support)
English Language Training (ESL / EAL)
Affordable tuition compared to universities
Pathways to permanent residency
Estimated Tuition: ~$12,000–$20,000 CAD/year depending on the program.
Culturally diverse campus (students from 100+ countries!)
Inclusive environment with Indigenous-focused support
Career services, mental health supports, and peer mentoring
Student housing options available nearby
Practical, job-ready programs
Smaller class sizes & personal attention
Strong community connections for job placement
Flexible learning (online, hybrid, in-person)
Focus on equity, inclusion & reconciliation
These are some of the most popular programs at NorQuest:
Practical Nurse
Disability Studies
Addictions Recovery Practitioner
Social Work
Therapeutic Recreation
Health Care Aide
Mental Health Recovery Practitioner
Community Support Worker
Dental Office Assistant
Medical Office Assistant
Business Administration
(Majors: Accounting, Management, Human Resources)
Health Care Leadership
Machine Learning Analyst
Data Analytics
Machine Learning Analyst (Post-Diploma)
Data Analytics (Post-Diploma)
Cybersecurity (coming soon / under development)
Energy Management (Post-Diploma)
Environmental Technician
Academic Upgrading (High school equivalent courses)
Open Studies
English Language Training (ESL / EAL)
Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC)
Indigenous Studies Certificate
Indigenous learner support services embedded across programs
Most diploma and certificate programs are open to international students, including:
Practical Nurse
Business Administration
Addictions Recovery Practitioner
Disability Studies
Machine Learning Analyst
Health Care Aide
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Business Administration (Diploma) |
2 Years |
~$13,000 |
|
Practical Nurse (Diploma) |
2 Years |
~$16,500 |
|
Disability Studies (Diploma) |
2 Years |
~$15,000 |
|
Addictions Recovery Practitioner |
2 Years |
~$15,500 |
|
Social Work (Diploma) |
2 Years |
~$14,000 |
|
Machine Learning Analyst (Post-Diploma) |
8 Months |
~$13,500 |
|
Data Analytics (Post-Diploma) |
8 Months |
~$13,500 |
|
Health Care Leadership (Post-Diploma) |
8 Months |
~$13,000 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Machine Learning Analyst |
8 Months |
~$13,500 |
|
Data Analytics |
8 Months |
~$13,500 |
|
Health Care Leadership |
8 Months |
~$13,000 |
|
Energy Management |
8 Months |
~$13,000 |
Location: Edmonton, Alberta
Type: Public community college
Reputation: NorQuest is known for its inclusive environment, diverse student body, and strong focus on practical, job-ready education.
Affordable Tuition
Compared to universities, NorQuest offers more budget-friendly programs. Annual tuition for international students ranges from $12,000 to $20,000 CAD depending on the program.
Diverse Programs
International students can apply to a wide range of career-focused diploma and certificate programs in areas like:
Business
Health care (e.g., Practical Nurse, Health Care Aide)
Technology (e.g., Data Analytics, Machine Learning)
Community studies (e.g., Social Work, Addictions Recovery)
Pathways to Further Study
Many programs are designed to transfer or “ladder” into bachelor’s degree programs at Canadian universities. This gives students the chance to start at NorQuest and move on to higher education if they wish.
Work Opportunities
Eligible students can:
Work part-time during their studies
Work full-time during scheduled breaks
Apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after completing certain programs
Support Services for International Students
NorQuest has an International Student Services office that offers:
Immigration advice
Orientation and settlement help
Academic support
Job search help and career coaching
English Language Programs
If English isn’t your first language, NorQuest offers:
English for Academic Purposes (EAP)
Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) These help students meet the language requirements for academic programs.
Safe, Inclusive Campus
NorQuest values diversity. The college welcomes students from over 100 countries and promotes equity, inclusion, and Indigenous cultural awareness.
Great City to Live In
Edmonton is a growing city with many job opportunities, a lower cost of living than cities like Toronto or Vancouver, and a multicultural community.
Start by selecting the program that fits your interests and career goals.
