University Canada West - Study at UCW in Vancouver [2023]

University Canada West (UCW), Vancouver BC: Admission, Fees, Courses and Scholarship

university-canada-west
International students wanting to study in Canada should explore the University Canada West (UCW). Located in Vancouver, British Columbia (BC), the university is committed to helping international students find their way through the Canadian education system.
The blog post is a comprehensive resource on the school including details on admission, fees, course offerings and scholarships available to international students at UCW.

About University Canada West (UCW)

University Canada West (UCW) is a for-profit, private Canadian University located in central Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. Dr. David Stroong established it in 2004, and it stands out as an innovative, technology-driven, and teaching-focused university. 

University Canada West (UCW) offers several business-focused undergraduate and graduate programs to students from over 40 countries with the sole aim of helping them achieve their dream careers. The students are given practical tasks to ensure that their skills are put to the test.

The university is solely a business and commerce-based school, and they have the British Columbia Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills and Training, and the Education Quality Assurance (EQA) accreditation. Several bodies also accredit their programs.

You can decide to either study on campus or online. UCW will provide you with the tools you need for success irrespective of your mode of study. The university environment is diverse, with students from around the world (40 plus countries) and across Canada. 

 University Canada West (UCW) has two campuses in downtown Vancouver (626 West Pender Street in the London Building) and Vancouver House. The Pender Street campus is located close to many of the world’s largest corporations, so the students have great access to several potential employers.


University Canada West (UCW) Updates

UCW’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) program has been integrated with IBM Design Thinking, Salesforce, and Tableau. This step was taken as part of University Canada West’s evolution into turning a premier tech-business university and helping UCW students develop their problem-solving skills and offer them real business experience.

The university will also be launching several short courses that students will take alongside their current programs. This will allow students to develop their portfolio of skills further.


University Canada West at a Glance

Nature of UniversityPrivate and for-profit
No. of CampusesTwo
World Rank4770th according to UniRank’s 2020 World Universities listing
National Rank74th according to UniRank’s 2020 Canadian Universities listing
Campus TypeUrban
Academic CalendarCalendar is semester-based
Intake SeasonsWinter, Fall, Summer, and Spring
Application Fee$150 CAD
Language TestsIELTS – At least band 6
Language of Instruction English Language
Financial Aid Loans, Grants, Scholarships, and Aid 
Websitewww.ucanwest.ca

UCW Campuses

  • University Canada West has two campuses: the West Pender Campus at 626 West Pender St. in the Historic London Building and the new UCW Vancouver House Campus at 1461 Granville St. 
  • The new Vancouver House campus includes over 90,000 square feet in the globally recognized Vancouver House development, an iconic project designed by architect Bjarke Ingels of BIG.
  • Vancouver House is located in the Beach District, which is Vancouver’s newest neighborhood. It is close to Granville Island, English Bay, Sunset Beach, and the longest uninterrupted waterfront path globally- Vancouver’s 28-kilometer seawall.
  • The West Pender campus covers six floors of the Historic London Building. The location is strategic as it’s not only a vibrant neighborhood, but it’s also in the center of Vancouver’s financial district and only a few steps away from public transit.
  • UCW campus houses students from up to 52 different nationalities.
  • The average class size is between 20-25 students.

University Canada West Courses and Programs

University Canada West offers online, on-campus, and blended programs. In the blended programs, UCW students can commence their programs online and complete them in the university. 

You can study both undergraduate and graduate programs at UCW. 

For undergraduate studies, UCW offers three programs: Bachelor of Commerce, Associate of Arts, and Bachelor of Arts in Business Communication. The university offers MBA programs such as MBA foundation programs, a professional MBA, and MBA-ACCA Pathway in the graduate sphere. The MBA programs, Bachelor of Commerce, Business Communication, and Associate of Arts programs can all be offered online. 

Bachelor of Commerce

The Bachelor of Commerce program (BCom) offers students a fundamental knowledge of present-day business and its practices. The degree is accredited by ACBSP, which further makes it a superb choice is for students aiming for a career in business or management in the world economy.

Associate of Arts Degree

The Associate of Arts degree (AA) teaches students several skills such as mathematical and scientific reasoning, advanced reading comprehension, research and evaluative skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving.

