Columbia College is one of the most beautiful community colleges in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Established in 1963, it is the oldest international community college in Canada. It is located near downtown Vancouver, one of the most spectacular cities in the world, as well as one of the cleanest and safest. Columbia College admissions are offered in Winter and Summer intakes in Canada. Columbia College Canada provides a range of university-level courses designed for first and second-year students. Completing these courses can result in obtaining a Columbia College Associate Degree, and the credits earned are seamlessly transferable to local universities. In addition to university-level programs, Columbia College offers High School programs, including a certified Senior Secondary Program recognized by the British Columbia Ministry of Education. Moreover, the English for Academic Purposes Program at Columbia College is accredited by Languages Canada.
Vancouver stands out as a rare location globally, offering the unique possibility of starting your day on the beach and transitioning to snow sports within just 30 minutes in the afternoon. This distinctive feature contributes to Vancouver's consistent placement in the top 10 best cities for international students in Canada. The city's efficient public transport system further enhances the living experience, making exploration and commuting to and from your studies straightforward and secure. Well-placed bus routes and SkyTrains operate regularly from dawn until dusk, facilitating convenient and safe transportation.
Is Columbia College a community college? Yes, it is a community college with around 1,000 international students. Columbia College deadline for Summer 2024 intake in Canada is March 15, 2024. The deadline for Winter 2024 has been passed. You need to pay a CAD 200 (INR 12,315) Columbia College application fees for international students. On receipt of the Offer of Admission, international students are required to prepay a tuition deposit of CAD 14,300 (INR 8,80,496). To be eligible for admissions, you need to have Columbia College IELTS requirement of 6.0.
Why Choose Columbia College
Columbia College has several options to study in Canada after 12th. People often debate as Columbia College is public or private. It is a private institution. But why should you choose this college to study in Canada. Here, we have curated some reasons to choose this college
- In 2004, Columbia College became the first private institution in the province to award Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degrees
- Columbia College is located on the territories of the Coast Salish Peoples, including the Musqueam, Squamish, Stó:lō, and Tsleil-Waututh Nations.
- Students enjoy the stunning natural beauty of Vancouver, one of the most spectacular cities in the world
- Wide range of programs with an affordable price at CAD 17,550 (INR 10,80,608) for university transfer programs and CAD 35,100 (INR 21,61,217) for Columbia College Associate of Arts degrees
- Columbia College acceptance rate is more than 90% and there are almost 95% international students, so you will have more admission chances
Columbia College Courses and Fees
Columbia College offers university level programs, high school programs and a certified Senior Secondary Program. Columbia College, British Columbia fees makes the cost of studying in Canada, affordable. Check out Columbia College British Columbia fees for international students from the below table.
| Programs | Columbia College Fees |
| Tuition fees per credit | CAD 595 (INR 36,636) |
| High School Course (4 credits) | CAD 2,340 (INR 1,44,081) |
| University Course (3 credits) | CAD 1,755 (INR 1,08,061) |
| University Course (4 credits) | CAD 2,340 (INR 1,44,081) |
| English For Academic Purposes (EAP) (4 credits) | CAD 2,340 (INR 1,44,081) |
Note: CAD 1= INR 61.57 as on February 16, 2024
Columbia College Application Process
To apply to Columbia College, you need to apply online. To study in Canada at this university, you need to pay Columbia College application fee of CAD 200 (INR 12,315). You need to pay a deposit fee covering 24 credits over two semesters, first medical insurance as well as activity fees. An Official Letter of Acceptance will be issued upon receipt of payment and the Proof of English Proficiency. Then you can apply for a Canada student visa. Take a look at the documents who need to apply to this college
- Transcripts of the most recent school results
- High school graduation certificate (for applicants to University programs)
- Copy of the personal information page in your passport
- English proficiency results – IELTS for Canada, TOEFL, etc (if applicable)
Columbia College English Language Requirements
TOEFL, IELTS are some exams required to study in Canada, that this college accepts. You need to have qualifying scores in any of the exams to be eligible for Columbia College admissions. Check out the below table to know about the English language requirements.
| Exams | University Transfer Courses and Non-credit English Courses | High School Courses |
| IELTS score | 6.5 | 6.0 |
| TOEFL iBT | 88 | - |
Columbia College Cost of Living
If you have a clear idea about the living expenses, you can plan your budget more accurately. But it is hard to calculate the exact cost of living in Canada, as we all have different lifestyle and accommodation choices. Hence, we have added an estimated living expenses you will spend during your time at Columbia College.
