A teaching-focused public university on Vancouver Island, known for small classes, trades and applied programs, and strong ties to coastal communities.
Vancouver Island University (VIU) is a public university based in Nanaimo, British Columbia, with additional campuses and learning sites across central Vancouver Island and the Cowichan Valley. It offers a wide mix of credentials, from trades certificates and diplomas to bachelor's and master's degrees.
VIU is known for its focus on teaching, small class sizes and hands-on learning. Students can move between trades, career and academic programs, and many programs include co-operative education, practicums or field experiences.
The university also has a strong commitment to Indigenous education, working with local First Nations and offering supports and programming for Indigenous learners. Its coastal setting shapes research and teaching in areas such as fisheries, aquaculture and marine science.
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.
VIU offers entrance awards, in-course scholarships and need-based bursaries funded through its own donors and foundation.
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 Vancouver Island University’s fee page.
Scholarship names and amounts are estimates and change every year; confirm them with Vancouver Island University.
Applications to Vancouver Island University go through EducationPlannerBC, British Columbia’s application service.
Most degree programs require high school graduation with specific course prerequisites and a minimum average, while trades and some other programs have different entry requirements. Some programs, such as nursing, have additional competitive criteria.
Applicants apply through EducationPlannerBC, British Columbia's application service, selecting VIU and their desired program. Applying early is recommended for popular programs.
The admission average and deadline are estimates; confirm them with Vancouver Island University and EducationPlannerBC.
Nanaimo is a mid-sized coastal city on the east side of Vancouver Island, with ocean, forests and trails close by. The main campus sits on a hillside above the city and is a short drive from downtown and the harbour.
VIU has a close-knit campus community with a variety of clubs, student services and events. The coastal setting makes outdoor recreation a big part of student life.
VIU's varsity teams compete as the Mariners.
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the school’s official website.