To gain admission to CapU, you must meet the University’s English language requirements. Learn more about the requirements in the tab below.
English language requirements
Students at CapU write assignments, follow class lectures and take part in class discussions in English.
If English is not your first language or you’ve received your education in a language other than English you must take one of the following English language assessment tests:
DET (Duolingo English Test) – Being accepted on a temporary basis.
Required minimum mark: 125 or higher with no sub-score less than 115
Tests taken more than two years prior to the application for admission will not be considered.
Other ways to meet the English language requirement
six credits of post-secondary English that transfer to Capilano University; or
English Studies 12 or English 12 or English First Peoples 12 with a final mark of C+ or higher and two years of high school in Canada, or
Completion of all provincially articulated EAP Level IV courses from another BC post-secondary institution as listed in the EAL Transfer Guide, or
Advanced Placement English Language/Composition or English Literature/Composition with a minimum mark of 4, or
International Baccalaureate English Language A Higher Level with a minimum mark of 5, or
Language Proficiency Index Level 4 with an essay mark of at least 26, or
Capilano University EAP 100 and 101 with a minimum mark of B+ (77%) in each course, or
four or more consecutive years of full-time education in English in Canada, or in a country other than Canada where English is the principle language, or
four or more years at an eligible international high school that uses English as the language of instruction but operates in a country where the primary language is not English, or
graduation from a recognized degree program at an accredited university at which English is the primary language of instruction in a country where English is the principal language.
Students who graduated from a recognized degree program or completed four years of full-time study in English in the countries listed below will have met Capilano University’s English language proficiency requirements.
Admission Requirements
Learn about Capilano University admission requirements, our English requirements, program-specific information and ways to boost your high school GPA for entrance.
General admission requirements
CapU programs are open for everyone to apply, from early-entry high school students to mature student learners, from near or far.
Undergraduate admission requirements vary by program but, at a minimum, for most CapU programs, the school requires successful completion of:
B.C. secondary school (Grade 12) or equivalent (B.C. Adult Dogwood Graduation Diploma or General Education Diploma). International students: See International Secondary School Equivalencies (pdf).
A minimum grade point average of 2.0 (60%) is calculated on English Studies 12 or English 12 or English First Peoples 12 and two academic Grade 12 courses.
Once you are admitted, you may need to pass the English Diagnostic Test if you are taking English 100, or the Math Placement Test to gain admission to certain entry-level Math courses.
If English is not your first language or you received your education in a language other than English, visit our English Language Requirements page to learn more about the assessment tests you can take to gain admission into CapU.
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Get to Know Us
We invite you to get to know us! Explore our campuses, our history and our news and events.
A few facts
Capilano University (then a college) was founded in 1968. In 1973, we opened our permanent campus in North Vancouver. Four years later, we opened kálax-ay the Sunshine Coast campus in Sechelt, CapU Lonsdale opened in 2020 and CapU Squamish opened in the Fall of 2024.
CapU enrols approximately 12,700 students each year, 9,000 in for-credit programs, nearly 1,200 in non-credit courses and 2,500 international students.
Capilano University is named after Chief Joe Capilano (1854-1910), an important leader of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish) Nation of the Coast Salish Peoples. We respectfully acknowledge that our campuses are located on the unceded territories of the səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh), shíshálh (Sechelt), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and xʷməθkʷəỷəm (Musqueam) Nations.
In 2008, the provincial government changed our designation to Capilano University.
To learn more about where we came from and how CapU has continued growing, check out Our History.
Our Vision: A University Inspired by Imagination
Capilano University transforms the lives of learners, employees and communities with experiences and engagement opportunities to actualize their passion and potential.
We are a dynamic and accountable place of thought and action that inspires imagination, prioritizes health and well-being and positively contributes to people and the planet.
Learn more about our plans for the future of CapU and how we’re taking on the unique challenges post-secondaries are facing in the next decade on our Envisioning 2030 page.
