Vancouver Island University's English as a Second Language Program (ESL) offers high-quality English instruction at affordable tuition rates. Enjoy all that VIU has to offer, including access to all campus facilities and services. All ESL students will also receive a University ID card.
Prices are in Canadian Dollars and are subject to change without notice. Please see the VIU tuition fee schedule for up to date information about tuition and fees. Please look under Domestic or International tuition for English as a Second Language Programs.
Returning student tuition payment deadlines
Payment due dates for returning students: April 1, August 1, December 1 (except when the due date falls on a weekend or holiday - then it is the Friday before).
Note: students will be charged a $200 late fee for payments made after these dates.
Refund policy
Tuition payments are non-refundable. For more details about the refund policy, see Tuition deposits and refunds.
Other costs for International students
Additional fees apply for application fee, student activities, accommodation, food, and personal expenses.
To estimate your total student fees and costs, please see our International Student Cost Calculator
Homestay promotes friendship, language learning and opportunities for cultural exchange. Local families welcome VIU University students into their homes. Hosts regularly share stories of life-long friendships that develop from these homestay experiences.
Our preferred partner for providing homestay is Canada Homestay Network.
The British Columbia Government requires all international students to have medical insurance while studying in British Columbia. Upon arrival, all new students of Vancouver Island University receive medical insurance through Guard.Me, a private company. Students will not be able to participate in any institutional activities if they do not have current medical insurance. For additional information, visit VIU Medical Insurance.