Nanaimo Campus

Incoming Outstanding Student Initiative

"Go to the front of the line!"

The Incoming Outstanding Student (IOS) initiative provides first access to most classes for the strongest students who are entering post-secondary studies for the first time. If you qualify, you do not want to miss this opportunity to be awarded the highest priority for a registration appointment. This priority should ensure access to all first-year courses, with the exception of those reserved for specific limited entry programs.

Applications must be received in the Registration Centre by March 31, 2024.

How to Qualify as an Incoming Outstanding Student

For students applying to the Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Business Administration or Exploratory University Studies programs your high school transcript must show a minimum of three “A” grades and one “B” grade. These grades must be attained in an English 11, plus three additional courses selected from the following list:

  • Mathematics 11 (Pre-calculus or Foundations)
  • Social Studies 11, or 12*
  • Life Sciences 11 or Anatomy and Physiology 12
  • Chemistry 11
  • Physics 11
  • Earth Science 11
  • a Ministry-approved second language course 11 (not a beginner’s level)

For students applying to the Bachelor of Science program, your high school transcript must show a minimum of three “A” grades and one “B” grade. These grades must be attained in an English 11, plus three additional Grade 11 courses selected from the following list:

  • Mathematics 11 (Pre-calculus or Foundations)
  • Life Sciences 11 or Anatomy and Physiology 12
  • Chemistry 11
  • Physics 11
  • Earth Science 11

*Acceptable Socials courses include: Explorations in Social Studies 11, Francophone History and Culture 11, 20th Century World History 12, Asian Studies 12, B.C. First Peoples 12, Comparative Cultures 12, Comparative Cultures 12, Comparative World Religions 12, Economic Theory 12, Genocide Studies 12, Human Geography 12, Law Studies 12, Philosophy 12, Physical Geography 12, Political Studies 12, Social Justice 12, Urban Studies 12.

Applying for the Incoming Outstanding Student Initiative is easy!

Send a brief letter requesting consideration and arrange for an official transcript verifying you meet the requirements outlined above.

Registration Centre—IOS Selection Committee
Vancouver Island University
900 Fifth Street
Nanaimo, B.C. V9R 5S5

Or

Registration@viu.ca

Deadline: March 31, 2024

Successful applicants will be notified in early May and be given the highest priority registration appointment.