Our locations
CapU’s main campus is in North Vancouver, with kálax-ay the Sunshine Coast campus located in Sechelt; CapU Lonsdale, an extension of our main campus, operating in the Lower Lonsdale neighbourhood of North Vancouver; and CapU Squamish, our newest location, surrounded by mountains in the District of Squamish.
To learn more about getting here, parking, carpooling, public transit, or getting around campus, visit Our Locations.
News, events and Capsule stories
There is a lot going on at CapU every day. Check the latest News, find out what’s happening in our Events calendar and take a deeper look at the people and stories who make up the CapU community in Capsule.
Our History
Capilano University was founded as a college in 1968, with an initial enrolment of just over 700 students. Its founding was part of an effort in the 1960s to expand access to post-secondary education in British Columbia. Capilano University started as a handful of classes offered after hours in portables at West Vancouver Secondary. Fifty-five years later, with more than 10,000 students from 92 countries and 50,000 graduates, we can proudly say CapU is an academic hub for the North Shore and beyond.
Key dates
1968: Capilano College opens Capilano College opened on September 10, 1968, with 784 students attending classes after hours in a portable building at West Vancouver Senior Secondary School.
1968: Alf Glenesk, first principal of Capilano College
Glenesk oversaw significant changes at the college during his six-year term, including opening its first permanent campus. Visit our Past Presidents page for more information about the leaders who helped bring us where we are today.
1973: Opening of the first permanent campus in North Vancouver
The permanent 13-hectare (34-acre) North Vancouver main campus opens at 2055 Purcell Way with 1,965 students in attendance. We honour the territories of the LíỈwat, xʷməθkʷəỷəm (Musqueam), shíshálh (Sechelt), Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) and SəỈílwətaʔ/Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations upon which we are located and commit to acting with respect for the health and well-being of all.
1977: Sunshine Coast campus in Sechelt opens
The Sunshine Coast School District becomes part of the Capilano College’s region and the first College classes are offered in Sechelt.
1988: Capilano College opens applications to international students
Students from around the world started studying here more than 35 years ago. Today, CapU is home to more than 2,500 international students.
1990: First bachelor’s degree
In collaboration with B.C. Open University, Capilano College offered a combined Bachelor of Music Therapy degree, with the Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies being added in 1992. Today, we offer 16 bachelor’s degrees in a variety of subjects.
1991: The Centre for Sport and Wellness opens
The Centre for Sport and Wellness, known as the Sportsplex, has been a key part of campus life since its completion. It was made possible by a two-year fundraising campaign led by Capilano Blues women’s basketball coach Greg Sharpe. Today, it remains a hub for athletics, fitness and wellness.
1993: Library Building opens
The opening of a standalone library building tripled the size of the existing library space on the main CapU campus in North Vancouver. The CapU Library was extensively renovated in recent years and is a vital collaboration hub in the University.
1996: Children’s Centre opens
The Centre accommodates up to 79 children, from infants to five-year-olds and today, offers $10/day daycare for the children of students and employees.
1997: BlueShore Financial Centre for the Performing Arts opens
The 372-seat theatre was built as a much-needed performance space designed to nurture and showcase the University’s emerging artists. To celebrate its 25-year anniversary, CapU launched a successful fundraising drive to upgrade the seats, lighting, flooring and accessibility options at the BlueShore.
2008: Capilano College becomes Capilano University
B.C. Premier Gordon Campbell announced on April 25, 2008 that Capilano College is re-designated as Capilano University. Greg Lee became the first president and vice-chancellor of the newly-designated Capilano University, with Peter Ufford appointed as the first Chancellor.
2012: CapU receives accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
CapU was the first post-secondary institution in B.C. to gain NWCCU accreditation, followed by SFU (2015) and Thompson Rivers University (2018).
2012: Nat and Flora Bosa Centre for Film and Animation opens
A state-of-the-art film industry training centre, the Bosa Centre features film, animation, sound recording and mixing suites, as well as an 8,000-square-foot sound stage.
