| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Education & Teaching | |
| 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 | |
Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP), formerly known as Grande Prairie Regional College (GPRC), is a public post-secondary institution located in Alberta, Canada. The institution was officially rebranded as Northwestern Polytechnic in 2021 as part of Alberta’s post-secondary system transformation.
Type: Public polytechnic institute
Main Campuses:
Grande Prairie, Alberta
Fairview, Alberta
Former Name: Grande Prairie Regional College (GPRC)
Designation: Designated Learning Institution (DLI), eligible for study permits
Student Population: Thousands of students annually, including international students
Language of Instruction: English
NWP offers a wide range of programs across trades, technology, health, business, and arts, including:
Certificate and Diploma programs
University Transfer Programs
Apprenticeship and Trades Training
Collaborative Degrees (with partner universities)
Continuing Education and Upgrading
The school is career-focused and combines hands-on training with academic instruction, ideal for students aiming to enter the workforce quickly or transition into university degree programs.
Business Administration
Health & Nursing (including BScN with the University of Alberta)
Engineering and Trades
Computer Systems Technology
Agriculture & Animal Health
Arts and Science (University Transfer)
Academic Upgrading
Culinary Arts
Smaller class sizes and personalized instruction
Affordable tuition compared to larger universities
Hands-on training with strong industry connections
Pathways to university degrees through transfer agreements
Safe and welcoming communities in northern Alberta
PGWP-eligible programs (Post-Graduation Work Permit)
Business Administration (Certificate & Diploma)
Specializations: Accounting, Management, Marketing
Office Administration
Computerized Accounting Certificate
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN – in collaboration with University of Alberta)
Practical Nurse Diploma
Health Care Aide Certificate
Pre-Nursing (university transfer)
Computer Systems Technology Diploma
Engineering Transfer Program (1st year transferable to UAlberta, UCalgary)
Power Engineering Certificate
Electrician
Welder
Millwright
Heavy Equipment Technician
Carpenter
Harley-Davidson® Technician Training
Motorcycle Mechanic
Agriculture Equipment Technician
Automotive Service Technician
Animal Health Technology Diploma
Agriculture Technology Certificate
Pre-Veterinary Medicine (transferable courses)
Psychology
Sociology
Biology
Chemistry
Political Science
English
Education (Transfer to B.Ed. programs)
Commerce/Business Transfer (to universities)
Culinary Arts Certificate & Diploma
Professional Cook Training
High school upgrading
English as a Second Language (ESL) programs
Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees/Year (Approx. in USD) |
|---|---|---|
|
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) (in collaboration with University of Alberta) |
4 years |
$13,000 – $14,500 |
|
Bachelor of Education (Elementary) (University Transfer Pathway) |
4 years (1–2 years at NWP, then transfer) |
$11,500 – $13,000 |
|
Bachelor of Commerce (Transfer Program) |
4 years (1–2 years at NWP, then transfer) |
$11,000 – $12,500 |
|
Bachelor of Arts (University Transfer) |
4 years (1–2 years at NWP, then transfer) |
$11,000 – $12,000 |
|
Bachelor of Science (University Transfer) |
4 years (1–2 years at NWP, then transfer) |
$11,000 – $12,500 |
Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) in Alberta, Canada, is a welcoming and career-focused institution for international students looking for quality education in a supportive environment. Formerly known as Grande Prairie Regional College, NWP offers a wide range of certificates, diplomas, university transfer programs, and trades training across its Grande Prairie and Fairview campuses.
Designated Learning Institution (DLI): Eligible for study permits and post-graduation work permits (PGWP).
Affordable Tuition: Lower tuition compared to major Canadian universities (typically USD $11,000–$14,500 per year).
Small Class Sizes: More personalized attention from instructors and a close-knit learning environment.
Diverse Program Options: From Business, Nursing, and IT to Trades, Agriculture, and University Transfer pathways.
Hands-On Training: Strong emphasis on practical skills and workplace readiness.
Safe, Friendly Location: Grande Prairie and Fairview are smaller, student-friendly communities with a lower cost of living.
