University preparation in Vancouver, British Columbia 2024

The largest city in the province of British Columbia, Vancouver, is a modern metropolis surrounded by water and amazingly beautiful mountain landscapes. It is a major port, an economic centre and a stylish city with a high standard of living.

There are dozens of major best universities in Vancouver; it is an educational, scientific centre. Simon Fraser University is located right on the top of the mountain, the university is known for its discoveries in medicine and biology. The University of British Columbia is famous for its campus — students conduct their research on a huge farm, there are many modern laboratories. Langara College is strong in teaching humanities and language courses. The British Columbia Institute of Technology is world-famous for its developments in engineering. In addition, language schools, preparation courses for international TOEFL and IELTS exams are located in Vancouver.

Before the admission to the university, the international students can pass university preparation in Vancouver.

• Vancouver, acclaimed by The Economist as the "best city on Earth," is an excellent choice for international students. Its appealing aspects include:

• Exceptional ecological and cosmopolitan attributes.

• Efficient transportation networks.

• Stunning landscapes and gentle winters.

• Nearby mountains for winter sports without intense urban cold.

• Abundant parks and green spaces like Van Dusen Botanical Garden and Stanley Park.

• A multicultural population, easing adaptation for overseas learners.

• Scenic educational campuses amidst natural surroundings.

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.

Vancouver offers several intensive courses aimed at enhancing academic and language skills, as well as cultural acclimatization:

• Transfer Program: This multi-module course often leads to direct second-year entry in higher education. Available at Fraser International College for about $18,000 CAD.

• Advanced Placement (AP): Focuses on in-depth study of specific subjects, following the American education model. Bodwell High School provides a Diploma + AP program from $38,600 CAD.

• International Baccalaureate (IB): Aims to prepare students for global educational opportunities, with Alexander Academy's course priced at approximately $15,800 CAD.

Various programs are offered in the city:

• Colleges concentrate on practical skills in areas like web design, accounting, and business administration.

• Specialized fields such as law and medicine are the focus at major institutions, offering degrees in line with the Bologna Process: Bachelor (2 years), Master (4-5 years), and Doctor of Philosophy (1-2 years).

For students over 18, typical admission requirements include a secondary education certificate and high language proficiency (IELTS 6.0-7.0, TOEFL 580-600, DALF/DELF level 2-3), with some institutions requiring SAT or ACT exams.
Applicants to colleges and major institutions in the city don't usually face entrance exams. The primary consideration for admission is the average score of prior diplomas or certificates. However, English proficiency tests like IELTS or TOEFL are crucial, and in bilingual institutions, knowledge of both French and English might be required.