Frequently Asked Questions

The first business day of October 1 to January 31.

Between are 75-80 students admitted into year 1 of the program each September.

On average, we receive hundreds applicants annually.

Admission to the program depends on a combination of factors: how complete your application is, your GPA and submission of your CASPer score.

If you qualify for admission, you may be contacted. Please remember to keep your contact information current on your student record (phone/email/postal address).

Please check the BSN program for more information.

You can apply according to the dates of application listed within the calendar. Your application will not be considered complete until you provide official interim or final grades for pre-requisite courses by the date specified in your letter from the Admissions office.

The Advising Centre may be able to give you suggestions that are unique to your circumstances.

Yes. If you are qualified to enter but did not get in, you may re-apply for the following year.

For more information about this process, contact the VIU Advising Center and review the information on the VIU website about recognition of prior learning.

Yes. To decrease your course load in the first year of the BSN program, you may take up to six courses for credit toward your nursing degree before admission to the BSN program   You will need to make application to VIU and submit a separate application for the Exploratory University Studies (EXPO). You can then register to take the two required English courses, two general electives (any university transferable course-see BC Transfer Guide and BIOL 156/157 or equivalent. (Seats in Biol 156/157 at VIU may become vacant once the reserves for nursing students are removed at the beginning of the semester.) Some of these courses are also available in an online format (e.g. through Thompson River University TRU-OL).

‘FNFS 105:  Learning Strategies for Success in Health Sciences (3 credits) – this course is strongly recommended as one of the two general electives for students who need to develop more effective learning and strategies and skills that will support deep learning and critical thinking.  You must be taking another course concurrently(preferably BIOL 156 or equivalent) to benefit from this elective. 

You may also want to consider exploring other health-related programs at VIU that may be less competitive:  HCA (Health Care Assistant), PN (Practical Nursing), Dental Hygiene, Dental Assistant.  Please see the VIU Health Programs for further information.

Applicants are usually informed of admission decisions in late Spring (April/May). Some seats may be offered conditionally based on successful completion of your pre-requisites. You will receive a letter from Admissions/Registration letting you know the decision. 

Information is presented to applicants on AcuityInsights.app

CASPer (Computer-Based Assessment for Sampling Personal Characteristics) is an on-line test which assesses for non-cognitive skills and interpersonal characteristics.  The CASPer test is comprised of 10-15 sections of video and written scenarios. Following each scenario, the student is required to answer a set of probing questions under a time contract (100-120 minutes).  

In order to take CASPer, you will be responsible for securing access to a computer with audio capabilities, a webcam, and a reliable internet connection on your selected test date. CASPer can be taken practically anywhere that you can satisfy the stated requirements. No exceptions will be provided for applicants unable to take CASPer online due to being located at sites where internet is not dependable due to technical or political factors. On test day, ensure you have a quiet environment to take the test.

No. Results of the CASPer test are provided only to the university admission offices which the student has identified (typically within one month of the student taking the CASPer test). Students do not receive their CASPer scores.

A student can take the CASPer test only once per admission cycle (VIU has an annual admission cycle for the BSN program). Scores are only valid for that admission year. If you aren’t admitted to the BSN program that year, you must reapply to the BSN program and retake the CASPer the following year.

Direct any inquiries about CASPer to support@acuityinsights.app. Alternatively, you may use the ‘Support’ button on the website.

Practice experiences may require travel to Duncan, Port Alberni, Qualicum Beach, Parksville, and Ladysmith. You will need to provide your own transportation to these practice sites.

Yes. For information on student loans, see: Financial Aid and Awards.

Class size is generally 26-32 students, although there are some classes when the enrolment will be 75-80.

Students are in classes or nursing practice 4-5 days per week. The program runs for 10 months of the year, with 2 months off school. 

Students tell us they study on average between 4-6 hours per day. This may increase slightly when assignments are due. Students should expect about 6-9 hours per week of study or class preparation for every 3 credit course.

Students should connect with Accessibility Services. 

Certain skills and abilities are required to succeed in the nursing field. These skills and abilities are described on the BCCNM website. Please read the BCCNM Requisite Skills and Abilities to determine if nursing is the right choice for you.

Many students do maintain employment while attending post-secondary institutions; however, BSN students tell us that the workload within the program is heavy and it is hard to keep up with a job, particularly around evaluation/end of term. 

Yes, for selected courses. VIU’s Policy 91.02 addresses Prior Learning Assessment.

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Nursing Program are qualified to work as Registered Nurses (after successful completion of licensure examinations ) in a wide variety of settings including: hospitals, multi-level care facilities, community agencies (home care, public health), and government agencies. 

Completing the BSN program qualifies you to write the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) licensure exam needed for the title of Registered Nurse. Successful completion of the NCLEX-RN is required to legally use the title of Registered Nurse. This examination is used in 10 jurisdictions in Canada.

Currently all graduates who seek employment, find work.