Choosing a program

You already know which program you would like to take? Book an appointment with an international advisor to discuss your options You can also book by phone at 604.854.4544, or in person at UFV International in room B223 on the Abbotsford campus.

International advisors offer guidance on course selection, program admission, pre-requisites, transfer credits, English, math, or other upgrading, course withdrawals, program changes, university procedures, university transfers, GPA, majors, minors, or extended minors.

Daily drop-in sessions or monthly business transfer sessions offered by international advisors are available to to provide you with the information you need to reach your goals.

If you are not sure what you want to study or what you would like to do after university, you need to explore your career options. Counselling services can help you with career exploration: they offer self-assessment tools, workshops, and career planning resources to help you select a career path. 

You may wish to take a few UFV classes before you choose a program. But we recommend you take no more than 30 academic credits before you make a decision. To earn a certificate, diploma, or degree at UFV, you need to take a specific set of courses in your discipline of choice. Each program only allows a limited number of elective courses. This is why it is important to plan early to ensure that each course you take can count towards earning the certificate, diploma or degree you want.

Meeting entrance requirements and applying for program admission

If you do not meet the requirements for your goal program when you apply at UFV, you may be admitted to the ESL program or to a program path such as Kinesiology studies, business studies, or CIS studies. A program path is an open admission category that allows you to take courses towards your goal while you complete all the requirements for program admission.

But being in ESL or a program path is not the same as being in an academic program. You need to apply to be admitted to your program of choice as soon as you meet the requirements. To learn more about program admission and how to qualify, see an international advisor. Book an appointment with an international advisor, by phone at 604.854.4544, or in person at UFV International in room B223 on the Abbotsford campus.

Being accepted in an academic program and making a program plan

Once you are accepted into an academic program, we recommend you see a program advisor to help you build a program plan and map which courses you need to take to earn the certificate, diploma, or degree you want to earn. Check the website for a complete list of faculties  to find the advisor whom you should contact.

To prepare for your appointment with your program advisor, check the UFV Calendar to find a complete list of requirements for your program. Use this advising worksheet to prepare for your appointment.

In addition to your regular program, you may want to go study abroad or join the Co-op program to combine paid employment with your studies. Make sure to mention this to your advisor so that you can plan ahead.

While we recommend you see your program advisor to make a program plan, you are welcome to see an international advisor if you need to reconsider your choices, change programs, transfer to another university, or discuss situations related to your status. Book an appointment with an international advisor online, by phone at 604.854.4544, or in person at UFV International in room B223 on the Abbotsford campus.