Undergraduate Admission Requirements

Students must have a minimum average of 65% to be considered for admission to first year at the university.

This average is calculated based on the British Columbia grade for English 12 (or equivalent) and the best three additional academic Grade 12 subjects. Students must also have scored 65% or better in Principles of Mathematics 11.

Students who do not have the minimum admission requirements, or are denied permission to register or re-register, but can prove extenuating circumstances, may ask to have the application reviewed. Requests for Review, outlining the extenuating circumstances, should be sent to the registrar.

B.C. Approved Grade 11 and 12 Courses

• Applications of Mathematics
• Arabic
• B.C. First Nations Studies
• Biology
• Calculus
• Chemistry
• Comparative Civilizations
• Drama: Film & Television
• English
• English Literature
• First Nations Language (any one of several B.C. First Nations languages)
• French
• Geometry
• Geography
• Geology
• German
• History
• Information Technology
• Italian
• Japanese
• Latin
• Law
• Mandarin
• Punjabi
• Principles of Mathematics
• Physics
• Russian
• Spanish
• Technical and Professional Communications
• Theater Production
• Writing

Advanced Placement courses also acceptable for admission to University Canada West:

• English Literature
• Calculus AB and BC
• Physics B and C
• Chemistry
• Computer Science C
• Comparative Government & Politics
• Human Geography
• Environmental Science
• Psychology
• International baccalaureate courses (excluding art and music)

Grade twelve courses not acceptable as a basis for admission to the university (they provide little preparation for our solid foundation courses):

• Art 12
• Band 12
• Construction 12
• Career preparation courses (CAPP)

Mature Student Admission

Applications can be made under mature student status. To qualify as a mature student, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Have been out of school for at least two years
• Be 21 years of age, on or before the first day of classes
• Have demonstrated that they have the potential for success through academic, professional or volunteer activities and other accomplishments.

Each applicant is reviewed individually. Each student admitted to the university as a Mature Student must achieve a minimum 60% overall average in their first term before they will be permitted to register for the second term.

 Mature students must submit:

• A copy of their official high school transcript sent directly from the school. An official transcript is one that is sent directly from one institution to another. The university cannot use unofficial transcripts to process an application.
• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions (colleges, universities, or vocational schools) the student has attended.
• A detailed chronological résumé.
• A letter of intent that clearly explains why the applicant is applying as a mature student and outlines the student's academic intentions. This letter should provide background information and describe any personal qualities the student feels would contribute to academic success at the university.

• A $150 application fee.

Admissions Policy for Students Not Possessing an Official Transcript of Marks

We recognize that those individuals who have followed a non-traditional route for education may possess the capabilities and competencies required to enter post-secondary programs. As such, we recognize the need to provide admission opportunities that are as fair and equitable for these learners as are those that pertain to applicants who have completed a basic education through regular schooling. Applicants not possessing an official High School Transcript of Marks or who have not obtained credentials from another post-secondary institution must:
1. Submit an Application
2. Submit an Application Fee
3. And either:

    i. submit your Student Score Report from the College Board SAT Reasoning Test or

    ii. submit a Student Portfolio (see below for specifics), and be interviewed by the Dean

University Canada West will determine if the applicant meets competence equivalencies and is to be admitted to the program of choice.

The Student Portfolio should contain the following elements:

1. A description of the Grades 10, 11, and 12 curriculum used in any home-schooling program including a list of textbooks used and courses completed.
2. Samples of academic work such as book reports or essays in English literature, science laboratory reports, research on topics of interest, examinations, etc.
3. A student letter of intent or resumé that outlines the student's:
   i. educational goals
   ii. career aspirations
   iii. personal interests
   iv. relevant extra-curricular activities, including visual and performing arts, athletics, and community service as they pertain to university preparation.
4. A parent's written recommendation commenting on the student's academic achievement and participation in and contribution to activities beyond the home.
5. A letter of recommendation from an impartial source indicating the applicant's academic readiness for a university-level program of study.
6. Any additional material the applicant believes would assist the Registrar in making his/her decision.