2013: Official opening of the Indigenous Student Centre
Kéxwusm-áyakn (a place to meet) – the Squamish Nation name given to the Indigenous Student Centre – provides a welcoming, multi-purpose space for students to meet, study, share meals, collaborate and learn from each other and Indigenous Elders.
2016: Rebranding Capilano University
Throughout 2016, CapU started to define a new brand with the assistance of our community of students and employees. Thoughtful input from Indigenous student representatives, advisors and Elders helped guide the process to ensure that the final result honours the legacy of Joe Capilano’s name with symbolism that is both inclusive and meaningful for all.
2016: Paul Dangerfield becomes president and vice-chancellor of CapU
The third president and vice-chancellor of CapU, Dangerfield started in his role on October 1, 2016.
2016: Sunshine Coast campus gets new name
“Beautiful,” is how shíshálh Nation elder Anne Quinn described her Nation’s act of naming Capilano University’s Sechelt campus “kálax-ay,” on May 24, 2016. kálax-ay translates to oceanspray bush or “iron wood.”
2017: Centre for Teaching Excellence founded
The Centre for Teaching Excellence was created to foster and enhance a culture of excellence in teaching effectiveness and practice and learning with the goal of supporting student success.
2017: Opening of off-campus student housing
Capilano University opens the doors of its first off-campus student housing, CapU Student Housing, a mix of shared and single accommodations for domestic and international students.
2018: CapU celebrates its 50th anniversary
CapU turned 50 in style with a year-long celebration of our past, present and future. From shows on campus (CapFest, CapRocks), a series of “great ideas” events, including the CapU50 Trail, a speaker series and murals on campus, and a legendary birthday bash, we closed out our first 50 years with a smile and are looking forward to the next 50.
2018: Launching of 50th anniversary legacy canoe project
Master carver Ses siyam (also known as Ray Natraoro) began work to carve a ceremonial and sea-worthy canoe as a legacy of the University’s 50th anniversary. The 30-foot-long canoe symbolizes the University’s commitment to Truth and Reconciliation and was carved outside the Bosa Centre on the main North Vancouver campus.
2019: CapU hosts the legacy canoe awakening and naming ceremony – Skw’cháys
As Squamish Nation master carver, Ses siyam carved Capilano University’s 50th anniversary legacy canoe, a story from his youth began to show itself to him and he knew that this would be the name of the canoe. “Skw’cháys” is the name of the whirlpool that leads to the underwater world of the sea lion people. The name is a reminder that we must always be humble and kind, no matter what gifts we possess.
Our Values
Capilano University is a post-secondary education community where we value innovation fueled by curiosity and imagination. We are committed to Truth and Reconciliation through the principles of Indigenization and decolonization.
Indigenous person at canoe ceremony We value collaboration, authenticity and belonging to ensure students and employees feel connected and empowered to achieve their potential.
At CapU, we are building a culture of health and wellness by providing support at every turn, from accessibility services to personal and academic counselling.
We aspire to infuse transparency and honesty in all we do, fostering trust and supporting a healthier and happier community. And we are incorporating sustainable actions to enable a better world for future generations.
Board of Governors
About Capilano University’s Board of Governors
The Capilano University Board of Governors directs the affairs of the university and sets policies in accordance with the University Act of British Columbia. The Board is responsible for the management, administration and control of property revenue, business and affairs of the University.
The Board of Governors is composed of 15 members: the Chancellor; the President; two faculty members elected by the faculty; eight persons appointed by the Lieutenant Governor in Council; two of whom are to be appointed from among persons nominated by the alumni association; two students elected from students who are members of an undergraduate student society or a graduate student society; and one person elected by and from the employees of the university who are not faculty members.
No remuneration is paid to any member of the Board of Governors in respect of their service as a governor. For more information, download the Board Governance Manual 2025 (pdf).
When you apply to attend CapU, you’ll pay a non-refundable application fee.