Work Opportunities: Students can work part-time while studying and full-time during breaks, as per IRCC regulations.
Support Services: The International Office provides orientation, visa advising, academic support, housing help, and cultural activities.
Whether you're looking to start a diploma, learn a skilled trade, or begin a university transfer program, NWP provides a strong foundation for academic and career success in Canada.
Visit NWP’s official website and select a certificate, diploma, trade, or university transfer program suited to your interests and qualifications.
Confirm program availability and intake dates (Fall, Winter, or Spring).
Academic Requirements:
High school diploma or equivalent for most certificate/diploma programs
Bachelor’s degree for post-diploma programs (if applicable)
Specific subject prerequisites may apply (e.g., Math for Business or Science streams)
English Language Proficiency:
IELTS: Overall 6.0 (no band below 5.5)
TOEFL iBT: 79
Duolingo: 105+
PTE Academic: 54+
Students without scores may be admitted conditionally with English upgrading
You will typically need:
Valid passport
Academic transcripts and certificates (translated to English if necessary)
English language test results
Resume (for mature or trade applicants)
Any additional documents required by the program
Apply through NWP’s international admissions portal or with the help of an authorized agent
Pay the non-refundable application fee (approx. CAD $125)
Upload required documents
If eligible, you’ll receive a conditional or full Letter of Offer
Pay the tuition deposit (typically CAD $6,000–$7,000) to confirm your seat
Upon payment, NWP will issue an official Letter of Acceptance (LOA), required for your study permit application
Apply online through IRCC with the following:
LOA from NWP
Proof of tuition payment
Proof of financial support
Passport
Biometrics and medical exam (if applicable)
Statement of Purpose (SOP)
Book housing (homestay or rental)
Arrange travel to Grande Prairie or Fairview, Alberta
Attend NWP’s international student orientation
Northwestern Polytechnic offers multiple intakes throughout the year, depending on the program:
Fall Intake (September): Most programs available
Winter Intake (January): Many programs available
Spring/Summer Intake (May): Limited programs and trades
Tip: Apply at least 4–6 months before your desired intake to allow time for study permit processing and pre-arrival arrangements.
Certificate/Diploma Programs:
High school diploma (Grade 12 or equivalent)
Minimum average of 50–60% depending on the program
Some programs (e.g., Business, Nursing, Engineering) may require specific courses like Math, Biology, or Chemistry
Trades Programs:
High school diploma preferred, though mature students may be accepted
May require specific trade-related experience or Math/Science background
Post-Diploma or University Transfer Programs:
Completion of a bachelor’s degree (for post-diploma programs)
College or high school completion (for transfer programs)
Test |
Minimum Score |
|---|---|
|
IELTS Academic |
6.0 overall (no band < 5.5) |
|
TOEFL iBT |
79 |
|
Duolingo English Test |
105+ |
|
PTE Academic |
54+ |
|
ESL Pathway |
Available through partner schools or conditional admission |
Applicants must be at least 17 years old, and 18+ is preferred at the time of program start.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Value (Approx. in CAD) |
Application Required |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Entrance Scholarship for International Students |
New full-time international students with strong academic performance |
Up to $1,000 |
No (automatically considered) |
|
Continuing Student Awards |
For returning international students with high GPA (usually 3.0+) |
$500 – $1,500 |
Yes |
|
Program-Specific Awards |
Based on performance in specific programs (e.g., Business, Nursing) |
N/A |
Yes |
|
Student Bursaries (Financial Need-Based) |
For students experiencing financial hardship |
Up to $1,000 |
Yes |
Facility Type |
Details |
Approx. Cost (CAD/Month) |
Approx. Cost (USD/Month) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Campus Locations |
Grande Prairie Campus (main), Fairview Campus (trades, agriculture) |
N/A |
N/A |
|
On-Campus Housing (Grande Prairie) |
Fully furnished dorm-style housing, shared kitchens, utilities included |
$650 – $850 |
$490 – $640 |
|
On-Campus Housing (Fairview) |
Traditional dorms with meal plans, ideal for trades/applied students |
$900 – $1,100 (with meals) |
$680 – $820 |
|
Homestay (Private arrangement) |
Furnished room with a local host family, usually includes meals |
$900 – $1,100 |
$680 – $820 |
|
Off-Campus Rentals |
Apartments or shared housing in Grande Prairie or Fairview |
$800 – $1,200 |
$600 – $900 |
|
Accommodation Support Services |
NWP offers guidance and resources to help students find housing |
Free |
Free |
Student life at Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) in Canada is welcoming, community-oriented, and career-focused, especially for international students seeking a supportive and practical learning environment.
