Master of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Applications 

at Vancouver Island University, Nanaimo

As per the choice of course and university, the eligibility requirements to study in Canada varies. For international students, some of the basic admission requirements to study in Canada are given below:

• Academic transcripts
• Standardized test scores - SAT
• Aptitude test scores - GRE / LSAT
• English language proficiency test score
• Statement of Purpose
• Essay
• Letter of Recommendation
• Copy of valid passport
• Proof of finances

LaSalle College Vancouver has an acceptance rate of 75%, making admissions for international students to the university somewhat competitive and selective. On the contrary, the acceptance rate at Vancouver Island University is around 57%, hence, making admission to the university comparatively more competitive and selective. To increase the chances of acceptance to a university of choice it is also crucial for students to secure the English Language proficiency test scores higher or equal to the minimum test scores accepted by LaSalle College Vancouver and Vancouver Island University. Additionally, students are also required to adhere to the admission requirements for international students and submit all the required documents along with the submission of the application fee.

Vancouver Island University is one of the best and top-rated public universities in Canada. VIU is known globally for its academic excellence across a wide range of subjects. Vancouver Island University is consistently ranked among the top universities nationally and globally. According to QS World University Ranking, Vancouver Island University has been constantly ranked in 2023 at #1001-1200 and then in 2024 at #1001-1200 in the world. 

Some of the benefits of studying in Canada for international students include:

• World-class universities:  Canadian universities are ranked among the top universities in the world. In the QS World University Rankings 2025, a total of 11 Canadian universities are within the first 200 ranks. Whereas, in the Times Higher Education (THE) World Universities Rankings 2024, a total of 8universities are in the top 200 ranks.
• Affordable education: Compared to the US and UK, the tuition fee in Canada is fairly cheaper. If we consider the return on investment, Canada is quite a viable option for Indian students. One can also apply for a range of Canadian scholarships to cut down the educational expenses.
• Cultural diversity: There are very welcoming and warm people who come from varied ethnic groups with different cultures and lifestyles. This multicultural environment in Canada is one of the noteworthy factors that attract international students as it promotes friendliness and peaceful living like no other country. In Canada, there are more than 250 ethnic origins along with 200 languages from around the world and 70 indigenous languages spoken.
• Lively and vibrant campus life: At Canadian universities, students can expect fests, events, and activities to be conducted throughout the year. This creates a lively and happy environment for all the students as it helps in making a network and meeting new people, whilst keeping the homesickness away.
• Immigration opportunities: The Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP Canada) in Canada shall allow students to stay there and get some work experience after the completion of graduation. The maximum length of a PGWP is three years.

It is feasible to pursue higher education at Vancouver Island University (VIU) while residing in Vancouver. This is a common choice made by students who commute between Vancouver and Vancouver Island to further their education. Depending on the mode of transportation, the trip time may change. Taking a ferry from Tsawwassen to Duke Point or Swartz Bay, or flying from Vancouver International Airport to Nanaimo Airport, are the most popular ways to get from Vancouver to Vancouver Island. The flight takes 20 to 30 minutes, and the ferry takes about two hours. Although some students find the commute exhausting, many find it to be tolerable and are able to manage their studies and the commute at the same time. In the end, it comes down to personal preferences and situations.

When we talk about Vancouver Island University rankings, it is one of the leading universities in Canada and has secured a rank between #1001-1200 in QS World University Rankings 2024 - Best Global Universities. The rank of this university has remain unchanged from its previous position #1001-1200 in 2023. Students can refer to the table listed below for Vancouver Island University rankings comprehensively:

Vancouver Island University is beautifully built university with three campuses, namely:

Nanaimo Campus: VIU's main campus in Nanaimo, which spans 92 picturesque acres and features lush forests and Japanese gardens, is situated on the traditional territory of the Snuneymuxw First Nation. Students can take a short city transit ride to Nanaimo's harborside downtown center for unique dining, pubs, coffee shops, and shopping, or stroll along the nearby nature trails.

Cowichan Campus: The newest campus of VIU is located at the Cowichan Trades Centre, a short drive away, and provides a wide range of programs and student services in a stunning, contemporary LEED Gold Certified building. Nestled on the Cowichan Tribes' ancestral land in the center of Duncan, Cowichan Campus offers easy access to dining options, retail establishments, and other amenities. Students can take part in outdoor activities and cultural events, visit farmers' markets to sample the produce of the region's farms, and travel just a short distance to lakes and the ocean.

Campus in Powell River: VIU's Campus in Powell River offers a welcoming, encouraging community for students to study in this lovely coastal town. It is situated on the upper Sunshine Coast of British Columbia, within the traditional territory of the Tla'amin First Nation. It is surrounded by pristine wilderness and not far from Jervis Inlet and Desolation Sound, two of the world's top ocean destinations. Powell River draws people who value a wide range of active interests and the lively, small-town atmosphere.

Vancouver Island University is one of the top public universities situated in Nanaimo, Canada. Currently, VIU is home to a total of over 12,000 students and about 12% of its total student population is international, who represent about 93 nations worldwide. Hence, more than 1400 students studying at Vancouver Island University are international.

Vancouver Island University provides on-campus accommodation facilities to both undergraduate as well as graduate students through their 10 residence buildings located in the western area of the Nanaimo campus. Listed below is the estimated breakdown of Vancouver Island University cost of living for international students: