What does it cost?

Need an idea of the total cost to attend VIU? We have you covered.

  • VIU has created a page outlining the tuition costs for attending VIU under "Trades & Applied Technology programs"
  • In addition, the Forestry Department has created an estimate of costs pertaining specifically to our diploma program below
    • Notes:
      • No need to purchase any equipment or supplies prior to commencing classes. A complete description and list of suppliers will be given when you arrive on campus
      • Exact cost of equipment and supplies is difficult to provide as it depends on various factors. Costs below are estimates only and subject to change

Equipment Cost Estimate

 

Item Type

Item Cost ($)

Work Gear

Hard Hat (orange)20
Eye protection (safety glasses or hardhat with screen)20
Personal first aid kit10
Dukspak book & waterproof paper35
Stanfield sweater, gloves120
Compass, mirror type with declination adjustment70
Cruiser's vest100
Rain gear200
Caulk boots, socks, insoles250

Work Gear Total:

240

First Aid Certification

Basic First Aid (OFA 1)125
Transportation Endorsement150

First Aid Total:

275

iPad & School Supplies

iPad, case & accessories1200
School supplies (paper, pens, etc.)50
Forestry (drafting) kit50
First year texts (English)140

iPad & School Supplies Total:

1450

Other Supplies

Extended health/dental plan (opt out if you have an alternative)280
Parking Permit, bus pass or bike locker75-300

Other Supplies Total:

355-580

GRAND TOTAL (work gear, first aid, iPad & Other)

~3125

Financial Aid

VIU has a comprehensive program of financial aid in the form of student loans, grants and awards. For a complete overview of all the financial assistance available to VIU students, visit VIU Financial Aid and Awards.

Scholarships and Awards

Scholarships and Awards are available for high academic achievement and/or community or institutional involvement. There is over $20,000 worth of scholarships and awards specifically for students in our program provided both by VIU and external companies and associations. Learn more about these Scholarship and Award opportunities.

Bursaries

Bursaries are available for students who are academically successful, demonstrate financial need and meet other specific requirements. There are bursaries available for all students at VIU as well as some specifically for Forestry students. Read more about the Bursaries available: VIU Bursaries.

Indigenous Funding

We understand that Indigenous students face a unique set of challenges when considering undergraduate programs. For this reason, the BC First Nations Forestry Council has started the Indigenous Forestry Scholarship Program (IFSP). This is a scholarship program for Indigenous students attending full-time studies in forestry programs. This provides both tuition scholarships and work opportunities.

This program has both proactive and retroactive funding opportunities available, so if you think you may be eligible for assistance, or may have been recently, take a look at their website here!

Equipment

We do not require an equipment deposit for supplies borrowed. However, students sign an equipment/book loan agreement and agree to pay for the cost of repair/replacement of equipment that has been lost or damaged.