NWP's two campuses—Grande Prairie and Fairview—offer students a smaller, close-knit college experience where it's easy to get involved and make connections. The class sizes are small, allowing for personalized attention from instructors and greater interaction with peers. This creates a strong sense of community and support, particularly valuable for students who are new to Canada.
Students have access to student lounges, libraries, study areas, fitness centers, and recreational spaces on both campuses. The Students’ Association organizes social events, clubs, cultural activities, and wellness initiatives throughout the year to help students connect and unwind outside of class.
International students receive dedicated support through the International Office, including orientation sessions, visa advising, career preparation, and integration activities. Cultural events and holiday celebrations bring students from different backgrounds together and promote inclusion.
Life in Grande Prairie and Fairview offers a quiet, safe, and affordable lifestyle with access to nature, local festivals, and community events. Many students enjoy part-time work opportunities or volunteer placements that add to their Canadian experience.
In short, student life at NWP is built around academic success, practical training, and personal support—ideal for students looking for hands-on learning in a friendly, smaller-campus setting.
Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP) in Alberta, Canada, focuses on career-ready education, and while it does not offer guaranteed job placements, it provides strong employment preparation through co-op programs, practicums, and industry partnerships.
Several programs, especially in Business, IT, and Health, include optional co-op terms or work-integrated learning.
Co-op placements give students paid work experience in their field of study, often with local employers.
Programs like Nursing, Animal Health Technology, Trades, and Culinary Arts include mandatory practicum or clinical training, which takes place in real workplace environments.
These experiences help students build industry contacts and improve their chances of employment after graduation.
Resume and cover letter workshops
Interview preparation and career coaching
Access to job boards and employer networking events
One-on-one support for job search strategies
NWP works closely with local industries in healthcare, agriculture, trades, business, and IT to align its training with employer needs.
Many graduates find jobs through connections made during co-op or practicum placements.
Most full-time academic programs at NWP are PGWP-eligible, allowing international students to work in Canada for up to 3 years after graduation.
The acceptance rate at Northwestern Polytechnic (NWP), Canada, is estimated to be high, typically around 80% to 90%, especially for international students who meet the academic and English language requirements.
NWP is a public polytechnic that emphasizes accessibility and workforce-focused education.
Many of its programs have open admission policies, provided students meet the minimum criteria.
It serves a regional population, so admission is generally less competitive than large research universities.
A high school diploma (or equivalent) for most certificate/diploma programs
Bachelor’s degree for post-diploma programs (if applicable)
English proficiency (e.g., IELTS 6.0, TOEFL 79, Duolingo 105)
Some programs like Nursing or Animal Health Technology may have limited seats and higher competition
Address: 10726 106 Ave, Grande Prairie, Alberta, T8V 4C4, Canada
Focus: Business, Health, IT, Arts, Science, and University Transfer programs
Facilities: Modern classrooms, library, residence, student services, fitness centre, and labs
City Highlights: Grande Prairie is a growing urban center with shopping, transit, and recreational amenities.
Address: 11235 98 Avenue, Fairview, Alberta, T0H 1L0, Canada
Focus: Trades, Agriculture, Animal Health Technology, and Apprenticeship programs
Campus Style: More rural, hands-on training environment with student residences and workshops
Town Highlights: Fairview offers a quiet, small-town lifestyle ideal for focused study and practical training.
