Frequently Asked Questions
Before you apply
- Where can I find the entrance requirements for BCIT full-time programs?
- How do I apply?
- Can I apply for more than one program?
- What is the application fee?
- Do I need to submit transcripts or any marks?
- What if I am currently in high school? What do I need to submit?
- What if I do not have the entrance requirements for the program and/or I need to upgrade?
- Can I have my documents evaluated by the Admissions department before applying for a full-time program?
- Will my transcripts/documents be returned to me?
- What does Mature Student mean?
When you apply for advanced placement
- How will my application be assessed?
- When will I be accepted?
- How competitive is it to get into an advanced level of studies?
- What should I do if I’m not sure what level to apply for?
- How much credit can I apply for?
- Can I get advanced placement in a Trades program?
- What happens if I fail a course more than once?
After you apply
- I’ve applied to a trade/vocation program and my status indicates that I am on a wait-list. What does that mean?
- When I am placed on a wait-list for a trade/vocational program, how long do I have to wait?
- I have applied to a Technology Diploma program and I’ve been told that I have been placed on a wait-list. What does that mean?
- After applying, how soon can I expect a reply from Admissions?
- How will I know if I have been accepted?
- I have applied and my status is showing as incomplete. What does this mean?
- I have been provisionally accepted. What does this mean?
- I am a new applicant but wish to transfer to another program or withdraw my application or defer my start date. What do I do?
- How do I inform Admissions if I have a legal name change?
- What do I do if I want someone else to have access to my information or inquire on my behalf?
- When will I get my registration information and timetable for the program I have been accepted into?
Fees, payment and refunds
- What is a commitment fee?
- If my commitment fee is non-transferable and , non-refundable, does that mean it is applied to my tuition fee?
- How much is my tuition?
- When are my full tuition fees due?
- How can I pay my commitment fee and tuition fee?
- I don’t have the money to pay the tuition fees. Is there financial aid assistance?
- Do I have to pay my tuition within the deadline date if I’m waiting for a student loan?
- If a sponsorship agency is paying on my behalf, what should I do?
- What are the books and supply costs?
- What is the refund policy?
Services
- Is student housing available?
- If I have a disability or special needs, where can I get assistance?
- How do I get credit for my previous post-secondary education?
- I’m new to BCIT. Where can I get more information?
- I’m a returning student. Where can I get more information?
- Will BCIT help me find a job?
Part-time Studies information
- What do I need before my first class or online session?
- How do I log in to myBCIT?
- Do I have to come to the BCIT Bookstore to buy my textbooks and course materials?
- I want to withdraw from a course. What should I do?
- I want to transfer out of a course I am currently registered in. How do I do it?
- How do I register into a class after the second day, or if the class is full?
- How do I register into a course that is full?
- My course is cancelled. What should I do?
- Is financial assistance available?
- Where do I park when I go to class?
Before you apply
Where can I find the entrance requirements for BCIT full-time programs?
Each full-time program at BCIT has specific entrance requirements. These can be found on the Program Entry section of your program page.
TopHow do I apply?
You can apply online, by mail or in person. Review our Apply to a Program page for further details.
TopCan I apply for more than one program?
No, we'll look at your application for only one program at a time, but if you state your second choice and are not accepted into the first-choice program, then you will be considered for any seat still available in your second-choice program.
TopWhat is the application fee?
- $62 CDN if you are a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant (with official proof)
- $154 CDN if you are an international applicant holding a study permit.
Do I need to submit transcripts or any marks?
You'll need to submit transcripts and supporting documents proving that you meet the entrance requirements for your chosen program. Detailed information can be found on our Submitting Your Documents page.
TopWhat if I am currently in high school? What do I need to submit?
- The marks for courses you have completed
- Interim marks for courses you are attending
- A list of courses you plan to take in the future
Arrange to have your final official transcript sent directly to BCIT when you graduate.
TopWhat if I do not have the entrance requirements for the program and/or I need to upgrade?
Our Upgrading and English Proficiency overview page provides information on the many different ways that you can upgrade to meet the entrance requirements for BCIT programs.
TopCan I have my documents evaluated by the Admissions department before I apply for a full-time program?
No. When you apply and submit all transcripts and documentation that you have, the Admissions department then reviews and assesses them and informs you if they are satisfactory or not. Official English translations (for which you have paid any fees) must accompany documents that are in another language.
TopWill my transcripts/documents be returned to me?
Only if they are irreplaceable documents or out-of-country transcripts and if you write, sending a self-addressed envelope, to request their return. Otherwise, official transcripts and documents submitted are the property of BCIT and are not returned or photocopied for applicants.
TopWhat does Mature Student mean?
A student who has not graduated from high school but has been admitted on the basis of relevant experience. To gain Mature Student status, you must also meet BCIT's English-language proficiency requirements and possess any specific entrance requirements for your chosen program. If applying for Mature Student status, you must supply academic documents and proof of relevant experience.
TopWhen you apply for advanced placement
How will my application be assessed?
BCIT will usually evaluate your previous education on a course-by-course basis. This means that you must have completed courses in each of the subject areas in the BCIT program in the level that you wish to get credit for. Some programs have bridging courses to help make it easier for Degree and Diploma graduates to qualify for admission to certain programs. Please check the specific entrance requirements for the program which you are interested in.
