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How to Become a Vancouver Island University Student at Cowichan

1. Choose a Program

2. Apply for Your Program

You will need:

  • an Application for Admission
  • an official high school transcript (current BC Highschool students need to supply their Personal Education Number only)
  • an official transcript from each post secondary institution attended, and
  • an application fee

    Take this in person, or mail to:
    Vancouver Island University
    Cowichan Campus
    2011 University Way
    Duncan, BC V9L 0C7

Apply to VIU

There may be other documents or procedures required. Refer to the Program Outline for your particular program in the VIU Program and Course Calendar, or speak to an Advisor for details. Some programs require an assessment test, and some have application deadlines.

Keep Documents

Make a copy of all the documents you submit and keep all paperwork (including correspondence from VIU) together in a safe place.

3. Receive Confirmation of Acceptance from Vancouver Island University

This will arrive in the form of a letter from the Admissions office. Read it carefully and keep it in a safe place. If you have questions about this letter, please call Admissions at 250.746.3512. If you change your mailing address or telephone number, please inform Registration immediately at 250.746.3512. Alternately, you may change this information yourself by accessing your Student Record.

4. Select Your Courses

Depending on the program you have chosen, what your are required to do at this step may vary. In some cases you will be given a pre-determined 'set' of courses which have already been arranged for you. In other cases, such as most university programs, you will be required to choose appropriate courses. Please refer to the online Cowichan Campus Timetable or Vancouver Island University Course Timetable for a list of courses currently offered. Drop in or make an appointment to see an Education Advisor if you need help.


5. Timetable and Register for Courses in Your Program

The Registration Centre will send you full details on how and when to register. This information will arrive sometime in late Spring. If you are required to choose your courses, as described in step 4, you can access the Timetable and register online.

Learn more about how to register online. If you need help, contact Student Affairs, or call 250.746.3509.

You may also register in person. A print-out of the Timetable will be available at the Registration Centre.

Please read your Registration letter closely and note the date and time you may begin registering.

6. Pay Tuition Deposit

A $200 tuition deposit is required to confirm your acceptance; this fee is applied to your semester's tuition fees. The date by which you must pay this fee will be sent to you with your registration materials.

7. Attend Orientation / Weeks of Welcome Events

"Weeks of Welcome" events are planned at the beginning of each semester. Study skills and student support services are highlighted.

8. Pay Balance of Tuition

Refer to your Acceptance letter for deadlines. You are responsible to meet payment deadlines.