Canadian citizens and permanent residents pay $50.
International students pay $135 (plus a deposit – see below).
Once you’re admitted, in addition to tuition fees you’ll pay certain mandatory fees, such as fees for student union membership and transit passes.
Incidental fees can include late payment fees, costs for transcripts, charges for form replacements, and other services. For a full list, check out incidental fees.
Tuition-Free* Courses
Capilano University offers some courses tuition-free* for Canadian citizens and permanent residents, as well as seniors.
You can take classes through Adult Basic Education in English, math, sciences, computers and study skills.
If you’re a Canadian student, you’re able to take tuition-free* English-as-a-second-language (ESL) classes.
If you’re 65 or older, courses are tuition-free* at CapU**.
If you’re a new international student applying to Capilano University for the first time, you need to pay a one-time $5,000 deposit. This deposit will be applied against your international tuition fees once you’ve registered in courses at the University.
The refund policy for students from India, Vietnam, China, Pakistan, Senegal, Morocco and the Philippines varies. If you are from one of these countries, refer to your original Letter of Offer.
Deposit exceptions
If you are enrolled in distance education, exchange or government-sponsored study abroad program, the $5,000 deposit does not apply to you.
Study permit denial
If you have not received or have been denied a study permit/visa and cannot attend Capilano University, you must drop all classes before the start of the term to receive a full refund. For study permit denials, email SFA@capilanou.ca, include your 9-digit student number and a copy of your visa denial to initiate a refund. If you paid your deposit through Flywire, you will be refunded through Flywire.
If it is found that you have provided fraudulent documentation as part of their study permit/visa application, a full refund will not be issued. For more information, visit Fee Refunds.
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Scholarships, Bursaries & Awards
To help pay for your education at Capilano University, you can apply for scholarships, bursaries and awards.
CapU offers a number of scholarships, bursaries and awards – this is free money that you don’t have to pay back – find out more about what we can offer you below.
Types of awards and eligibility criteria
Scholarships
Scholarships are given to students for academic achievement. Some scholarships also look at a combination of top marks, extra-curricular activities or other special achievements.
The following minimum eligibility criteria applies to all scholarships administered by Financial Aid & Awards at Capilano University, unless otherwise specified:
Canadian Citizen, Permanent Resident, or Convention Refugee
Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.50 at Capilano University1
Completion of a minimum of 9 credits at the 100-level or higher at Capilano University 2 3
Current enrolment in a minimum of 9 credits at the 100-level or higher at Capilano University 3
1 80% admission GPA for entrance awards, unless otherwise specified.
2 Not applicable for entrance awards.
3 Six credits for students registered with Accessibility Services at Capilano University.
Awards
Awards are given based on a combination of top marks, athletic achievement, extra-curricular activities or other special achievements, and sometimes are also based on financial need.
Minimum eligibility criteria apply to all awards administered by Financial Aid and Awards at Capilano University unless otherwise specified:
Canadian Citizen, Permanent Resident, or Convention Refugee
Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.50 at Capilano University1
Completion of a minimum of 9 credits at the 100-level or higher at Capilano University 2, 3
Current enrolment in a minimum of 9 credits at the 100-level or higher at Capilano University 3
Demonstration of financial need (where applicable) as assessed by Financial Aid and Awards
1 70% admission GPA for entrance awards, unless otherwise specified.
2 Not applicable for entrance awards.
3 Six credits for students registered with Accessibility Services at Capilano University.
Bursaries
Bursaries are given based on financial need and are available to domestic full-time and part-time students.
Minimum eligibility criteria applies to all bursaries administered by Financial Aid and Awards at Capilano University, unless otherwise specified:
Canadian Citizen, Permanent Resident, or Convention Refugee
Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.00 at Capilano University1
Completion of a minimum of 9 credits at the 100-level or higher at Capilano University 2, 3
Current enrolment in a minimum of 9 credits at the 100-level or higher at Capilano University 3
Demonstration of financial need, as assessed by Financial Aid and Awards
1 70% admission GPA for entrance awards, unless otherwise specified.
