Undergraduate Admissions FAQ
Graduate Admissions FAQ
What are the admission requirements for international undergraduate students?
International applicants must have completed studies at an appropriate high school or recognized post-secondary institution. Each application is reviewed individually. Specific requirements vary by country: detailed information can be found on UNBC’s International Admissions Requirements page.
What documents are required for the application process?
Applicants must submit official transcripts from all previously attended institutions. If transcripts are not in English, a notarized translation is required. Additional documents may include proof of English Language proficiency and a copy of your passport.
Is proof of English Language Proficiency required?
Yes, it is. Students are expected to provide a proof to demonstrate an acceptable level of proficiency in the use of English in order to receive and participate in classroom instruction and discussion as well as to complete written assignments.
How can I apply to UNBC?
All applications are submitted online through EducationPlannerBC. Please ensure all required documents are prepared. For assistance, contact Future Students Office at futurestudents@unbc.ca.
What is the process of transferring credits from another institution?
UNBC evaluates transfer credits on a case-by-case basis. Official transcripts and detailed course descriptions are required. For more information, visit the UNBC Transfer Credit page.
For assistance, email futurestudents@unbc.ca connect with a recruiter.
What is a tuition deposit? (Why do I need to pay it?)
The tuition deposit is the payment students make once they receive an offer of admission from UNBC. It is a way to show that you are committed to attending and secure your place in the program.
This deposit is also part of your first semester's tuition. You are not paying extra – you are just paying some portion in advance.
How much is the tuition deposit for international students?
All International students are required to pay an admission deposit of $9,000 Canadian dollars for undergraduate students.
When is the deposit due?
You will find the payment deadline in your offer letter. The International Admissions Office recommend that the payment is completed within 14 days of receipt of the email which contains the offer of admission.
How do can I pay the tuition deposit?
You can pay through various methods. We strongly recommend that international students needing to make a payment use UNBC's preferred payment platform Convera for Students.
This service allows you to pay in your local currency using a range of local online payment options, or bank transfer.
Convera takes so long. Is there another way I can make the deposit?
You have the option to pay the tuition deposit by calling 250-960-5631 during regular work hours (Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.) and pay by phone.
Please be aware our cashiers are often busy serving students and may experience delays.
Payment methods: Credit card (Visa, Mastercard and American Express).
I’m already in Canada. Do I still need to pay through Convera?
If you are already in Canada and have a Canadian banking account, you can pay via internet banking. Please see instruction here: Paying via Internet Banking
Can I take the deposit back if I change my mind or can’t attend?
The $9,000 international admission deposit is non-refundable. Refunds may be granted in cases of study permit refusal. Please read our refund policy for details.
In circumstances where you cannot attend your chosen semester, you may request to defer the start of your studies to the next semester.
Note: Deferral requests will not be considered without the admission deposit.
For questions and support, contact the International Student Recruiter at justine.caban@unbc.ca.
What happens if I don’t pay the admission deposit?
If the deposit is not paid by the given deadline, your application will be closed, and you will lose your spot in the program.
If you are experiencing challenges meeting the deadline, please reach out to the International Admissions Office immediately.
I’d like to take a course at UNBC under LOP (Letter of Permission). Do I need to pay a deposit?
If you are planning to take a course at UNBC under a Letter of Permission, you will not need to pay an admission deposit.
This deposit is mainly for international students enrolling in full programs at UNBC.
Is there a payment plan to pay the tuition deposit?
Unfortunately, the tuition deposit must be paid in full single payment.
Do I still need to pay for another deposit if I reapply for the next semester?
Your admission deposit will remain in your student account and be applied to the semester you reapplied for.
Are there any scholarships I can apply for to cover the admission deposit?
Unfortunately, there are no scholarships specifically designated to cover the admission deposit at UNBC. To be considered for UNBC scholarships, students must first apply and get admitted to UNBC. The admission deposit is a payment you must make in order to accept your admission to UNBC and secure your spot in the program.
Does UNBC offer on-campus housing?
Yes, UNBC offers on-campus accommodation option to students.
Is living on-campus mandatory?
Students have the option to live on-campus or off-campus during the duration of their studies at UNBC.
Do I need a study permit to study at UNBC?
All international students who are planning to study in Canada for greater than 6 months are required to obtain a study permit.
Review Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website for complete details.
Can you help me with my study permit application?
It is students’ responsibility to acquire the accurate study permit before arriving in Canada. While the International Office is unable to assist you on the application process, we can help you with general immigration questions.
Student Life and Opportunities
Does UNBC offer co-op programs?
Yes. UNBC offers co-op programs to all undergraduate programs except Nursing, Social Work and Education.
Is there an orientation for new international students?
Aside from the UNBC Orientation for all new students attending UNBC, the Internationa Office also holds an in-person orientation for our new international students.
What support services are available for international students?
Do I have to get a health insurance when I get there?
UNBC’s number one priority is the health and safety of students therefore, all students are required to have a health insurance while registered as a student. Visit International – Health Insurance for further information.
Are there scholarships available for international students?
UNBC offers scholarships and awards to all students. Available scholarships can be reviewed at Scholarship, Bursary and Award Guide.
Does UNBC provide fully funded scholarship and living expenses?
Unfortunately, we are unable to provide fully funded scholarships and living expenses to students.
There are scholarships and awards that students can apply for once they are admitted to UNBC. Email futurestudents@unbc.ca for further information.
Does UNBC accept international athletes?
International students are eligible to join the varsity teams at UNBC. UNBC Timberwolves welcomes applications from qualified student worldwide, and international student-athletes are encouraged to participate in varsity sports.
For personalized guidance, prospective student-athletes should contact respective teams’ coaching staff. Contact details are available on the official UNBC Timberwolves website.
What varsity sports are available at UNBC?
UNBC offers varsity teams in basketball, soccer, and cross-ski and biathlon.
How can I join UNBC varsity team?
Future/prospective student-athletes interested in joining UNBC’s team should contact the respective team’s coaching staff for information on tryouts and recruitment processes. Contact details are available on the official UNBC Timberwolves website.
Are there intramural sports opportunities at UNBC?
Yes, UNBC offers a variety of intramural sports for students looking to participate in recreational activities. These programs provide a fun and competitive for all skill levels.
Can I participate in intramural sports?
Current UNBC students and CNC Nursing Students who have paid the Intramural Recreation & Fitness fee are eligible to participate. A valid UNBC student card with a U-Pass sticker is required for all games.
How do I register for intramural sports?
Registration details and forms are available on the UNBC Timberwolves website. Students can register as individuals or as part of a team.
Do you offer sports scholarships to students who want to be athletes?
UNBC offers several scholarships and bursaries to support student-athletes. For scholarship details and applications, visit UNBC Financial Aid page.