| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Hospitality, Tourism and Events | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
North Island College (NIC) is a public community college located on Vancouver Island, in the province of British Columbia, Canada. It offers a range of academic, career, and technical programs with small class sizes, affordable tuition, and a focus on personalized support.
NIC has multiple campuses across Vancouver Island:
Comox Valley (main campus) – Courtenay, BC
Campbell River
Port Alberni
Port Hardy (Mixalakwila campus)
Ucluelet Learning Centre
These campuses are located in scenic communities surrounded by nature, offering a peaceful and inspiring learning environment.
NIC offers:
University Transfer programs (arts, science, business)
Associate Degrees
Diplomas and Certificates
Trades and Technical Training
Health and Human Services
English Language (ESL/Academic ESL)
Post-Degree Diplomas (Business, Global Management)
Students can complete part of their degree at NIC and transfer to universities like:
University of British Columbia (UBC)
University of Victoria (UVic)
Vancouver Island University (VIU)
Simon Fraser University (SFU)
NIC is known for its strong support for international students, offering:
Personalized academic advising
Homestay and housing assistance
Work and study permit guidance
Affordable tuition
English language programs
Tuition for international students: approx. $13,000 – $16,000 CAD/year
Lower cost of living compared to major cities like Vancouver or Toronto
Eligible for Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) upon completion of qualifying programs
Public college with DLI status (Designated Learning Institution)
Ideal for students who want affordable education in a beautiful, safe, and supportive environment
Excellent university transfer pathways
Opportunities to work on and off-campus while studying
These programs allow students to complete the first 1–2 years of a degree at NIC and transfer to universities like UVic, UBC, SFU, VIU, and more.
University Transfer – Arts
University Transfer – Sciences
Associate of Arts Degree
Associate of Science Degree
Bachelor of Business Administration (through partner institutions)
Business Administration Diploma (General, Accounting, Marketing, Global Business)
Post-Degree Diploma in Global Business Management (great for international grads)
Office Administration Certificates (Administrative Assistant, Legal, Medical)
Web and Mobile App Development Diploma
Industrial Automation Technician Diploma
Information Technology & Applied Systems (via partner programs)
Health Care Assistant Certificate
Practical Nursing Diploma
Early Childhood Care & Education Certificate/Diploma
Social Service Diploma
Human Services Certificate
Automotive Service Technician
Carpentry
Welding
Electrical Foundation
Plumbing
Heavy Mechanical Trades
(Most trades programs are available as Foundation or Apprenticeship pathways.)
Fine Arts Diploma
Metal Jewellery Design Certificate
Digital Design & Development Diploma
English Language Program (ESL/EAP)
Academic Upgrading & Foundations (Adult Basic Education)
Hospitality Management Certificate/Diploma
Tourism & Hospitality Certificate
Individual courses in:
Biology
Chemistry
Physics
Mathematics
Environmental Science
(great for university transfer students)
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Business Administration (General) |
4 years |
~$11,000 – $12,000 |
|
Bachelor of Business Administration – Accounting |
4 years |
~$11,000 – $12,000 |
|
Bachelor of Business Administration – Marketing |
4 years |
~$11,000 – $12,000 |
|
Bachelor of Business Administration – Management |
4 years |
~$11,000 – $12,000 |
|
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Partnership with Vancouver Island University) |
4 years |
~$12,000 – $13,500 |
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Post-Degree Diploma in Global Business Management |
2 years |
~$12,500 – $13,500 |
|
Post-Degree Diploma in Hospitality & Tourism Management |
2 years |
~$12,500 – $13,500 |
|
Post-Degree Diploma in Pre-MBA Studies |
1 year |
~$12,000 – $13,000 |
NIC hosts students from more than 30 countries and values cultural diversity. International students are supported every step of the way—from application and visa help to adjusting to life in Canada. With small class sizes, instructors know students by name, and everyone benefits from personalized attention.
NIC offers a wide range of programs suitable for international students, including:
University transfer programs (start your degree at NIC, finish at a top Canadian university)
Post-degree diplomas in business, global management, and hospitality
Career-focused diplomas in areas like tourism, early childhood education, web development, and more
English language training (ESL/EAP) for students who need to improve their English before starting academic courses
Compared to major cities like Vancouver or Toronto, NIC offers a lower cost of living and more affordable tuition—around $13,000 to $16,000 CAD per year for most programs. Plus, living in smaller communities on Vancouver Island can be a more relaxing and focused experience for studying.
NIC helps students find safe and affordable housing, including homestay programs where you live with a local family. Students also enjoy outdoor adventures like hiking, skiing, kayaking, and exploring beaches—all easily accessible from NIC campuses.
