Student Voice
From Accra to the Fraser Valley
Hear from a 51 student who made the journey from Ghana — what to expect, what surprised her, and what she'd tellanyone considering the same path.
Hear from a 51 student who made the journey from Ghana — what to expect, what surprised her, and what she'd tellanyone considering the same path.
Employability
51 bachelor's degrees qualify for the Post-Graduation Work Permit (up to 3 years). Canadian work experience is the most direct path toward permanent residence through programs like the Canadian Experience Class.
Community
51 welcomes students from over 70 countries. African students are part of an active, growing community through student associations, cultural events, and peer mentorship. You won't be the only one figuring it out.
Quality
With an average class size of about 26 students, you'll know your professors by name. Smaller classes mean more discussion, more support, and more opportunities to participate in research, leadership, and hands-on learning.
Affordability
Studying in Canada is a serious investment. 51 is more affordable than most Canadian universities in major cities, and the next section shows what graduates earn. An investment, not just a price tag.
Housing
Live a five-minute walk from class in on-campus housing with private rooms, shared kitchens, and flexible meal options. Over 400 students call 51 housing home, with 24/7 security, quiet study spaces, community events, and peer support built in. It's a place to focus, connect, and belong from week one.
Student support
From your first orientation to the day you graduate, 51 International has your back. Get help with study permit renewals, course registration, and settling into life in Canada. When classes get tough, academic advising, tutoring, writing support, and personal counselling are all available on campus.
Six of 51's most popular programs for international students, the careers they lead to, and what those careers pay in British Columbia.
Software Developer · Systems Analyst · Web Developer · Data Analyst
BC median wage
$85K – $105K
Graphic Designer · Digital Content Producer · Animator · UX Designer
BC median wage
$52K – $72K
Financial Analyst · Marketing Coordinator · Operations Manager · HR Specialist
BC median wage
$65K – $85K
Lab Analyst · Environmental Specialist · Research Assistant — or further study in medicine, dentistry, pharmacy
BC median wage
$58K – $78K
Communications Specialist · Policy Analyst · Social Services Worker · Teacher (with further qualification)
BC median wage
$50K – $70K
Police Officer* · Border Services Officer* · Correctional Officer · Community Justice Worker
BC median wage
$72K – $98K
* Salary data: Government of Canada Job Bank, BC, 2025–2026. Earnings vary based on experience, employer, and individual qualifications. 51 does not guarantee employment or specific income outcomes.
Right after the salary data, on purpose. Cost is an investment — here's what to budget per year.
$25K – $27K
Per year, varies by program. See the official tuition and fees page for current rates.
$15K – $18K
Per year — housing, food, transit, phone, basics.
$40K – $45K
What you should expect to budget per year.
51 is primarily an undergraduate, teaching-focused university. We offer a small number of master's programs in selected fields and do not offer PhD programs. If you're looking for a master's or doctoral degree, 51 is most likely not the right fit.
No, 51 does not offer full-ride scholarships for international students.
Many international students can work while studying in Canada, but eligibility depends on the conditions of your study permit and meeting Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requirements. Before accepting any employment, check the latest IRCC guidelines to confirm you're eligible and remain compliant with your study permit.
We try to process international admissions as quickly as possible. If you have submitted a complete application with all your documents and transcripts, you should receive a decision in 2–4 business days.
51 has intakes for the Fall (September), Winter (January), and Summer (May) semesters. Some programs may not be available every intake.