You can explore available programs on the official website: N/A
Make sure to check:
Program availability for international students
Start dates (Fall, Winter, Spring)
Admission requirements (academic and English language)
Each program has its own set of entry requirements, but generally includes:
Academic qualifications: High school diploma or post-secondary education depending on the program
English Language Proficiency:
IELTS Academic: 6.0 overall (no band less than 5.5)
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 71
Duolingo: 95+
(Varies slightly by program)
If your English isn't at the required level, you may be offered conditional admission with English upgrading.
Apply through NorQuest's online application portal or through ApplyAlberta: Apply Now
Required documents:
Passport
Academic transcripts (translated if not in English)
English proficiency test scores
Other program-specific documents (e.g., resume, reference letters, if required)
Application fee: CAD $150 (non-refundable) for international applicants
Payment must be made online at the time of application.
If accepted, you’ll receive a Letter of Acceptance (LOA). This is an official document needed to apply for a Canadian study permit (student visa).
The college may also issue a conditional offer if more documents or English training is needed.
Use the LOA to apply for a Canadian study permit through IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada):
https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/study-canada.html
You’ll need to pay a tuition deposit to secure your seat.
This amount varies by program but is usually around CAD $1,000–$5,000.
Instructions for payment will be provided in your offer letter.
Once you have your study permit and tuition deposit paid:
Arrange housing (NorQuest helps with off-campus options)
Book your flight to Edmonton
Attend online or in-person orientation
NorQuest offers multiple intakes throughout the year, depending on the program:
Fall (September) – Most popular, wide range of programs available
Winter (January) – Many programs offered
Spring (May) – Limited programs available
Tip: Always apply 6–8 months in advance of your desired intake to allow time for processing your application and study permit.
Requirements vary by program, but the general expectations are:
High school completion (Grade 12 or equivalent)
Subjects may include:
English
Math
Biology or Chemistry (for health-related programs)
Some programs may ask for:
Work experience (e.g., Health Care Leadership)
Resume or letter of intent
Completion of a diploma or degree in a related field
Academic transcripts showing relevant coursework
International students must meet minimum English language requirements:
Test |
Minimum Requirement |
|---|---|
|
IELTS Academic |
6.0 overall (no band < 5.5) |
|
TOEFL iBT |
71 |
|
Duolingo |
95–105 (varies by program) |
|
PTE Academic |
54+ |
|
NorQuest ESL |
Completion of EAP Level 140 |
If you don’t meet the English requirement, you may be given conditional admission with English for Academic Purposes (EAP) pathway.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility |
Amount (CAD) |
Open to International Students |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Academic Excellence Scholarship |
High GPA in NorQuest program |
Up to $2,000 |
Yes |
|
International Student Scholarship |
Enrolled full-time, good academic standing |
$1,000 – $2,000 |
Yes |
|
Entrance Bursary for International Students |
New international student with financial need |
Up to $1,000 |
Yes |
|
Indigenous Student Awards |
Self-declared Indigenous ancestry |
N/A |
(for Indigenous Canadians only) |
|
Program-Specific Awards |
Based on performance in specific programs |
($500–$2,000) |
Yes (depends on program) |
|
Student Leadership Award |
Outstanding community/college involvement |
$1,000 – $1,500 |
Yes |
|
Financial Need Bursary |
Demonstrated financial hardship |
N/A |
Yes |
Facility |
Details |
Approx. Cost (CAD/Month) |
|---|---|---|
|
Main Campus |
Located in downtown Edmonton, Alberta – modern classrooms, labs, library, Indigenous student centre |
N/A |
|
Student Housing (Off-Campus) |
NorQuest does not have on-campus housing, but partners with nearby housing providers |
N/A |
|
Homestay (via partners) |
Live with a Canadian family, includes meals and basic utilities |
$900 – $1,200 |
|
Shared Rental (2–4 students) |
Shared apartment or house near campus |
$500 – $800 |
|
Studio Apartment (private) |
One-bedroom or bachelor apartment in Edmonton |
$900 – $1,400 |
|
Temporary Housing |
Available for short-term stays (hotels, Airbnbs) |
$60 – $100 per night |
|
Accommodation Support |
NorQuest offers housing search help through International Student Services |
Free support |
Expense |
Estimated Cost (CAD/Month) |
|---|---|
|
Food & Groceries |
$300 – $500 |
|
Transportation (bus pass) |
~$100 |
|
Internet & Utilities |
$100 – $150 |
|
Cell Phone Plan |
$50 – $80 |
|
Personal Expenses |
$150 – $300 |
NorQuest is known for its multicultural atmosphere. Students from over 100 countries study there, creating a truly international community. The college celebrates diversity and promotes inclusion through cultural events, awareness weeks, and Indigenous-focused activities.
