An Indigenous-governed public polytechnic in Merritt that offers trades, health, business and university-transfer programs grounded in Indigenous knowledge and community.
Nicola Valley Institute of Technology (NVIT) is a public post-secondary institution in Merritt, British Columbia, and is Indigenous-governed. It was created to serve Indigenous learners and communities, and it welcomes students of all backgrounds.
Programming spans certificates, diplomas and degree-level studies in areas such as health care, business, trades and foundation skills, as well as university-transfer courses and adult upgrading. Class sizes are small, and Indigenous ways of knowing are woven through the curriculum and student supports.
Students benefit from Elder involvement, cultural events and individualized advising. Many learners are mature students and parents, and flexible delivery options help those who live in remote or rural communities.
Tuition in CA$, 2026-2027
Students who live in British Columbia apply for student aid through StudentAid BC; students from other provinces apply through their own province’s program. A provincial application also covers the federal Canada Student Grants and Loans.
NVIT and its foundation offer bursaries and awards to help students with the costs of study.
Tuition for 2026-27 from the school’s own published fees, for a typical two-semester diploma, rounded. Ancillary fees, books and housing are extra. Confirm the current figure on Nicola Valley Institute of Technology’s fee page.
Ask Nicola Valley Institute of Technology about its entrance scholarships and bursaries.
Scholarship names and amounts are estimates and change every year; confirm them with Nicola Valley Institute of Technology.
Applications to Nicola Valley Institute of Technology go through EducationPlannerBC, British Columbia’s application service.
Requirements vary by program, but many accept mature students and offer upgrading pathways. Some health and trades programs have specific prerequisites.
Apply online through EducationPlannerBC, British Columbia's application service, and choose your program.
The admission average and deadline are estimates; confirm them with Nicola Valley Institute of Technology and EducationPlannerBC.
Merritt is a small city in the Nicola Valley of BC's southern Interior, along the route between the Lower Mainland and the Okanagan. The main campus sits on the edge of the city, with outdoor recreation close by.
Student life centres on a close-knit community with strong Indigenous cultural presence and personalized support. Events and ceremonies bring students, staff and Elders together throughout the year.
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the school’s official website.