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Frequently asked questions

Which institution will I receive my MBA / MScIB degrees from?
On completion of the program, you will receive a MBA degree from Vancouver Island University, Canada and a MScIB degree from University of Hertfordshire, UK.
What are the fees for international students and Canadian students?
Tuition fees for the Foundation Program are $4,850 CAD for international students and $2,425 CAD for Canadian students, plus student fees and textbooks.  Tuition fees for the MBA / MScIB programs are $29,500 CAD for international students and $18,500 CAD for Canadian students (and this includes textbooks and internship placement) plus student fees.  The main additional expenses would be for food and housing and the laptop computer.
What are the requirements to get into the program?
You must have a “B” average (or equivalent) in the last two years of your undergraduate degree. International students must complete VIU's English Language Certificate Program or present a TOEFL of 550, CBT 213, iBT 80 (with no score under 19), an IELTS of 6.0 (with no band under 5.5), Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English (B of higher), Cambridge Certificate of Proficiency in English (B or higher), or CAEL 6.0.
How long is the program?
It is 14 months for business graduates and 16 months for non-business graduates. Students without an undergraduate degree in business will complete an additional 2-month Foundation Program before the start of the MBA / MScIB Program.
How early should I apply to the program?
You should apply as early as possible as spaces are limited and study permits can take up to 4 months to get in some countries.
Can international students work in Canada?
International students who qualify are eligible to work part-time off-campus (20 hrs. per week) while studying full time.
Once you complete your degree you will be eligible to work in Canada for up to 16 months.  It is your responsibility to find a job, although there is an MBA career fair held on campus and the career centre will assist with job search strategies.
For more information, please visit:  www.cic.gc.ca

Where is Vancouver Island University located?
It is located on Vancouver Island in the city of Nanaimo (population of 86,000).  Nanaimo is a short flight or ferry ride to Vancouver and a 1.5 drive to Victoria.
What is the temperature like?
Nanaimo has a temperate climate with warm, sunny summers and somewhat rainy winters, but little snow.
Who can I contact for more information about the program?
Jane Kelly - Director, International Student Admissions, jane.kelly@viu.ca
Brock Dykeman - Director, MBA / MScIB Program, brock.dykeman@viu.ca
How are applicants chosen for admittance:
If you meet the minimum program entrance requirements, your file will be reviewed along with other applications by the MBA Program Admissions Committee. The committee uses a points system based on all of the admissions criteria to determine the successful candidates.
May I apply before I have completed all of the admissions requirements?
You can apply before completing all of the admissions requirements. We offer conditional acceptance to students who have not met the English as a Second language requirement, but otherwise qualify. We also offer conditional acceptance to students who are in their final term of qualifying studies.