Students on steps

Learning services

There's more to learning than just showing up for class. Everyone has a different learning style, and we all need help from time to time. We’ve got you covered with academic supports, advising and more. 

When in doubt seek advice

VIU Advisors are here to coach you through all the decisions you need to make about your education. They help with course planning and can connect you to campus resources. They also provide specialized support for various student groups, including Indigenous, international and transfer students.

Check out VIU Advising

Purple circle with mountain pattern

International academic support

Help for international and English as a second language (ESL) students.

Explore International academic support

Green circle with seed pattern

Accessibility Services

Help for students with a documented disability.

Explore Accessibility Services

Blue circle with ripple pattern

Academic and Career Preparation

Offers upgrading courses, ESL, Literacy courses and more. 
Academic and Career Preparation

Three young people work with a phone and laptop at a large table.

More than books at the Library

The VIU Library offers so much more than books. Your VIU student card gives you access to all sorts of services to enhance your learning. In addition to borrowing print and digital materials, you can:

  • use the research databases
  • borrow course reserve materials
  • use research guides. 
  • use study spaces
  • use media workstations
  • use  A/V editing rooms
  • borrow equipment 
  • get help with research and writing 
Explore the VIU Library

Make the most of your studies

Study smarter with Learning Matters, the VIU student learning resource site. Learning Matters covers everything from study habits to using data. This is your one-stop-shop for anything related to learning, studying and all aspects of thriving as a student. 

Check out Learning Matters

Woman writing at a desk by a window.

Writing Centre

The friendly tutors at the Writing Centre can help you with any aspect of writing. 

Writing Centre

Two young women working on a laptop.

Math Centre

Student tutors are available four days a week to help with math .

Math Centre

Improve your grades with help from peers

Peer supported learning (PSL) is your ticket to better grades. Studies show that students who take part in PSL increase their grade by at least one letter grade. PSL offers scheduled study sessions for difficult courses. Each sessions is led by a student who has been successful in that class. 

Explore Peer Supported Learning

Help with upgrading and testing 

Pathways to Post-Secondary

Free supports for anyone who needs to take Adult Basic Education (ABE) or (ESL) courses.

Check out Pathways

Smiling young woman standing in front of a yellow wall.

Game-changing student supports

“Because I have a brain injury, it takes me longer to process things, so during exams, they ensured I have time and a half,” she explains. “It’s a game-changer for me. Taking an exam is already so stressful, just knowing you have the time you need really lowers your stress levels.”

 – Emma Salisbury 

Learn beyond the classroom

Work-Integrated Learning

Apply what you learn in the classroom in a workplace setting through an internship or co-op.

Work-Integrated Learning

Office of Co-Curricular Engagement and Learning

Take part in co-curricular activities on campus and within the community.

Office of Co-Curricular Engagement and Learning

Career Studio

 Gain work experience while you study at VIU. Career Studio also offers career support to alumni. 

Career Studio