International students at NIC are eligible to:
Work part-time (up to 20 hours/week) during studies
Work full-time during scheduled breaks
Apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after completing a qualifying program
NIC also offers co-op and internship opportunities in some programs, giving students valuable Canadian work experience before graduation.
Many students use NIC as a stepping stone to top universities like UBC, UVic, SFU, or VIU. You can transfer credits easily and save money by completing the first 1–2 years at NIC.
Explore NIC’s wide range of programs suitable for international students, such as:
University Transfer (Arts, Science, Business)
Post-Degree Diplomas (Global Business Management, Hospitality)
Diplomas & Certificates (Web Development, ECE, Social Services)
English Language Program (ESL/EAP)
Visit the official website: www.nic.bc.ca
Each program has specific requirements, but in general:
Academic Requirements:
High school diploma (for most programs)
Bachelor’s degree (for post-degree diplomas)
Specific subject prerequisites may apply (e.g. Math, English, Sciences)
English Language Proficiency:
IELTS: 6.0 (no band below 5.5)
TOEFL iBT: 80
Duolingo: 105+
OR completion of NIC’s English Language Program
Apply through NIC’s international application portal:
apply.nic.bc.ca
Submit:
Completed application form
Academic transcripts (translated if needed)
Passport copy
Proof of English language proficiency
Application fee: $100 CAD (non-refundable)
Once approved, you will receive a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) via email. This is needed to apply for a Canadian study permit.
With your LOA, apply online for your:
Canadian Study Permit via the IRCC website
Prepare other documents like proof of funds, biometrics, and medical exams (if required)
You’ll need to pay a tuition deposit (usually one semester’s fees) to confirm your seat. NIC will provide payment instructions.
Arrange accommodation (NIC helps with homestays and off-campus housing)
Book your flight to Vancouver Island
Attend pre-arrival orientation and student onboarding
NIC offers multiple intakes throughout the year depending on the program:
Fall Semester – September (most programs available)
Winter Semester – January
Spring/Summer Semester – May/June (limited programs, ESL, or short-term)
Fall intake (September) is the most popular for international students and offers the widest choice of programs.
Diploma/Certificate programs:
Completion of high school (secondary education equivalent to Grade 12 in Canada)
Post-Degree Diploma programs:
Must have completed a recognized bachelor’s degree from a college or university
University Transfer or Associate Degrees:
High school with good academic standing, including specific subjects like English, Math, or Sciences (depending on the program)
You must meet one of the following:
IELTS Academic: 6.0 overall (no band less than 5.5)
TOEFL iBT: 80 overall
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 105
Cambridge: CAE or CPE with 170 overall
Completion of NIC's English Language Program (EAP Level 5)
If you don’t meet the English requirements, you can apply to NIC’s English for Academic Purposes (EAP) program first.
Valid passport copy
Official academic transcripts (translated if not in English)
Proof of English proficiency
Resume or Statement of Purpose (for some programs)
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Amount (Approx. in USD) |
Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
|
NIC International Scholarship |
New international students with strong academic records |
$500 – $2,000 |
Awarded automatically upon admission; based on GPA and application timing |
|
English Language Pathway Award |
Completion of NIC’s English for Academic Purposes (EAP) |
$500 |
Applied as a tuition credit for academic program |
|
Continuing Student Awards |
Current students with high academic standing |
$500 – $1,500 |
Must maintain good GPA and complete at least one semester |
|
Entrance Awards (Program-Specific) |
Students entering specific programs (e.g., Business, Tourism) |
N/A |
Based on academic merit and availability |
|
NIC Foundation Scholarships & Bursaries |
All NIC students (domestic & international) |
$500 – $2,500+ |
Requires separate application during scholarship intake cycle |
Feature |
Details |
|---|---|
|
Main Campus |
Comox Valley Campus (Courtenay, BC) |
|
Other Campuses |
Campbell River, Port Alberni, Mixalakwila (Port Hardy), Ucluelet |
|
Campus Facilities |
Classrooms, labs, libraries, student lounges, cafeterias, computer labs |
|
On-Campus Housing |
Not available |
|
Homestay Program |
Available through partner agencies |
|
Homestay Cost |
$800 – $1,000 USD/month (includes meals, private room) |
|
Off-Campus Shared Housing |
Available nearby |
|
Shared Apartment/Room Rental |
$500 – $800 USD/month |
|
Private Apartment (1-bedroom) |
$900 – $1,200 USD/month |
|
Student Housing Assistance |
NIC provides support finding accommodation through local partners |
|
Housing Booking Support |
Yes – via NIC’s International Education office |
|
Distance from Campus |
Most accommodations are within 10–30 minutes of the campus |
|
Transportation Options |
Public bus service, walking, biking, local ride-share |
Student life at North Island College (NIC) is all about community, support, and natural beauty. Located on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, NIC offers a relaxed and friendly campus environment that helps students feel at home, especially international students adjusting to life in Canada.