Note: CAD 1= INR 61.57 as on February 16, 2024
Columbia College Extracurricular Activities
Apart from attaining Columbia College courses, you can also choose to join various student-led clubs. Student clubs are a great opportunity for students to get involved, grow as an individual. Columbia College has a lot to offer so that you can engage yourself in a diverse student body through extracurricular activities. Some clubs are as follows
- Anime Club
- Badminton Club
- Basketball Club
- Creative Writing Club
- Dragon Boat
- Entrepreneur Club
- Gay-Straight Alliance
- Green Club
- Ping-pong Club
- Rugby Club
- Soccer Club
- Swimming Club
- Volleyball
- WUSC Local Committee
Columbia College Scholarships for International Students
In spite of being a private not-for-profit community college, Columbia College offers many scholarships to study in Canada. There are external and internal scholarships opportunities available for international students. Refer to the below table to know more about the scholarships and bursaries offered by Columbia College.
| Scholarships | Eligibility | Award |
| Top Associate Degree Award | Awarded to the students who achieved the highest CGPA in completing the requirements for an Associate Degree | CAD 2,000 (INR 1,23,172) |
| Outstanding Service Awards | Awarded to students who have made outstanding contributions to the College community | CAD 100 (INR 6,159) |
| Classroom Appreciation Awards | Awarded to students who have contributed to their classroom environment through interaction with their instructors and peers | CAD 150 (INR 9,238) |
| The Jill Orenstein Memorial Bursary | An outstanding ELC student moving from English 097 to English 098 | CAD 1,700 (INR 1,04,696) |
| Emerging Region Bursary | Students demonstrated commitment to academic success and be new applicants to Columbia College | CAD 2,000 (INR 1,23,172) |
| Columbia College Entrance Scholarship Application deadline is March 15, 2024 | Students must be a new applicant to Columbia College | CAD 3,000 (INR 1,84,757) |
| Guard.me Scholarship for International Business Students | An outstanding international student in the field of Business | CAD 5,000 (INR 3,07,929) |
| The Global Undergraduate Awards | 10% of the entrants are anonymously assessed by a panel of international academics and industry leaders | Varies |
| Scotia Bank Student Scholarship Contest | Varies | CAD 30,000 (INR 18,47,574) |
Note: CAD 1= INR 61.57 as on February 16, 2024
Columbia College Notable Alumni
Alumni of Columbia College are offered several benefits such as career services and legacy scholarships. Some of the most notable Alumni are:
- Scott Adsit – Actor
- Len Amato – President, HBO
- Mauro Fiore - Academy Award-winning cinematographer (Avatar)
- Hal Haenel - Executive Vice President and General Manager of Studio Operations, 20th Century Fox
- Christopher Harvengt - Emmy award-winning sound editor for Cosmos: A Spacetime Odyssey.
Columbia College Vs Langara College Vs Humber College Vs Bow Valley College
A quick comparison of Columbia College with Humber College and others are tabulated below. Almost all these community colleges have high acceptance rates for international students. Columbia College stands out with the highest acceptance rate at 90%. Tuition fees of Columbia College is also the lowest at CAD 17,550 (INR 10,80,608). This comparison can help you to choose the best one for your study abroad journey.
| Parameters | Columbia College | Langara College | Humber College | Bow Valley College |
| Acceptance rate | 90% | 70% | 70% | 37% |
| Tuition fees | CAD 17,550 (INR 10,80,608) | CAD 27,604.16 (INR 1,711,565.62) | CAD 27,604.16 (INR 1,711,565.62) | CAD 9,675.9 (INR 5,88,591.47) per 4 credit |
| ELP scores | IELTS: 6.5 TOEFL: |
IELTS: 6.5 TOEFL: 80 |
IELTS: 6.5 TOEFL: 84 |
IELTS: 6.0 TOEFL: 71 DET: 95 |
| Student faculty ratio | 20:1 | 15:1 | 11:1 | 19:1 |
| Cost of living | CAD 18,100 (INR 11,14,703) | CAD 17,445 (INR 10,74,365) | CAD 19,520 (INR 12,02,155) | CAD 18,060 (INR 11,12,240) |
Note: CAD 1= INR 61.57 as on February 16, 2024
Columbia College band requirement is minimum 6.0. Columbia College DLI number is O19391275502. You can consider the above-mentioned details while looking to apply for Columbia College.