2 Not applicable for entrance awards.
3 Six credits for students registered with Accessibility Services at Capilano University.
First Term Bursary
If this is your first term studying at CapU, you may be eligible to receive the First Term Bursary for new students who demonstrate financial need.
Minimum eligibility criteria:
Canadian Citizen, Permanent Resident, or Convention Refugee
Current enrolment in a minimum of nine credits at the 100-level or higher in your first term of study at Capilano University 1
Demonstration of financial need, as assessed by Financial Aid and Awards
1 Six credits for students registered with Accessibility Services at Capilano University.
What can I apply for?
Entrance awards
If you’re applying to CapU as a new student, apply for our entrance awards. Funding your university education is just one step away!
Term-based scholarships, bursaries & awards
If this is your first term you may be eligible to receive the First Term Bursary. If you are returning to your studies at CapU, one online application could put you in the running for 340+ awards.
If you’re coming to CapU from another country, you may still be eligible for scholarships or awards. Learn more about our awards for international students.
External awards
Many other organizations not connected to CapU offer awards as well. We have information on a wide range of external awards you could explore.
Emergency funding
If you’re facing unexpected financial distress or you’ve had a major change in your finances, CapU may be able to offer you emergency funding.
Saying thank you
All CapU awards are only possible because of our generous donors. Telling a donor how much you appreciate their contribution to your education at Capilano University is the best thank-you that they can receive.
Be creative! Express your thanks in a letter, card, photos of your work, link to your online portfolio, etc.
We’ve created a Letter of Thank-you template (docx) to make it easy for you to write thank-you letters, but feel free to express your gratitude in your own way. You can address your thank-you to Financial Aid and Awards at finaid@capilanou.ca and we’ll make sure it gets to the people who funded your award.
We suggest you send your thank-you within three weeks of learning you’re getting an award to finaid@capilanou.ca.
The fine print
All submitted award applications are subject to audit and verification.
Financial Aid and Awards conducts audits on a minimum of 5% of applications, and applicants may be required to submit additional supporting documentation as part of the audit process.
Awards may be withheld or revoked for students who misrepresent themselves on applications.
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General Questions
How can I meet the English Language Requirements?
If English is not your first language or you’ve received your education in a language other than English, you must meet the University’s English language requirements to gain admission to CapU.
If you are a newly admitted international student but would like to defer your admissions to a future term for a reason such as a delay in receiving a study permit, you can fill out the Request for Deferred Admissions form.
Note: This form will only be accepted for students who paid the deposit and received a Letter of Acceptance. We will do our best to accommodate requests, but it will depend on availability and space in your program.
Please drop all courses if you registered in any, before submitting a request to defer your admission.
Can I change my program?
You can request a program change by submitting an application online through EducationPlannerBC as a ‘Current Student-Changing Program’. This request must be submitted before the start of the registration period in which term you want the change to take effect. Once we receive your application, we will process it, but approval is not guaranteed.
If you are a full-time student, you can work full-time off-campus on or after a scheduled break, such as winter or summer holidays or a fall or spring reading break. Make sure you meet the other requirements for working while you study.
Note: Study permit holders must balance their study and work commitments. Those who stop studying or reduce course loads from full-time (i.e., at least 9 credits per term) to study only part-time during the fall and spring terms are not eligible to work off-campus.
You may be able to re-enter Canada as an international student if you meet all of the following conditions:
Have a valid study permit (or an approved study permit extension)
Have a valid passport or travel document
You are attending CapU
You have either a valid visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA), depending on which document you need.
You meet all the other requirements for entering Canada.
Note: if your study permit expires while you are outside of Canada, you will not be able to return until your study permit extension/renewal is approved and you receive your new valid study permit. Your entry to Canada is subject to Government of Canada travel restrictions.
