ow Valley College is a leading public, comprehensive community institution located in Calgary, Alberta. Serving as an important hub of higher education since 1965, it offers career-focused certificate, diploma, and post-diploma programs. With diverse program offerings in business, technology, health, and community studies, Bow Valley College helps international students gain job-ready skills and secure Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) opportunities in Canada.
Quick Highlights / Snapshot
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Institution Type | Public College |
| Location | Calgary, Alberta, Canada |
| Established | 1965 |
| Campuses | Calgary Campus |
| Intakes | January, May, September |
| Tuition Range | CAD 13,000 - 26,672 per year |
| PGWP Eligible | Yes |
About Bow Valley College
Bow Valley College is an important hub of higher education in Alberta, operating as a comprehensive community institution since 1965. Located in the cosmopolitan and diverse city of Calgary, the college is highly regarded for its career-focused training and welcoming environment for international students
Why Choose Bow Valley College ?
- Career-Ready Programs: Offers highly applied diploma and post-diploma programs designed to meet industry demands.
- Prime Location: Situated in Calgary, a cosmopolitan city where almost a quarter of the population is foreign-born, ensuring a diverse and welcoming home for international students.
- Work Opportunities: Offers Co-op and internship participation, as well as the ability to work while studying.
- Affordability: Provides competitive and affordable tuition fees for international students compared to major universities.
Programs Offered
Undergraduate Programs (Certificates & Diplomas):
- Business Administration (Accounting, Digital Marketing, Human Resources, Financial Services)
- Information Technology Systems & Software Development
- Early Childhood Education & Child and Youth Care
- Digital Design & Entertainment Arts (Advanced 3D Animation, Game Development)
- Health and Wellness (Practical Nurse, Pharmacy Technician)
Post-Diploma / PG Programs:
- Cybersecurity
- Software Development
- Health and Human Services Management
- Digital Marketing
Admission Requirements
Academic Requirements:
- For Certificates/Diplomas: Standard XII from a recognized board with a minimum of 65%. Some programs require specific high school math and English credits.
- For Post-Diploma Programs: Completion of a recognized post-secondary diploma or bachelor’s degree in a related field.
English Language Requirement:
- IELTS Academic: Overall score of 6.0 with no band lower than 6.0.
- TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 83.
- PTE Academic: Overall score between 59 and 64.
- Duolingo (DET): Overall score of 110.
Required Documents:
- Academic transcripts from all post-secondary institutions or high schools attended
- English language proficiency test scores
- Passport copy and financial proof for the visa process
- Resume / work experience (required for specific PG programs)
Tuition Fees & Scholarships
- Average Tuition: CAD 13,000 – 26,672 per year depending on the program (Undergraduate: CAD 13,000 – 24,500; Graduate: CAD 15,500 – 29,000).
- Application Fee: CAD 140 (Non-refundable).
- Scholarships: International students may be eligible for entrance bursaries and specific awards, such as the International Student Entrance Bursary.
- Estimated Living Cost: Calgary is known for an affordable cost of living compared to other major Canadian cities, with an estimated monthly expense of around CAD 1,693.
Career Opportunities & PGWP
- Co-op & Internships: Many programs offer built-in co-op or internship participation to help students gain hands-on Canadian work experience before graduation.
- PGWP: Graduates of eligible full-time programs are eligible to apply for a Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) to work in Canada.
- PR Pathways: Gaining valuable work experience in Alberta opens doors to permanent residency through the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) or the federal Express Entry system.
Campus Life & Student Support
- Downtown Campus: Located right in the heart of downtown Calgary, giving students immediate access to the C-Train (light rail transit), central library, restaurants, and cultural events.
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Student Facilities: The campus features modern classrooms, state-of-the-art simulation labs, Indigenous student spaces, and plenty of quiet study areas.
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International Learner Support: Dedicated International Learner Advisors are available to help with study permits, academic advising, and adjusting to life in Canada.
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Health & Wellness: Provides free and confidential counseling, mental health support, and wellness programs for all students.
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Student Life: The Students’ Association of Bow Valley College (SABVC) runs various clubs, volunteer opportunities, and social events throughout the year to help you make friends and build a community.
