Visiting International Student Programs (VIP)
Improve Your English. Experience University.
The Visiting International Student Program (VIP) combines academic English instruction with the opportunity to take one or two university-level courses at Lakehead University. Designed for international students, the program helps you strengthen your English, gain valuable academic experience, and immerse yourself in Canadian campus life—all while preparing for future university studies.
Pathways of VIP
Didn't find the best program? You can customize your own courses.
Don't hesitate to get in touch with us at international.english@lakeheadu.ca
Program Levels
Students begin at the level that best matches their English proficiency. Placement is determined by:
- IELTS, TOEFL, or another accepted English proficiency test (taken within the last two years)
- ELC Online Placement Test (available if you do not have an official test score)
Program Levels
Program Dates
4-month and 8-month programs
January, May, and September
View study breaks, holidays and university closings.
Accommodation
Lakehead offers different accommodation options for international students, including:
Each option provides a different living experience, allowing students to choose the arrangement that best fits their needs and preferences.
Required Fees
| Program | Fees | Note | |
| Tuition | Academic English Program (Part-time) | $3,600 CAD per semester | Monday to Friday, 13 weeks, 15hrs/week, 3hrs/day |
| Academic English Program (Full-time) | $5,200 CAD per semester | Monday to Friday, 13 weeks, 25hrs/week, 5hrs/day | |
| Academic Courses | $2,999 - $3,979 CAD per class per semester | ||
| Audit | 2 semesters | $598.45 CAD | 1 course for 2 semesters |
| 1 semester | $299.23 CAD | 1 course for 1 semester | |
| Accommodation | $900 - $1500 CAD per month | Prices vary depending on the type of accommodation you choose and whether you live on or off-campus | |
| Medical Insurance | $1.84 per day; $167.44 per semester (13 weeks) | For details on medical coverage, visit StudentVIP. | |
| Ancillary Fees | $85 CAD per semester approximately | ||
| Bus Pass | Thunder Bay Transit Rates Orillia Transit Rates |
Note:Undergraduate academic courses should not take place at the same time as the AEP classes.
Student Voices
Have Questions? Contact Us
For more information, contact us at international.english@lakeheadu.ca
English Language Centre (807) 343-8010 ext.7888
955 Oliver Road, Thunder Bay, ON, Canada P7B5E1