Virtual Info Sessions for International Students: Information for Educators

Study in BC, in collaboration with more than 15 BC post-secondary institutions, is hosting a virtual info session series for international high school students in BC this October. Learn more below!

Held over four nights; students can attend eight different virtual sessions covering important topics such as the different types of post-secondary institutions in BC, transitioning from high school to higher education, the benefits of studying in BC, and pathways to permanent residency –  just to name a few!

If your student is interested in attending, please see the details below to learn more about session topics and participating post-secondary institutions. You are welcome to join as well.

Please note all attendees should register for the sessions prior to the event date and will need access to Zoom to attend. Share our student page with your students and encourage them to register early!

We’ve also prepared a set of promotional graphics you can use to help promote these virtual info session series to your students and networks. Feel free to share these on your own channels to encourage participation.

Tuesday, October 7

6:30–7:20 pm PT
Types of post-secondary institutions in BC
  • Learn about BC’s different types of institutions: research universities, teaching/polytechnic universities, colleges, and institutes.
  • Understand how colleges and institutes focus on hands-on learning, career skills, and industry partnerships.
  • Explore how teaching/polytechnic universities blend applied learning with academic study.
  • See how research universities offer advanced degrees and exciting research opportunities, with flexibility to transfer between institutions.

Presenting PSIs: Capilano University, Justice Institute of British Columbia, Okanagan College.

Participating PSIs: British Columbia Institute of Technology, Camosun College, Douglas College, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, North Island College, Thompson Rivers University, University of the Fraser Valley, Vancouver Community College.

7:30–8:20 pm PT
Where to study in beautiful BC: The four regions of the province
  • Discover BC’s four main regions: Lower Mainland, Vancouver Island, the Interior, and Northern BC.
  • Explore what makes each region unique in terms of climate, lifestyle, and culture.
  • Learn about the institutions available across the province and what they offer.
  • Find your fit – there’s no one-size-fits-all.

Presenting PSIs: College of New Caledonia, Coast Mountain College, Langara College, Thompson Rivers University, Vancouver Island University.

Participating PSIs: British Columbia Institute of Technology, Camosun College, Douglas College, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, North Island College, Northern Lights College, Okanagan College, University of the Fraser Valley, Vancouver Community College.

Thursday, October 9

6:30–7:20 pm PT
Navigating the transition to BC colleges, institutes, and universities
  • Get a step-by-step guide for moving from high school to post-secondary in BC.
  • Explore the wide range of institutions and programs before deciding where to apply.
  • Learn about support services available to international students.

Presenting PSIs: Douglas College, North Island College, Thompson Rivers University, University of the Fraser Valley.

Participating PSIs: British Columbia Institute of Technology, Capilano University, Camosun College, Okanagan College, Vancouver Community College.

7:30–8:20 pm PT
Stay, study, succeed: Choosing BC to continue your higher education
  • BC’s flexible, transfer-friendly education system supports your success.
  • Study in safe, inclusive, and diverse communities across the province.
  • Take part in student life through clubs, sports, volunteering, and events.
  • Build Canadian work experience and skills while you study.

Presenting PSIs: College of New Caledonia, Douglas College, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Vancouver Community College.

Guest Presenter: Mike Winsemann, Director, Transfer & Technology, BC Council on Admissions & Transfer.

Participating PSIs: British Columbia Institute of Technology, Capilano University, Camosun College, College of New Caledonia, Coast Mountain College, Thompson Rivers University, University of the Fraser Valley.

Tuesday, October 14

6:30–7:20 pm PT
Applied education vs. research education
  • Understand how applied and research-focused institutions differ in mission, teaching style, and student outcomes.
  • Learn what to expect in the classroom: class sizes, first-year course structure, labs vs. lectures, and how majors are selected.
  • Explore how work-integrated learning (WIL) and industry connections are built differently across institution types.
  • Identify how your goals, learning preferences, budget, and career expectations can guide your choice between applied and research education.

Presenting PSIs: British Columbia Institute of Technology, Camosun College, Capilano University, Kwantlen Polytechnic University.

Participating PSIs: Douglas College, Thompson Rivers University, University of the Fraser Valley.

7:30–8:20 pm PT
Pathway to PR: Finding PGWP-eligible programs or transitioning into one
  • Understand the Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) and how recent changes may impact you.
  • Learn which programs are PGWP-eligible and how to switch if needed.
  • See how PGWP work experience can support your path to permanent residency.
  • Get advice on how to plan your studies with immigration goals in mind.

Presenting PSIs: Camosun College, Langara College, Thompson Rivers University, University of the Fraser Valley.

Participating PSIs: British Columbia Institute of Technology, Capilano University, Coast Mountain College, Douglas College, North Island College, Northern Lights College, Okanagan College.

Thursday, October 16

6:30–7:20 pm PT
Invest in your future: understanding costs and scholarships in BC
  • Know the true cost of studying in BC, including tuition, living expenses, and more.
  • Learn how to access scholarships, awards, and bursaries—some automatic, some by application.
  • Discover how choosing different education pathways can affect overall cost.
  • Get budgeting tips to manage your money and plan ahead.

Presenting PSIs: Coast Mountain College, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, Northern Lights College, University of the Fraser Valley.

Participating PSIs: British Columbia Institute of Technology, Capilano University, Camosun College, College of New Caledonia, Douglas College, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, North Island College, Okanagan College, Thompson Rivers University, Vancouver Community College.

7:30–8:20 pm PT
Study, work, and succeed in BC!
  • Explore in-demand careers and how your studies can lead to those opportunities.
  • Learn how co-ops, internships, and campus jobs prepare you for the workforce.

Presenting PSIs: Capilano University, Camosun College, Langara College, Thompson Rivers University.

Participating PSIs:

College of New Caledonia, Coast Mountain College, Douglas College, Kwantlen Polytechnic University, North Island College, University of the Fraser Valley, Vancouver Community College.

Institutional representatives