There are various student-led clubs and organizations you can join. Whether you’re interested in leadership, volunteering, cultural exchange, or just making friends, there’s something for everyone. You can even start your own club!
The main campus in downtown Edmonton is modern, accessible, and surrounded by cafes, parks, shopping, and public transportation. On campus, you’ll find:
Study spaces and student lounges
A modern library and computer labs
Fitness and wellness programs
Quiet spaces for reflection or prayer (multi-faith rooms)
NorQuest hosts regular events throughout the year, such as:
Orientation week for new students
Cultural celebrations and international days
Career fairs and networking sessions
Mental health and wellness workshops
Social events like movie nights, game days, and holiday parties
You’re never alone at NorQuest. The college offers:
International student services
Academic advising
Career and employment support
Mental health counselling
Tutoring and learning support
Peer mentorship programs
As an international student, you can:
Work part-time (20 hours/week) during your studies
Work full-time during scheduled breaks
Get help finding jobs through the Career Centre
Living in Edmonton means you’ll enjoy a safe, student-friendly city with lots of green spaces, festivals, affordable rent, and easy public transport. It’s also close to beautiful nature like the Rocky Mountains and Banff.
NorQuest offers a Career Centre that helps with:
Resume and cover letter writing
Interview preparation
Job search strategies
Networking tips and events
Career fairs and employer meetups
Many programs at NorQuest include practicums, internships, or co-op placements, especially in:
Health care programs (e.g., Practical Nurse, Health Care Aide)
Social work and community support
Business and administrative programs
These work-integrated learning experiences often lead to job offers or at least strong professional connections.
Graduates from in-demand fields like:
Practical Nursing
Health Care Aide
Business Administration
Early Learning and Child Care
…usually find jobs fairly quickly, especially in Alberta’s strong healthcare and social services sectors.
International students can work part-time during their studies and full-time during breaks. After graduation, they are often eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP), which helps them gain Canadian work experience.
NorQuest is considered a community college, so it tends to have open or moderately selective admissions for most programs.
If you meet the program-specific admission requirements (like English language scores, academic transcripts, etc.), you stand a good chance of being accepted.
International students are welcomed and make up a growing portion of the student body.
For most programs, you’ll need:
Proof of English Language Proficiency (like IELTS, Duolingo, or TOEFL)
High school transcripts (or equivalent)
Program-specific prerequisites (some health programs require biology or chemistry background)
While no exact number is published, the estimated acceptance rate is generally considered to be around 70–85%, depending on:
The program you apply to (health programs like Practical Nurse can be more competitive)
Whether you're an international or domestic applicant
Availability of seats and how early you apply
NorQuest College – Edmonton Downtown Campus
10215 108 Street NW, Edmonton, Alberta, T5J 1L6, Canada
The campus is very central, surrounded by restaurants, public transport, shopping centers, and other downtown amenities.
It’s easily accessible by Edmonton Transit Service (ETS), including buses and the LRT (Light Rail Transit).
The main campus houses most of the college’s programs, student services, libraries, labs, and other key facilities.
NorQuest also has regional campuses in smaller communities across Alberta (mainly for domestic students), such as:
Wetaskiwin
Whitecourt
Drayton Valley
Stony Plain
