You can find factsheets for several partner universities directly on this page:

• ICMS Factsheet: Download PDF
• VIU Factsheet: Download PDF
• UNCW Factsheet: Download PDF
• WU Factsheet: Download PDF

These factsheets provide detailed information about the respective institutions.

The Exploratory Studies Program at Vancouver Island University (VIU) allows you to gain initial university experience after high school and take courses from various fields (e.g., Business & Management, Arts & Design, Humanities, Social Sciences, Sciences & Technology, Tourism) without immediately committing to a specific degree program. At the same time, you can explore the British Columbia region on Canada's West Coast and improve your English skills.

A Gap Year at VIU in Canada offers you several advantages:

• Improve English skills: Your language skills will significantly improve in everyday life.
• Career orientation: You can choose courses from various exciting fields and discover which specialization interests you. Earned credits may be transferable to future universities.
• Discover Canada: You have the opportunity to explore British Columbia and live near Vancouver.
• International friendships: You can live on campus and meet other students from all over the world.

The Exploratory Studies Program at VIU is perfect for you if you:

• want to spend time abroad after graduating from high school.
• desire academic and personal development.
• want to improve your English skills.
• want to enhance your resume.
• want to orient yourself in the study market.
• want to further your education while discovering Canada.

To apply for the Exploratory Studies Program at VIU, please submit the following documents via email to the European office in Darmstadt (info@iso-mail.org):

• Application form
• High school diploma (Abiturzeugnis)
• Certified translation of the diploma by a sworn translator
• Proof of English proficiency
• Passport copy

Further information can be found on the application page.

The tuition fees for an Exploratory Studies semester at Vancouver Island University consist of tuition fees, an application fee, student ancillary fees, and health insurance. You can find the current prices here.

Yes, during your Exploratory Studies in Canada, you can live on the beautiful campus of Vancouver Island University. The Student Residences offer various accommodation options, including single rooms or shared apartments, within walking distance of all university buildings and recreational facilities.

Vancouver Island University (VIU) offers various English language courses to improve your language skills and prepare you for university studies:

• Academic Preparation Program: A 5-module program (14 weeks each) that prepares you for studying in Canada, enhancing both English language skills and academic abilities like research and essay writing.
• English Communication Program: A 3-module program (7 to 14 weeks) focused on spoken English, through discussions, presentations, and group activities.
• Short-Term Language and Culture Program: 3- to 4-week intensive courses with 20 hours of instruction per week, ideal for those with limited time who want to improve their English and experience Canadian culture.

In addition to language courses, Vancouver Island University offers a variety of other study programs:

• Study Abroad Semester: Experience the breathtaking landscapes and wildlife of Canada's West Coast.
• Bachelor's Degree: Perfect your English, build international contacts, and get to know Canada intimately.
• Master's Degree: Combine academic excellence with adventures like whale watching or skiing.
• MBA Program: Prepare for an international management career at VIU, even without a business background.
• Exploratory Studies: A trial study program to get to know the VIU campus and university life without pressure.

Bachelor graduates with or without a business background can apply for the MBA at Vancouver Island University. Starting the MBA program in Canada is possible even without a business background.