Six steps to becoming a student
One: choose a program
Explore the VIU programs site to find a program that feels like a good fit.
Not sure what to study? It’s okay if you’re not sure what to study. VIU Recruiters can answer your questions and help you narrow your interests to a program that’s right for you. They’re approachable and super helpful.
Once you’ve chosen a program, review all admission requirements and deadlines.
Two: apply
Apply through Education Planner BC. For academic programs, registration opens on October 1. Many other programs take applications all year.
Application deadlines
The deadline to apply for most undergraduate programs that begin in September is March 31.
The deadlines for other start dates vary by program. Always check the program page for application deadlines.
Application documents
Include electronic versions of all the required documents with your application.
All applications should include official transcripts.
International students must send additional documents:
- proof of English language proficiency
- copy of your passport photo page
- copy of high school graduation diploma
- copy of university degree if you have one
If your documents are not in English, you must send translations done by a certified translator or copies that are notarized.
Three: respond to VIU requests
After you’ve applied, we may email you asking for additional documents. Watch your email and read and act on all communications from Admissions.
Four: wait for admission decision
When we send you the admission decision, we’ll let you know what your next steps are. For example, we’ll tell you how to accept the offer from VIU.
Five: pay tuition deposit
New students must pay a tuition deposit. It’s usually due three weeks after you’ve accepted your offer. For more information, visit tuition deposit.
Six: register for courses
We’ll assign you a date you can register for courses. Make sure to set aside time to register for the courses you want on that date. This is your best chance to get into your preferred courses. Here are some things you can do before your registration date:
- set aside time to plan and prepare course selection
- watch the web registration tutorial
- meet with an Advisor
Sarah McClelland is the first person in her family to go to university. She'd always wanted to go, but there were times when it seemed out of reach. Before she started at VIU, she thought university would be a "hard ride." She expected her professors would be unfeeling and strict. While some of Sarah's classes are challenging, VIU is not the hard ride she thought it would be.
"There are so many supports and so many people that are there for you! So that you can succeed and be the best person you can be."
Optional steps
Apply for scholarships and awards
VIU has many scholarships and awards, and you can apply for them with one simple application. Learn more about scholarships and awards. The deadline to apply is March 30.
Apply for on-campus housing
VIU prioritizes space for first-year students in student housing. Apply by May 1 for first-year priority.
Meet with an Educational Advisor
Educational Advisors are there to help you with your educational plan. It's a good idea to talk with an advisor before you register for classes. Each campus has educational advisors
Apply for student loans
When you apply for a student loan, you are automatically considered for grants. BC students will also be automatically assessed for BC Access grants. Other provinces have similar programs. Apply for student loans by June 30.
Apply for accessibility support
VIU's Accessibility Services provide support and accommodations for students with documented disabilities. It's a good idea to contact Accessibility Services six to eight weeks before the start of classes.