Full-time and part-time status. What’s the difference?
Your full-time or part-time status is determined by your credit load (the total number of credits you take across a full term).
Minimum course loads:
- Full time - Registration in a minimum of 3 courses/9 credits per term is required to maintain full-time student status. This is required for all international students.
- Part time - Part-time: Enrolment in fewer than 3 courses per term (if your program’s full-time load is 5 courses) is considered a 60% course load, meaning you're classified as part-time. Most clinical, preceptorship, or practicum placements are considered full-time, regardless of credit load.
- Some fees may vary depending on whether you’re a full-time or part-time student.
I am still completing the courses that I need in order to meet the admission requirements for a career program. Can I still apply for it?
Yes. Bow Valley College follows a first-applied, first-qualified admissions process. You’ll need to provide proof of enrolment in required courses, including completion dates. Final grades must be submitted by the deadline in your conditional acceptance letter to confirm your spot.
Can international students take high school upgrading?
No, high school upgrading is only available for domestic students.
Can I get a conditional acceptance into one of Bow Valley College’s career programs if I am registered in the high school upgrading courses?
In most cases, students enrolled in high school upgrading courses at Bow Valley College may be considered for conditional acceptance. However, this is not guaranteed.
International applicants should consult the Admissions team about their educational goals before registering. A separate application and fee are required for each program.
How can I tell if I’m considered an international student for Bow Valley College registration?
At Bow Valley College, international students are individuals who are not Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or refugees. Those with a study, work, or visitor permit are considered international students.
What if I am a refugee claimant?
Refugee claimants must hold a study permit to attend and cannot take advantage of the Study Permit Exemption ([R188(1)]) from short term study. They are not eligible for domestic tuition fees.
Refugee claimants with temporary resident status can attend a short-term course, provided they complete it within the period of their authorized stay.
Can I apply for Permanent Residence if I recently graduated as an international student in Canada?
You may apply for permanent residency if you meet the requirements for Canada’s immigration programs. Please
click here for further details.
Also review the requirements to immigrate to the province of Alberta
here.
What is my status if I'm an international student but have applied for Canadian Permanent Residence?
International students on a study permit who become Permanent Residents, Convention Refugees, or Protected Persons may be eligible for domestic tuition if they provide the required documents (proof of residency/notice of decision) before classes begin.
Can I pay domestic tuition if I change my status to Permanent Resident, Convention Refugee, or Protected Person?
You may be eligible to pay domestic tuition if you provide the documentation (proof of permanent residency/notice of decision) before your first day of classes.
Can my children attend school in Canada and are they subject to international fees?
If you're an international student bringing children to Canada, it's important to understand the factors involved in enrolling them in school. Visit the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada website for detailed information.
Is there a cost to enroll my children into school?
You will be charged general school fees if you (the parent) have a valid study permit and if you are registered in:
- a full-time diploma program recognized by the province, lasting at least 2 years, or
- a full-time graduate or post-doctoral program lasting at least 1 year.
If you do not meet the above requirements, you may be required to pay international tuition for your child, even if your child is enrolled in a public school. Please confirm your options with the specific school board you are interested in registering with.
How do I register my children into school?
Can my spouse work in Canada if they are not an international student?