Ensure you also read the most recent Government of Canada travel advisory for your own country and the countries you may be transiting through before making your travel decisions and arrangements.
Where can I get an invitation letter to invite my family to Canada to visit me?
If you are inviting your family to visit you – for example, for your convocation – and they are from a country that requires a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV or visitor visa), you can write them a letter of invitation to include with their application. You must write this letter yourself, as CapU cannot issue it on your behalf. Please refer to the Sample Invitation Letter (pdf) for guidance.
In addition to the information required by IRCC, you can also include a copy of your study permit and verification of enrollment letter to confirm your student status at CapU.
Study Permit Questions
Do I need to have a study permit with Capilano University’s name on it?
Yes, study permits issued on or after November 8, 2024 will have the name of the Designated Learning Institution (DLI) printed on them.
Students will require a study permit for each DLI in which they are enrolled for programs and courses that are more than six months in length.
I have not yet received my study permit or study permit approval. Can I still begin courses?
If your study permit is not approved by the tuition fee payment deadline of your new term, we strongly recommend that you drop your registered courses and defer your application to the next available intake.
My study permit is about to expire. What should I do?
If your study permit will expire soon and you need more time to complete your program, you should apply to extend your study permit via IRCC Online Services before the expiry date of your study permit.
If your study permit expires while your extension application is being processed, you will still be able to continue studying because you will have maintained (implied) status. We recommend applying at least three months before your study permit expires to allow for longer processing times.
Do I need a new study permit when I change my program at CapU?
You can continue studying with your current study permit as long as you still meet its conditions.
If you need additional time to complete your new program, you may apply for a study permit extension before your current permit expires. A new Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) is not required when extending your study within the same level of studies at CapU.
Do I need a new study permit when I transfer from another post-secondary institution in Canada, even though my current permit is still valid?
Starting November 8, 2024, if you want to change your post-secondary school, you need to get a new study permit by applying to extend your current one.
A Letter of Acceptance (LOA) and a Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) will be issued upon your successful acceptance to CapU.
You should plan to apply for and get your extended study permit for CapU before finishing your studies at your current school.
Do I need a Study Permit as a visiting or exchange student?
You can study in Canada for less than 6 months without a study permit if you have valid visitor status. Depending on your situation, you’ll need one of the following:
If you are approved to study for two terms as an exchange or visiting student, you will need to apply for a study permit.
I have been conditionally admitted to CapU from pathway partner school. When do I need to apply for my study permit for CapU?
Students are encouraged to apply for their second study permit from within Canada as soon as possible to ensure that they receive their second study permit in time for their studies.
Students are allowed to hold more than one study permit as long as they meet the conditions of both permits. A student who applies for a study permit extension before their current study permit expires will have maintained status and may start their studies at the new DLI.
I want to or am required to take courses at another DLI as transfer credits and complete my credential at CapU. Do I need a new study permit?
Students who wish to study at more than one DLI must apply for a new study permit for each DLI if the course or the program of study is longer than six months. Therefore, if the courses at another DLI are less than six months, a second study permit will not be required. (Updated January 2025)
I need to provide biometrics for my study permit extension application. What should I do?
If you’re not exempt from giving biometrics, biometrics will be required to process your application. Applicants for a visitor visa, study or work permit must only give their biometrics once every 10 years.
What are the new requirements to be eligible to apply for a PGWP?
To be eligible to apply for a PGWP, international students must meet all IRRC eligibility criteria. As of November 1, 2024, PGWP applicants are also subject to the following two new requirements:
Note that the field of study requirement is not required for students in a degree program at CapU or for any student who applied for their study permit before November 1, 2024.
How to meet the language proficiency requirement for PGWP?
When applying for a PGWP, you now need to meet a minimum Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB) of 7.
Your language test results must be less than two years old at the time of your PGWP application submission.
For the time being, you can upload your language proficiency results in the “Client Information” drop box in Optional Documents in your IRCC account.
Do I need to meet the field of study requirement for a PGWP if I changed my program and now need to extend/renew my initial study permit?
