Graduation Program

Frequently Asked Questions about Preparing for Post-Secondary Education

Q. What are the entrance requirements for each of the 28 post-secondary institutions?
A. Each post-secondary institution, and each different program within each post-secondary institution, may have different entrance requirements. You will need to refer to the University or College calendar regarding admission requirements.

Q. Can I start at one post-secondary institution and then switch to another?
A. Yes. BC's public post-secondary is set up to allow students to move from one institution to another. This is called "transfer". However, to avoid taking extra courses, you need to plan ahead. For more information, see the Online Transfer Guide at BC Transfer TIPS.

Q. Why do all programs at different institutions have different entrance requirements?
A. Each individual post-secondary institution sets their own requirements dependent on department standards.

Q. Why do some places require a language 11 for entrance and others do not?
A. Direct entry into most degree granting post-secondary institutions require a second language 11. Most university transfer programs and colleges do NOT require a second language 11 as an entry requirements. You need to check each university's or college's entrance requirements.

Q. How do I enroll into a post-secondary institution?
A. Some universities and colleges can be accessed through PASBC for registering online. Others can only be applied through by paper applications. (Contact the university or college admissions department for application forms.)

Q. Do post-secondary institutions have admission deadline dates?
A. Yes. Each post-secondary institution will have designated dates and they vary. Some admission deadlines may be well before you graduate. In this case, most post-secondary institutions have a conditional entry category.

Q. What does it cost to attend a post-secondary institution?
A. Costs vary from institution to institution, and from program to program. Consult a post-secondary calendar for costs.

Q. What kind of marks do I need in grade 11 or grade 12 in order to qualify for a post-secondary education?
A. Some post-secondary institutions count just grade 12 marks. Others count grades 11 and 12 marks. You need to check the post-secondary institution's calendar.

Q. To enter a USA college or university, I need to take the SAT exams. How do I enroll, what are the exam dates and where are the exam sites?
A. You can enroll online and find out more information at collegeboard.com.

Q. Are entrance requirements different in post-secondary institutions across Canada?
A. Yes, you will need to go to the post-secondary institution's calendar.

Q. Where can I use my Passport to Education?
A. All accredited institutions in the province will accept these passports, but you should check with the Registrar in advance. To redeem your tuition credit at an institution outside of BC, check to see if it's approved for Canada Student Loan purposes.

Q. How can I find out about Student Loans?
A. At the Ministry of Advanced Education's Student Financial Aid web site.