Higher education in Vancouver, British Columbia 2024

In recent decades, higher education in Canada has only become more in demand and more popular, despite the high competition with British elite universities and the American Ivy League.

List of main advantages of education at the best universities in Vancouver:

• High quality education;
• Internationally recognized diploma;
• Good chances to stay in the country after studying and get a high-paying job;
• A wide range of bachelor's and master's programs;
• The list of specialties is very large and diverse:
  • Business;
  • Finance;
  • Construction technology;
  • Agriculture;
  • Media communications;
  • Medicine;
  • Preschool education.
• Affordable tuition fee.

If you choose to study in Canada, then you made the right choice. International students should familiarize themselfs with local universities and programs and choose the right one. Vancouver is a calm and safe city, it has repeatedly been awarded the honorary title of the best city on earth. This is the most ethnically and linguistically diverse city in Canada, which gives you a chance to improve two languages at once:

• English;
• French.

The city is also known as the world factory of stars or North Hollywood: local universities produce many talented representatives of the media and television arts. Experts recommend choosing to study in Vancouver for those who want to study digital art.

We have prepared a list of top 27 educational institutions offering higher education in Vancouver, British Columbia where international students can study. You can choose the course you like (pay attention to the cost, ranking and reviews), our consultans are ready to help you to make the right choice. FREE services for enrolling in partner institutions, the number of places is limited.

Higher education institutions in Vancouver, predominantly public and state-owned, are rigorously monitored by local authorities to ensure quality. This oversight extends to several key areas:

• Quality of teaching.

• Teacher qualifications.

• Educational program content.

Bachelor's Degree in Vancouver for foreign students

Under the Bologna system, prevalent in many countries, students typically earn a bachelor's degree after 3-4 years of higher education. This degree often suffices for starting a career, though it generally leads to mid-level positions. Many international students complete their education at this stage, but those with higher ambitions may pursue a master's degree, opening doors to management roles or research opportunities.

Master's Degree Programs in Vancouver for foreign students 

• Main focus areas include teaching, scientific, or research activities.

• Duration of study typically spans 4-5 years.

• Local bachelor’s degree holders from foreign countries can enroll in Master's or Postgraduate Programs.

Doctorate Programs in Vancouver for Foreign Students 

Postgraduate students can specialize further, engage in internships, and potentially switch specialties. The pinnacle of higher education in Canada is the doctorate (PhD), lasting about four years and focused largely on research.

Canada's flexible immigration policy allows foreign graduates to stay and work for 1-3 years post-graduation, potentially leading to permanent residency. Career guidance centers in universities assist in job placements, and Canadian diplomas are recognized globally.

Sam Jones

Recruitment Director for Partnership with INTO Universities (Europe and Central Asia)

What firstly should be considered when choosing a university?

It depends on the student - everyone determines the most important criteria for himself. I would advise you to take several rankings and compare them with each other, plus take into account the cost of the course, the location of the university and its scale, the percentage of graduates' employment. See where graduates continue their studies or where they go to work.

Canadian higher learning institutions use an educational credits system (ECTS), enabling smooth transfers between schools nationally or internationally.

• Customized lesson plans.

• Course intensity and focus vary.

• Options for theoretical or practical learning.

• Studies typically start the first Tuesday of September, ending in May-June (semester system) or through the summer (trimester system), in English, French, or both.

Admission Criteria for Higher Education in Vancouver for Vancouver

Applicants must complete secondary school and prove language proficiency (English: TOEFL: 86-88 iBT, IELTS: 6.5–7; French: DALF or university test). Other requirements include:

• Secondary school certificate.

• Application for enrollment.

• Passport copy.

• Student visa.

• Deposit for education.

• Application fee.

Under-18 students may need a guardian agency.

Preparation Courses for Higher Education in Vancouver

Foundation programs are beneficial for language and subject proficiency. These can sometimes replace the first year of a bachelor's program. Applications are ideally sent 8-12 months before the start date.

Scholarships in Vancouver

Scholarships available for foreign students include:

• Academic excellence entrance scholarships.

• Athletic scholarships.

• Scholarships for exceptional academic performance (40-70% expense coverage).

• Research grants.

Costs of Higher Education in Vancouver

Fees vary across institutions and programs. Students should factor these into their planning when considering Vancouver's universities.