North Island College
Your journey, your community, your North.
📍 Courtenay, Canada 🇨🇦
Quick Facts about North Island College
- Type: Public
- Students: 9,000
- International: 10%
- Campus: Multiple Campuses
- Language: English
- Intakes: January, May, September
About North Island College
Academics
NIC offers a diverse range of programs across faculties such as Arts, Science & Technology, Business Administration, Tourism & Hospitality, Health and Human Services, Trades and Technical, Fine Art, and Digital Design + Development. The college emphasizes quality instruction with an average class size of 18 students, allowing for personalized support from passionate instructors. Notable programs include the Bachelor of Business Administration, Bachelor of Science in Nursing (in partnership with Vancouver Island University), and various university transfer programs that enable students to begin their studies at NIC before transferring to other universities in British Columbia and across Canada. NIC also integrates and honors local Indigenous cultures, histories, and ways of knowing into its curriculum and operations.
International Students
North Island College is home to over 400 international students from more than 51 countries, fostering a diverse and inclusive campus community. The Office of Global Engagement provides comprehensive support services, including academic advising, guidance on study permits and post-graduation work permits, and assistance with housing, transportation, and banking. NIC offers an Academic English Language Program for students who need to improve their English proficiency, with various pathway options available. The college also promotes cultural competency and humility through orientation programs and ongoing development opportunities.
Campus & Location
The Comox Valley campus, located in Courtenay, is a hub of academic activity and community engagement, featuring modern facilities such as the Shadbolt Studios, a Trades Training Centre, and the Stan Hagen Theatre. Courtenay offers a vibrant city life with access to outdoor adventures, cuisine, arts, and culture, surrounded by nature including oceans, forests, mountains, and lakes. The campus is conveniently located next to the Comox Valley Aquatic Centre and the Comox Valley Hospital, with transportation options including vehicle access and transit, and bike shelters for cyclists. New student housing, named tul'al'txw, opened in Fall 2025 at the Comox Valley campus, offering various furnished living options including studio, quad, and family units, with utilities and Wi-Fi included.
Career Outcomes
NIC provides extensive career services to help students prepare for employment, including resume and cover letter polishing, interview preparation, and career planning. International students have access to a wide range of employment services and opportunities, both during their studies and after graduation, through NIC's annual career fair and networking events. The college's CareerCentral platform is an exclusive resource for NIC students, featuring a job board and appointment bookings with advisors. Many programs offer work-integrated learning and co-op opportunities, allowing students to gain valuable work experience. Graduates from BC colleges, including NIC, have a high rate of transitioning into the workforce, with 90% finding employment within six months.
Information for International Students at North Island College
North Island College in Courtenay, Canada welcomes international students, with 10% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 10% of students are international
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for North Island College
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to North Island College:
- IELTS minimum: 6
- TOEFL minimum: 80
- Duolingo minimum: 105
- Application fee: $100
- Application deadline: August 15, 2026 (for some international scholarships)
Scholarships & Tuition at North Island College
✅ North Island College offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Campus & Facilities at North Island College
- Student housing available
- No sports facilities
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Multiple Campuses
- Average class size: 18
Key Highlights
- Small class sizes and personalized instruction
- Affordable tuition and low living costs
- Campuses on beautiful Vancouver Island
- Strong university transfer agreements
- Hands-on vocational and technical training
- Diverse range of credential options
Accreditation
- Colleges and Institutes Canada (CICan)
- BC Colleges
Notable Alumni
- Shannon Dick
- Basil John
- Karlynne Oliver
- Dr. Emily Chen
- Mike Duncan
Frequently Asked Questions about North Island College
What is North Island College?
North Island College is a public university located in Courtenay, Canada. It has approximately 9,000 students, with 10% being international students.
What are the admission requirements for North Island College?
IELTS minimum: 6. TOEFL minimum: 80. Duolingo minimum: 105. Application fee: $100. Application deadline: August 15, 2026 (for some international scholarships).
What language are courses taught in at North Island College?
Courses at North Island College are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.
Does North Island College offer scholarships?
Yes, North Island College offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does North Island College provide visa support?
Yes, North Island College provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
Apply to North Island College with Abroadly
Use Abroadly's AI-powered platform to manage your application to North Island College. Get matched to programs, track deadlines, and organize documents — all in one place.