North Island College
Canada
Discover a prestigious Canadian education at North Island College. Gain a competitive edge with accelerated degrees and a unique campus experience.
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About North Island College
North Island College (NIC) is a comprehensive community college on northern Vancouver Island, British Columbia, dedicated to serving the education and training needs of its regional community. The college is committed to providing a high-quality, affordable academic experience that empowers individuals to achieve their full potential. Its mission is to be a premier community and destination college that inspires and prepares students for success in a rapidly changing world.
With a student body of 6,969 learners as of the 2024/25 academic year, including 818 international students, NIC fosters a diverse and supportive learning environment. The college offers a wide selection of programs, including University Transfer, Trades, Health & Human Services, and Fine Arts.
International Education Distinguished Leadership
An award for an executive's work in international education.
Global Education Award
A bronze award recognizing Canada's first plan to Indigenize international education at a college.
Reconciliation & Internationalization Award
A national award from the Canadian Bureau for International Education for its "Journeying Together" plan.
Governor General's Academic Medal
A medal presented to a graduating student with the highest GPA in a two-year program.
Why Choose North Island College
A Dynamic International Community Converge to Empower Your Success.
Flexible and Accessible Learning
North Island College (NIC) provides a highly adaptable learning environment with multiple campuses across Vancouver Island, including Comox Valley, Campbell River, Port Alberni, and Port Hardy, alongside robust online learning options. This multi-modal approach ensures that students can choose a learning format that best fits their lifestyle and geographic location, providing unparalleled accessibility. Whether you are a full-time student, a working professional, or a lifelong learner, NIC's diverse course offerings—from hands-on trades to university transfer programs—are designed to meet you where you are.
Personalized Student Support
At North Island College, students are not just a number. The college prides itself on its low student-to-faculty ratio of 18:1, which allows for more direct, one-on-one interaction with instructors. This personalized attention fosters a supportive learning community where students can easily ask questions, get help, and build meaningful relationships with their educators. Beyond the classroom, NIC offers a wide array of support services, including academic advising, financial aid, and specific resources for Indigenous and international students. This comprehensive support system is designed to help students succeed academically and personally.
Community and Cultural Connection
NIC is located on the traditional and unceded territories of 35 First Nations, and this connection is a core part of its identity. The college has specific initiatives for Indigenous students and its location on Vancouver Island allows for learning to be integrated with the natural surroundings of mountains, ocean, and forests. This provides a unique educational experience rooted in respect for local culture and the environment. NIC's commitment to building healthy communities extends to all students, who benefit from an inclusive atmosphere and a strong sense of place, making it more than just a college, but a true community hub.
Hands-on, Career-focused Education
The college is known for its hands-on trades and technical training that prepares students for in-demand jobs quickly. This focus on practical, applied learning ensures that graduates have the skills and experience needed to enter the workforce successfully. NIC's programs, particularly in healthcare and community service, are designed to prepare students for meaningful careers that contribute directly to the well-being of their communities. The college also offers work-integrated learning opportunities, which bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world application.
University Transfer Pathways
North Island College offers university-level programs and courses, allowing students to start their bachelor's degree at NIC and seamlessly transfer to a partner university. This is an excellent and cost-effective way to begin a four-year degree, with the added benefit of a smaller class size and more personalized learning environment before moving on to a larger institution. This pathway provides a smooth transition and ensures that students are well-prepared for the academic rigor of university. The credit transfer agreements with other institutions make it easy for students to plan their academic journey from the start.
Financial Aid and Awards
NIC and its foundation offer a significant amount of financial support to students through hundreds of scholarships and bursaries. This makes education more accessible and affordable, reducing the financial barriers that may prevent students from pursuing their academic and career goals. The financial aid department also helps students with the process of applying for student aid and creating a balanced budget. The college's commitment to student success includes a strong emphasis on financial accessibility, providing a crucial safety net that allows students to focus on their studies without constant financial worries.
Discover NICs Vibrant Campus
Discover the campus that is leading the world in making a real difference for a better future.
Campus Tour Campbell River
Explore the Study Options
NIC offers a unique, accelerated, and personalized education for global careers.
University Transfer
Post-Graduate Programs
Trades & Apprenticeship Programs
Certificates & Diplomas
Continuing Education
Indigenous-Focused Programs
Explore the Programs Offered
Choose Your Interest and Passion
Business Administration
Culinary Arts
Digital Design and Development
Early Childhood Care and Education
Fine Arts
Health
Human Services
Indigenous Studies
Industry and Skills Training
Natural Resources
Trades Apprenticeship
University Transfer Pathways
And More!
Upcoming Events
University Meet - Qatar
Participating Countries: Canada, UK, Australia, Germany, New Zealand and More!
Date & Time :
Friday, September 12, 2025
3:00 - 7:00 pm (AST)
Education Fair - Oman
Participating Countries: Canada, UK, Australia, Germany, New Zealand and More!
Date & Time :
Saturday, September 13, 2025
3:00 - 7:00 pm (GST)
Education Fair -
UAE
Participating Countries: Canada, UK, Australia, Germany, New Zealand and More!
Date & Time :
Sunday, September 14, 2025
12:00 - 5:00 pm (GST)
Frequently
Asked Questions
General admission requires a high school graduation or being at least 18 years old within the year of application. You must also meet specific English proficiency requirements, which can be demonstrated through tests like IELTS or TOEFL.
For academic programs, you must show proficiency through a minimum grade in courses like BC English 12, or with a minimum score on a recognized test. For example, the overall IELTS score requirement is 6.0, with no band below 5.5.
NIC offers a wide range of support services for international students, including advising, financial aid, and wellness services. There are dedicated advisors and support staff specifically for international students to help them with their unique needs.
Yes, NIC offers student housing at the Comox Valley campus.