Bachelor of Arts in Business Communication (BA)

This program develops students’ knowledge of cultural studies, business, and media and integrates theoretical and practical skills. It fits students looking to make a career in public relations, journalism, advertising, and communications. 

Master of Business Administration (MBA)

The University Canada West MBA program is available for graduate studies. The program challenges students to search for practical solutions to issues they might face in the employment world, thereby getting them ready for the business sector’s leadership position. 

Students who have no prior academic or professional qualifications are catered for through the UCW’s MBA Foundation program. The program prepares such students through three MBA Foundation courses. They can take either these on-campus or online.

The university collaborates with business industry leaders like Tableau, Salesforce (Trailhead), and IBM to pave the way for digital components to be included in the courses. This makes students up to date with all the latest technological trends.

Apart from the MBA foundation, University Canada West also offers another preparatory course known as University Access Program (UAP). This program is accredited by Languages Canada, and its focuses are to improve student’s Academic English and qualify them for UCW’s English degrees.

SEE -> Best MBA in Canada without GMAT


University Canada West Admission Requirements

There are certain criteria an international student must fulfill to be eligible for admssion into the university. The criteria for undergraduate programs differ from graduate programs. 


Admission Requirements into Undergraduate Programs at UCW

  • Complete application form. 
  • An equivalent of a Canadian high school Grade 12 diploma, with at least an overall average of C i.e., 2.00 on a 4.33 scale.
  • Official transcripts from previous high school and post-secondary institutions. If they are not in English language, they should be translated. 
  • Proof of English Language proficiency.
  • Letter of Intent (LOI). 
  • A credential evaluation from a recognized service should be submitted if the credentials are not from a recognized institution. The credential evaluation will also be needed if the Admissions Committee, visa, or medical insurance, needs additional analysis.
  • The application fee is 150 CAD, and the mode of application is online.

Admission Requirement into Graduate Programs at UCW

The MBA Foundation Program

Special consideration is given to students who do not meet the direct admission requirements into UCW’s MBA program, i.e., students who do not have a bachelor’s degree with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.33. 

Such students are allowed to enroll in the university’s MBA foundation program. The application fee for this program is 150 CAD, and the mode of application is online. The intake periods are Winter – January; Spring – April; Summer – July; and Fall – October.


The MBA Program

Admission requirements: For direct entry to the MBA program, the requirements that applicants must fulfill are as follows:

  • A minimum CGPA of 3.0 on a 4.33 scale
  • A bachelor’s degree in commerce or management or an equivalent. 
  • An appropriate international professional designation such as CGA, CA, CMA, etc.
  • GMAT/GRE scores (GRE code- 7570; GMAT Code – 5HW)
  • At least three years of management or professional experience
  • Comprehensive resume containing work experience, academic achievement, etc., arranged chronologically.
  • Official transcripts from all the former institutions attended.
  • English Language proficiency test scores
  • Letter of intent (LOI).
  • A credential evaluation from a recognized service if credentials are not from a recognized institution.
  • Certified translations of documents not in the English Language.
  • Medical insurance.

All admission requirements for international students are on the university’s website, so you can apply with no confusion.

All international graduate and undergraduate students must fill and submit their application form and the supporting documents at least 35 days before the first day of the respective term.


Entry Requirement into University Canada West’s Top Programs

ProgramsEntry Requirements
MBA FoundationA Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university,with a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.67 out of a 4.33 scale.
M.B.AA Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university,with a minimum CGPA of 3.0 out of 4.33 scale.
Students coming in through the MBA Foundation program must earn at least a B grade (GPA of 3.0) to progress into the MBA program.
One of:
Bachelor’s degree in Commerce (BComm) or Business Administration (BBA) or an equivalent.
Acceptable the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) or GMAT score that has been written in the past five years.
At least three years of documented professional or management experience with proof of career progress and relevant education.
Bachelor of CommerceA Canadian High School Grade 12 diploma or an international equivalentwith a minimum overall average of C (2.0 on a 4.33 scale).
IELTS score – Minimum of 6.5 with at least a 6.0 score in the writing band, or an equivalent
B.A Business CommunicationA Canadian High School Grade 12 diploma or an international equivalentwith a minimum overall average of C (2.0 on a 4.33 scale).
IELTS score – Minimum of 6.5 with at least a 6.0 score in the writing band, or an equivalent
Associate of ArtsA Canadian High School Grade 12 diploma or an international equivalentwith a minimum overall average of C (2.0 on a 4.33 scale).
IELTS score – Minimum of 6.5 with at least a 6.0 score in the writing band, or an equivalent

