Adult Basic Education (ABE) courses at VIU, also known as upgrading, help you gain skills and prerequisites needed for college or university entrance, or to complete the Adult Graduation Diploma. Courses are offered in face-to-face, online, or blended formats, depending on the level. These courses do not have any tuition or application fees for domestic students.
Plan your Intercession courses using the Cowichan Academic and Career Preparation Timetable.
Plan your Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 courses with the Academic and Career Preparation Upcoming Term Timetable.
Learn more or register for courses
Contact the Student Success Advisor
Shiyu Huang
Phone: 250.746.3527
Email: ABE.Cowichan@viu.caInquire by phone, email, or drop-in at the Cowichan campus.
- Submit an application to the Adult Basic Education program: Apply to VIU
When do classes start?
There are three intake periods throughout the year – September, January and April. We also offer courses in a self-directed format with instructor support, and have new intakes starting every two weeks. Talk to the Student Success Advisor to learn more details and the best fit for your goals.
Levels
Level 1 – Fundamentals
Basic skills in reading, writing, and mathematics.
Courses: English 011 - 016, Math 011 - 016
Level 3 – Intermediate
Grade 10 equivalency, to prepare for the many vocational programs that require Grade 10, and to prepare for Grade 11 and 12 subjects.
Courses: English 037, Math 030, Math 037, STSK 038
Level 4 – Advanced
Grade 11 equivalency, to prepare for vocational, academic or technical programs that require Grade 11.
Courses: English 047, Math 045, Math 046, Math 047, Math 049, Physics 047, Chemistry 047
Level 6 – Provincial Level
The Grade 12 academic level provides you with Grade 12 academic course completion and prerequisites for University and Career/Technical programs.
Courses: English 067, English 068, Math 065, Math 067, Biology 067, Chemistry 067, Physics 067, STSK 068