Study ABROAD Nanaimo
Vancouver Island University (VIU) was founded in 1936 and enjoys a very good reputation worldwide. This modern university offers its more than 18,000 students excellent study conditions. Thanks to small class sizes and intensive support by experienced faculty and dedicated staff, study abroad students quickly feel at home at VIU.
The university’s unique location makes it an excellent choice for a semester abroad: The city of Nanaimo is an ideal base for exploring Vancouver Island: a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts, charming with its magnificent landscapes and featuring the famous surf beach Tofino. It is also perfect for visiting nearby major cities such as Vancouver, Victoria, and Seattle.
Keyfacts
- Design (Ecosign)
- Economics and Media
- Nachhaltiges Design, B.A.: 5th semester
- Tourism, Hotel, and Event Management, B.A.: 4th semester (only winter semester)
- Fall Semester:
Orientation: end of August
Lecture and examination period: September until mid-December - Spring Semester:
Orientation: first week of January
Lecture and examination period: January until end of April
- First, you must pass the English test offered by Hochschule Fresenius, achieving a level of B2 or higher. The test will be taken online after the application deadline. If you already have at least a B2 English level and can provide an official language certificate which is not older than two years, please submit it with your application to be exempted from the test.
- A good academic standing and at least 60 ECTS are recommended.
Deadline for Ecosign students: January 15th
Deadline for THEM students: April 1st
- The application takes place online via our application form (see button below).
- Please submit the following documents with your online application:
- Letter of motivation in English (100-300 words)
- Curriculum vitae in English (incl. two references, e.g., teacher or employer)
- Portfolio (10-15 work samples)
- Copy of passport (if you do not have a passport yet or it has expired, please submit a copy of your ID card, and send in a copy of your passport as soon as possible)
- Passport-sized photo
- If applicable: official proof of English proficiency at B2 level
FAQ
While studying abroad, you’ll continue paying your regular Hochschule Fresenius tuition. A one-time fee covers your semester abroad, including VIU tuition. Extra costs will include the visa, flights, accommodation, insurance, and daily living expenses. The International Office is happy to give you a rough idea of what to expect. You can also check out funding options, like “Auslands-BAföG” or the Hochschule Fresenius Merit Scholarship (“Leistungsstipendium”), to support your stay here.
Please note: A semester abroad is a mandatory component of the B.A. Tourism, Hotel and Event Management program. While participation is required, a small additional study abroad fee applies.
A valid passport is required. Please check the validity of your passport and, if necessary, apply for a new one in time.
For a semester abroad in Canada for up to six months, German citizens (and citizens of most other European countries) do not need any visa, but a so-called Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). If a longer stay or paid work on campus is planned, you will need a study permit.
Program participants are responsible for booking their own flights.
Program participants are responsible for arranging their own accommodation. The host university / International Student Office (VIU’s European office) provides information to help you find accommodation.
For more information, please refer to the International Student Office (VIU’s European office) for study abroad students.