Wherever you're from, at VIU you'll be at home
VIU believes that a university education should be open to everyone – no matter where you are from. We want you to feel welcome and supported as you join our community of international students. We value the unique experiences and perspectives you bring. Ours is a caring environment where kindness and connection matter. At VIU you can grow, succeed and make lasting connections as you embark on your exciting journey with us.
Live and study on Canada's beautiful West Coast
At VIU you can explore Vancouver Island during study breaks.
Vancouver Island is one of the top 25 places to travel in the world, according to CNN. It has a mild climate where you can enjoy many outdoor activities year-round, including:
- hiking through rainforests and mountain trails
- surfing at some of Canada's top surf spots
- kayaking along stunning coastlines
- skiing and snowboarding
- climbing and other adventure sports
And with an area of about 31,000 square kilometers (12,000 square miles) you won't run out of places to visit while you earn your degree.
The city of Nanaimo is friendly and laid-back, with a low crime rate and more affordable housing than other cities in British Columbia.
Explore our programs of study
VIU offers you many possible pathways to career success:
Feel safe and supported
It can be challenging to study abroad, far away from family and friends. VIU is here to support you. You can access a range of academic and personal support services, from academic advising and career counseling to health and wellness. We also offer mentorship programs, cultural events and student clubs to help you feel at home and connect with others in the community.
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Lihui Wu
"Studying at VIU was a great experience for me. In my program, we learned advanced theories such as United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and had the opportunity to put these theories into practice.
Canada is an ideal place to live, work and study. It has a beautiful natural environment, diverse ethnic groups and high education quality. I intend to contribute to the tourism industry of Vancouver Island or in Vancouver as a sustainability practitioner."
Lihui Wu, MA Sustainable Leisure Management (Home Country - China)
Learn more about VIU
Looking for admission requirements and application procedures? Visit our International admissions page. You can also find important deadlines and support services available to help you transition to life in Canada.
Want to know about tuition costs and payment details? Visit our Tuition and Fees page for a full breakdown of tuition rates, payment deadlines, refund policies and additional fees for specific programs and services.
Need guidance on study permits, visa and work opportunities? Our Immigration Resources page has everything you need, including pathways to permanent residency in Canada.
Exploring housing options? Check out our Housing page for information on on-campus and off-campus living, application procedures, and support to help you find the right place to stay.