Language Requirement for International Students at UCW

English Proficiency:

TestsMinimum Score
Academic IELTS or IELTS IndicatorAn overall score of 6.5 with at least a 6.0 in the writing section
PTE AcademicOverall score of 61 with at least 60 in the writing section
TOEFL (iBT)Overall score 88 with at least 20 in each of the sections
CAELAn overall score of 70 with at least 60 in each section
DuolingoA score of 105 overall
PasswordAn overall score of 6.5 with at least 6.0 in the writing section
Cambridge Test A score of 176 overall

These tests can be waived for international students who meet up with the following:

  • Completed UCW’s English preparation courses under the University Access Program.
  • Covered a minimum of 30 credits at a post-secondary institution whose language of instruction is English and is located in a country with English as an official language.
  • Completed studies at a recognized secondary school for at least four or more years of full-time education in a country where although English isn’t a primary language, it was the primary language of instruction. 
  • Successful completion of English Literature and Performance or an International Baccalaureate English A1/A2.

Visa for International Students to Study at UCW in Vancouver, Canada

International students who have successfully gained admission into University Canada West must possess a valid study permit if they intend to enter Canada to study any course for a period longer than six months. The following documents are required:

  • Previous visa’s data, if any
  • A valid passport
  • Acceptance letter from the University
  • An application form
  • Financial records
  • Bank statements
  • Biometric data

After obtaining these documents, the Canadian Embassy can schedule an interview to get your study permit. The entire process can take up to six months, so it is best that you apply on time. 


How to Apply to Study at UCW

An application can take two forms. You can apply as:


University Canada West Tuition Fees

ProgramsInternational StudentsDomestic Students Tuition 
MBA Foundation$7,020 (for the total three courses)$4,680 (for the total three courses)
M.B.A$17,550 (for Year 1 to 2)Total = $35,100$14,040 for Year 1$9,360  for Year 2
Total= $23,400
Bachelor of Commerce$17,400 (for Year 1 to 4).
Total= $69,600
$8,352 (for year 1- 3)$2,784 (for year 4)
Total= $27,840
B.A Business Communication$17,400 (for Year 1 to 4).
Total= $69,600
$8,352 (for year 1- 3)$2,784 (for year 4)
Total= $27,840
Associate of Arts$17,400 (for Year 1 to 2)
Total= $34,800
$8,352 (for year 1)$5,568 (for year 2)
Total= $13,920

Living Expenses

Apart from the tuition fees, the cost of living comfortably in Canada is another cost that international students aspiring to study at UCW have to consider. The table below outlines estimates of the basic expenses you must consider before applying for admission to the university.

Fees/ItemsAnnual Cost (CAD)
Tuition$20,880 – $21,100
Food$3,700 – $9,700
Health insurance$330
Phone and Internet$730 – $1,900
Transportation$1,180 – $2,100
Book, supplies, and miscellaneous$1,510 – $2,510

Accommodation

University Canada West does not have on-campus accommodation like residence halls or dormitories. However, they partnered with 4Stay to provide students with several affordable housing options around the University campus. 

Apartment search is very easy. All you have to do is go online and search for your desired apartment type, whether shared rooms, private rooms, or entire homes, for a monthly, yearly or short-term duration. The rooms feature all necessities like a bed, beddings, closet, wooden or tiled floor, chair, table, drawer, and so on. 

They also have amenities like a washer, free parking space, dryer, shared kitchen, and refrigerator. Anyone with fully furnished rooms can post them for rent or sublet to UCW students on 4Stay. For students who would love to experience the local culture, UCW also has a homestay program through 4Stay.

You can also find a roommate on the platform. UCW offers students a 100,000 CAD housing insurance at 4stay.


Student Financial Aids

International students at University Canada West can apply for scholarships, grants, external aids, and student jobs. These financial aids are affected directly on the tuition fees, depending on the number of courses the student registered to study. 

