A regional public university in the Fraser Valley known for small classes, applied degrees and strong ties to its community.
The University of the Fraser Valley (UFV) is a public university serving Abbotsford, Chilliwack and the surrounding communities of British Columbia. It grew from a community college into a university in 2008 and still offers a broad mix of programs, from trades and vocational training to bachelor's and select master's degrees.
UFV is valued for its teaching focus, small class sizes and approachable faculty. Students can begin in certificate, diploma or university-transfer programs and move into degrees, which makes it a flexible choice for learners who want a clear pathway.
The university has a strong commitment to Indigenous education and community engagement, and it draws many students from the Fraser Valley who want a quality education close to home.
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.
UFV offers entrance awards, in-course scholarships and need-based bursaries funded by the university and its donors.
Tuition for 2026-27 from the school’s own published fees, for a typical first-year arts program, rounded. Ancillary fees, books and housing are extra. Confirm the current figure on University of the Fraser Valley’s fee page.
Scholarship names and amounts are estimates and change every year; confirm them with University of the Fraser Valley.
Applications to University of the Fraser Valley go through EducationPlannerBC, British Columbia’s application service.
Applicants typically need high school graduation with English 12 and program-specific prerequisites. Some programs, such as nursing, have additional requirements and competitive entry.
Apply online through EducationPlannerBC, British Columbia's application service, by creating an account and selecting UFV and your program. Apply early, as some programs fill up.
The admission average and deadline are estimates; confirm them with University of the Fraser Valley and EducationPlannerBC.
UFV's main campus is in Abbotsford, a city in the Fraser Valley about an hour's drive east of Vancouver, set among farmland and mountains. The campus is compact and easy to navigate, with a regional feel and good access to outdoor recreation.
UFV has a close-knit, commuter-friendly campus community with active student clubs and services. Students enjoy proximity to trails, rivers and mountains for outdoor recreation.
The Cascades compete in several varsity sports, including basketball and volleyball.
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the school’s official website.