TopWhen will I be accepted?
Once your application has been assessed and has been approved for advanced placement, a seat must become available in the program you have selected. The Admissions office must wait until the current students in most programs write their exams in either December or May to determine how many seats will become available for advanced placement applicants.
TopHow competitive is it to get into an advanced level of studies?
Advanced Placement admission into some of the business programs can become quite competitive, so if business is your first choice, we suggest that you indicate a second choice on your application. When the number of eligible applicants exceeds the number of available seats, the selection process will be competitive. All Advanced Placement applications are subject to the approval of the program area.
TopWhat should I do if I'm not sure what level to apply for?
If you have read the program information, including course descriptions and you're still not sure what level you are best suited for, then we recommend that you speak with a Program Advisor.
TopHow much credit can I apply for?
You may be granted academic credit towards a BCIT credential based upon successful academic studies at other educational institutions (transfer credit and/or advanced placement) and/or through credit granted based upon life and/or work experience (prior learning assessment and recognition).
In order to satisfy academic residency requirements for a BCIT credential, you must satisfactorily complete a minimum of 50% of the total required program of study at BCIT. For apprenticeship programs, the residency policy will be satisfied by completion of the final term at BCIT.
TopCan I get advanced placement in a Trades program?
Advanced placement in trades programs is possible if you have had previous vocational or trades training from another recognized post-secondary institute or another BCIT trades program. Since some trades programs have very specific requirements regarding grades and attendance, we recommend that you contact Program Advising before applying.
TopWhat happens if I fail a course more than once?
Students must successfully complete a course within a maximum of 3 attempts at the course. If you've made two unsuccessful attempts in a single course, you will be allowed to repeat the course only upon special written permission from the Associate Dean detailing any special considerations embodied in a contract. If the Associate Dean denies permission, then your application for advanced placement will not be approved.
TopAfter you apply
I've applied to a Trades program and my status indicates that I am on a wait-list. What does that mean?
As soon as the Admissions office determines you have met all the entrance requirements for your program, your application is date-stamped. If all seats are filled, your application is wait-listed. Then, when a seat becomes available in an intake and your name is on the top of the list, you will be offered a seat.
TopWhen I am placed on a wait-list for a trades program, how long do I have to wait?
You should speak with your Admissions Officer; their name and contact information will be included on your acceptance letter. The wait depends on the program intake dates and the number of qualified applicants on the wait-list.
TopI have applied to a Technology Diploma program and it indicates that I have been placed on a wait-list. What does that mean?
All the seats in your program have been filled. Remaining applications are not transferable to the next offering of a technology program. However, until the withdrawal deadline there is always a chance that a successful applicant will withdraw. If a space becomes available, for many programs the earliest applicant on the wait-list will be offered the seat, but for highly competitive programs, please refer to the program web page for information about the waitlist process specific to your program of interest.
TopAfter applying, how soon can I expect a reply from Admissions?
In 2 – 3 weeks you will receive a letter in the mail letting you know that we've received your application. All future letters will be sent online through myCommunication.
TopHow will I know if I have been accepted?
You can check your application status online through your myBCIT account.
Review our Check your Application Status page for detailed information including timelines.
I have applied and my status is showing as incomplete. What does this mean?
It means that we are still waiting for more information from you before a decision can be made. If you're unsure what information you are missing, please speak with your Admissions Officer.
Applicants to trades programs will not be placed on a waitlist until all entrance requirements are met.
TopI have been provisionally accepted. What does this mean?
A provisional offer of acceptance may be granted to those who have proven they are in the process of completing the entrance requirements for their program. All outstanding criteria must be successfully fulfilled 30 days before the start of class.
Provisional acceptance will not be offered to applicants of trades programs.
TopI am a new applicant but wish to transfer to another program/or withdraw my application/or defer my start date. What do I do?
Submit a Program Change and Transfer form [PDF] to the Admissions office.
TopHow do I inform Admissions if I have a legal name change?
Instructions can be found on our Student Records FAQ page .
TopWhat do I do if I want someone else to have access to my information or inquire on my behalf?
- When you're applying, fill out the 'Consent to release personal information' section of the Application for Admission form.
or
- After you've applied, submit a Consent to Release Personal Information to a Third Party form.
When will I get my registration information and the timetable for the program I have been accepted into?
You're automatically registered into your classes which you can view through myBCIT. Timetables will be given out on the first day of class and are not available ahead of time.
Check your myCommunication for important information regarding Orientation Day.
TopFees, payment and refunds
What is a commitment fee?
If you've been accepted into a full-time program, you must pay a commitment fee (deposit) to hold your seat in the program. The commitment fee is non-refundable and non-transferable.
- $100 for trades programs
- $200 for technology programs
If my commitment fee is non-transferable and non-refundable, does that mean it is applied to my tuition fee?
Yes, it is.
TopHow much is tuition?
Our Fees and Refunds page lists tuition and other program fees.
TopWhen are my full tuition fees due?
- Technology programs: 1st term fees are due 60 days before your program starts.