However, the total amount given for a scholarship, grant, or award can never exceed the fees’ total cost. International students have to fill the International Scholarship Application form to apply for scholarships. Students benefiting from awards must continue to meet each award’s conditions and requirements throughout their time studying at the institution.

Scholarships available for international students:

ScholarshipEligibility CriteriaAmount Awarded (CAD)
Scholarships for Academic Excellence for International StudentsAwarded to students who have excellent academic grades. and have applied for a Scholarship & Award Application during the time they were applying for admission into UCW.10,000-20,00 
Southeast Asia Regional GrantThis scholarship is awarded to international students from these countries: Brunei, Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Timor Leste, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Application for this award is also through the Scholarship & Award Application form when applying for admission into the institution.
9,450-18,900
Canadian Bureau for International Education ScholarshipsThe organization offers several scholarships like Excellence Awards to high-performing international students.
Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) Regional GrantThis is an entrance grant open to international students from This grant is open to international students from:Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Georgia, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Moldova, Russia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Ukraine
MBA Excellence Scholarship for Continuing StudentsThis scholarship is awarded to current domestic and international students in the MBA program who have maintained academic excellence through their MBA courses.
The candidates must have a minimum CGPA of 3.60 on their first nine MBA courses 
Maximum of $2,000 
MBA Foundation Study GrantTo be eligible, you need a minimum GPA of 3.0, and you must:
1. Submit a complete Scholarship & Award Application form while applying for admission to UCW
2. Submit a Personal Statement describing how undertaking the MBA and MBA Foundation programs will affect your career and personal goals

3. Successfully finish the MBA Foundation program and the MBA degree program within 36 months of your starting the MBA Foundation courses.
$5,000 for international students
Second Language Excellence ScholarshipThese scholarships are awarded to international students who scored up to 7.0 in their Academic IELTS with a minimum of 6.5 in all bands.$2,000

University Placements

  • 88% of UCW’s MBA graduates secure employment within 3 months of their graduation.
  • Free practical workshops that include networking skills and personal branding are taught to students
  • All of UCW’s MBA graduates have secured employment within six months of graduation
  • 67% of MBA graduates at UCW have secured employment just within a month of graduation.
  • MBA graduates at University Canada West can earn up to 55,000 CAD – 150,000 CAD 

Graduate Outcomes

UCW Career Fair

The university hosts highly successful Career Fairs on campus. These fairs connect students with potential employers and they can network. Top representatives of leading companies attend the career fairs to meet with students.

Employment Support

University Canada West’s courses are designed to give students the knowledge and practical skills that many leading organizations desire. The school organizes special speaker events where knowledgeable and experienced professionals visit the institution to share their expertise with students.

UCW Alumni

University Canada West’s alumni community is incredible. The school has produced graduates from across the globe who are currently occupying several exciting roles in various industries. This alumni network also allows graduates to maintain connection with their fellow graduates and staff and faculty members of the university. 

UCW’s alumni work for some of the world’s top organizations like:

  • Apple
  • Siemens
  • Scotiabank
  • Telus
  • Nestle
  • SoftMoc
  • EmpowerID
  • The Marketing Kangaroos
  • Sigamlux
  • Danone
  • Oakville Trading
  • GPP
  • RBC


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on University Canada West, Vancouver, British Columbia


What’s Next?

Learn more about studying in Canada with our free DIY study in Canada guides that have helped hundreds of students. Want a more personalized approach? Contact Us for one-on-one assistance.

SEE ALSO:

-> Vancouver Island University (VIU), British Columbia (BC)
-> Conestoga College, Ontario

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Charee Oisamoje is the founder of CanadaWiz. She leads the editorial team, which is comprised of subject matter experts that aim to create well-researched, highly detailed content related to studying, working, immigrating, and settling/living in Canada as a newcomer.

Charee's personal experiences as a Canadian immigrant and her professional competencies make her uniquely qualified on the subject matter.

With extensive educational credentials, she is an expert at collecting details, verifying facts, and making complex subjects easy to understand. ✔️MBA in Finance ✔️MScIB ✔️CCEA (#CCG 271) ✔️CPA Candidate ✔️CIP ✔️BSc Accounting

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