A community-focused public college serving Vancouver Island's north and central regions with hands-on career, trades, health and university-transfer programs.
North Island College (NIC) is a public college based in Courtenay, British Columbia, serving communities across northern and central Vancouver Island and the central coast. It offers certificates, diplomas, apprenticeship and trades training, university-transfer courses and select degree programs.
Classes are small, and instructors are known for practical, career-focused teaching. Many students start their studies close to home, then continue to a university or enter the workforce with skills in demand across the region.
NIC also delivers flexible learning through online and blended options, which helps students in remote and rural communities. The college works closely with local employers, Indigenous communities and school districts, and is known for a welcoming, supportive environment.
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.
NIC offers entrance and in-program bursaries and awards funded by donors and the college.
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 North Island College’s fee page.
Ask North Island College about its entrance scholarships and bursaries.
Scholarship names and amounts are estimates and change every year; confirm them with North Island College.
Applications to North Island College go through EducationPlannerBC, British Columbia’s application service.
Most programs require high school graduation or equivalent, with specific course prerequisites for health, trades and some academic programs. Some programs also require an interview, a portfolio or other supporting documents.
Apply online through EducationPlannerBC, British Columbia's application service, by choosing North Island College and your program. Check program pages for any additional steps.
The admission average and deadline are estimates; confirm them with North Island College and EducationPlannerBC.
Courtenay sits in the Comox Valley on Vancouver Island's east coast, with beaches, mountains and ski hills close by. The main campus is a compact, walkable site near the downtown core.
Student life at NIC is relaxed and community-minded, with a close-knit feel on each campus. The surrounding region offers easy access to outdoor recreation year-round.
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the school’s official website.