Be sure to allow enough time for the Canadian study or visitor permit processing timelines before Bow Valley College’s deadline. Processing times can take 4 to 8 weeks, so check the Canadian visa timelines and submit your complete application, including all documents, as soon as possible to avoid delays.
Allow 6 to 8 weeks for your Bow Valley College application to be processed once you submit a completed application package.
For country-specific document requirements, please check the International Academic Documents by Country list.
If applying through an agent, ensure they are an authorized agency or overseas representative here:
Submit the non-refundable $140 CAD application fee.
Your application will not be processed until you pay the non-refundable application fee for each program. You can pay by credit card after you complete your online application.
Please note: Once you've submitted your application, paid the fee, and uploaded your transcripts, make sure to regularly check your application status for any updates or additional steps that may be required.
If you receive an Offer of Admission, confirm your spot by paying the non-refundable, non-transferable $1,500 CAD confirmation fee. Your offer is valid for about 3 weeks, and the deadline to pay the fee will be outlined in your Offer of Admission.
The following conditions apply:
You can apply for a study permit at the Canadian Embassy or Consulate nearest your location. Make sure to include your Letter of Acceptance and payment receipt from Bow Valley College with your application.
When applying through Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), you’ll need our Designated Learning Institute (DLI) number: O19273769422 (the "O" is a letter, not a zero). All our programs are recognized as Designated Learning programs, which means you are eligible to apply for a study permit to join us.
Important note: Most Bow Valley College certificate and diploma programs include an unpaid practicum. You may need to apply for a co-op work permit along with your study permit. Visit the Immigration and Citizenship Canada website for details on visa applications and processing times.
Let us know your attendance decision through the Visa Application System (VAS) and upload a copy of your IRCC Letter of Introduction, student visa, study permit, or work permit if needed. If you don’t provide an attendance update and proof of your study permit approval, your application will be closed and your confirmation fee cannot be refunded.
All international students require a co-op work permit along with a study permit, except in Health and Human Services, Business Administration (certificate and diploma), Human Resources, and Centre for Entertainment Arts (CEA) programs.
Contact the International Education team and email a copy of your permit to international@bowvalleycollege.ca. This confirms you’re ready to join the program!
International students must register for in-person courses when available and must take a majority of courses in person throughout their program to satisfy study permit and post-graduation work permit (PGWP) requirements.
Detailed information about course registration will be emailed to you separately before registration opens. Contact Academic Advising for help in registering for classes.
Orientation sessions are held the week before classes start and are mandatory. Bow Valley College programs are intensive and fast paced. Attending your orientation and student preparation day will help you succeed.
What happens if you can’t attend the first day of class? You must inform the International Education team in writing before the program start date. If you do not provide written communication, you cannot get a full refund or deferral.