University of Northern British Columbia

The University of Northern British Columbia considers applicants with a lower GPA who can demonstrate relevant achievements in their field, located in a smaller northern BC city with meaningfully lower living costs than Vancouver.

Institution size

Small-to-mid-sized

Min. CGPA floor

No fixed floor; achievements considered

Tuition / yr

C$17k–C$21k

Type

Public university

Key Facts

Admission Requirements for Low CGPA and Backlog Applicants

• Lower GPA applicants considered when relevant achievements in the applicant’s field are demonstrated
• Requirements vary by programme; confirmation with the specific graduate department recommended

Tuition and Fees

Figures are indicative and reviewed annually by the institution. Confirm current rates directly with the university before budgeting.

Programmes Offered

• Natural Resources and Environmental Studies
• Business Administration
• Health Sciences
• Education
• Computer Science
• First Nations Studies
• Nursing
• Biological Sciences

This list covers the primary subject areas available; it is not the full course catalogue. Confirm the complete, current list of programmes directly on the university’s official course finder.

Degree Levels Offered

• Diploma / Certificate: Offered
• Undergraduate (Bachelor’s): Offered
• Postgraduate (Master’s / MSc / MA): Offered
• Doctorate (PhD): Offered
• Post-Doctoral Fellowship: Offered
• Short Courses: Offered

Availability of Short Courses and Post-Doctoral Fellowship positions can vary by department and is not always centrally advertised; confirm current openings directly with the relevant faculty.

Scholarships and Funding

• Graduate scholarships and assistantships available in select departments, particularly natural resources and environmental programmes
• Confirm current funding opportunities directly with the relevant faculty

Application Process

1. Confirm the specific CGPA, GPA, or classification requirement for the target programme directly with the admissions office
2. Complete required English proficiency testing (IELTS, TOEFL, or equivalent) if applicable
3. Prepare transcripts, statement of purpose, recommendation letters or references, and a resume or CV
4. Submit the application through the university’s official admissions portal and pay the application fee
5. Await the admission decision and, once accepted, pay any required deposit
6. Apply for the relevant student visa or study permit using the offer letter and financial documentation

Admission Outlook

UNBC’s willingness to weigh demonstrated relevant achievements against a lower GPA, combined with meaningfully lower living costs than Vancouver, makes it a strong specific option for applicants with a natural resources or environmental background.

Campus Life

Prince George, in northern British Columbia, offers significantly lower living costs than Vancouver, alongside British Columbia’s provincial immigration pathways.

International students generally have access to a dedicated international student office, orientation programming, and student clubs and societies. Housing options typically include on-campus or university-affiliated accommodation alongside private rental options; applicants should apply for housing as early as possible after accepting an offer, since availability varies by intake and city.

Other Essential Information

Official Resources

• University homepage: unbc.ca

Compare University of Northern British Columbia against other accessible universities on our Find a Course page, or contact us for help confirming eligibility.