NIC welcomes students from across Canada and more than 30 countries around the world. The campuses are inclusive, respectful, and culturally diverse. It’s easy to make friends, get involved, and feel part of the community, no matter where you’re from.
One of the best parts of student life at NIC is the small class sizes. Instructors know students by name and are approachable, so you’re never just a number. There’s personalized academic support, free tutoring, and advisors who truly care about your success.
NIC’s campuses are surrounded by stunning forests, ocean views, and mountains. Students can hike, kayak, ski, or just enjoy the peaceful scenery. It’s a perfect place for students who enjoy the outdoors or want to focus on their studies in a calm environment away from busy cities.
NIC’s International Education office offers help with everything from immigration advice and course registration to cultural adjustment and housing. There are welcome events, orientation programs, and social activities just for international students.
While NIC is a smaller college and doesn’t have big sports teams or dorms, it offers student clubs, cultural events, volunteering opportunities, and occasional campus activities like movie nights, guest speakers, and workshops. It’s easy to get involved and build friendships outside the classroom.
Because NIC offers practical programs with co-op and work opportunities, students are often thinking about their future careers. The career services team helps students with resumes, interviews, and job searching. Many programs include real-world training or work experience built in.
The communities around NIC campuses — like Courtenay, Campbell River, and Port Alberni — are safe, friendly, and welcoming. Everything students need (grocery stores, banks, transit, cafes, etc.) is nearby, and public transportation is available in most areas.
Many programs at NIC include co-operative education (co-op) terms or practicums, which give students valuable hands-on experience in real Canadian workplaces.
Popular programs with work components include:
Post-Degree Diploma in Global Business Management
Post-Degree Diploma in Hospitality & Tourism Management
Early Childhood Education
Practical Nursing
Web and Mobile App Development
Trades & Apprenticeship Programs
Co-op terms are usually paid and last one semester, allowing students to earn money and build local experience.
NIC’s Career Services Office supports students with:
Resume and cover letter writing
Interview preparation
Job boards for part-time and full-time work
Networking opportunities and employer connections
Career planning workshops and mentorship
International students with a valid study permit can:
Work up to 20 hours per week during the academic term
Work full-time during breaks
Apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) after completing an eligible program
This makes it easier to transition from studying to working in Canada after graduation.
While NIC doesn't publish official placement rates, many students:
Find jobs through co-op employers or local connections
Continue their education at a university (via university transfer)
Use the PGWP to work in Canada and gain experience toward permanent residency
80% – 90%
This means most qualified applicants are accepted, provided they:
Submit a complete application with all required documents
Meet academic requirements for the chosen program
Meet English language proficiency standards
Program Choice
Competitive programs like Nursing or Practical Trades may have limited seats and higher entry requirements.
Most diploma, university transfer, and post-degree programs have open capacity with rolling admissions.
Academic Background
High school diploma is required for diplomas or university transfer programs.
A recognized bachelor’s degree is required for post-degree diploma programs.
English Language Proficiency
IELTS: 6.0 (no band less than 5.5)
TOEFL iBT: 80
Duolingo: 105+
Complete Application
Missing or incorrect documents may delay processing or reduce your chances of being accepted.
NIC is very international-student-friendly
Offers English upgrading if you don't meet language requirements
Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis, so early applications have better chances
Comox Valley Campus (Main Campus)
Location: Courtenay, BC
Address: 2300 Ryan Road, Courtenay, BC V9N 8N6
Features: Largest NIC campus, offering university transfer, business, trades, nursing, arts, and more.
Campbell River Campus
Location: Campbell River, BC
Address: 1685 South Dogwood Street, Campbell River, BC V9W 8C1
Specialties: Trades, health care, and technical programs.
Port Alberni Campus
Location: Port Alberni, BC
Address: 3699 Roger Street, Port Alberni, BC V9Y 8E3
Focus: Trades training, culinary arts, and adult upgrading.
Mixalakwila Campus (Indigenous-focused)
Location: Port Hardy, BC (North Vancouver Island)
Focus: Community-based education, adult upgrading, and Indigenous learning.
Ucluelet Learning Centre
Location: Ucluelet, BC
Focus: Small-scale community programs and adult basic education.
All campuses are located in scenic, coastal communities surrounded by mountains, forests, and ocean views.
NIC campuses are safe, peaceful, and student-friendly, offering smaller class sizes and a strong sense of community.
Public transportation is available in most campus areas.