FAQs
Ques: What programs does Columbia College offer?
Ans: Columbia College provides university-level courses, leading to an Associate Degree, and accredited High School programs, including a Senior Secondary Program and an English for Academic Purposes Program.
Ques: Can I transfer credits earned at Columbia College to local universities?
Ans: Yes, the credits obtained from first and second-year university-level courses at Columbia College are fully transferable to local universities.
Ques: Is Columbia College internationally recognized?
Ans: Yes, Columbia College is widely recognized, and its English for Academic Purposes Program is accredited by Languages Canada.
Ques: How is Vancouver's weather, and does it impact outdoor activities?
Ans: Vancouver offers a unique climate where you can spend mornings on the beach and enjoy snow sports in the afternoon, contributing to the city's appeal.
Ques: Are there public transport options for commuting and exploring the city?
Ans: Yes, Vancouver's efficient public transport, including well-situated bus routes and SkyTrains, runs from dawn until dusk, ensuring convenient and safe transportation.
Ques: What makes Vancouver a desirable city to live in?
Ans: Vancouver's exceptional blend of beach and snow activities, coupled with its ranking in the top 10 most desirable cities globally, makes it an attractive place to live.
Ques: How can I apply to Columbia College?
Ans: To apply, visit the official Columbia College website and follow the application process outlined for the specific program you are interested in.
Ques: Are there scholarships available for students at Columbia College?
Ans: Yes, Columbia College offers various scholarships. Check the official website for detailed information on eligibility criteria and application procedures.
Ques: Does Columbia College provide housing options for students?
Ans: While Columbia College itself doesn't have on-campus housing, there are off-campus housing resources and support services available for students.
Ques: What extracurricular activities are available at Columbia College?
Ans: Columbia College offers a range of student clubs, cultural events, and sports activities, providing opportunities for students to engage outside of academics.
Ques: How diverse is the student population at Columbia College?
Ans: Columbia College is known for its diverse and inclusive community, welcoming students from various backgrounds and cultures.
Ques: Are there internship opportunities for students at Columbia College?
Ans: Yes, Columbia College collaborates with local businesses and industries, providing internship opportunities for students to gain practical experience.
Ques: Can international students work part-time while studying at Columbia College?
Ans: Yes, international students at Columbia College are generally allowed to work part-time during their studies, following the regulations set by immigration authorities.
Ques: How is the academic support system at Columbia College?
Ans: Columbia College offers comprehensive academic support, including tutoring services, writing centers, and workshops to help students excel in their studies.
Ques: What research opportunities are available for students at Columbia College?
Ans: Columbia College provides research opportunities through collaboration with faculty members and participation in various research projects.
Ques: Are there health and wellness services available on campus?
Ans: While Columbia College may not have on-campus health services, students have access to nearby medical facilities, and the college promotes overall student well-being.
Ques: Can I visit Columbia College before applying?
Ans: Yes, prospective students can schedule campus tours or attend open house events to get a firsthand look at the facilities and learn more about the college.
Ques: How can I contact the admissions office at Columbia College?
Ans: Contact the admissions office through the official Columbia College website, where you'll find contact information and details on how to reach out.
Ques: Is there a student orientation program at Columbia College?
Ans: Yes, Columbia College organizes orientation programs to help new students acclimate to the college environment, meet fellow students, and learn about available resources.
Ques: What COVID-19 safety measures are in place at Columbia College?
Ans: Columbia College has implemented various safety measures in accordance with local health guidelines, including remote learning options and campus protocols, to ensure student safety.