If you changed your program of study before November 1, 2024, you do not need to meet the field of study requirement for a PGWP. However, you will need to provide this information to IRCC when you apply for your PGWP.
If you changed your program of study after November 1, 2024, and you now to extend your study permit after November 1, 2024, then yes, you do need to meet the field of study requirement for a PGWP. (Updated January 2025)
Can I take online courses from inside Canada and still be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?
Until August 31, 2024, the time you spent studying online from within Canada still counts toward the length of your PGWP.
As of September 1, 2024, you must complete at least 50% of your program in-class in Canada to meet post-graduation work permit eligibility criteria.
Can I study online from outside Canada and still be eligible for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP)?
If you have started or will start your program between September 1, 2022 and August 31, 2024, an extension of temporary distance learning measures will apply:
You must complete at least 50% of your program inside Canada.
The time you spent studying online from outside of Canada before August 31, 2024 will count toward the length of your PGWP as long as it constitutes less than 50% of your program of study.
The time you spent studying online from outside Canada after August 31, 2024, or before you applied for a study permit will not count toward the length of your PGWP.
I still have a study permit or PGWP related question. How can I reach a licensed Immigration Advisor?
Our in-house licensed Immigration Advisors maintain their scheduled drop-in advising hours for Zoom, phone call or in-person sessions. If you would like to speak to an Immigration Advisor, please join one of the scheduled drop-in sessions.
Note: all CIE advising hours are conducted in Pacific Standard Time (PST). Please use a Time Zone Converter to determine the reciprocal time in your area.
Financial Questions
Can I withdraw my application and request a refund?
The application fee is non-refundable. If you choose to withdraw your application after you paid the deposit or you already started your program, please refer to the Fee Refund page on our website for more info.
What student fees can I opt-out of (not pay for) if I am studying from outside of Canada?
guard.me Temporary Health Insurance
All new CapU international students will be automatically enrolled in guard.me temporary health insurance to ensure your well-being during the 3-month MSP waiting period. MSP is the Medical Services Plan of British Columbia and is mandatory for anyone living in British Columbia for longer than six months. Only eligible students can opt out of the guard.me insurance plan. If you are eligible to opt out, you must complete the process, and your application to opt out must be received before the deadline not to be charged for guard.me medical insurance fees. If one of the following options applies to you:
Are International students living in Canada eligible for COVID-19 vaccines?
COVID-19 vaccines are available to everyone living in BC. You do not need to be in the BC MSP health insurance program (BC Services card or public health number) to get the vaccine. You do not need to be a Canadian citizen or have permanent residency to get the COVID-19 vaccine.
How can I get my proof of vaccination and the BC Vaccine Card?
Visit the Province of British Columbia Vaccine Card webpage and follow the steps to receiving your vaccine card. *The Government of Canada removed all COVID-19 border and travel measures effective October 1, 2022. Read the full announcement.
What type of insurance do I need as an international student?
As an international student, you must have basic and extended health insurance for your entire study period in Canada. Note: we only acknowledge the guard.me and the Medical Service Plan (MSP) of B.C. as a valid form of insurance. Any international insurance is not acceptable. Please visit the Health Insurance for International Students page to learn more.
As an international student, where can I seek medical attention?
If you are covered under the BC Medical Services Plan (MSP), you may access provincial medical services. If you are a new international student covered under guard.me insurance, please follow the advice and instructions of mobileDOCTOR by guard.me. Counselling & Mental Health services are available at the North Vancouver campus during the Fall and Spring terms. Dental hygiene services are available during all semesters.
Will I still be covered by MSP if my study permit extension is delayed and expires?
If your temporary permits have expired and you no longer have MSP coverage, you may be provided temporary MSP coverage if:
You are currently living in B.C.;
You have applied for a new work or study permit (implied/maintained status);
You were previously enrolled in MSP as a deemed resident; and
Your MSP coverage has expired.
