North Island College Highlighting Its International Student Programs

North Island College is highlighting its international student programs.

“At North Island College, international students are integral and valued contributors to our learning environments." said Kathleen Kuhnert, Vice President of Student and Community Engagement.

"We are committed to offering a quality educational experience and have built our programs on a sustainable model that promotes learning success, while also meeting the needs of B.C.’s economy. Our goal is to always support our students and the communities we all call home,”

On Monday, the provincial government announced its response to a cap on international student permit applications.

This followed last week’s federal announcement that will see a 35 percent reduction in approved study permits for the next two years.

NIC is currently working with the Ministry of Post-Secondary Education and Future Skills to determine how reforms and new policies will inform future international student enrolment.

The college says its award-winning international education plan, Journeying Together, is already aligned with the measures announced by the federal government.

The college also has extensive student supports and transparent tuition practices to help international learners understand the costs of studying and living in Canada before they arrive.

Currently, there are 768 international students, from 46 countries, studying at NIC across the Comox Valley, Campbell River, and Port Alberni campuses.

For this academic year, they represent 13 percent of enrolment, which is among the lowest proportion for any public post-secondary institution in the province.

NIC is also building student housing at the Comox Valley campus and has taken short-term steps to help with immediate needs, such as partnering with programs like Places4Students to match our learners with homeowners.

Campbell River Mayor Kermit Dahl says the strong international student enrolment at NIC has big benefits for economic growth in Campbell River.

For details, visit North island College.