- Trades programs: 1st term fees are due 60 days before your scheduled intake. (Many trades programs are only one level, therefore full tuition must be paid.)
If the fees are not paid by the due date, your acceptance will be withdrawn and the seat will be given to another qualified applicant.
TopHow can I pay my commitment fee and tuition fee?
- Cash or debit card (in person only)
- Cheque or money order payable to BCIT - please include your BCIT ID (student number)
- Online bill payment through your financial institution using BCIT – Tuition as the payee
- Credit card: Visa, MasterCard, or American Express through Plastiq
If paying by Plastiq or online bill payment, please use your BCIT ID (student number) as your account number. Please allow up to 3 business days for payments made through Plastiq or online bill payments to be posted to your account.
TopI don't have the money to pay the tuition fees. Is there financial assistance?
In certain circumstances, you may be eligible for a fee deferral (an extension of the payment deadline date). Contact the Student Financial Aid & Awards office for more information. You must notify the Admissions office if you will be applying for a fee deferral.
TopDo I have to pay my tuition within the deadline date if I'm waiting for a student loan?
Yes. Student loans are not available until the first week of class, but you must pay your tuition fees by the dates outlined in the acceptance letter. See the preceding answer about fee deferrals. Your tuition must be paid or a fee deferral granted at least 60 days before your first day of classes. You must notify the Admissions office if you will be applying for a fee deferral.
TopIf a sponsorship agency is paying on my behalf, what should I do?
You need to submit a confirmation of sponsorship to Admissions as soon as possible so that your sponsor can be invoiced. Read our Sponsorship page for details.
TopWhat are the books and supply costs?
The cost of books and supplies varies from program to program and can range from $200 to $2,000 per year. The estimated cost for your program is listed in the online program description, and details can be found through the BCIT Bookstore.
TopWhat is the refund policy?
Please refer to the following links for refund details:
TopServices
Is student housing available?
Yes, there are on-campus and off-campus options. Visit the Student Housing page to find out more.
TopIf I have a disability or special needs, where can I get assistance?
Contact our Disability Resource Centre for assistance.
TopHow do I get credit for my previous post-secondary education?
BCIT supports several processes that help you get credit for study and work that you have already done.
TopI'm new to BCIT. Where can I get more information to prepare myself for BCIT?
Check out our Welcome to BCIT guide.
TopI'm a returning student. Where can I get more information?
Your student number and e-mail address are still active, so you can login to your myBCIT account or contact Student Information & Enrolment Services for assistance.
TopWill BCIT help me find a job?
Student Employment Services is here to help! Once you are enrolled at BCIT, be sure to register for eJobs, BCIT's web-based job posting system, for access to on- and off-campus, part-time, full-time, and summer employment, and to learn what skills and qualifications employers are seeking in graduates. You can also visit the Work Search Coach for help with your resume, to prepare for interviews, or find answers to job search questions at any time while attending BCIT, rather than waiting until you graduate.
TopPart-time Studies information
What do I need to do before my first class or online session?
Our Part-time Studies Orientation page will help you get prepared. It provides an overview of BCIT services and information, including:
- myBCIT
- Distance & online learning
- Textbooks & materials
- Classroom locations
- Parking
- and more...
How do I log in to myBCIT?
Your Username is your BCIT ID student number (A00_ _ _ _ _ _) and your initial password is your birthday in this format: YYMMDD.
You can search for your BCIT ID online or reset your password if needed.
The Student Information & Enrolment Services office is also here to help.
TopDo I have to come to the BCIT Bookstore to buy my textbooks and course materials?
Not necessarily. You can shop online or by phone at 604-432-8379 or 877-333-8379 (toll free within Canada). If you're on a budget, you may even want to look for used textbooks. Avoid line-ups by buying what you need before the course starts.
TopI want to withdraw from a course. What should I do?
Before your refund deadline: Contact Student Information and Enrolment Services .
After your refund deadline: You must officially withdraw by submitting a Part-time Withdrawal form to the Student Records office. Neglecting to withdraw officially will result in a "V" on your transcript, indicating course abandonment.
TopI want to transfer out of the course I am currently registered in. How do I do it?
Contact Student Information & Enrolment Services to request a transfer from one course to another. The transfer is subject to a $16 fee and must be requested and processed before the refund deadline.
TopHow do I register into a class after the second day, or if the class is full?
Many courses allow you to register prior to the second class. Contact Student Information & Enrolment Services to discuss your options.
TopHow do I register into a course that is full?
Occasionally registration into a full course may be granted depending on need and the resources available. Contact the Program Assistant for your course to inquire.
TopMy course is cancelled. What should I do?
If minimum enrolment isn't reached 2 days before the start date, a course may be cancelled.
If your course is cancelled, you will receive a full refund which will be mailed by cheque. You may also transfer these fees to a different course in the same term.
TopIs financial assistance available?
Limited financial assistance is available to eligible students registering for part-time programs and courses. Contact or visit Student Financial Aid & Awards for more information.
TopWhere do I park when I go to class?
Parking rules and rates differ depending on which campus you are attending. Our Parking at BCIT page will provide you with all the information you need.
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