Contact Health Insurance BC to request this temporary coverage. For more information, please visit here.
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Study in Canada: Your Complete Guide to Universities, Courses, and Visas
Canada is a top destination for international students, offering world-class education, diverse cultures, and numerous career opportunities. Whether you’re interested in pursuing a master’s degree, MBA, or even MBBS, here’s everything you need to know about studying in Canada.
Top Universities for Higher Studies in Canada
Universities in Canada for Masters
Canada is home to several renowned institutions offering master’s programs across various fields. Students can find specialized courses tailored to their career aspirations.
Canada MS Universities
For those pursuing a Master of Science (MS) degree, Canada has a wide range of institutions like the University of Toronto, Simon Fraser University, and University of Calgary that are recognized for their advanced research facilities.
Best Universities for MBA in Canada
Canada is known for its excellent MBA programs. The top universities for MBA offer robust curricula and provide significant networking opportunities to kick-start your business career.
Universities in Toronto, Canada
Toronto, a vibrant multicultural city, is a popular choice among students. Institutions like the University of Toronto are globally recognized for their academic excellence.
Canadian University Canada
Canadian universities are known for their quality education and supportive environment for international students.
Popular Courses in Canada
Master’s Degree in Canada: Canada offers a variety of master’s programs in fields like engineering, business, healthcare, and more.
MBBS in Canada: Though limited, some Canadian universities do offer MBBS or equivalent medical programs. The MBBS degree in Canada can be costly but provides excellent training and career opportunities.
Courses in Canada for International Students: Canadian institutions offer a wide range of courses, from technology and arts to business and healthcare.
Visas and Study Permits for Canada
Canada Student Visa:
To study in Canada, you’ll need a student visa. The visa application process may vary depending on your home country, so it’s essential to check the specific requirements.
Study Visa Canada & Canada Education Visa:
The study visa, also known as the Canada education visa, allows international students to live and study in Canada for the duration of their course.
Processing Time for Canada Student Visa:
Visa processing times may vary. It’s advisable to apply well in advance to avoid delays. The typical study visa processing time ranges from a few weeks to several months.
SX1 Visa Canada:
The SX1 visa is designed for short-term courses in Canada, ideal for those enrolling in programs less than six months in duration.
Canada Student Visa Processing Time:
Processing times vary by country. Ensure you check the latest information and apply early to avoid any disruptions in your academic plans.
Life as an International Student in Canada
International Student in Canada:
Canada is highly welcoming to international students, offering an inclusive environment and a high quality of life. From student support services to international student networks, you’ll find a thriving community.
Canada for Indian Students:
Canada is a top choice for Indian students due to its affordable tuition, quality education, and post-graduation work opportunities. Programs like the PGWP (Post-Graduation Work Permit) allow Indian students to gain valuable work experience in Canada.
Canada After 12th:
Canada also offers undergraduate courses, making it a great destination for students right after their 12th grade, with programs tailored for students looking to start their academic journey abroad.
Key Canadian Universities
Simon Fraser University Canada:
Known for its comprehensive range of programs and research opportunities, Simon Fraser University is a prominent choice among international students.
The University of Calgary:
This university offers a variety of courses and a vibrant campus life, making it a top choice for students seeking quality education in Canada.
Studying and Staying in Canada After Graduation
Degree in Canada:
Earning a degree from a Canadian university is a significant achievement that is highly regarded worldwide. Canada’s education system is recognized for its quality and commitment to research.
PGWP Canada:
The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) allows international students to stay and work in Canada after completing their studies, making it easier to transition to the Canadian job market.
Cost of Studying in Canada
MBBS Cost in Canada:
Medical studies in Canada can be expensive, but the quality of education and the opportunities available make it worthwhile.
Whether you’re considering a master’s degree in Canada, an MBA, or other specialized programs, Canada offers a diverse range of options and a supportive environment for international students. Apply for your Canada student visa today, start planning, and take the first step towards an exciting educational journey in Canada!
