International Students

International students contribute greatly to the multi-cultural environment at VanArts, from countries all over the world. We are proud of all our graduates who have made their mark in their respective industries worldwide.

Due to current IRCC policies, the best option for international students is to enroll at VanArts ONLINE — not as a compromise, but as a flexible, high-quality way to complete a VanArts education while continuing to move forward with their academic and career goals.

In recognition of our 30th anniversary, VanArts is also pleased to offer a 30% tuition scholarship for international students studying online in 2D or 3D Character Animation, Game Art & Design, Visual Effects, and Web Development & Design. (Professional Photography and Acting for Film & Television are not offered online, and are in-person only. Our 6-month Art Foundation program can be taken in-person or online and does not require a study permit.)

A VanArts Education — Delivered Live, Online

Our online programs are not pre-recorded or self-paced. All classes are delivered live via Zoom, taught by the same industry-professional instructors, following the same curriculum, assignments, and assessments as our on-campus programs.

As an online student, you will:

• Attend live lectures and demonstrations
• Interact with instructors and classmates in real time
• Complete the same projects using industry-standard software
• Graduate with the same VanArts diploma as on-campus students

VanArts has been delivering creative education for over 30 years, and our online programs are designed to meet the same academic standards and industry expectations as our on-campus offerings.

Strong Financial Advantages for International Students

International students also value the financial flexibility that online study provides.

The average total cost of in-person study in Canada (tuition plus housing and living expenses) is approximately $67,000 CAD. Studying online allows you to complete your VanArts program from your home country, without the additional costs associated with relocation and living in Vancouver.

In addition, VanArts offers the 30% tuition scholarship for international students studying online.

This brings full tuition down to the following respective amounts:

• 2D or 3D Character Animation: $25,725 CAD
• Game Art & Design or Visual Effects: $29,225 CAD
• Web Development & Digital Design: $20,825 CAD

Monthly or otherwise alternate payment plans can also be arranged through our finance office. All things considered, students save up to $50,000 CAD and get the same professional training & credential as our students on campus. 

Career Outcomes and Future Pathways

Your VanArts diploma — and the skills, portfolio work, and professional connections you build — can support your entry into the industry with confidence, whether you study online or on campus. Online graduates are also eligible to pursue further education through our Pathway Partner institutions , should that be part of your long-term plan.

Hear From Our Online Students

We encourage you to watch these videos featuring students who chose the online option for their studies, and found it to be a rewarding and effective learning experience.

Study Permits/Visas

A Provincial Attestation Letter (PAL) is required to apply for a study permit. If you insist on in-person studies at VanArts, you need to meet our criteria for issuing of a PAL. If you do not meet this criteria, we encourage you to take your program online.

To study in-person, students from all countries outside Canada must apply for these documents in advance. Some countries may also require you to have a medical, police check or other documents before your visa is approved. Failure to submit all of these documents and evidences may result in your visa being rejected, often with little chance of appeal. Before applying for your visa, please read all details carefully on the official Citizen and Immigration Canada website.

Required Documents

There is a nominal fee for the Student Authorization/Visa which is paid to Citizen and Immigration Canada. When you apply for your study permit, you will likely require the following for submission:

• A letter of acceptance for your program of study from VanArts.
• A Provincial Attestation Letter.
• Evidence of financial support during your study period, i.e., a notarized letter or affidavit from your bank or parents, or student loan documents.
• Evidence of intentions to return to your country of origin after your studies are complete.
• Evidence of prepaid tuition fees, your tuition receipt or a certified cheque or bank draft payable to VanArts.
• Proof of citizenship, i.e., passport or birth certificate.
• Include the Designated Learning Institution (DLI) number O19331363352 on your study permit application.

Visa Review Services

We strongly recommend that you employ the services of a Regulated Immigration Consultant to assist with your application before it is submitted to the Canadian Consulate for processing.

You can see a list of active consultants and advisors at Immigration Consultants of Canada Regulatory Council. Search tools are available on the council’s website to confirm an Immigration Consultant’s standing, and to locate Immigration Consultants in your area.

The cost of any services provided by the Immigration Consultant must be paid directly to the consultant. A credit of up to $400 for their services will be applied towards your tuition only if we receive confirmation of your payment to the Immigration Consultant, your visa is approved, and you enrol at VanArts. (Please note: this credit is non-refundable in the event of withdrawal from full-time enrolment.)