How to Apply
Follow these steps to apply to a program at BCIT as an international student.
There is additional important information for protected persons (convention refugees) in Canada wanting to apply to BCIT.
BCIT offers a wide variety of academic programs through two distinct program delivery models: Full-time cohort studies and Flexible Learning. Some programs are are offered through both, while others are only available through one specific program delivery model. Learn more about the program delivery models below and consider which may be a better fit for you. Once you select a program, take note of key details including start dates, application deadlines, and program type (competitive vs. first qualified, first offered).
Full-time cohort studies
Select from a variety of intensive programs that put a strong focus on team-based learning.
Features of Full-time cohort studies at BCIT:
- Students are automatically registered into their courses each term
- Earn your credential as quickly as possible with a full-time course load
- Immerse yourself in BCIT campus life by studying day classes throughout the week
- Create lasting connections with fellow students in your set as you progress through the program together
Browse all Full-time cohort studies programs that accept international students.
Flexible Learning studies
Choose from a variety of programs designed for studying at your own pace.
Features of Flexible Learning at BCIT:
- Flexibility to self-register for a full-time or part-time course load
- Start in one of three intakes: winter, spring/summer, or fall
- Work part time while maintaining a full-time academic status (9+ credits per term)
- Flexible course offerings with evening, day, weekend options
- Qualified to apply for a study permit in eligible programs
Browse all Flexible Learning programs that accept international students.
Need to upgrade your English language proficiency?
Apply to BCIT’s English for Professional and Academic Success (EPAS) program, which is designed to help students meet entrance requirements for academic programs at BCIT.
Review the admission requirements and application deadlines for your chosen program to make sure you meet them. Find this information on your program’s Entrance Requirements page, then review the course equivalencies below.
- BC and Yukon high school equivalencies
- Canadian high school equivalencies
- International high school equivalencies
- Post-secondary course equivalencies
If you have education from outside of Canada, you may be required to have their credentials assessed through the International Credential Evaluation Service (ICES) to ensure equivalency. Learn more about International Credential Evaluation Services.
Remember, meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee admission to all programs.
Missing or in-progress requirement(s)?
If you have any in-progress courses, you can apply using your midterm grades. Learn how you can apply using your midterm grades
You also have several pathways to help you qualify for your chosen program, even if you don’t meet the admission requirements initially.
- Upgrading courses at BCIT or outside Canada
- Assessment testing
- English Language Proficiency Equivalencies
- Partner English language schools
If you don’t meet the published admission requirements, you might still qualify for your chosen program through our alternate admissions pathway. This option values individuals whose work experience, non-formal education, cultural knowledge, and other relevant experiences have prepared them for their chosen program.
First-qualified, first-offered programs can fill quickly. You should apply and submit your supporting documents when the program application opens.
If your program requires your foreign education to be evaluated, submit your credential to the International Credential Evaluation Service first. Then, include the completed credential evaluation with your online application.
BCIT only considers English language documents or certified English translations of documents in the admissions process. Scan your transcripts and other supporting documents into PDF files.
Applications are available through EducationPlannerBC (EPBC). Use the Apply Now button on your program’s page to be directed to the EPBC application platform. If you already have an existing BCIT ID number, make sure to enter it at the end of the EPBC application.
After you apply through EPBC, you’ll receive an email from BCIT as well as instructions for accessing your myBCIT account. If you don’t already have a BCIT ID, one will be created and sent to your email account,
After You Apply
Follow these steps to proceed through the application process and to prepare for your program at BCIT.
You will receive a confirmation email with instructions for logging into your myBCIT account and other relevant details.
- myBCIT: This is BCIT’s primary communication platform for your application status. Use myCommunication within myBCIT to view all official correspondence and letters.
- Application Status: Click on ‘Check Application Status’ or ‘Upload More Documents’ under ‘Online Self Service’ to upload any required documents for your application. Learn more about your application status.
Contact international_admissions@bcit.ca for any questions.
Once you have been accepted into your Full-Time Cohort learning program, you will be issued an offer letter instructing you to pay your non-refundable and non-transferable $6,000 commitment fee, which will be used towards the first term of tuition.
For Flexible Learning programs only: if you already registered and paid for Flexible Learning courses in the same term as your application, BCIT will convert your tuition payment(s) for that term into a non-refundable commitment fee (up to a maximum $6000).
IRCC Letter of Acceptance (IRCC LOA)
You will receive a letter generated for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) purposes once the commitment fee is received by BCIT. International students can use this acceptance letter to apply for their study permits through IRCC.
Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL)
Many study permit applicants will require a PAL, but some are exempt, including international students in Canada applying to extend their study permit. For a full list of who needs or doesn’t need a PAL, refer to the IRCC website.
Stay informed about your IRCC LOA and PAL through myBCIT – Student Self Service – MyCommunication
Once your application has been received and processed, you’ll receive an email with your BCIT ID and instructions to login to your myBCIT account for the first time. The email is your key to accessing all important communications about your application, including your Welcome to BCIT e-letter, your first term registration and other details related to your enrolment.
Learn more about communicating with BCIT
Explore important information about refund eligibility deadlines and withdrawals.
*Note that this step is only for applicants to a Flexible Learning program*
Acceptance into a Flexible Learning program does not guarantee course availability. Course registration is on a first-come-first-served basis and students must register themselves each term.
- Preparation: Review the Flexible Learning Key Registration Dates and register early.
- Course Selection: Follow your program approval letter to choose courses from your program matrix. Ensure you meet any course prerequisites which can be found in the course description of the course page.
- Registration: Register your courses – Learn how.
Explore important information about: